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Best Contemporary American Restaurants in French Quarter

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22 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Brennan's restaurant
1. Brennan's
4.8
Exceptional(11827)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • French Quarter
Booked 204 times today
Brennan's, nestled in the heart of New Orleans' French Quarter, exemplifies the art of Contemporary American cuisine by skillfully blending classic Creole traditions with modern culinary innovations. Chef Ryan Hacker's inspired menu delights diners with "exceptional" dishes that consistently earn rave reviews. Guests praise the "outstanding service and food," with highlights including the inventive Artisanal Eggs Benedict and the famed Flaming Bananas Foster, a New Orleans staple invented at Brennan's. The restaurant boasts numerous accolades, such as being a James Beard Foundation finalist and topping lists by Condé Nast Traveler. Dining at Brennan's ensures a "memorable experience" with a vibrant atmosphere and impeccable service.
A photo of M bistro restaurant
2. M bistro
4.1
Excellent(820)
Price: Very Expensive
• Contemporary american • French Quarter
Booked 3 times today
Nestled in the heart of the French Quarter at The Ritz-Carlton, New Orleans, M bistro is a beacon of authentic Creole, Cajun, and Southern cuisine. The farm-to-table approach ensures that every dish is crafted with the freshest meats, seafood, and produce sourced from local farmers across Louisiana, Texas, Mississippi, and Alabama. Guests rave about the “delicious food and great service,” with standout dishes like gumbo and crab beignets. The restaurant’s ambiance is enhanced by the live jazz performances in the adjacent lounge, making dining here a truly unforgettable experience. For a genuine taste of New Orleans, M bistro is unparalleled.
A photo of Curio restaurant
3. Curio
4.0
Excellent(1261)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • French Quarter
Booked 8 times today
Curio, nestled in the heart of New Orleans' French Quarter, offers an unparalleled Creole, Cajun, and Southern culinary experience that captivates both locals and visitors alike. With its vibrant "circus of flavor," Curio delights diners with a menu that artfully blends tradition and innovation. The Jambalaya and Shrimp & Grits are standout dishes, praised for their "rich flavors and creativity." The restaurant's enchanting ambiance, combined with its first-rate service, elevates every visit to a memorable experience. Curio's sophisticated yet whimsical atmosphere makes it a must-visit destination for those seeking authentic Southern cuisine in an unforgettable setting. "10/10 highly recommend."
A photo of Jewel of the South restaurant
4. Jewel of the South
4.8
Exceptional(69)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • French Quarter
Booked 24 times today
Jewel of the South is a beacon of exceptional Cocktail Bar cuisine nestled in the heart of the French Quarter, New Orleans. With its roots tracing back to an influential 1850s bar, this establishment offers a "magical culinary adventure" that delights all senses. Celebrated bartender Chris Hannah crafts both classic and contemporary cocktails that are "absolutely incredible," earning the spot accolades like James Beard and Best Bar South (North America). Guests rave about the "creative and delicious cocktails" that perfectly complement the warm, inviting atmosphere of the old brick Creole cottage. Experience a cocktail journey like no other at Jewel of the South!
A photo of The Pelican Club restaurant
5. The Pelican Club
4.6
Exceptional(4578)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • French Quarter
Booked 18 times today
The Pelican Club in the French Quarter of New Orleans is a haven for seafood aficionados, offering an authentic taste of south Louisiana's rich culinary heritage. Chef Richard Hughes crafts an exceptional menu that beautifully blends French, Italian, and Asian influences, ensuring a "sensational" dining experience. Diners rave about the "unbelievably good" scallops and the "excellent" Louisiana Cioppino, highlighting the freshness and quality of the seafood. The "perfectly cooked" dishes and "exceptional" service create an unforgettable atmosphere, making The Pelican Club a must-visit for anyone seeking an extraordinary seafood experience in New Orleans. "Highly recommended" by all who visit!
A photo of Tableau restaurant
6. Tableau
4.5
Awesome(4809)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • French Quarter
Booked 27 times today
Tableau, nestled in the heart of New Orleans' vibrant French Quarter, offers an exquisite journey into Contemporary French / American cuisine. Guests praise its “amazing food” and “exceptional service,” highlighting dishes like escargot beignets and gulf fish almondine as standout creations. The restaurant’s innovative approach to traditional Creole dishes sets it apart, ensuring a “great dining experience” every time. With breathtaking views of Jackson Square from its charming balconies, Tableau combines “beautiful venue” and “wonderful atmosphere,” making it a must-visit for both locals and visitors. Whether celebrating a special occasion or enjoying a casual meal, Tableau promises a memorable culinary adventure.
A photo of Meril restaurant
7. Meril
4.5
Awesome(6511)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • Warehouse District
Booked 38 times today
Meril, nestled in the vibrant Warehouse District of New Orleans, offers an authentic taste of Creole, Cajun, and Southern cuisine under the expert guidance of Chef Emeril Lagasse. The lively atmosphere is complemented by a menu that delights with dishes like shrimp tacos, pork dumplings, and the renowned banana cream pie, which reviewers rave as "absolutely delicious." The open kitchen style and large bar area create an inviting space perfect for both intimate dinners and lively celebrations. With "impeccable service" and "outstanding gourmet food," Meril stands out as a must-visit destination for anyone seeking a true Southern culinary experience.
A photo of The Bower restaurant
8. The Bower
4.5
Awesome(775)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • Lower Garden District
Booked 11 times today
The Bower, nestled in the vibrant Lower Garden District of New Orleans, is a beacon of exquisite Seafood cuisine, making waves with its dedication to fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Diners rave about the "outstanding" quality of the fish dishes, highlighting the restaurant's impressive ability to deliver perfectly cooked and flavorful seafood. The smoky aioli and chimichurri add remarkable depth to the crispy octopus, leaving patrons eager for more. With an atmosphere that's both trendy and intimate, The Bower provides an authentic New Orleans dining experience that seafood lovers can't miss. It's a true testament to the region's rich culinary heritage.
A photo of Commons Club Bar & Restaurant restaurant
9. Commons Club Bar & Restaurant
4.3
Awesome(518)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • Central Business District
Booked 2 times today
Commons Club Bar & Restaurant in New Orleans offers an authentic slice of Southern hospitality with its reinvented takes on contemporary Southern dishes. Located in the Central Business District, it promises a "truly memorable dining experience" that locals and tourists alike rave about. Guests are treated to a vibrant atmosphere, where "the food was phenomenal," especially the Shrimp Gumbo and Grits, which one reviewer declared as "the best Gumbo I’ve ever had!" The service is lauded as attentive and friendly, making every visit a joyous occasion. With its eclectic menu and chic ambiance, Commons Club is a culinary gem in the heart of The Big Easy.
A photo of Peacock Room at The Hotel Fontenot restaurant
10. Peacock Room at The Hotel Fontenot
4.8
Exceptional(781)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • Warehouse District
Booked 12 times today
The Peacock Room at The Hotel Fontenot in the Warehouse District of New Orleans is a shining example of authentic Creole, Cajun, and Southern cuisine. With a menu crafted by Chef Samuel Peery, the restaurant offers "refined shareable interpretations" of regional classics, ensuring an elevated dining experience. Guests rave about the "amazing food," with standout dishes like the "best Shrimp & Grits ever had" and an unforgettable gumbo that delights with its spicy kick. The vibrant atmosphere, complemented by thoughtful cocktails and attentive service, makes every visit memorable. This "jewel box" of a restaurant truly captures the heart of Southern hospitality.

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From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • Natty
    New Orleans / Louisiana •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    The people were real. Just nice and informative. The food was so much better than we expected. The strange combinations of flavors worked like crazy. Small tapas portions mostly, that allowed you to just keep eating. Don’t you hate it when you fill up on bread and can’t keep eating? No worries. My fav was the flat bread. When it first came out all hot and amazing, dang. But even as it cooled off when food usually gets boring, it continued to taste amazing. And they had cotton candy with sparklers. Are you kidding me??? It was so fantastic.
    More info
    MerilPrice: Moderate• Contemporary American• Warehouse District
    •
    4.5
  • SandeepVIP
    Chicago / Illinois •107 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 5 days ago
    Tragic start to NYD considering the Bourbon St attack. Brennan’s opened late, we called to confirm our reservation too. Cindy & Sheldon were great. We went w/ Sheldon’s recommendations - Eggs Carpaccio (our fav), Oysters, Eggs St. Charles + Owen’s Scotch Egg. Definitely, we did the Banana Foster. The Musicians were a great addition. We had a better experience here vs Mr. B’s Bistro last night.
    More info
    Brennan'sPrice: Expensive• Creole• French Quarter
    •
    4.8
  • Shannon
    New Orleans / Louisiana •1 review
    5.0
    Dined on Dec 29, 2024
    My daghter had a wonderful brunch with her friends for her birthday. She was even very surprised to receive a gift from you. It just made her day. Thank you so much
    More info
    M bistroPrice: Very Expensive• Contemporary American• French Quarter
    •
    4.1
  • angela
    San Antonio •2 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on Dec 25, 2024
    Came here for breakfast on Christmas Day, the food was beyond amazing! Our waitress was amazing as well. The atmosphere was quiet and laid back. Over all a great experience.
    More info
    CurioPrice: Moderate• Contemporary American• French Quarter
    •
    4
  • James
    New Orleans / Louisiana •10 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on Dec 24, 2024
    There were 8 of us and the Revellion menu had something for us all. Not one of the group was dissatisfied with any part of the meal. Two meals of particular brilliance were the chopping and the roasted duck. The ciopino was all Louisiana in style and in flavor. The roasted duck in a grape blueberry confit was genius and easily the best game bird I ever tasted. An honorable mention and very honorable indeed was the pork chop which was thick delicious and tender. Randy provided an excellent night of service, knowledgeable and attentive. A very professionable waiter.
    More info
    The Pelican ClubPrice: Expensive• Creole / Cajun / Southern• French Quarter
    •
    4.6

Discover best Contemporary American restaurants in French Quarter

Discover the essence of Contemporary American cuisine in the vibrant heart of New Orleans' French Quarter. This eclectic culinary scene blends modern innovation with classic Southern charm, offering a unique dining experience that catively represents the diversity of American cooking. Each restaurant in this historic district provides a distinctive take on contemporary American dishes, infused with local flavors and ingredients, emphasizing farm-to-table freshness and culinary creativity. The French Quarter itself is a culinary hotspot, known for its rich history and its ability to continuously evolve while maintaining its deep-rooted traditions. Diners can expect exceptional service, an inviting atmosphere, and a menu that captures the heart of New Orleans cooking with a modern twist. From cozy spots offering intimate dining experiences to larger, bustling venues perfect for group gatherings, there's a setting to suit every occasion and palate. Whether you're a local foodie or a visitor looking to indulge in the local cuisine, the French Quarter's contemporary American restaurants promise an unforgettable gastronomic journey, highlighting the best of both traditional and innovative culinary worlds. Embrace the charm and flavor of New Orleans through a contemporary lens and make your next meal an extraordinary experience.

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