Best place to live in New Orleans?

We're moving to New Orleans in October. I'm extremely excited, but I've never been there before. We want to rent a house, not an apartment. I want a safe neighborhood, but we can't afford more than about $1,100/month tops for rent. My new job will be out on the very east side of town, near the Bayou Sauvage National Wildlife Refuge. I'd like a fairly close commute, but if it's not a safe area to live, then I'd be willing to drive a little farther. We don't have kids yet, but want them soon. I'm not familiar with the different "sectors" of town yet, but I'm working on it!

Additionally: as a bonus, I have one weekend in early September to "sell" my boyfriend on moving there from Tampa. If you have any amazing restaurants/bars (we are in our 30's but still into "clubbing" when on vacation) or evening cruises you can recommend, I'd really appreciate it!!!!!!