Cravin' Cajun?

Get ready for Mardi Gras at your favorite places for Cajun and Creole food

January 29, 2003

Dixie Kitchen
"I am always looking for new places in the city to go to eat or to relax. This place has been a favorite for years. Nothing fancy, just plain old good food with quality service. The baby catfish is the best the city has to offer!"
-- Lee M.

Dearborn Street Oyster Bar

"Huge, delicately seasoned crab cakes, perfectly cooked East-coast bluefish (in season,) hot cornbread, reasonably priced wine list and conversation-friendly atmosphere."
-- Pat K.

House of Blues
"House of Blues was absolutely great! The atmosphere is fun, the food is outrageous, and the service is top of the line. I have been there twice and had no problems. Try the calamari, jambalaya, pasta and the bread pudding -- they are all so good!"
-- Kevin W.

Nola's 32nd Ward Seafood House
"I love this place. I've traveled to Louisiana on business many times and have never before been able to find similar food and atmosphere in the Chicago area. Thank you, Nola's."
-- Toby M.

"Being from the South, I find it quite refreshing to find a restaurant that serves what I call 'good, down home cookin'.' I was turned on to the place by a friend who has also had very good experiences there. I find the environment to be comfortable and friendly. I've never had any problems with the food, waitstaff or drinks. The only problem I have had is finding parking (I won' t let a valet touch my Jeep)."
-- H.H.

"I have not had Cajun seafood this good since moving to Chicago from the South! Spicy and tasty with very original presentation! Cozy and friendly atmosphere with owners often circulating and chatting with diners. Great food, great service!"
-- K.K.

Redfish
"Very good food and the Louisiana-style atmosphere was very nice. Generous portions of food. The back porch iced tea was also very good. I would definitely go back again."
-- LaTanya A.

Heaven on Seven on Rush
"All I have to say is, try the gumbo. Hurricanes are big and strong and make you feel nice and warm all over. I recommend the grilled salmon.
-- George R.

Heaven on Seven
"The food was awesome, the service was good. Shuddup and eat!"
-- Jimbo J.

"It's loud and noisy. Once you know that going in, then just enjoy the food. Given the typical large crowd, our service exceeded the food. If you get that occasional hankering for red beans and rice, cornbread, etc. Give it a try."
-- Johnny V.

-- Compiled by Christine Badowski