Justine, New Orleans
The vibrant and flavorful city of New Orleans, Louisiana is known for its rich cultural heritage, lively music scene, and, of course, its exquisite cuisine. New Orleans is the perfect destination for a girls’ night out filled with laughter, good company, and delectable dishes. In this guide, we’ll explore some of the city’s most renowned restaurants, each offering a unique dining experience that’s sure to delight your taste buds and create unforgettable memories for your girl gang.
Beggars Banquet
Newly opened in December 2023, Beggars Banquet is New Orleans’ hottest new restaurant. Named after the famous Rolling Stones album, Beggars Banquet is the Lower Garden District’s new American bar and bistro under the direction of Chef Michael Dilonno, who owned and operated a New Jersey soda shop turned luncheonette of the same name. The menu pays homage to the South, yet is injected with Italian, French and Asian touches. From Fried Green Tomatoes with burrata, balsamic reduction and arugula to Duck Leg Confit with butternut squash, onion, bacon, pecans and hot honey, dishes are meticulously executed and thoughtfully presented. The space features bathrooms adorned in Rolling Stones lyrics, and a hand-painted mural by local tattoo artist Vivian Hava. Beggars Banquet is the ideal choice for a girls dinner with a rock’n’roll twist.
Commander’s Palace
An iconic staple in NOLA, the Commander’s Palace is well regarded for a reason. Nestled in the historic Garden District, Commander’s Palace has been a beloved fixture of New Orleans dining for over a century. Step into this elegant Victorian mansion and prepare to be transported to a world of Southern hospitality and culinary excellence. Indulge in classic Creole dishes like turtle soup, Gulf fish amandine, and the iconic bread pudding soufflé, all expertly prepared with the finest ingredients and served with flair. With its charming ambiance and impeccable service, Commander’s Palace is the perfect setting for a girls’ dinner filled with sophistication, style, and cocktails.
Justine
Next on our list is Justine, a chic French brasserie located in the heart of the French Quarter. Inspired by the bustling bistros of Paris, Justine offers a modern take on classic French cuisine in a stylish and vibrant setting. Start your evening with a glass of champagne and a selection of decadent hors d’oeuvres like escargot, steak tartare, and oysters Rockefeller. Then, dive into mains like coq au vin, bouillabaisse, or the signature steak frites, all expertly crafted with the finest local ingredients. With its lively atmosphere and impeccable attention to detail, Justine is the perfect spot for a girls’ dinner filled with joie de vivre.
The Bower
The Bower is the perfect perch to gather with friends for cocktails, conversation, and bites. The cocktail program at The Bower Bar is under the direction of Beverage Director Mickey Mullins and features field-to-glass libations focusing on seasonal herbs, flowers, and produce from local partners Sugar Roots Farm. The Bower is a full service restaurant and bar proudly highlighting locally sourced American cuisine. Their menus are ingredient driven determined by seasons, product availability and the additional health benefits they provide. So grab the girls and head to The Bower for cocktails and local Louisiana food.
Effervescence
For a truly sparkling dining experience, look no further than Effervescence in the French Quarter. This elegant champagne bar and lounge offers a curated selection of champagne and sparkling wines from around the world, paired with delectable small plates and shareable snacks. Sip on bubbly cocktails like the classic French 75 or the refreshing Aperol spritz as you enjoy dishes like caviar toast, oysters on the half shell, and artisanal cheese boards. With its chic ambiance and sophisticated atmosphere, Effervescence is the perfect place to raise a glass and toast to friendship and fun.
Copper Vine, New Orleans
Copper Vine
Located in a historic building in the Central Business District, Copper Vine offers a unique dining experience that combines classic Southern hospitality with modern flair. Settle into the stylish dining room or cozy courtyard and prepare to be wowed by the innovative menu, which features creative twists on traditional Southern favorites. Start your meal with small plates like crispy boudin balls or smoked gouda mac and cheese before diving into mains like Gulf shrimp and grits or cast iron-seared redfish. With its extensive wine list and charming ambiance, Copper Vine is the perfect spot for a girls’ dinner filled with laughter, good conversation, and culinary delights.
Hot Tin at the Pontchartrain Hotel
For breathtaking views and handcrafted cocktails, head to Hot Tin at the Pontchartrain Hotel. Perched atop this historic hotel in the Garden District, Hot Tin offers panoramic views of the city skyline and the Mississippi River, making it the perfect setting for a girls’ night out. Sip on signature cocktails like the Sazerac or the French 75 as you take in the stunning vistas and enjoy small plates like truffle fries, charcuterie boards, and Gulf shrimp cocktail. With its glamorous ambiance and stunning views, Hot Tin is sure to be a highlight of your girls’ night out in New Orleans.
Mister Mao
For a taste of the exotic, venture to Mister Mao, a stylish Asian-fusion restaurant located in the Lower Garden District. Inspired by the flavors of Southeast Asia, Mister Mao offers a diverse menu of small plates, noodles, and shared dishes that are perfect for sampling and sharing with friends. Start your meal with dim sum favorites like pork dumplings or steamed buns before moving on to mains like Vietnamese pho, Thai green curry, or Korean bibimbap. With its bold flavors and vibrant atmosphere, Mister Mao is the perfect spot for a girls’ dinner filled with adventure and excitement.
Brennan’s
No visit to New Orleans would be complete without a taste of classic Creole cuisine, and Brennan’s is the perfect place to indulge in the city’s culinary heritage. Located in the heart of the French Quarter, Brennan’s has been serving up traditional Creole dishes with a modern twist for over 70 years. Start your evening with a classic cocktail like the Ramos Gin Fizz or the Hurricane before diving into dishes like shrimp remoulade, turtle soup, or bananas foster. With its timeless elegance and impeccable service, Brennan’s is the perfect spot for a girls’ dinner filled with tradition and flavor.
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- Brennan’s
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- Mister Mao
From the elegant ambiance of Commander’s Palace to the lively atmosphere of Justine to the newly opened Beggars Banquet, each restaurant on our list offers a unique and unforgettable dining experience that’s sure to create cherished memories. So gather your girlfriends, raise a glass, and enjoy a culinary adventure through the vibrant streets of New Orleans – your taste buds will thank you.
Louise Walker is AGLAIA’s Editor in charge of all content creation and management. She splits her time between London and Miami, and can always be found at a swanky hotel bar sipping on a Negroni. Contact her for any questions or if you would like to become an AGLAIA Contributor: hello@aglaiamagazine.com
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