When you’re visiting New Orleans, it’s hard to choose which experiences to soak in first: historical Bourbon Street, the majestic Garden District, the lush jazz music scene, or some of the country’s best fine dining.
Our bets are on the food! Take a look at our top five picks for fine dining in New Orleans and discover a flavor affair unlike any other:
5. Doris Metropolitan
Doris Metropolitan brings classic Middle Eastern fare to the heart of the French Quarter. They’ve thoughtfully crafted a health-focused menu of vegetable-focused dishes, dry-aged beef, seafood, and a carefully curated caviar menu to delight every palate. In 2014, they were touted as New Orleans best new restaurant by The New Orleans Magazine and have racked up numerous other accolades since their opening.
4. The Bombay Club
Known for the biggest and best selection of martinis in the Big Easy, The Bombay Club is one of the city’s most unique hidden gems. This classic cocktail bar is tucked inside the historic Prince Conti Hotel, another French Quarter icon that’s an oasis in itself.
European-inspired dishes pair perfectly with their martini lineup, all featuring a little Southern Creole flare that’s hard to resist. They also have a weekend brunch menu that can only be described as culinary bliss.
There’s no strict dress code here, but you wouldn’t stand out if you decided to elevate your style. Patrons tend to reflect the natural sophistication and upscale vibe of the Bombay Club, so don’t be afraid to express yourself.
3. The Pelican Club
Fusion fine-dining makes The Pelican Club one of the most eclectic foodie experiences in New Orleans. Their traditional Louisiana menu is infused with Asian, French, and Italian influences that reflect the melting pot of New Orleans culture. Zagat, Wine Spectator, Conde Nast Traveller, and CNN have raved about the excellence of the cuisine and wine selections, including their selection as one of the 10 best restaurants for Thanksgiving dinner in America.
The doors to The Pelican Club opened in 1990 after having gone a masterful restoration of the 19th-century townhouse’s original Italian marble columns and floors, hand-painted tiles, and beautiful stonework. It’s a beautiful slice of French Quarter history with a menu to match.
The dress code is “nice casual” with a relaxed vibe (no athletic wear, sleeveless shirts, or baseball caps).
2. GW Fin’s
What GW Fin’s lacks in history and tenure, they more than make up for in terms of discerning tastes. Their seafood is carefully sourced from all over the world, meticulously picking only the best fish at their seasonal peak to bring out the best flavors.
Open Table selected them for their 100 best restaurants of 2018 (the only restaurant in New Orleans to make the cut), while Wine Spectator, Star Chefs, and the Huffington Post have all given GW Fin’s their seal of approval.
The dress code here is mostly relaxed. Collared shirts for men are required, with no cut-off shorts or athletic wear allowed.
1. Galatoire’s Restaurant
One of the Big Easy’s most iconic restaurants, Galatoire’s Restaurant has been dishing out fine French Creole fare since 1905 and is now in its fifth generation of family recipes and traditions. They’ve retained the classic beauty and sophistication that earned them their start over 100 years ago, fusing old-world charm with modern service.
They’ve gained the attention of top restaurateurs and publications like The New York Times, Southern Living, and Saveur, among others for their weekly luncheons, classic gumbo, and other southern favorites.
Reservations are recommended but not required. Dress code is casual elegance and jackets are required.
