Tujaques is a required experience for lovers of tradition and history. Founded in 1856 by an immigrant French couple, it served the dock workers, sailors, and market workers of that time the same food available today. The traditional Creole menu of shrimp remoulade, soup, brisket with creole sauce, a choice of four daily entrees, and a luscious finale of pecan pie or bread pudding with strong dark coffee, remains unchanged.

Some recent additions of lighter entrees and even a vegetarian menu are available. However, I've never tried them, since the whole point of this place for me is the opportunity to experience culinary history.

You are seated in dark bentwood chairs, before a starched white tablecloth. The dining room is small and plain, elegant and understated. The dishes are presented simply, and they need no embellishment. The sauces are the masterpieces here, and they are rich and complex creations. The chefs still shop at the French Market across the street each morning for the freshest vegetables. A good wine list, and knowledgeable advice from your server, round out the experience. Linger for as long as you wish. You will never be rushed, and can enjoy that last bite of bread pudding at your leisure.

Don't miss the adjoining bar, which has an interesting history of its own. The cypress bar and the mirror over the bar are original, and the mirror had already served for 90 years at a restaurant in Paris before it was installed at Tujaques in 1856. And major plus -- the same food is served in the bar, at a much-reduced price. The restaurant's website is full of history about the restaurant and local area, and you can take a look at the menu.