We had already been to five restaurants… only two remained, and of these only one could be crowned all around champion. That distinction goes to Bayona. This restaurant, with is courteous staff and al fresco dining, coupled with its excellent food is worthy of a visit whenever you are in New Orleans. Man, its worthy of being the reason you are going to New Orleans… it really is that good!
So, how did we begin? Well that’s easy… the French 75, that stellar concoction of gin and champagne and just enough lemon juice to make it interesting. But it isn’t just the drink you know… it’s living in the moment as you sit on their open are patio, listening to the breeze ruffle the leaves overhead as you sip your drink and nibble on their fresh pickled cauliflower and peppers. Oh, to be back there again!For a soup course, we went with a Smoked Chicken and Andouille Gumbo… perfection in a bowl I tell you! Go there, order this and you’ll confirm that this one is pure liquid love.
For our salad we selected a simple Mixed Green Salad with Blue Cheese and Balsamic Vinaigrette. Subtle and fresh, with just the right combination of crunch and creamy… here is a dish that you can feel good about eating as you devour it.
Main course was the Niman Ranch Pork Chop with Creamy Polenta, Broccoli, Roasted Tomatoes and a Rosemary Aioli. Be still my heart (in a good way)! Tender, succulent, flavorful… how many more adjectives can I use to describe the sublime perfection that is this dish? Bravo!
Will we return?
Heck, we wish we had never left!
