Any dining establishment that has been serving food for since 1918 in a city known for fantastic food is doing something right. Arnaud's is one of my favorite restaurants in New Orleans...or any other city for that matter. I have only sampled a small portion or their robust menu. Of the things I have tried I can recommend: [Appetizers] (1) Smoked Pompano Bourgeois; (2) Shrimp Arnaud; [Oysters] Oyster Bienville; [Soup] Turtle Soup; [Fish] Pompano en Croute; [Dessert] Caramel Custard. While the Caramel Custard probably sounds a bit plain, it is the best custard I have ever had... except for that made by Nina Meneses, an 80 year old Filipina lady who only cooks it for family and close friends. She makes the best. Arnaud's is second and very very good. The Turtle Soup is a bit more subtle than that at some other New Orleans eateries. The pompano is smoked with hickory [Smoked Pompano Bourgeois] and served with sour cream, capers and onion. I know this might sound like an odd combination, but the flavors come together in a delicious way.
In brief, Arnaud's is a place I would be delighted to take anyone. It is also a destination I would go alone, just for the food.
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