This seems to be the year of the Louisiana cookbook -- at least 4 have crossed my desk in as many months). I like this one particularly because it represents the whole state, and not just New Orleans, and also because the recipes come from some of my favorite restaurants.

I thoroughly enjoyed taking a trip down memory lane with the recipes in this book. Forty eight classic Louisiana restaurants are represented with recipes for some of the fare that made them famous.

If I had one comment, it would be that some fo the recipe instructions are basic -- meaning they assume you have a reasonable level of cooking knowledge. Beginners might do better with Tom Fitzmorris's New Orleans Food, whose recipe instructions tend to be more detailed.

While it may be true that Hurricane Katrina has altered the face of Louisiana, the fabulous flavors of these recipes are a constant that will endure now and forever. In addition to the recipes, you'll find photos and assays about the historic restaurants that contributed to the collection.

If you know what it mean to miss New Orleans (and the rest of Louisiana) you'll be happy to know you can now recreate the flavors right in your own kitchen.