Joys of Food and Art, The

Fabulous dining and gorgeous sculptures take center stage at this Crescent City lodging created from a warehouse.

Looking for an elegant dining spot for a Mother's Day celebration? If you want a restaurant that offers more than good food, take your mom to the Renaissance Arts Hotel, the new kid on the block in New Orleans' Warehouse Arts District.

The building, which once served as a storage facility, now features some of the best artwork you're likely to see-especially gracing a hotel lobby-and the restaurant, La Cote Brasserie, is fabulous.

When you first enter the lobby, the colors and textures give the impression of those in a fine art gallery. Indeed, this was one of the premises of the newly opened, 217-room hotel. Look up at the incredible blown-glass chandeliers created by famed sculptor Dale Chihuly. You'll be transfixed by the kinetic fountain by Lin Emery, which features large bronze flowers that move and sway with a constant stream of water. The carpet itself is dazzling; it's covered with bright swirls.

The atrium lobby showcases even more modern sculpture and artwork created by both regional and local artists. You'll also find an actual art gallery off this space, Arthur Roger Gallery Project, which has international and regional artists' works, along with a permanent collection.

Now make your way to the restaurant created by French Master Chef Rene Bajeux. La Cote Brasserie adds its own bright colors to the hotel's artistic palette. Mosaic glass curves into a restaurant that is just right in size (seating for 120) and ambience. Your only dilemma will be choosing from the delicious morsels that executive chef Chuck Subra and his staff have prepared. Try the Coriander Crusted Scallops with a creamed leek tart and a ginger-lime vinaigrette ($25), or indulge in a whole poached lobster with sweet potato gnocchi, snow peas, and a basil beurre blanc ($28).

A real crowd pleaser is The La Cote Platter ($90), which serves four to six people and includes oysters, jumbo shrimp, seafood salads, crab, and Maine lobster.

Definitely save room for dessert. If you want a safe, delicious sweet ending, go for the creme brulee ($7). For an adventure in indulgence, order the Chocolate Bavarian, which consists of semifrozen chocolate mousse filled with a warm caramel sauce and served with an almond nougatine wafer ($7). That's a piece of art that would enhance anyone's collection.

WANDA MCKINNEY

Renaissance Arts Hotel: 700 Tchoupitoulas Street, New Orleans, LA 70130; (504) 613-2330. La Cote Brasserie: (504) 613-2350. Hotel rates: start at $159 per night.

Copyright Southern Progress Corporation May 2004
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