i went to Mother's restaurant downtown, not far from the convention center. it doesn't look like much but the food was really good. i recommend either the Courtyard near the convention center or the one in Metairie. both places are nice
lastly, and it is on the pricey side, Emiril Lagasse (sic) has a restaurant downtown. i didn't go to that one (just the one in Orlando). i would recommend it. it had nice ambience when i walked past it and peered inside.