Avo has a one-of-a-kind setting deep in its Uptown neighborhood, where the courtyard dining room, flickering candles and overarching trees make the space feel like a town square (with a retractable roof when the weather doesn't cooperate). Still, the really distinctive draw is chef Nick Lama's contemporary ideas for high-end Italian cuisine.

There is precision and artfulness across his menu, but also the softer edges of familiar flavors. A strong sense of family runs through this upscale operation, from some of the dishes to much of the staff. It helps explain why Avo feels like a New Orleans restaurant even though it doesn't serve overtly New Orleans food. Dinner Mon.-Sat. $$$$

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Source: http://www.theadvocate.com/