The Chef: Lilette's is a small uptown Bistro serving French-Italian cuisine. Chef John Harris named his establishment after Lilette Mauri, with whose family he stayed during his apprenticship in France. He was sou chef at Bayona's and Executive Chef at Gautreau's before opening his own restaurant. John was voted one of the "Top Ten Best New Chefs in America" in 2002 by Food And Wine Magazine.
The Menu: How does a white truffle parmigiano toast with wild mushrooms,
marrow and veal glace sound? This is an appetizer favorite, but you can also get sizzling shrimp with lemon oregano vinaigrette, escargot with mixed mushrooms and Calvados cream, or one of the other appetizers either rich or simple. I like the potato crusted black drum with mixed mushrooms entree, while my Italian friend Patricia prefers the braciola with San Marziano tomatoes and creamy polenta. For dessert, chocolate molten cake is my favorite, but the creme brulee or almond financier with caramelized apples and vanilla ice cream are also yummy.
Wine: The wine list features French and American vintages, but also has many choices from Australia, South Africa, Italy, and Spain. If you are not sure, ask the waiter to help you pair your meal with your wine.
Where: 3637 Magazine Street, in the Uptown area. Call (504)895-1636 for reservations, or try www.liletterestaurant.com. Lunch is served Tuesday through Saturday until 2:00 and dinner is from 6-11:00 p.m.
