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.
With a location in the heart of the business district, August is a New Orleans culinary delight that has been prominent for drawing massive crowds since it opened its doors in 2001. This historic venue with an upscale setting offers French dishes with a distinctive Louisiana flair. The chefs here have carefully curated an elaborate menu, including specials such as Bluefin Tuna Tiradito with citrus, and passion fruit, Escargot & Porcini Mushrooms with leeks, potatoes, and croutons, and Pan-seared Grouper with carrots, grapefruit, and persillade. A wine room and private dining options are also available.
No compilation of New Orleans restaurants would be complete without mentioning Commander's Palace. In 1996, it was crowned the "Best Restaurant in the United States," and this renowned establishment continues to live up to its well-deserved reputation with exceptional cuisine and an unforgettable dining experience. One notable aspect is the attentive and efficient wait staff, who strike a perfect balance between attentiveness and formality. Housed in a modified 1880s Victorian house, Commander's Palace offers a range of dining rooms, from large to intimate. The restaurant is particularly acclaimed for its signature turtle soup, while other standout dishes include the Mississippi Roasted Quail Stuffed with Creole Crawfish Sausage, and for dessert, the delightful Creole Bread Pudding Souffle. Complementing the exquisite menu, an excellent wine list is available, complete with recommendations for each entrée.