Best Contemporary American Restaurants in Jefferson

22 restaurants available nearby

1. Meril

4.5

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary american • Warehouse District

Booked 40 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.

2. Brennan's

4.8

Exceptional(11815)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary american • French Quarter

Booked 225 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 Audubon Clubhouse by Dickie Brennan & Co. restaurant

3. Audubon Clubhouse by Dickie Brennan & Co.

4.4

Awesome(202)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary american • Uptown

Booked 12 times today

Audubon Clubhouse by Dickie Brennan & Co. offers a truly exceptional Contemporary American dining experience in the heart of Uptown, New Orleans. Nestled within the stunning Audubon Park, this restaurant crafts dishes that celebrate the rich flavors of Louisiana with a contemporary twist. From the savory Crabcake Benedict to the classic Palace Cafe Turtle Soup, each dish is a testament to the quality and authenticity of its ingredients. Diners rave about the "delicious food and excellent service," with one review highlighting the "fresh and bright" flavors that defy typical expectations. Enjoy a meal on the charming veranda under majestic oaks, making every visit memorable.

4. The Bower

4.5

Awesome(774)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary american • Lower Garden District

Booked 19 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.

5. M bistro

4.1

Excellent(820)

Price: Very Expensive

• Contemporary american • French Quarter

Booked 8 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.

6. Apolline

4.6

Exceptional(1770)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary american • Uptown

Booked 15 times today

Apolline, nestled in the vibrant Uptown New Orleans, is a true gem for those seeking “delicious fare” with authentic Creole flair. This charming restaurant beautifully marries contemporary French cuisine with the bold, rich flavors of Creole, utilizing locally-grown ingredients, including produce from their own gardens. Chef Bill Prats curates an innovative menu that keeps patrons returning time and again. Reviews highlight the "fantastic and creative brunch cocktails," while dishes like shrimp and grits and jambalaya dumplings are praised as “to die for.” Guests rave about the “impeccable service” and the warm, welcoming atmosphere, making it a must-visit spot for Creole cuisine lovers.

7. Curio

4.0

Excellent(1261)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary american • French Quarter

Booked 8 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 Commons Club Bar & Restaurant restaurant

8. Commons Club Bar & Restaurant

4.3

Awesome(516)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary american • Central Business District

Booked 4 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 Atchafalaya Restaurant restaurant

9. Atchafalaya Restaurant

4.9

Exceptional(6487)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary american • Garden District

Booked 82 times today

Atchafalaya Restaurant, nestled in the charming Garden District of New Orleans, offers an exceptional Contemporary American dining experience that perfectly marries traditional Creole influences with modern culinary techniques. This hidden gem is celebrated for its "superb service and delicious food," making it a beloved destination for both locals and visitors. The menu is thoughtfully crafted, featuring standout dishes like fried green tomatoes and shrimp & grits, which reviewers describe as "the best I've ever had." With its inviting atmosphere and "elegant yet funky decor," Atchafalaya provides a dining experience that is as memorable as it is delicious. Whether you're enjoying a leisurely brunch or a refined dinner, this restaurant promises to delight with its innovative and authentic approach to Contemporary American cuisine.

A photo of Jewel of the South restaurant

10. Jewel of the South

4.8

Exceptional(67)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary american • French Quarter

Booked 33 times today

Jewel of the South is a beacon of exceptional Cocktail Bar cuisine nestled in the heart of the French Quarter, New Orleans. With its roots tracing back to an influential 1850s bar, this establishment offers a "magical culinary adventure" that delights all senses. Celebrated bartender Chris Hannah crafts both classic and contemporary cocktails that are "absolutely incredible," earning the spot accolades like James Beard and Best Bar South (North America). Guests rave about the "creative and delicious cocktails" that perfectly complement the warm, inviting atmosphere of the old brick Creole cottage. Experience a cocktail journey like no other at Jewel of the South!

‘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

S
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
N
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
B
Bowen
Charlotte •3 reviews
5.0
Dined 3 days ago
Great food in a nice, relaxed atmosphere away from bussle of the quarter
More info
Audubon Clubhouse by Dickie Brennan & Co.Price: Moderate• American• Uptown
•
4.4
S
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
S
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

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Best Contemporary American Restaurants in Jefferson

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22 restaurants available nearby

1. Meril

2. Brennan's

3. Audubon Clubhouse by Dickie Brennan & Co.

4. The Bower

5. M bistro

6. Apolline

7. Curio

8. Commons Club Bar & Restaurant

9. Atchafalaya Restaurant

10. Jewel of the South

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