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Best Contemporary American Restaurants in Lower Garden District

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22 restaurants available nearby

A photo of The Bower restaurant
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 Lula Restaurant Distillery restaurant
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 Wild South restaurant
4.9
Exceptional(15)
Price: Very Expensive
• Contemporary american • Lower Garden District
Booked 3 times today
Take the right turn off of Magazine Streetin the Lower Garden District and you’llstumble upon Wild South.Through the yellow doors lies a restaurant that showcases local ingredients we hold dear in new, innovative ways while celebrating the signature elements that make up this Southern cuisine. Whether you’re popping in for snacks atthe bar or want the full tasting experience,Chef Michael Stoltzfus and his team invite you to partake in the unique taste of the Wild South. Wild South is now offering a la carte at both the barand dining room.
A photo of Meril restaurant
4.5
Awesome(6511)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • Warehouse District
Booked 41 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 Brennan's restaurant
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 M bistro restaurant
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 Commons Club Bar & Restaurant 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
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 Peacock Room at The Hotel Fontenot restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(780)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • Warehouse District
Booked 22 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.
A photo of Boulevard American Bistro - Warehouse District restaurant
4.4
Awesome(61)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Central Business District
Booked 21 times today
Boulevard American Bistro - Warehouse District, located in the heart of New Orleans' Central Business District, is a shining beacon of authentic Creole, Cajun, and Southern cuisine. This restaurant has earned rave reviews for its "exceptional experience from start to finish," with diners praising both its "attentive and friendly" staff and the "outstanding" quality of its dishes. The menu features Southern classics like Duck and Andouille Gumbo, expertly crafted to delight every palate. The inviting atmosphere, underscored by a warm and contemporary decor, makes Boulevard American Bistro a must-visit for anyone seeking a genuine taste of Southern hospitality and culinary excellence.

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See what locals rave about

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
  • Louis
    Las Vegas •3 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    What a fantastic experience! It was a very refined high level execution of local ingredients that was simply delish! I recommend the oysters, the prawns, the oyster stew, and the crab fingers!!! Great cocktails too!! We will be back!!
    More info
    Wild SouthPrice: Very Expensive• Creole / Cajun / Southern• Lower 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 Lower Garden District

Explore the vibrant world of Contemporary American cuisine in the Lower Garden District of New Orleans, Louisiana. This area is renowned for its culinary diversity, and the restaurants here offer a unique blend of modern American dishes infused with local flavors, making it a must-visit destination for food enthusiasts. Each establishment showcases a dedication to excellence, with menus that are regularly updated to reflect the freshest local ingredients and seasonal specialties. Diners can expect a high level of service and an atmosphere that combines both sophistication and local charm. The dining scene in this part of New Orleans is characterized by its innovative approaches to American cuisine, creating memorable dishes that both respect and redefine traditional flavors. Whether you're a local or a visitor, the Lower Garden District promises an exceptional gastronomic adventure, celebrating the best of contemporary American dining. These restaurants stand out not only for their culinary excellence but also for their commitment to providing a truly delightful dining experience.

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