Impastato's Restaurant

Impastato's Restaurant Restaurant Review:

For more than 30 years, Impastato’s has been, perhaps, more closely associated with the New Orleans Saints than any other restaurant in the city. The walls exhibit a collection of memorabilia that’s all the more impressive because the athletes honored in these images frequently patronize the place. After scanning the room for gridiron heroes, most diners settle in for the five-course special dinner, which comes with a choice of one of at least ten entrées. Fresh Fish Payton, served with mushrooms, artichoke hearts and knuckles of lump crab meat, is named for the Saints’ coach. Another winning entrée is the Fresh Fish Romano, breaded and pan-sautéed with rosemary, garlic and Cajun seasonings, then flambéed with vermouth. When it’s in season, aim for soft-shell crab Marcello. Veal dishes are consistent and dependable, the standout being the house osso buco. Desserts are traditional: house-made cannoli, toroncino and spumoni. The wine list offers about 160 selections, including some 20 by the glass. Choices select from Italian, American, French, Chilean and Australian labels, and there are a couple of dessert wines.