Let the grand dame of fine French-Creole dining elevate your taste buds.
Antoine’s Restaurant needs no introduction. It is an integral part of New Orleans’ culinary history and a major must-do on a visit to the Crescent City. Celebrating its 180th birthday this year, it is by far the oldest restaurant in town, and is even said to be the oldest family-run restaurant in the country.
New Orleans is a city known for its rich history, and we can’t think of a better way to absorb a city’s history than through your taste buds.
Antoine’s Restaurant began its journey in 1840. Antoine Alciatore, a young French man, decided he wanted to make his mark on the culinary community. Five generations later and his restaurant still stands as an emblem of New Orleans cuisine, having created some of the city’s most famous dishes like Oysters Rockefeller, Eggs Sardou and Pompano en Papillote.
The restaurant is now owned and operated by fifth generation Alciatore relative Rick Blount. It is housed in the same historic building right in the heart of the French Quarter, and has an array of beautiful dining rooms exquisitely decorated for an upscale dining experience. As seen from the multitude of photos that adorn the walls, Antoine’s has been visited by some of the most famous members of high society, from Franklin Roosevelt and Pope John Paul II to Brad Pitt, Kate Hudson and Bing Crosby.
The French Quarter fixture offers delicious fixed three-course menus, a la carte dining as well as a fabulous brunch with bottomless mimosas, sparkling wine and rose. The Jazz Brunch is a local favorite as well, although not currently available due to the pandemic.
Antoine’s Hermes Bar menu also offers visitors a tasty set of libations, including a range of premier wines and beer, as well as classy cocktails. In addition to the classics, Antoine’s offers a list of fall wines and cocktails to help you get into the holiday spirit, like the Apple American Mule or the J. Wilkes Pinot Noir.
The restaurant is currently open Thursday through Saturday for lunch and dinner as well as brunch on Sunday. Hermes Bar, just next door, is also open from Thursday to Sunday. Be sure to make a reservation for this historic gem so that you can experience this New Orleans culinary mastery for yourself!
Location: 713 Saint Louis Street
Hours: Thursday – Saturday 11 am – 2 pm & 5 pm – 9 pm, Sunday 10:30 am – 2:30 pm
Location: 725 Saint Louis Street
Hours: 11 am to close
[Featured images: Antoine’s Restaurant]