Surrey’s

Every time we pass Surrey’s in the Lower Garden District, there’s a line. Even on weekdays. We’re here to tell you it’s worth the wait. You’ll smell the sauteeing New Orleans seasoning trinity of bell peppers, onions, and celery right when you walk in (and probably even waiting in line). Stay focused and get some french toast or the crab meat omelet, which is easily one of the best crab dishes in the city. It’s filled with avocado and brie, and topped with creamy lump crab meat sauce that sparks joy every time we spot it on our fork. Get a biscuit instead of toast with that, because it’s ideal for sopping up that sauce—it's moist but still dense enough to stand up to aggressive plate swabbing. Despite the lines, the food comes out quickly, you won’t feel rushed, and every other table is lingering and having fun.