What to order at James Beard-nominated Saffron NOLA

Dig in: I recently stopped by to remember just why Saffron NOLA is so good, and left congratulating myself on that decision.

What I ordered: A friend and I shared plenty, like the oyster bed roast ($19 for a half-dozen) and Bombay shrimp ($18), but the eggplant Hyderabad ($12) stood out.

• The roasted eggplant was deeply flavored and spicy with hints of tamarind and a little texture from peanuts.
• We dragged torn bits of garlic naan through it while sipping the last of our salty raw silk cocktails, which combine tequila and mezcal.

What's next: The Vilkhu family is due to open Kingsway across the street from Saffron this year.