Kyle Green
If you’re planning a trip to New Orleans, one of the top neighborhoods you should consider visiting during your stay in the city is the French Quarter.
As New Orleans’ oldest neighborhood, it offers plenty for locals and tourists to see or do, from taking a steamboat tour down the Mississippi River and visiting the New Orleans Jazz Museum to Bourbon Street’s clubs.
You can also find plenty of places to eat in this historic neighborhood if you’re interested in sampling the best cuisine in the area.
So, whether you’re in the mood for a casual night out or crave an authentic fine dining experience, you’re bound to find something that’ll keep you coming back every time you visit.
GW Fins
808 Bienville St, New Orleans, LA 70112
Phone: 504-581-3467
Visit Website
First up on my list of the best restaurants in the French Quarter neighborhood is GW Fins, an upscale seafood restaurant by the Royal Sonesta New Orleans Hotel and the Museum of Death.
Its elegant appeal attracts guests interested in trying the best seafood prepared with seasonal ingredients crafted by Executive Chef Michael Nelson. Selections from their award-winning wine list are also available to enhance any dish.
If it’s your first time visiting, consider starting with their Lobster Dumplings or Seafood Gumbo and ordering their Dry-Aged Ora King Salmon, Gulf Swordfish, or signature Scalibut with a side of mashed sweet potatoes or dirty rice and Imperial Spritz cocktail.
Irene’s
529 Bienville St, New Orleans, LA 70130
Phone: 504-529-8811
Visit Website
Next on my list of restaurants in the French Quarter is Irenes, located minutes away from the House of Blues.
This upscale eatery has an elegant and homey atmosphere and has served quality Italian fare for locals and tourists since 1993.
Feel free to stop by their spacious piano bar for a refreshing wine or cocktail as beautiful music fills the dining room.
Their menu is ideal for more intimate dinner nights. After starting with their Crabmeat Gratin or Ricotta Spinach Ravioli, order their Shrimp & Crawfish Fettuccine, Meunière Amandine, Duck St. Philip, or Lasagna Bolognese for a flavorful dining experience unlike any other in the neighborhood.
Jewel of the South
1026 St Louis St, New Orleans, LA 70112
Phone: 504-265-8816
Visit Website
The best French Quarter restaurant I recommend visiting after spending the day at the Mardis Gras Museum of Costumes & Culture is Jewel of the South, minutes from Chongo Square.
This refined destination serves quality New Orleans cuisine crafted by Chef Philip Whitmarsh, bursting with seasonal flavors. You can also relax in their lush garden courtyard on clear, warm days.
I’m a fan of their Braised Wagyu Short Ribs, Buttermilk Fried Sweet Bread, Foie Gras Parfait, and Snapper.
They also offer exquisite caviar, so be sure to stop by during Wednesday dinner or Sunday brunch for their casual caviar happy hour.
Brennan’s
417 Royal St, New Orleans, LA 70130
Phone: 504-525-9711
Visit Website
Are you interested in an authentic fine dining experience in the French Quarter? Then, consider booking your next reservation at Brennan’s. It’s less than a mile away from The Historic New Orleans Collection.
This decorative restaurant is an ideal option for sample Creole specialties, so be sure to dress in your finest attire to fully immerse yourself in this lavish setting.
Feel free to try their Chicory-Rubbed Beef Tenderloin, Lacquered Duck, Smoked Scallops Veronique, or Blackened Redfish with a Bootlegger or Butterfly King cocktail.
Then, finish your night in style with their Bayou S’mores or Word Famous Bananas Foster for dessert.
Restaurant R’evolution
777 Bienville St, New Orleans, LA 70130
Phone: 504-553-2277
Visit Website
You can find Restaurant R’evolution in the Royal Sonesta New Orleans Hotel, by Bourbon Street. It has a ritzy, colorful atmosphere where guests can enjoy quality Creole and Cajun fare after a long day of exploring the French Quarter’s top attractions or other parts of New Orleans.
In my opinion, their best dishes are Creole Bouillabaisse, Wild Boar Bolognese, Lobster Chitarra, and Cast Iron Venison Loin.
Be sure to try these dishes with a side of Blue Corn Grits or Creole Cream Cheese Whipped Potatoes.
Finally, consider treating yourself to their house-made sorbet, ice cream, or Petite Chocolate Gâteau with a dessert wine.
Cafe Sbisa
1011 Decatur St, New Orleans, LA 70116
Phone: 504-522-5565
Visit Website
If you prefer dining in a historical setting, Cafe Sbisa is your best option for dinner or brunch at the end of a busy week. It’s near Latrobe Park and the Joan of Arc, Maid of Orleans statue.
It’s the third-oldest fine dining restaurant in the neighborhood and serves local New Orleans delicacies made with fresh ingredients, including BBQ Shrimp and Turtle Soup.
I love topping my Petite Filet, Catfish Almondine, Pasta Jambalaya, or Veal Emily with fresh crabmeat or fried oysters to give my dinner something extra during every visit.
If you’re in the mood for their Sunday Jazz Brunch, you don’t want to miss out on their Oyster Po’Boy or Bayou Crabcake and Eggs.
Napoleon House
500 Chartres St, New Orleans, LA 70130
Phone: 504-524-9752
Visit Website
Nestled near Steamboat NATCHEZ, Napoleon house is one of the best historic restaurants in the French Quarter for enjoying Creole favorites near the riverside.
Executive Chef Chris Montero crafts each dish carefully to ensure authentic flavor in every bite. You can also enjoy dinner or lunch in their private dining rooms or courtyard.
Their signature Muffuletta, Fried Shrimp Po’Boy, Seafood Gumbo, and Grilled Chicken & Brie Sandwich are the talk of the town, so don’t miss out on them.
Be sure to order their red beans & rice as a filling side dish and check out their extensive wine, beer, and cocktail list.
Arnaud’s
813 Bienville St, New Orleans, LA 70112
Phone: 504-523-5433
Visit Website
Arnaud’s is an old-school upscale restaurant near Hotel Mazarin and the Museum of Death. Their lounge is an excellent setting for enjoying their tastiest cocktails.
You can also enjoy catchy jazz tunes every Sunday during brunch if you’re interested in an authentic Southern dining experience.
If you’re extra hungry, start with their Escargots En Casserole and enjoy their Filet Mignon Au Poivre, Shrimp Creole, Frogs Legs Provençal, or Roasted Louisiana Quail Elzey.
I like ending my meal with a Mississippi Mud Pie or Lemon Meringue Cheesecake. I also recommend their six-course tasting menu if you decide on booking a regular reservation or private room.
Galatoire’s
209 Bourbon St, New Orleans, LA 70130
Phone: 504-525-2021
Visit Website
Another historic French Quarter restaurant I recommend visiting alone or with your friends is Galatoire’s.
It has an upscale ambiance and is an excellent alternative if you can’t find any restaurants offering quality French-Creole cuisine.
Chef Phillip Lopez incorporates traditional New Orleans flavors in every dish to give newcomers an excellent first impression of French-Creole specialties.
During my last few visits to the French Quarter, I ordered their Crab Ravigote, Eggs Sardou, Chicken Bonne-Femme, and Crab Yvonne.
If you’re planning to visit Orpheum Theater, consider ordering Fried Oyster Rockefeller, Shrimp Creole, and Caramel Cup Custard from their three-course Pre-Theatre menu.
Doris Metropolitan New Orleans
620 Chartres St, New Orleans, LA 70130
Phone: 504-267-3500
Visit Website
Do you prefer restaurants with a more modern aesthetic? If so, Doris Metropolitan New Orleans is your best dining option. You can find it overlooking Jackson Square.
I enjoy this restaurant’s upscale vibe and vast selection of dry-aged butcher’s cut meat. Additionally, it’s a great setting to unwind after a day of shopping.
My go-to appetizers are their Tuna Tartare and Artisan Cheeses. Then, I usually order their Lamb Chops, Tenderloin, Bone-In Ribeye, or Moroccan Fish with a side of Truffle French Fries or Msabbaha.
If you stop by for happy hour, don’t miss out on Doris Metropolian’s Chill Paloma or Death in the Afternoon cocktail.
Palm&Pine
308 N Rampart St, New Orleans, LA 70112
Phone: 504-814-6200
Visit Website
Less than a mile away from Saenger Theatre stands Palm&Pine, an easy-going restaurant that’s an ideal dinner spot for anyone staying in the neighborhood’s nearby hotels.
Besides the typical New Orleans fare, you can find plenty of tasty Mexican and Caribbean dishes to indulge in during your visit to the French Quarter.
Their menu changes regularly, so be sure to stop by often to sample as much as possible. They serve the best Turkey Neck Gumbo, Grilled Wagyu, Sticky Grilled Rib Tips, and Oaxacan Mole in the neighborhood.
If you crave dessert afterward, try their Cane Syrup Pie. Additionally, they offer late-night treats and cocktails every Friday and Saturday.
Muriel’s Jackson Square
801 Chartres St, New Orleans, LA 70116
Phone: 504-568-1885
Visit Website
Can’t find any restaurants in the French Quarter with an excellent scenic view of the area? Muriel’s Jackson Square is your best option for enjoying a balcony dinner during a calm and clear night in New Orleans. It has an old-school feel, complete with a lounge and courtyard bar.
I recommend starting with their Shrimp and Goat Cheese Crepes and ordering their Crispy Onion Salmon, Blackened Redfish, Pesto Linguine, or Wood-Grilled Pork Chop with Buttermilk Mashed Potatoes on the side.
Although their menu offers recommended wine pairings for each entree, you shouldn’t miss out on their Fleur De Lis, Pimm’s Cup, or Carnival Thyme cocktails.
Cane & Table
1113 Decatur St, New Orleans, LA 70116
Phone: 504-581-1112
Visit Website
Located near the Old Ursuline Convent Museum and Shops of Colonnade, Cane & Table is another place to eat that I recommend for any newcomers to the French Quarter.
Executive Chef Alfredo Nogueira incorporates Cuban and Caribbean flavors into the dishes he prepares for anyone interested in dining in a casual setting. You should also stop by their bar for their creative rum cocktails.
I love starting with their Empanadas or Sweet Plantains before indulging in their Arroz Con Pollo, Beef Pepperpot, or Crispy Braised Ribs. Be sure to pair your meal with a Green Isla Special or seasonal Frozen Paloma cocktail.
The Carousel Bar & Lounge
214 Royal St, New Orleans, LA 70130
Phone: 504-523-3341
Visit Website
One of the best restaurants in the French Quarter with a unique bar setting is The Carousel Bar & Lounge, nestled inside the Hotel Monteleone.
This warm and lively restaurant has a revolving circular bar that lets guests feel more engaged in their dining environment.
They also have live entertainment during dinner. They have a wide selection of shareable, small, and large bar bites to sample with any cocktail.
I recommend their Shrimp Corn Dog, Jumbo Lump Crab Cakes, Monte Sliders, or Blue Crab & Corn Beignets with a refreshing Cherry Manhattan, Vieux Carre, or Avion Margarita. Finally, end your night right with their sweet French Market-Style Beignets.
Killer PoBoys
219 Dauphine St, New Orleans, LA 70112
Phone: 504-462-2731
Visit Website
If you prefer eating something to-go, your best dining option is Killer PoBoys, near QT Pie Boutique. This contemporary eatery offers gourmet flavors crammed into a blissful, classic Po’Boy for the food lover on the go.
In my opinion, it’s a great place to hang out before or after walking through the neighborhood and seeing their most popular attractions.
My favorite Po’Boys are their Beef Debris, BBQ Chicken Confit, Ham & Pimento Cheese, and Chorizo 2.0 varieties.
They also offer whole grain sandwiches if you prefer a Grilled Cheese or Pecan Butter and Jelly lunch. Be sure to try them with potato salad or hearty greens.
Cafe Amelie
912 Royal St, New Orleans, LA 70116
Phone: 504-412-8965
Visit Website
You can find Cafe Amelie around the corner of the New Orleans Historic Voodoo Museum. It has an elegant vibe but serves excellent contemporary Louisiana fare.
If you’re planning a date night, their greenery-decorated courtyard with a fountain is the perfect romantic backdrop for making your night unforgettable.
Their best dishes are Amelie Pasta, Seared Salmon, Lamb Shank, and Cajun Catfish Sandwich. Consider starting with their Pepper Glaze Shrimp and Chicken & Andouille Gumbo if you’re extra hungry.
Don’t forget to sample their Little Miss Suisse or Rosemary’s Baby cocktails to enhance your meal’s subtle flavors. You can also stop by earlier for their brunch specials.
Sylvain
625 Chartres St, New Orleans, LA 70130
Phone: 504-265-8123
Visit Website
Located near Toulouse Theatre and The Cabildo, Sylvain is a gastropub stationed in a former carriage house.
This cozy, vintage restaurant is an excellent dining option for anyone craving quality Southern fare for their weekly dinner or weekend brunch.
I like their Olive Oil Poached Halibut, Pappardelle Bolognese, and Sylvian Burger. However, I also recommend their Champagne & Fries special if you love hefty servings of simple dishes. They also have an extensive drink list for you to pair with any meal, from spirits to craft cocktails.
If you’re still hungry, you can treat yourself to their Chocolate Pot de Creme or Banana Pudding for dessert.
Bayona
430 Dauphine St, New Orleans, LA 70112
Phone: 504-525-4455
Visit Website
Bayona is a charming, old-school restaurant constructed from a vintage cottage, found within walking distance from the Hermann-Grima House and Dauphine Orleans Hotel.
Its dining rooms’ terracotta interior and outdoor courtyard with lush flora give it a regal, European ambiance.
Chef Susan Spicer prepares classic Louisiana fare with the finest local ingredients for an authentic flavor experience.
Bayona’s menu changes daily, so be sure to stop by often during your stay. I enjoyed their Potato Gnocchi, Roasted Beet Salad, and Braised Berkshire Pork Cheeks during my last visit to this French Quarter restaurant. Feel free to choose from their wide selection of wines to give your meal a classy touch.
Bennachin
1212 Royal St, New Orleans, LA 70116
Phone: 504-522-1230
Are you in the mood for West African cuisine? If so, look no further than Bennachin for your dining needs. It’s down the road from the cryptic Lalaurie Mansion.
It has an intimate atmosphere, an artistic interior design, and menu options ideal for vegetarian dietary preferences.
If you’re curious about new dishes, consider ordering their Sisay Dourang, Nsouki Jakatu, Sauci Majanga, or Thiebujin with a side of Mandowa or Monde Cone. Don’t forget to try these dishes with their Barajambo Tea.
I also recommend sampling their Makondo Yogurt on Fried Plantains for dessert if you prefer ending your night with something fruity.
Cafe Du Monde French Market
800 Decatur St, New Orleans, LA 70116
Phone: (504) 587-0833
Visit Website
Nestled in the Shops of Colonnade, Cafe Du Monde French Market is one of the best restaurants in the French Quarter area, offering quality chicory coffee and pastries.
This quaint coffee shop is open all week, serving patrons from morning until night. Their sidewalk seating has an excellent view of the Mississippi River.
If you’re in the mood for Black or Au Lait Coffee, you can ask your server about your coffee preferences to ensure quality flavors.
Enjoy your brew with their signature beignets as a sweet pick-me-up to start your day right. You can also stop by their store to buy food mixes to prepare at home.
Antoine’s Restaurant
713 St Louis St, New Orleans, LA 70130
Phone: 504-581-4422
Visit Website
Last but not least on this list of the best restaurants in the French Quarter is the legendary Antoine’s Restaurant, within walking distance from the Omni Royal Orleans Hotel.
Since 1840, this vintage restaurant has served delicious classic French-Creole fare for everyone to enjoy.
When I booked my last dinner reservation, I started with their Souffle Potatoes and had their Pompano Pontchartrain with a side of Herbed Onion Rice.
However, if you prefer stopping by for lunch, consider trying their Creole Shrimp Bowl or Antoine’s Burger. They also host a Jazz Brunch every Sunday. If you’re interested in dessert, I recommend their Baked Alaska.
