As hurricane Gustav just finished its destructive path through Louisiana, my trip to New Orleans several weeks ago was up in the air. Once we received the green light though, I was on my way with about ten of my friends to enjoy “The Big Easy.” New Orleans’ indigenous cuisine is very distinctive and through the years has developed into a combination of local and haute Creole, as well as New Orleans French cuisine. Local ingredients, French, Spanish, Italian, African, and Cajun traditions combine to produce a truly unique and easily recognizable Louisiana flavor. Knowing I would be visiting some legendary and nationally acclaimed restaurants, I was very eager to get to New Orleans and start eating my way through the city. Even though not all restaurants would be up and running I made sure to contact a few I wanted to go to. After doing my research, I decided to visit a couple of local establishments, one high end – gourmet restaurant, a traditional and classic New Orleans eatery, and hopefully fall upon an unexpected food find. As a result, I ended up at the following restaurants and with the following observations:
The Quartermaster Store – 1100 Bourbon St New Orleans, LA 70116 (504) 529-1416
The Quartermaster Store is a well known local place to go for po-boys in the French Quarter. This is not the establishment if you are looking for ambience. The store is old and decrepit looking but if you are up for a good deal on shrimp, soft shell crab or crawfish po-boys, this is where you want to be. Located on Bourbon St just north of Canal St, you can grab a quick bite and then head to your favorite bar for good music, drinks, and fun.
Acme Oyster House – 724 Iberville St, New Orleans (504) 522-5973
Opened since 1910, the Acme Oyster House has been the scene of the making and breaking of Louisiana politicians and to this day still remains a New Orleans classic. My friend and I enjoyed three dozen oysters on the half shell, some Abita beers, and good music. If you are looking for a good place to go with a group for old school Cajun food, the Acme Oyster House is the place.
Brennnans – 417 Royal St, New Orleans, LA (504) 525-9711
Although known for its rich tradition in food and ambience, I honestly was somewhat let down with my experience this time around. The restaurant was close to empty, the food was mediocre and the price a bit too high for what was provided. However, if you have never been to Brennan’s for the bananas foster, please try to make it; if anything for the experience of it being prepared tableside.
Café du Monde – 1039 Decatur Street New Orleans, LA 70116 (504) 525-4544
I have never been to New Orleans without going to Café du Monde which is located in the heart of the French Quarter. The reason I go every time? Beignets – the classic French doughnut which is drenched in powdered sugar and pairs perfectly with café au lait. This is a great place for couples, families and friends so make sure and stop by when you visit New Orleans.
R&O Restaurant – 216 Metairie Hammond Hwy Metairie, LA 70005 (504) 831-1248
Get DirThe best part about R&O restaurant was that it was not planned. Instead, we received an invitation by the grandparents of one of my buddies that grew up in New Orleans. Known as a local’s hangout, it was nice being away from the typical tourist restaurants. You know you will eat well when you dine with and where the locals go. Need I say more with good po-boys, oysters, and gumbo?
August – 301 Tchoupitoulas St New Orleans, LA 70130 (504).299.9777
Owned and operated by the famous chef, John Besh, this place is as gourmet as you can get. Celebrating my friend Garrett Hall’s engagement, we ate like kings enjoying the following plates:
An amuse bouche (i.e. hors d’ oeuvre) of truffled sabayon in an egg shell. Sabayon is like an egg custard which was infused with a savory and earthy taste of the ever expensive truffle mushroom. The next plate was an incredible salad of crab meat, fresh mustard greens, sweet roasted beets, and local pan seared cherry wood bacon. The combination between the sweet crab and beets combined perfectly with the bitterness from the greens and the saltiness from the bacon. The next plate was a soup a pistou which is a classical French dish. The soup is homemade vegetable stock infused tableside with pistou which is a garlic, fresh basil, and olive oil sauce. Low in fat, this soup packs a punch and a lingering taste of fresh vegetables. The next dish was an interesting take on an Italian classic – Saltimbocca (translation: jump in the mouth) which is when you take a slice of Prosciutto (Italian bacon), sage, and wrap it around pork, chicken or veal. In this case, it was wrapped around a fresh filet of grouper. The hearty grouper was strong enough to stand up against the strong bacon and sage flavors making the dish a success. After the meal I and a friend were invited to see the kitchen and meet the staff making the whole experience that much more personal and unique. Enjoying great food, the upscale ambience, and good friends, this was one dining experience that will be difficult to forget.
When visiting New Orleans, remember that they are world-famous for their cuisine so please take advantage of the food scene. Don’t go to the chain restaurants you know too well. Get out, explore, and see all the city has to offer. You can use the restaurant addresses I listed above for a head start. Not only will you learn more about the culture of New Orleans, but also the food and its wonderful diversity! If not, you are truly missing out on an excellent culinary learning experience.
