Fodor's Expert Review Dante's Kitchen

Ask local chefs where they dine on their day off, and chances are a good number of them will mention Dante's Kitchen. Chef-owner Eman Loubier, a nine-year veteran of Commander's Palace, prepares seasonal menus for those with a sense of adventure. You'll find a braised quail salad, seafood hot-pot and maple-glazed chicken-under-a-brick (note: it takes about 40 minutes to prepare). Sides are homey and filling, like the vegetable ratatouille or fried brussels sprouts. An outdoor patio is especially welcoming on cooler nights and at brunch on weekends. Reservations are not accepted for brunch.