I'm a local, and a former girlfriend introduced me to Irene's a few years ago. I didn't know what I was missing.
Food is always outstanding. Atmosphere is crowded and cluttered- but it works!
Service can be great, but when they get really busy, you're going to wait.
The downside- unless you go very early, you're going to have to wait (maybe a long time) to be seated. Plan for it. You're not going there just to eat: you're going there for the whole experience. Have a drink and relax. This is New Orleans.. forget about rushing.
Pros: Food
Cons: Long wait
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