Not knowing quite what to expect, my daughter, wif...

Not knowing quite what to expect, my daughter, wife and I went to Mandina's early afternoon this Sunday, 5/31. We were pleasantly surprised to find the old place was just as wonderful as ever.

We were seated without delay in the main dining room, which had most of its tables removed, to honor the 6-foot spacing requirement. Attendance was modest in the early afternoon -- a little past 2 PM. The service was up to its usual high standard; Melissa waited on our party hand and foot, bless her.

My wife had only a light appetite, and she went with the crab claws in wine sauce. My daughter ordered the chicken parmesan, while I had a cup of seafood gumbo and the Gulf fish amandine. All were excellently prepared, with generous portions and were thoroughly delicious. Melissa was most attentive during our meal, and saw to our every want.

All in all, our visit made for a very pleasant afternoon -- a brief return to the new normal, which still includes many of the delights of the old normal. Mandina regulars should not tarry -- but hurry back to enjoy this quintessential New Orleans dining experience. You will not be disappointed.