Nice work Hillbilly,I always seem to forget about La Provence. Not only is it good, but it is interesting and fun to boot. The guy that owns the place Kris Karaakakkfjaslfha;gha;slhg;a (can’t spell his name to save my life) is 1)really from Provence 2) really fond of true Provencal cooking 3) knows what to do with a dead rabbit 4) sends out a turine of pate (of unknown liver origin, but I have always assumed chicken) and bread crusts that is worth the price of admission by itself 5) the guy is really gregarious (watch your signifigant other, he is quite the old coot/masher).

There are two other places on the Northshore that are worth noting in the fine food category
1) Artesia- located in the quaint little town (one stop light) of Abita Springs. Search on google and you can read reviews from various foodie mags
2) Dakota-This is Kenny La Cour’s 1st restaurant. THe second being Cuvee, a much written about bistro in NOLA with a stunning wine list (or at least you will be stunned after you pay the tab, which is probably a good thing)Once again, look it up on the net, but if he has game on the menu, and he always does, this is a good way to go. It also has fabulous and tasteful artwork on the walls provided by a sophisticated local gallery.[;)] Buy some art on your way out, my wife will love you for it[:D]

Both of these places have early birds that are really reasonable. Call ahead to check, though. They are often booked.