Camellia Café
Owner: Scott Esteve
69455 Hwy. 59, Abita Springs
809-6313, 649-6211

This delightful restaurant specializes in traditional New Orleans cuisine and serves both lunch and dinner six days a week, with oversized portions sure to satisfy! Be sure to try one of the café’s signature dishes, such as stuffed mushrooms or the savory shrimp, corn and crab bisque.

And check out the original location at 525 Gause West in Slidell.

Friends Coastal Restaurant
Owners: Chris Binnings and Richard Taubin
407 St. Tammany St., Madisonville
845-7303

No, this popular dining-out spot isn’t exactly new, but it is under new ownership and bears a fresh name. The building underwent much renovation after receiving extensive hurricane damage. The old Friends is new again, with a little island flair at each table.