On Grand Avenue and Bourbon Street

Well that's not the exact location, seeing as how Miami has no Bourbon Street. However, I can see the possibilty of changing the name after the insertion of Christabelle's Quarter into the Grove. This looks, feels, and tastes like the real French Quarters. From emmaculate chandeliers and feathered masks to velvet draped windows and a huge stained glass dome, Christabelle's is capturing the essence that is New Orleans.

From what I understand, the jazz bands that play here are truly entertaining and we were 2 hours early for their Happy Hour, which starts at 5 PM. Lucky for us, the hostess let us in on a secret--"lunch is the best menu we offer"--and right she may be.

For starters, their Crab and Corn bisque is a must! This soup was filled with chunky crab meat that seemed to melt in your mouth. I'm not sure what else was in it besides corn because the soup was so white and all the flavors were blended well, but I do know that this had to be the best part of my meal. I also tried thier blackened chicken wrap, which had jambalya rice in it (because you can't call it New Orleans without jambalya), but was a little too spicy and overseasoned for my liking. Not to worry, Christabelle's finished with an 'A' after we shared thier Banana Foster at the end. Honestly, can you go wrong with bananas, ice cream, crepes, and bourbon? I think not.

This is the kind of place everyone should go to at least once simply for the decor. Every single detail in Christabelle's was hand-picked and purposely integrated. This designer had me sold and I only saw the first floor! That's right, the grand staircase actually leads to a more intimate second and even more VIP third floor.

I feel like Christabelle's should be visited at night. I've passed by there before and the music is lively, the lighting is perfect, and even if they don't offer the hostess' favorite menu, I'm sure it will be a fun night out.

Address:
Neighborhood: Coconut Grove
3157 Commodore Plz
Coconut Grove, FL 33133

Price Range: $8-10/lunch; $15-20/dinner
Some Menu Favorites: Crab and Corn Bisque . Christabelle’s Beef and Andouille Burger . Shrimp Remoulade . Blackened Mahi . Banana Foster . Creme Brulee
Picture Credits: Lauren Doval