Upstairs at Mimi's

Upstairs at Mimi's Restaurant Review:

In a town rich with neighborhood bars, Mimi’s in the Marigny has become an anchor. It’s generally packed downstairs in the bar area, and after sunset, upstairs in the restaurant. Cold tapas run from lump crab meat gazpacho to figs and dates with blue cheese, while the hot line delivers grilled steak and lamb chops as well as escargots. Coffee-and-Kahlúa-glazed salmon anyone? Yes, please. Specials change frequently and add to the complexity and allure of these small-plate compositions. The brief but appropriate, spoken-word wine list draws on selections from Spain, Argentina, Chile and Portugal. There is limited table service until the band starts to play, then order any food at the bar and it will be delivered to your table. You may surprise yourself and stay downstairs for your entire visit; Mimi’s is like an all-night party that never ends. The building inside and out is strictly old New Orleans, defined by huge arched windows, exposed brick walls and accidental acoustics, which make the music sound like it’s being played in a concert hall.