The dearly held belief that no meal can be too big or last too long has been cherished for many generations in New Orleans, and nowhere more faithfully than in the city's oldest restaurants. From neighbourhood joints serving up the finest, freshest crawfish, oyster po' boys and shrimp remoulade to elegant establishments in the French Quarter, the phrase "Come for lunch, stay for dinner, go home in a wheelbarrow" is beloved by all. New Orleans' leisurely, unaffected style also endures in its venerable shops, including a turn-of-the-century parfumerie and luxurious antique stores.

With a modern layout and luscious photographs, these city-specific guides unearth distinctive, locally-owned and operated eating and shopping destinations. Designed for both locals and tourists, these indispensable tools feature listings to more than 90 spectacularly original businesses that encapsulate the core character of each given city. Ideally sized for backpacks or purses, each guide also features easy-to-read maps and hotel suggestions.

From the publishers of The Unofficial Guide to Walt Disney World "A Tourist's Best Friend!" --Chicago Sun-Times "Indispensable" --The New York Times Five Great Features and Benefits offered ONLY by The Unofficial Guide * Hotels, motels, and inns ranked and rated for value and quality -- plus proven strategies for getting the best deals * Everything you ever needed to know about Mardi Gras and Jazz Fest * Witty and informative walking tours of the French Quarter, Arts District and Garden District * The straight truth on all the attractions, from City Park to Aquarium of the Americas * The best plantation home tours * Detailed restaurant reviews and tips on the hottest nightspots Sample Rating City Park ***** Appeal by age Preschool *** Grade school ***** Teens *** Young adults ***** Over 30 ***** Seniors *** 1 Palm Drive off I-10 (City Park/Metairie exit); # 504-482-4888; www.neworleanscitypark.com Type of attraction Municipal park with a variety of recreational and cultural attractions. Admission Park free; museum, botanical gardens, and some recreational centers have fees for out-of-state visitors. Hours Sunrise to sunset. When to go Anytime. Special comments An unrivaled family venue, with attractions for kids, jocks, picnickers, nature-lovers, and general romantics. How much time to allow 1-4 hours.