Best Southern American Restaurants in Lower Garden District

99 restaurants available nearby

1. The Bower

4.5

Price: Moderate

• Southern american • Lower Garden District

Booked 48 times today

At The Bower in New Orleans' Lower Garden District, the essence of farm-to-table cuisine is brought to life with a menu that celebrates the freshest local ingredients sourced directly from Louisiana farmers and markets. Praised for its "fantastic meal" and "incredible" chef's specials, The Bower thrives on seasonal availability, ensuring each dish not only tastes exquisite but also enhances health. Diners rave about the "amazing ambiance & service" and the "outstanding" food, making it clear that The Bower is a standout for those seeking authentic, high-quality farm-to-table dining. As one enthusiastic reviewer puts it, "The food was so so good" and "service was fantastic," encapsulating the delightful experience that awaits at The Bower.

A photo of Lula Restaurant Distillery restaurant

2. Lula Restaurant Distillery

4.6

Exceptional(1911)

Price: Moderate

• Southern american • Lower Garden District

Booked 44 times today

Lula Restaurant Distillery, nestled in the vibrant Lower Garden District of New Orleans, represents the epitome of American cuisine with a distinctive Louisiana twist. As the first restaurant-distillery in New Orleans and the Southeast US, Lula offers an authentic experience where "the food was so absolutely incredible" and the spirits are crafted on-site, enhancing the dining adventure. Patrons rave about dishes like the "pork osso bucco" which is "so tender it just fell apart" and the flavorful "shrimp & grits." The unique blend of locally sourced ingredients and the joy of dining along the historic St. Charles Avenue streetcar line make every visit memorable. Whether it’s the praised "bottomless vodka bar" during brunch or the "excellent service" noted by many, Lula Restaurant Distillery delivers a top-tier American dining experience that’s both deeply rooted in tradition and refreshingly modern.

A photo of Birdy's Behind The Bower restaurant

3. Birdy's Behind The Bower

4.7

Exceptional(600)

Price: Moderate

• Southern american • Garden District

Booked 34 times today

Birdy's Behind the Bower in the Garden District of New Orleans is your go-to destination for authentic Southern cuisine with a touch of local charm. Praised for its "amazingly good" food and "exceptional service," this delightful spot offers a menu brimming with fresh, locally-sourced ingredients from Sugar Roots Farm. Whether it's the highly recommended breakfast board, the mouth-watering Huevos Rancheros, or the beloved biscuits with honey butter, each dish is crafted with care and Southern flair. As one reviewer exclaimed, it's "1000/10. new fav spot and will be back." Celebrate Southern comforts in a chic outdoor setting at Birdy’s, where every meal is a homecoming.

4. Wild South

5.0

Exceptional(9)

Price: Very Expensive

• Southern american • Lower Garden District

Booked 14 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.

5. SeaWitch

4.4

Awesome(44)

Price: Expensive

• Southern american • Garden District

Booked 40 times today

At Seawitch in New Orleans' picturesque Garden District, seafood isn't just a dish; it's a celebration of local flavors and traditions. Nestled on the lively St. Charles Avenue, this restaurant offers a seafood experience that is as authentic as it is innovative. Diners rave about the "best oysters they've ever had," praising their freshness and the expert char-grilling that enhances their natural flavors. The menu, described as "beautifully thought out and so flavorful," includes standout dishes like chargrilled lemon Parmesan oysters and red fish on the half shell, which guests describe as "absolutely the best." The vibrant atmosphere and attentive service complete the enchanting dining experience, making Seawitch a must-visit destination for seafood lovers in New Orleans.

A photo of Cafe Normandie at The Higgins restaurant

6. Cafe Normandie at The Higgins

4.5

Awesome(65)

Price: Expensive

• Southern american • Warehouse District

Booked 4 times today

Indulge in sophisticated French-influenced casual fare in the Higgins Hotel's full-service restaurant.

7. Brennan's

4.8

Exceptional(11763)

Price: Expensive

• Southern american • French Quarter

Booked 183 times today

Welcome to Brennan's in the vibrant French Quarter of New Orleans, a beacon of breakfast excellence and a culinary landmark praised by both locals and travelers. As a finalist for the "Outstanding Restaurant" by the James Beard Foundation in 2022, Brennan’s offers a breakfast experience that’s both indulgent and authentically Creole. Guests rave about the "out of this world" food and the exceptional service, making it feel like "eating in my grandmother's kitchen." The legendary Bananas Foster, flamboyantly prepared tableside, is a must-try. Each dish, from the luxurious lobster omelette to the traditional Eggs Hussarde, promises a morning of decadent delight. Celebrate the start of your day in one of Brennan’s opulent dining rooms or the lush courtyard, making every breakfast not just a meal but a memorable event.

8. Antoine's

4.6

Exceptional(11298)

Price: Expensive

• Southern american • French Quarter

Booked 111 times today

Antoine's, nestled in the heart of the French Quarter in New Orleans, has been a bastion of French Creole cuisine for over 184 years. Celebrated for its authenticity and traditional fare, Antoine's offers a dining experience steeped in historic charm. Guests rave about the classic dishes, with one patron exclaiming, "Food was FABULOUS!!! Best steak ever," and another recommending the "wonderful baked Alaska and oysters Rockefeller." The restaurant’s dedication to excellence is evident in the glowing reviews, highlighting not only the food but also the exceptional service and ambiance. Antoine's continues to impress, making it a must-visit for anyone seeking a genuine taste of French culinary tradition in a timeless setting.

9. Luke

4.6

Exceptional(9210)

Price: Moderate

• Southern american • Central Business District

Booked 144 times today

Luke, nestled in the vibrant Central Business District of New Orleans, just steps from the French Quarter, is a French brasserie that exudes authenticity and culinary excellence. This Creole-inspired gem, led by Chef Erick Loos, specializes in dishes that showcase the freshest local ingredients and seafood from the Gulf of Mexico. Guests consistently rave about their experiences, with one patron noting, "every bite was superb!" The restaurant's commitment to quality is mirrored in its meticulous service and a lively atmosphere that complements its exquisite French offerings. Whether it’s the locally famed French 75 cocktail or the freshly procured oysters, Luke guarantees a French dining experience that is both genuine and memorable.

10. Copper Vine

4.8

Exceptional(2346)

Price: Moderate

• Southern american • Central Business District

Booked 114 times today

Nestled in the vibrant Central Business District of New Orleans, Copper Vine stands out as a premier Gastro Pub, offering a delightful fusion of Caribbean, European, and Southern flavors that embody the city’s eclectic spirit. Patrons rave about their experiences, highlighting not only the innovative dishes like the "spectacular Ragu" but also the atmospheric charm and top-tier service. "The food was very nice and the service was excellent," one diner noted, encapsulating the consistent praise found in reviews. Whether it's the bottomless brunch or a leisurely dinner, Copper Vine offers a gastro pub experience that marries traditional refinement with contemporary flair, making every visit memorable.

‘About the restaurant’ descriptions have been generated using an artificial intelligence model comprised of OpenTable proprietary data that has not been independently verified by OpenTable. The content is presented as-is, for informational purposes only.

See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you

K
Kevin
New Orleans / Louisiana •4 reviews
5.0
Dined 1 day ago
Maypop is one of my favorite restaurants. I always suggest it as a unique dining experience for friends or strangers I meet that are visiting New Orleans. You cannot truly replicate it anywhere else. I was born and raised in New Orleans and have lived in Singapore, so the concept of blending SE Asian and Creole/Cajun/NO Italian cuisine makes a lot of sense when you have lived amongst both food cultures. Maypop blends elements of these surprisingly similar cuisines in a non-gimmicky way by creating a third cuisine that stands on its own, but could not exist without the influences of the others. I'll stop typing — just eat the current duck with blueberry hoisin and collard greens dish and that is all you will need to know.
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MaypopPrice: Expensive• Southeast Asian• Central Business District
•
4.6
A
Andrea
Orlando / Central Florida East •1 review
5.0
Dined 3 days ago
Great Christmas dinner. The service was excellent and the manager did a great job on the floor. The short rib is a must try. 10/10
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Commons Club Bar & RestaurantPrice: Moderate• Southern• Central Business District
•
4.4
M
Martha
New Mexico •2 reviews
5.0
Dined 4 days ago
Really nice food and experience. Waitresses were very friendly and competent
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Birdy's Behind The BowerPrice: Moderate• American• Garden District
•
4.7
A
Aungie
New Orleans / Louisiana •5 reviews
5.0
Dined 5 days ago
Shrimp tacos were great and chicken is always hot and fried to perfection! Ordered gumbo as well and it was delightful.
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Willie Mae’s NolaPrice: Expensive• Southern• Warehouse District
•
4.7
M
Malcolm
New Orleans / Louisiana •16 reviews
5.0
Dined on 17 Dec 2024
Wonderful experience. Food was outstanding. Crab cakes, crispy turkey necks, sweet potato crumble, cornbread, chili glazed salmon, blackened catfish, smothered chicken, sautéed vegetables, collard greens. Service was spot on. We were pleased to discover that a few alcoholic drinks are offered in addition to beer and wine. Large dining room is airy and attractive. There is a small parking lot behind the restaurant, but other parking available near by. Staff very welcoming. Excellent value. Will definitely return.
More info
Cafe ReconcilePrice: Moderate• Southern• Lower Garden District
•
4.9

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Best Southern American Restaurants in Lower Garden District

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99 restaurants available nearby

1. The Bower

2. Lula Restaurant Distillery

3. Birdy's Behind The Bower

4. Wild South

5. SeaWitch

6. Cafe Normandie at The Higgins

7. Brennan's

8. Antoine's

9. Luke

10. Copper Vine

See what locals rave about

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