Gabrielle has fabulous French/Creole/Cajun food with twists--delicious twists. They make their own sausage--the appetizer plate with samples can include duck sausage, venison sausage, and the traditional Cajun andouille. It's all great.

This is a wonderful place to come for a special occasion, as everyone seems to be in a festive mood. You can truly linger over your meal here, combining good wine with delicious appetizers, entrees and desserts.

And while the location may seem out of the way--it's not in the French Quarter or downtown--it's actually very easy to get to. Esplanade ends at the river and is one of the border streets of the Quarter. And the ride up Esplanade, which is lined with historic homes and ancient oak trees, gives you a good look at a traditional New Orleans area. You'll also get to visit a neighborhood few tourists see, unless they are here for Jazz Fest, held just a few blocks over at the racetrack.