12 Incredible Restaurants in New Orleans You Need to Try

Blake Walsh

Sep 10, 2023 • 8 min read

New Orleans is a city that teases and tantalizes the senses, enveloping visitors in an irresistible tapestry of flavors, aromas, and textures.

Whether you're a longtime foodie or a curious traveler, there's always something novel to discover in this culinary Eden. This year, the city welcomes an impressive slate of new dining establishments that meld time-honored traditions with groundbreaking creativity.

Journey with us as we explore these remarkable additions that are changing the culinary landscape of New Orleans, one sumptuous bite at a time.

Savoring Refined Cajun-Creole at Jack Rose

Ah, Jack Rose! Stepping into this restaurant is like entering a vibrant painting that's come to life. The whimsical yet refined ambiance is captivating.

It effortlessly combines eclectic art with lush greenery, all curated to inspire the discerning diner.

My first foray into their menu was a calamari amuse bouche that sang of crunch and zest. However, it was their brunch selection of shrimp and grits that became the masterpiece of my meal—each bite was a harmonious blend of flavors, evoking the essence of the city itself.

Their cocktail menu is a trove of curated sensations, making Jack Rose not just a meal, but an event. The service, particularly from server Ashley, transforms an already unforgettable meal into a truly bespoke dining experience.

Savoring the Delights at The Chloe

The Chloe, hidden in plain sight, is a sanctuary of leisure and luxury. Starting the evening with a calming dip in their pool surrounded by lush greenery, I felt worlds away from the city’s cacophony.

Once inside the restaurant, I was greeted by a Devil's Head cocktail, a liquid crescendo that led to my superbly executed main course—a burger so succulent it could only be described as culinary poetry.

However, what keeps me coming back is the totality of the experience. The Chloe isn’t just a restaurant; it’s an extension of my home, always leaving me refreshed and inspired.

A Night at Bar Marilou

A visit to Bar Marilou is like stepping into a beguiling French novel. From its intimate lighting to its plush seating, everything about this bar suggests an elegant intimacy. The cocktails are not mere beverages; they are an adventure, each more inventive than the last.

While food isn't the main event, it holds its own. The small plates are well-conceived complements to the artisanal cocktails.

The high level of craftsmanship extends to the staff, who are knowledgeable about their offerings and keen on tailoring your experience. It's the kind of place that doesn't just serve drinks; it serves experiences.

Discovering Culinary Delights at Restaurant R'evolution

Restaurant R'evolution is an opulent temple of gastronomy. With a sophisticated interior that pays homage to New Orleans' storied past, it also offers a menu that's both pioneering and deeply rooted in local traditions.

From their unparalleled seafood offerings to their reinvented Creole and Cajun classics like turtle soup and foie gras, each dish is a lesson in culinary brilliance. It's not just about the food, though—the wine list is an oenophile's dream, and the service elevates the entire experience into something regal.

Though indulgence here comes at a premium, it's a sumptuous affair you won't want to miss.

In a city renowned for its culinary offerings, these new establishments are not just keeping pace; they're setting a brand new tempo. So venture forth and explore—the treasures of New Orleans await.

A Culinary Adventure at Compère Lapin

Stepping into Compère Lapin, I was immediately swept into an atmosphere that radiates warmth and a sense of belonging.

It's a treasure trove of gastronomic delights that seamlessly fuses Caribbean and European flavors with New Orleans' own culinary magic.

From the divine tater tots with caviar to the sumptuous shrimp and grits, each dish is a symphony of flavors. The restaurant is truly a culinary kaleidoscope that will leave you eagerly anticipating your next visit.

A Taste of Italy at Domenica

When the doors of Domenica swing open, you're greeted by an aura of authentic Italian charm. The allure of fried kale might be in the past, but the present and future of their Italian cuisine is tantalizing.

The cheese board alone is a journey through the hills of Italy. Domenica elevates dining to an art form; it's not merely a meal but an ongoing romance with Italian culture.

A Memorable Night at Luke's

At Luke, the experience is nothing short of enchanting. With an atmosphere reminiscent of a classic European café and a menu that flawlessly blends French and German fare, it's more than just a meal—it's a culinary narrative.

The impeccable staff understands the nuanced art of hospitality, contributing to an overall atmosphere of relaxed sophistication. It's an establishment that perpetually lives up to its reputation, creating a timeless allure that beckons for return visits.

Experiencing the Joys of King Brasserie + Bar

From the first step inside King Brasserie + Bar, it's evident that you're in for a transcendent experience. Offering the crème de la crème of crawfish beignets, their commitment to quality is unparalleled.

The place is an epitome of French elegance effortlessly blending with New Orleans’ vibrant spirit. Each visit feels like a new chapter in a delightful narrative that always leaves you wanting more.

An Evening at Seaworthy

Seaworthy is the embodiment of relaxed luxury. Its culinary offerings, especially the oysters, are love letters to the sea, meticulously crafted and passionately served.

Every sip of their velvety house old fashioned is an affirmation of their masterful mixology. It's not just a dining experience; it's a love affair with the ocean, sealed with impeccable service and an ambiance that makes every visit memorable.

A Taste of NOLA at Trenasse

Walking into Trenasse, you're greeted by a symphony of irresistible Cajun-Creole aromas. Situated in the Hilton, this culinary haven weaves old-world New Orleans charm with modern gastronomy, making it an absolute must-visit.

My Sunday brunches here are filled with the decadent Jimmy po-boy, lively Saints games, and an inviting crowd that makes you feel like family.

The fried green tomatoes are a revelation, while the bread pudding practically melts in your mouth. But it's the service, led by delightful regular servers like Ruby, that elevates the experience into something truly unforgettable.

A Taste of Elegance at The Grill Room

Step into The Grill Room, and you're instantly part of an opulent affair. Located in the Windsor Court Hotel, this sanctuary of high cuisine feels like a royal banquet hall. It's a peaceful oasis, sheltered from the nearby Riverwalk Mall and Ceasar's Casino hustle and bustle.

The food is artistic and decidedly upscale—complement it with their extensive wine list for a truly extraordinary experience. The desserts are the grand finale of a lavish gastronomic journey, elevated by impeccable service.

A Taste of Style at Commons Club New Orleans

Commence your day in the heart of the city at Commons Club New Orleans. This venue emanates warmth as the morning light filters through the windows. By night, the atmosphere transitions to a cozy, whimsical setting complete with a must-try Spiced Orange Mule.

The menu is a delightful revolving door of culinary options, including the unforgettable Smash burger. Each visit feels like a new chapter in a novel of comfort and style, solidifying its status as a local favorite.

Evening Elegance at San Lorenzo

San Lorenzo, within the Hotel Saint Vincent, is a picture of chic sophistication. A visit here offers an exclusive atmosphere, spotlighted by inventive cocktails that are as beautiful as they are delicious.

While the food is worthy of accolades for its presentation alone, it's the ambiance that truly sets San Lorenzo apart. A superb locale for a perfect evening, San Lorenzo confirms its status as an Instagram-worthy treasure.

An Evening to Remember at Couvant

Couvant is an immersive French culinary journey right in the heart of New Orleans. Every aspect of the restaurant, from the elegantly designed terrace to the attentive service, invites you in.

The food is a symphony of flavors that pairs beautifully with the sommelier's top-notch recommendations. It's my go-to venue for French cuisine, serving everything from mouthwatering steak frites to tantalizing duck spring rolls. Couvant truly is a gift to the New Orleans food scene.

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