Formerly called Yats, this restaurant was rechristened by chef Bob Crowley when he became the sole owner. Crowley, who trained at the Culinary Institute of America, offers recipes he collected from small Louisiana towns. Specialties include Chili Cheese Étouffée, Gumbo, Jambalaya, and the Datwich Sandwich, a complex preparation that involves turkey dusted in Cajun spices, soaked in beer, cooked twice, spiced, and served up “so it warms you from your nose to your toes.” Prices: $ • Hours: Daily 11 a.m.–10 p.m. • Bar: No • Credit Cards: Visa, MC • Outdoor Seating: Yes

The New Orleans-style Uptown Cafe is known for Cajun/Creole-inspired fare (try the Cajun meatloaf), fresh steaks, seafood, and extravagant breakfast and brunch items, including Cottage Cheese Pancakes, Eggs Benedict, and Michael’s Home Fries. Jazz and soul music complement your meal. The casually upscale environment provides the opportunity to dress up or down and enjoy a consistently tasty meal. Uptown’s bar area serves craft beer, fine wine, artisan spirits, and classic cocktails, as well as late-night food on Friday and Saturday nights. • Prices: $–$$$$ • Hours: Mon.–Wed. 7 a.m.–10 p.m.; Th. 7 a.m.–11 p.m.; Fri. 7 a.m.–1 a.m.; Sat. 8 a.m.–1 a.m.; Sun. brunch 9 a.m.–2 p.m. • Bar: Full • Credit Cards: Visa, MC, AMEX, Disc. • Outdoor Seating: Yes • Fair Labor Decal

Read our review of The Uptown Cafe here!