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Best Contemporary American Restaurants in Garden District

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22 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Meril restaurant
1. Meril
4.5
Awesome(6511)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • Warehouse District
Booked 40 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
2. The Bower
4.5
Awesome(775)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • Lower Garden District
Booked 16 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 Brennan's restaurant
3. Brennan's
4.8
Exceptional(11817)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • French Quarter
Booked 213 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 Atchafalaya Restaurant restaurant
4. Atchafalaya Restaurant
4.9
Exceptional(6488)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Garden District
Booked 69 times today
Atchafalaya Restaurant, nestled in the charming Garden District of New Orleans, offers an exceptional Contemporary American dining experience that perfectly marries traditional Creole influences with modern culinary techniques. This hidden gem is celebrated for its "superb service and delicious food," making it a beloved destination for both locals and visitors. The menu is thoughtfully crafted, featuring standout dishes like fried green tomatoes and shrimp & grits, which reviewers describe as "the best I've ever had." With its inviting atmosphere and "elegant yet funky decor," Atchafalaya provides a dining experience that is as memorable as it is delicious. Whether you're enjoying a leisurely brunch or a refined dinner, this restaurant promises to delight with its innovative and authentic approach to Contemporary American cuisine.
A photo of M bistro restaurant
5. M bistro
4.1
Excellent(820)
Price: Very Expensive
• Contemporary american • French Quarter
Booked 9 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 Apolline restaurant
6. Apolline
4.6
Exceptional(1770)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • Uptown
Booked 13 times today
Apolline, nestled in the vibrant Uptown New Orleans, is a true gem for those seeking “delicious fare” with authentic Creole flair. This charming restaurant beautifully marries contemporary French cuisine with the bold, rich flavors of Creole, utilizing locally-grown ingredients, including produce from their own gardens. Chef Bill Prats curates an innovative menu that keeps patrons returning time and again. Reviews highlight the "fantastic and creative brunch cocktails," while dishes like shrimp and grits and jambalaya dumplings are praised as “to die for.” Guests rave about the “impeccable service” and the warm, welcoming atmosphere, making it a must-visit spot for Creole cuisine lovers.
A photo of Commons Club Bar & Restaurant restaurant
7. Commons Club Bar & Restaurant
4.3
Awesome(516)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • Central Business District
Booked 5 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 Curio restaurant
8. Curio
4.0
Excellent(1261)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • French Quarter
Booked 7 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 Lula Restaurant Distillery restaurant
9. Lula Restaurant Distillery
4.6
Exceptional(1926)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • Lower Garden District
Booked 19 times today
Lula Restaurant Distillery offers an unforgettable American dining experience in the heart of New Orleans' Lower Garden District. As "the first and only restaurant-distillery in the Southeast US," it sets itself apart with a unique fusion of expertly crafted food and spirits. Enthusiastic reviews highlight their "amazing" food and "great service," creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. The quintessentially Southern menu, with standout dishes like gumbo and lamb chops, showcases authentic American flavors with a distinct Louisiana twist. Patrons rave about the "great ambiance" and the delightful "bottomless vodka bar" during weekends, making Lula a must-visit destination for American cuisine lovers.
A photo of Jewel of the South restaurant
10. Jewel of the South
4.8
Exceptional(68)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • French Quarter
Booked 32 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!

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From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • sam
    New Orleans / Louisiana •3 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    Great food every time! Portion sizes are excellent and flavors unmatched! Top 5 restaurant!
    More info
    The BowerPrice: Moderate• Contemporary American• Lower Garden District
    •
    4.5
  • Natty
    New Orleans / Louisiana •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 1 day 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
  • Ashley
    New Orleans / Louisiana •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 4 days ago
    We live out of town and every time we come to New Orleans we make sure to have brunch here! The owner is very accommodating and the food AND drinks are delicious and amazing! Recommend to everyone we know!
    More info
    Atchafalaya RestaurantPrice: Expensive• Creole / Cajun / Southern• Garden District
    •
    4.9
  • SandeepVIP
    Chicago / Illinois •107 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 4 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 7 days ago
    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

Discover best Contemporary American restaurants in Garden District

Discover the allure of contemporary American cuisine in the historic Garden District of New Orleans, Louisiana. This vibrant dining scene offers a medley of restaurants that skillfully blend modern American flavors with the rich culinary heritage of New Orleans. Each establishment in this locale promises a unique dining experience, featuring menus that are both innovative and reflective of the area's gastronomic traditions. Patrons can expect high-quality ingredients, expertly crafted dishes, and a dining atmosphere that ranges from casual chic to sophisticated elegance. The Garden District itself adds a charming backdrop to every meal, characterized by its picturesque streets and well-preserved antebellum mansions. Whether you're a local foodie or a visiting gourmand, the contemporary American restaurants in this part of New Orleans provide unforgettable culinary delights that cater to a diverse array of tastes and preferences. Explore this neighborhood for an exceptional combination of tradition and modernity in every bite.

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