We celebrated our son's birthday at New City Grill (2700 Metairie Rd. -- 828-8484) last night.  It was busy and bustling with what our son called "a bunch of old people".  My observation was that it reminded me of Galatoire's -- lots of people knew one another and spent time visiting other tables.  In fact, when we walked in one of JP's relatives came to greet us.  The owner overheard my comment and said he considered it an honor.  I asked if this is "the Old Metairie crowd" and he said yes, and that he sometimes has trouble seating diners because the "socialites" (my quote) are blocking the way.  It is a well heeled crowd, likely from the other end of Metairie Road.

The dinner didn't start well, in my opinion (my husband says I'm too picky).  My Abita wasn't cold and the waiter didn't bring any glasses.  My Oyster and Artichoke soup had one tiny oyster and absolutely no hint of oyster flavor (my mother concurred; she's "picky", too).  Shared Crawfish Rolls left me underwhelmed -- a nice crisp crust but finding a crawfish inside was difficult what with all the greens...JP said they were very good.  Daughter had a cup of seafood gumbo which she liked (picky me thought it was bland).

Entrees were a different story.  Grandma and I shared the special Duck with Collard Greens and Crawfish Grits which was excellent.  The duck (seems to have been marinated until tender and juicy) was coated, fried to a crisp, and sat atop what I'd call an Asian style sauce.  Grandma raved about the greens and I loved the creamy semi-rigid crawfish grits.  Even after splitting the dish, we had some to take home.

The two Grandpas had Trout Pecan (I had a bit leftover for lunch) which I think was covered with panko, well fried, and coated with finely crushed pecans.  Somebody in the kitchen has a heavy hand with the salt but aside from that it was fresh and delicious.

JP had the Tuna Salad -- a nice portion of fresh tuna perfectly grilled to his liking (rare) atop fresh greens.  Son-in-law said his Grilled Pork was very good.  We couldn't spot or taste any rosemary in Daughter's Rosemary Chicken but she liked it very much.  Birthday Boy had a Cheddar Cheese Burger (he's not what we call an adventurous eater).

Service was fast, just friendly enough, and very attentive (except for the lack of beer glasses which I'm sure would have been brought if requested).  Prices are quite reasonable in this comfortable and very attractive white table place; table of 8 -- $187.00 including liquor and tax.

Here's the leftovers and the bill: