Best Historic Restaurants in Mid-City / City Park

Listen, I know when you’re in New Orleans it’s all about the Creole. And we have thoroughly enjoyed eating our way through bowls of gumbo and grilled oysters… but nothing celebrated my palate like this experience we had at Nobu. I have no idea what we ate exactly, but I remember when I briefly needed glasses in 3rd grade and thinking the grass had never been greener and the sky had never really been blue like this before. This is what this food did to me. The flavors had—no exaggeration—actual swear-to-Jesus layers and my mouth celebrated it all with a little grand finale of a pop of punchy explosion. Yes. It was all that. It was perfect and everything I didn’t know I had been missing. It’s not cheap, but it is a real experience. Our server, Andrea made the best recommendations and our chef even visited tableside with an extra little surprise. I imagine in a world where people are seeking the Creole experience this Asian cuisine could be overlooked, but it should be a stand out. The cod dish I forgot to take a picture of was this sexy satiny dish that felt so luxurious like the best sheets you’ve ever slept in… Whatever the other white fish dish was the thing I will be coming back for. A beautiful layered delight. This little pepper that hit you right at the end like a first kiss. The Wagu dish was so smooth with just the right amount of peppery, salty punch atop a melt in your mouth beef with a final tomato explosion. All so good. Save your money for this splurge, it is worth it even for non-fancy people like me.

The restaurant itself is so cute! Everyone was super friendly, they had good music playing and most of the customers were vibing. We were there on a Monday night so there were half priced apps and drinks. Food came out quickly and was so delicious, we tried the chicken cracklins, sweet chili wings, and drinks to start. We’re from out of town so we had red beans and rice and a po boy for mains which also came out fast and tasted great. Sweet potato beignets are a MUST!

Darla and Daniel were incredible waiters. Knowledgeable, great interaction. Food was perfect! Fried oysters with tasso gravy reduction was bomb. For those who don't know, tasso is Cajun smoked pork legs with extremely deep smoke. Then duck confit, thigh and drumb. Finished with peppermint ice cream and glacee drizzled with chocolate.

I recently held my birthday dinner in the courtyard at Vessel and it couldn't have been a better experience. Everything from the ambiance to the service to the food and drinks was perfection. It's a lovely courtyard with beautiful lighting (and a tv for those wanting to keep up with whatever major game is on, though the sound was not loud or distracting in the slightest). Our server was attentive and engaging, and kept up flawlessly with our large group. The food was delicious; we ordered an assortment of items for appetizers, entrees, and desserts (my faves being the smoked fish dip, seared scallop risotto, the filet, and the key lime pie), and everything was wonderful! While we loved sitting outside, the interior is absolutely stunning and we will definitely go back to sit inside. If you live locally or are visiting, this place is definitely worth a stop.

We’re traveling for a conference and saw this place was nearby - did not disappoint. The escargot was so good. Absolutely loved my Louisiana Cioppino and the bread pudding flavors and texture was spot on. Would definitely recommend.