Gourmet in the French Quarter at New Orleans’ NOLA
It makes a great deal of sense that what’s possibly the best restaurant in New Orleans comes from the father of all New Orleans cuisine. Mr. Emeril Lagasse brings up a little gem, filled with southern charm and great meals, smack in the middle of the French Quarter. Take a small walk from the liveliness of Jackson Square, and arrive at NOLA.
Though the food here is akin to the highest gourmet stops in New York City, the staff carries the easygoing manner that must be attributed to years of tourists stopping in after walks down Bourbon. They welcome you with open arms, and seat you within minutes if you have a reservation, and inform you how to make one, if you don’t. They lead you further into the dining room, with cozy brick walls and contrasting modern art, and are attentive off the bat.
Foodies will be happy to know that the menu at NOLA consist of comfort food staples like Warm Gulf Shrimp Remoulade with Fried Homemade Pickles, but also twists like Duck Confit and Fried Egg Pizza with Parmesan Cheese, Truffle Oil and Baby Arugula (my fave!). For dessert, cash in on the Daily Sorbet, Warm Ooey Gooey Cake with Layers of Moist Chocolate Cake, Marshmallows and Toasted Coconut served with Coffee Ice Cream, or Chocolate Bourbon Pecan Pie with Sweet Potato Ice Cream and Caramel Drizzle.And save space for a drink special or two. Yum.
Lunch is infinitely more casual at NOLA, much easier to secure a table, and a good choice of timing in general since you’ll want plenty of time to work off that Duck Confit Pizza before hopping on the St. Charles Streetcar.
NOLA. 534 St. Louis St., New Orleans, LA. 504.522.6652.
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I had yet to experience an Emeril restaurant. I will stop by NOLA in my next trip to NO. In fact, I just got back from a culinary trip to NYC. I went to Momofuku Ko. Here is my post: http://bit.ly/aVLY4