Experts Share Their Top Restaurant Standbys of 2017

As per tradition, Eater asked a group of journalists, bloggers and friends of the site to weigh in on the year in food. Here, they share their go-to restaurants this year.

Liz Williams, founder and president, Southern Food and Beverage Museum: “My go-to restaurant was Toups South, as you can imagine. The bar is great. Even alone sitting at the counter works. Where else? Herbsaint, Italian Barrel, and Upperline. Clearly I am not cutting edge. My secret Sunday brunch place is Mopho. They do not advertise a brunch, but they open for lunch at 11 and it is perfect because you can always get in.”

Elizabeth Pearce, cocktail historian, writer, guide, founder of Drink & Learn: “Mariza, Paladar 511, Compere Lapin.”

Jay Forman, food and dining editor, New Orleans Magazine: “For grownups, Paladar 511, Station 6, and Carrollton Market. With the kids, Central City BBQ, Pizza Delicious, and Company Burger.”

Nora McGunnigle, freelance writer and founder of NOLAbeerblog.com: “Maypop, Freret Beer Room, Company Burger, Coquette.”

Stephanie Carter, editor, Eater New Orleans: “We eat out with our three-year old a lot, so we go places where she is also comfortable. Vincent’s on Saint Charles, Kenton’s (we miss the weekday lunch there), Jamila’s on Maple Street are all places we visit again and again. MCP Uptown for take-out pizza.”