Renowned chef and restaurateur John Besh combined German and French cooking traditions with his Louisiana roots to develop the menu at his Central Business District brasserie. Unlike most CBD restaurants, Luke offers breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Breakfast diners can choose from baked goods from the patisserie and a la carte sides like skillet potatoes and cane syrup sausage. The lunch menu includes salads, soups, daily hot specials, and selections from the raw bar. Those looking for an evening meal can enjoy fine offerings like a whole roast Cochon de Lait with cherry mustard and stewed greens, or crabmeat maison with fresh herbs, greens, and country bread croutons. Don't miss daily blackboard specials.

Located in the heart of the business district, August is a major New Orleans culinary delight. This historic venue offers French dishes with a distinctive Louisiana flair. Chef John Besh has helped to create an elaborate menu including dishes such as "Salade August" (salad with candied pumpkin seeds and Point Reyes blue cheese), Parmesan-crusted blackfish with lobster, whipped potatoes and bouillabaisse jus, and pork belly and lobster "en barigoule." A wine room and private dining options are also available.

No list of New Orleans restaurants would be complete without Commander's Palace. Voted “Best Restaurant in the United States” in 1996, this fine southern establishment lives up to its reputation with exceptional cuisine and a dining experience you will not soon forget. One piece of the package here is the wait staff; the efficient servers are attentive rather than officious. Dining rooms vary in size from large to intimate in this modified 1880s Victorian house. Commander's Palace is particularly known for its turtle soup. Other standouts include the Mississippi Roasted Quail Stuffed with Creole Crawfish Sausage and for dessert, the Creole Bread Pudding Souffle. There is also an excellent wine list with suggestions for each entree.