The grand reopening of the Saenger Theater triggered a demand for dinner venues open before curtain time with a menu that works both in terms of specialness and timing. In steps the Royal Sonesta's Restaurant R'Evolution, whose dining rooms and cooking constitute a special even on their own.
With Phantom of the Opera coming on, a three-course, $40 menu is assembled by owners-chefs John Folse and Rick Tramonto:
Seafood Gumbo
Scallion rice
~or~
House Salad
Crispy Vegetables, haricots verts, cucumbers, torn croutons
~~~~~
Shrimp and Grits
Beurre noisette, demi-glace, tarragon mayonnaise
~or~
Braised Boneless Beef Short Ribs
Rutabaga-citrus purée, red wine sauce
~~~~~
Turbodog Stout Chocolate Cake
~or~
Creole Cream Cheese Cake
If you like, they'll pair wines with the dinner for either $25 or $50, depending on how well you want to imbibe before the play. Seating is at 5:30 by reservation only. That will allow enough time for a relaxed dinner and getting over to the theater, six blocks away. Parking in the Royal Sonesta's garage for pre-theater diners is $12.
French Quarter: 777 Bienville (in the Royal Sonesta Hotel). 504-553-2277. www.revolutionnola.com.
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