A couple of quick suggestions:

1. Ask for a table upstairs if it is cold outside. It was unseasonably cold when we ate there and you get a draft from the front door. The upstairs has more atmosphere anyway.
2. Listen to the waiter’s recommendations. He was right on for both wine and food choices.
3. Don’t be intimidated by the wine list. It is very long and many of the selections are very expensive. But you can find a really nice bottle for $30-50.

After arriving for our 8:15 reservation, we selected a bottle of wine from the bar and waited for our table. After a brief wait, we were led to the elevator(!) in the center of the restaurant and to our table upstairs. I ordered the must-have Louisiana crab cake appetizer ($11) and the double-cut pork chop ($28); Chris had the gumbo for an appetizer ($6) and the cedar panel roasted redfish ($26). For dessert we split a fried apple pie-like creation with cinnamon ice cream ($6). The portions are large; we ordered appetizers and dessert only because we knew everything would be superb, not because we were worried about having enough to eat. Everything was spectacular. I don't know how they make the crab cakes, but they are so good they should probably be illegal. The service is outstanding, but for me, almost a bit intrusive. Don't get me wrong, I like my water and wine glasses filled now and then, but every two minutes borders on overkill!

Our dinner, which included two appetizers, two entrees (expect to pay $24-$32 for an entree), one dessert and a modestly-priced bottle of wine ran $150 including tip. We had no problem calling a few days ahead for a Thursday night reservation. More advanced planning is probably required for a prime weekend slot. The only potential drawback: if you're seeking a quiet, romantic dinner spot this probably isn't it; Nola simply draws too big a crowd.

Our 1-10 ratings:
Ken: Food - 10 Service - 9 Atmosphere - 8
Chris: Food - 10 Service - 10 Atmosphere - 8