Petunia's, New Orleans

My first visit to New Orleans...this would set the bar for me! I was alone, and looking for an adventure in the French Quarter, including the great food that the Big Easy is known for.

As a solo diner, I always have trepidation when entering a restaurant. I'm not afraid of being stared at, pity ("Oh, she's alone...wonder what's wrong with her?"). I generally carry something to read, honestly. My concerns come from past treatment - single, female diners are generally looked down upon by waitstaff. And, sadly, the prejudices are not unfounded. I've learned that you can lavish attention on that lone woman in the corner, go out of your way to treat her better than your grandmother, and be rewarded with a 50 cent tip on a $30 check. That is why I have a bad reputation of actually over tipping when I am alone and receive decent service.

After a few hours of wandering Bourbon Street, having several drinks, I knew it was time for a sustenance break. And I wanted a good restaurant...preferably with linen on the table. I was dressed in jeans and a tank top - it was August, you know. But, it was early enough, probably 3:30 or so, so I figured I could find a decent place before the jacket-required dinner shift began.

I was pointed to Petunia's, I kid you not, by a man in front of a strip bar trying to get customers to share the dollars with the dancers. I told him honestly, I was looking for a good dinner. He walked to the corner with me and pointed to the front door and said "Trust me - they will treat you wonderfully."

He didn't lie. Petunia's is cheery - the decor AND the waitstaff. I drank iced tea (yes, another danger signal from a solo diner) and never had an empty glass. When he asked me if I'd like an appetizer, I explained there would be no way to eat my entree if I ordered one. I ordered the jambalaya, which was served with a salad and bread. My server was very attentive, but not "hovering" which can happen during slow periods. He welcomed me to the city, offered a few suggestions of things to see, and overall made me feel as though he appreciated my business.

My bill was in the mid-$20 range, and I tipped about 30%. He even made a point of saying good-bye as I exited the restaurant.

Oh...the jambalaya? Incredible, fresh tasting, the shrimp was perfectly cooked (not rubbery as I've had in other places) and I could only eat about half of it. Huge portions.