re: Where would you rank New Orleans for dining in the U.S.?

I think the gulf resources is a big deal but I agree when you look at bigger cities and the diversity it's pretty big difference, I'd not say Vegas though as they have to import all their resources. I would give a nod to SF, just to hang out at The French Laundry.

The obvouis NY, Chicago, they have their own ethnic neighborhoods. N.O. can't compete with that.

That said we ate at Irene's last night before they closed and man it was so good. So good, even with a hour and a half wait.