Best Restaurants in New Orleans 2023 (Top 10 Best Restaurants)
by Subhashree M
Updated Mar 27, 2023
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Best Restaurants in New Orleans 2023
New Orleans is famous worldwide for its unique music, Creole cuisine, distinct dialects, and annual celebrations and festivals, including Mardi Gras. The French Quarter, which features French and Spanish Creole architecture and lively nightlife on Bourbon Street, is the historic center of the city and a popular destination for tourists. The main attractions in the French Quarter are the architecture, as well as the dining and entertainment options. It is located on a bend in the Mississippi River. New Orleans has a rich cultural heritage and traditions, with well-known offerings such as its music scene, festivals, nightlife, Creole and Cajun cuisine, and colonial architecture.
S.No
Restaurants in New Orleans
1
Antoine's Restaurant
2
Commander's Palace
3
GW Fins
4
Galatoire's Restaurant
5
Arnaud's Restaurant
6
Brennan's
7
Herbsaint Bar and Restaurant
8
Oceana Grill
9
Willa Jean
10
Compere Lapin
Top 10 Restaurants in New Orleans
1. Antoine's Restaurant
Antoine's, the French-Creole restaurant in New Orleans, has a rich history as the oldest restaurant in the city, dating back to 1840. Its founder, Antoine Alciatore, was a French immigrant, and the restaurant is still family-owned to this day. One of its iconic dishes is Oysters Rockefeller, developed by Antoine's son, Jules, and made with a secret recipe of herbs and cream sauce. Every order of this dish has been counted, and diners receive a postcard with the exact number of their order, including famous diners like Franklin D. Roosevelt. My own visit to Antoine's included the Pompano Pontchartrain, a grilled fish filet with crabmeat and white wine butter sauce, and cherries jubilee, a dessert flambéed tableside. After the meal, I highly recommend a tour of the dozen private dining rooms, some of which are dedicated to Mardi Gras krewes. Today, 182 years after it first opened, Antoine's remains one of the best restaurants in New Orleans.
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2. Commander's Palace
Emile Commander opened a saloon in 1893, located at the intersection of Washington Avenue and Coliseum Street in the Garden District of New Orleans. The saloon was transformed into a fine dining restaurant in a few years, becoming popular among locals and visitors alike. In 1969, Commander's Palace was purchased by the Brennan family, who renovated and expanded the restaurant. Commander's Palace, which serves Haute Creole cuisine, has been recognized with seven James Beard Awards and is often regarded as the best restaurant in New Orleans. The restaurant has also been home to several renowned chefs, such as Emeril Lagasse. During my visit to Commander's Palace with my family, I savored a lavender and lemongrass vodka Collins, veal tenderloin with bone marrow, and a slice of decadent cheesecake for dessert. After the meal, exploring the various dining rooms that make up the restaurant is highly recommended. Reservations are recommended, and the dress code requires business attire, including collared shirts and closed-toed shoes for men, with jackets preferred. Flip-flops, shorts, t-shirts, sweatpants, and sweatshirts are not allowed, and jeans are discouraged.
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3. GW Fins
GW Fins is a highly acclaimed seafood restaurant in New Orleans. It was founded in 2001 and has since become a popular dining destination, known for its fresh seafood and elegant atmosphere. The restaurant's menu changes daily to showcase the freshest ingredients available. Some of the restaurant's signature dishes include lobster dumplings, seared scallops, and its famous lobster pot pie. GW Fins also offers an extensive wine list and a knowledgeable sommelier to help diners pair their meal with the perfect wine. With its attentive service, creative cuisine, and inviting ambiance, GW Fins is definitely worth a visit for seafood lovers visiting New Orleans.
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4. Galatoire's Restaurant
Galatoire's is a renowned, family-owned restaurant in the French Quarter, and shares many similarities with Antoine's. It was established by French immigrant Jean Galatoire in 1905 and specializes in French-Creole cuisine. The main dining area is located at street level and boasts a spacious interior, complete with fans, mirrors on the walls, and coat hooks above them. During my visit, I was fortunate enough to be seated at a corner table in the back of the main dining room, offering a commanding view. I opted for the crab Maison (jumbo lump crab with green onions, capers, and creole mustard aioli) and the trout meuniere amandine, which is a signature dish of the restaurant, served with giant asparagus. To conclude my meal, I indulged in the decadent black bottom pecan pie with whiskey caramel sauce. The service at Galatoire's was exceptional, and despite being situated on Bourbon Street, it feels like a world of its own. In my opinion, Galatoire's is one of the best restaurants in New Orleans and I would gladly return. While the main dining room operates on a first-come, first-served basis, reservations are available for the second-floor dining rooms. The dress code is business casual, with collared shirts required for men, and jackets are mandatory after 5 p.m. The restaurant even has a selection of jackets for loan should guests arrive without one.
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5. Arnaud's Restaurant
Arnaud's Restaurant is a French-Creole restaurant located in the heart of the French Quarter of New Orleans. Founded in 1918 by a French wine salesman named Arnaud Cazenave, the restaurant has remained family-owned and operated ever since. The main dining room features a chandelier from the Paris Opera House and is adorned with Mardi Gras memorabilia from the Krewe of Arnaud, the restaurant's Mardi Gras krewe. The menu offers classic New Orleans dishes such as gumbo, turtle soup, and shrimp remoulade, as well as French specialties like escargots and souffle. The Jazz Bistro on the second floor features live jazz music and a separate menu. Arnaud's is a must-visit destination for those seeking a taste of New Orleans tradition and elegance. Reservations are recommended, and the dress code is business casual.
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6. Brennan's
Owen Brennan, an Irish-American, established Brennan's restaurant in 1946, which is now famous for its elegant breakfasts. The renowned restaurant is located in an 18th-century mansion that was once the first bank in Louisiana and later the home of chess champion Paul Morphy. According to the website, the menu is an innovative combination of Creole cuisine with influences from French and Spanish ancestry, offering modern updates and seasonal offerings. During my first visit to New Orleans, I had breakfast on Brennan's patio and savored the Caribbean milk punch and black truffle soft-scrambled eggs with toasted brioche, which were prepared tableside. We also shared the famous Banana's Foster, invented at Owen Brennan's precursor to Brennan's, the Vieux Carré. Brennan's is definitely one of the best restaurants in New Orleans and should not be missed.Reservations are recommended, but if you arrive at the opening time, you might get a table in the lounge or sit at the bar on a first-come, first-serve basis. Dressy casual attire is suggested, and tank tops, cut-offs, or athletic shorts are not allowed.
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7. Herbsaint Bar and Restaurant
Herbsaint Bar and Restaurant is a contemporary restaurant located in the Warehouse District of New Orleans. Chef Donald Link opened the restaurant in 2000 and it has since become a popular destination for locals and visitors alike. The menu features a mix of French, Italian, and Southern-inspired dishes, with an emphasis on fresh, seasonal ingredients. Some of the standout dishes include the signature gumbo with Gulf shrimp and Andouille sausage, the duck confit with dirty rice and citrus gastrique, and the house-made spaghetti with guanciale and farm egg. The restaurant also has an extensive wine list and creative cocktails, including the famous Herbsaint Frappé. The atmosphere is casual and elegant, with a modern design that reflects the building's industrial history. Reservations are recommended, especially for dinner. The dress code is business casual, with no shorts, flip-flops, or athletic wear allowed.
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8. Oceana Grill
Oceana Grill is a seafood-focused restaurant in the heart of the French Quarter that offers a lively atmosphere and classic New Orleans dishes. The restaurant is decorated with Mardi Gras beads, neon signs, and vintage photographs, giving it a fun and casual vibe. The menu features a variety of seafood dishes, including gumbo, jambalaya, and po'boys, as well as steaks and burgers. During my visit, I ordered the blackened redfish with crawfish cream sauce and a side of creamy grits. The dish was flavorful and cooked to perfection. For dessert, I tried the bread pudding, a New Orleans classic, which was delicious and satisfying. Oceana Grill is a great option for those looking for a fun and casual dining experience with classic New Orleans cuisine. Reservations are recommended but not required. Dress code is casual.
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9. Willa Jean
Willa Jean is a popular bakery and cafe in New Orleans that is known for its southern-style baked goods and brunch dishes. The restaurant is named after the grandmother of the owner, Kelly Fields, who is also the executive chef. The cafe has a warm and inviting atmosphere, with a mix of vintage and modern decor. Some of the popular items on the menu include the fried chicken biscuit, the avocado toast, and the blueberry sweet potato pancakes. The bakery offers a variety of bread, pastries, and desserts, including the famous chocolate chip cookies. Willa Jean is a must-visit for anyone looking for a delicious brunch or sweet treat in New Orleans. Reservations are not accepted, so be prepared for a potential wait during peak hours.
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10. Compere Lapin
Compere Lapin is a contemporary restaurant located in the Warehouse District of New Orleans, which draws inspiration from Caribbean and European cuisines. The name "Compere Lapin" comes from the Creole folktale of a mischievous rabbit named Br'er Rabbit, who often outwits other animals with his cleverness. Chef Nina Compton, who was a finalist on the TV show "Top Chef," opened the restaurant in 2015.The menu at Compere Lapin features a mix of small and large plates, including dishes such as curried goat with sweet potato gnocchi, black drum with smoked tomato and tamarind, and jerk-spiced pork with pineapple chutney. The dessert menu offers a variety of tempting options, such as banana bread with salted caramel and peanut butter ice cream.The decor of Compere Lapin is stylish and modern, with a vibrant color scheme and an open kitchen where guests can watch the chefs at work. The restaurant also features a bar area, where guests can enjoy craft cocktails and an extensive selection of wines.Reservations are recommended at Compere Lapin, particularly for dinner. The dress code is "smart casual," which suggests that guests should dress nicely but not necessarily wear formal attire.
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Famous New Orleans Restaurants
1
Dooky Chase’s
2
Mother's Restaurant
3
Brennan's Restaurant
4
Parkway Bakery & Tavern
5
Commander's Palace
6
Coop's Place
7
Willie Mae’s Scotch House
8
Galatoire's
9
Cafe du Monde
10
Napoleon House
S.No
Famous New Orleans Restaurants
5 Star Restaurants in New Orleans
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Restaurant August - This award-winning restaurant features contemporary French cuisine and is known for its exquisite tasting menu.
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Commander's Palace - This iconic restaurant in the Garden District has been a staple of the New Orleans dining scene for over 130 years, serving up haute Creole cuisine.
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Emeril's - Celebrity chef Emeril Lagasse's flagship restaurant is a must-visit for foodies, offering a modern take on classic New Orleans dishes.
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Galatoire's - This historic French-Creole restaurant has been a fixture of the French Quarter since 1905, known for its lively atmosphere and traditional dishes.
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Bayona - Chef Susan Spicer's flagship restaurant is a hidden gem in the French Quarter, offering a seasonal menu of globally-inspired cuisine.
Which is the no.1 best Restaurants in New Orleans?
Antoine's Restaurant is one of the oldest and most iconic restaurants in New Orleans. It was established in 1840 and is located in the heart of the French Quarter. The restaurant is famous for its traditional Creole cuisine and has been visited by many celebrities and dignitaries over the years, including Franklin D. Roosevelt, Pope John Paul II, and George W. Bush. Some of the signature dishes at Antoine's include Oysters Rockefeller, Pompano Pontchartrain, and Baked Alaska. The restaurant has several dining rooms, each with its own unique decor and ambiance, and can accommodate large groups or intimate gatherings. Antoine's also has a rich history and has played a significant role in the cultural and social fabric of New Orleans. The restaurant has survived many challenges over the years, including fires, floods, and economic downturns, and has remained a beloved institution in the city.
Best Restaurants in New Orleans 2023-FAQ
New Orleans is known for its unique Creole and Cajun cuisine, which blends French, African, and Caribbean flavors. The best restaurants in New Orleans in 2023 will likely offer a mix of traditional and modern takes on these cuisines, as well as seafood and other southern-inspired dishes.
Dress codes vary by restaurant, but many of the top dining establishments in New Orleans will have a smart casual or formal dress code. This may include collared shirts, dress shoes, and no shorts or flip flops.
Yes, it's a good idea to make a reservation at the best restaurants in New Orleans in 2023, especially if you plan on dining during peak hours or on weekends. Some of the most popular restaurants may require reservations well in advance.