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Best French Restaurants in Central Business District

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12 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Luke restaurant
1. Luke
4.7
Exceptional(9143)
Price: Moderate
• French • Central Business District
Booked 100 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.
A photo of Arnaud's restaurant
2. Arnaud's
4.7
Exceptional(7327)
Price: Very Expensive
• French • French Quarter
Booked 43 times today
Arnaud's, nestled in the heart of New Orleans' French Quarter, is a beacon of French culinary excellence, celebrated for its "Michelin Star quality" Creole cuisine. With nearly a century of tradition, this iconic establishment offers a dining experience that is both "exceptional" and "memorable." Diners rave about the "outstanding" service and the vibrant atmosphere, especially during the Jazz Brunch, where the fusion of live Dixieland jazz and exquisite French dishes like Crepes Suzette and Bananas Foster creates an unparalleled experience. Whether it's the table-side flambe desserts or the classic French 75 cocktails, Arnaud's consistently delivers "top-notch" culinary delights. As one reviewer puts it, the experience is a perfect mix of "professionalism and Southern Hospitality," making Arnaud's a must-visit destination for anyone seeking authentic French cuisine in New Orleans.
A photo of Irene's restaurant
3. Irene's
4.9
Exceptional(4150)
Price: Expensive
• French • French Quarter
Booked 40 times today
Irene’s, nestled in the vibrant French Quarter of New Orleans, is a culinary gem renowned for its authentic French cuisine with a delightful New Orleans twist. The restaurant’s charming ambience, complete with live piano music, sets the stage for an unforgettable dining experience. Patrons rave about the "outstanding" food and "superb" service, highlighting dishes like the "delicious" shrimp & crawfish fettuccine and the "perfect" fish meunière. The escargot and caprese salad come highly recommended, offering a taste of classic French flavors melded with local ingredients. Irene's consistently receives glowing reviews for its "wonderful atmosphere and ambience" making it a must-visit for anyone seeking an authentic French dining experience in New Orleans.
A photo of Justine restaurant
4. Justine
4.6
Exceptional(2665)
Price: Expensive
• French • French Quarter
Booked 29 times today
Justine is a brasserie in New Orleans’ historic French Quarter. Opened in 2019 by husband-wife team Justin & Mia Devillier of La Petite Grocery, Justine combines the sophistication of Parisian brasseries with the playfulness of the South’s most lively district. Featuring dishes like Mussels, Escargot & Steak Frites, the menu honors the technique and simplicity of French classics, while evoking the senses with exciting, grand presentation. Other seafood and steak favorites include Shrimp & Grits, Pan Roasted Red Snapper, Shrimp Remoulade, NY Strip & Hanger Steak. True to the heart of French brasserie culture, the bustling, multi-roomed restaurant offers a versatile space to be enjoyed by all, whether it’s for a weekday lunch, afternoon glass of wine or celebratory dinner. The café side opens to the Chartres Street sidewalk, emulating a quintessential Parisian-street experience with daytime fare. The kitchen is led by James Beard Award Winning Chef & Owner Justin Devillier.
A photo of Couvant restaurant
5. Couvant
4.5
Awesome(338)
Price: Expensive
• French • Central Business District
Booked 20 times today
Nestled in the vibrant Central Business District of New Orleans, Couvant shines as a beacon of Creole / Cajun / Southern cuisine with a French flair. Housed in the historic Peychaud Cocktail Bitters factory, this bistro marries French techniques with the rich culinary traditions of New Orleans. Diners consistently praise the "exceptional" food and "top-notch" service, highlighting dishes like the cochon de lait and Creole-inspired mussels. The charming ambiance, coupled with the attentive staff, makes every meal memorable. As one reviewer put it, Couvant offers an "outstanding experience" with its blend of local flavors and French sophistication, making it a must-visit for anyone craving authentic Southern cuisine with a unique twist.
A photo of King Brasserie & Bar restaurant
6. King Brasserie & Bar
4.6
Exceptional(137)
Price: Expensive
• French • Central Business District
Booked 11 times today
King Brasserie & Bar, nestled in the vibrant Central Business District of New Orleans, presents a sublime fusion of Contemporary French and American cuisine with a distinct Louisiana twist. This downtown gem is celebrated for transforming local seafood into exquisite dishes that echo the grandeur of French brasseries while embracing bold, creative flavors reminiscent of the Amalfi Coast. Patrons rave about their culinary experiences, with one guest exclaiming, "the food was some of the best dishes I have ever had," highlighting the exceptional seafood and innovative pairings. The ambiance merges elegance with comfort, making King Brasserie & Bar a must-visit for those seeking a meal that is both refined and enchanting. Every dish is crafted with care, promising a dining adventure that is rich in flavor and steeped in New Orleans’ unique cultural heritage.
A photo of Emeril's Brasserie - Caesars New Orleans restaurant
7. Emeril's Brasserie - Caesars New Orleans
4.1
Excellent(296)
Price: Expensive
• French • Central Business District
Booked 13 times today
Emeril Lagasse’s first French-inspired restaurant concept—Emeril’s Brasserie, will bring the signature Creole flavors he is famous for to classic French-inspired dishes. The restaurant will encompass brunch and dinner dining options and delicious cocktails. Diners can enjoy their meal in a luxurious brasserie-inspired dining room, at the bar, or outdoors on the terrace to take in the sights of the famed French Quarter. The restaurant is accessible from both the casino floor for guests at least 21 and Canal Street for all ages. SPECIAL NOTE: Guests under the age of 21 are not allow to walk through the casino and must enter at the Canal Street entrance.
A photo of Compère Lapin restaurant
8. Compère Lapin
new
4.6
Exceptional(2693)
Price: Expensive
• French • Central Business District
Booked 20 times today
Compère Lapin - noun - "kom-pare la-pan" - 1. anthropomorphic rabbit character who served as the mischievous protagonist in Creole and Caribbean folk tales; 2. Chef Nina Compton's restaurant at the Old No 77 Hotel & Chandlery in the Warehouse Arts District of New Orleans. Meals aren’t about trends, shock value, or opulence.Meals are about moments, memories and those who surround you at your table.We believe in the complexity of simplicity, and the power of pure flavors. Our histories, vast and varied, deserve to be memorialized and romanticized by dishes that at once remind us of home and transport us to somewhere new.We don’t make food for everyone else, we make food for you.
A photo of Antoine's restaurant
9. Antoine's
4.6
Exceptional(11151)
Price: Expensive
• French • French Quarter
Booked 139 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.
A photo of Broussard's Restaurant restaurant
10. Broussard's Restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(3974)
Price: Expensive
• French • French Quarter
Booked 39 times today
Broussard's Restaurant, nestled in the heart of New Orleans' French Quarter, is a beacon of French-Creole culinary excellence. Since its inception in 1920, Broussard’s has been synonymous with authentic French cuisine, blending traditional techniques with local flavors. The restaurant's commitment to quality is evident, having earned accolades for its outstanding wine program in Wine Spectator's 2024 Restaurant Awards. Diners consistently praise the "amazing Jazz Brunch" and the exquisite setting, often noting the "charming" atmosphere and "exceptional service." As one review highlights, "The food, chefs kiss! Highly highly recommend." Broussard’s is truly a must-visit for anyone seeking an authentic French dining experience in New Orleans.

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See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • Frank
    Atlanta Metro •3 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    Everything was delicious. Ordered everything from shareable appetizers through dessert. Service was excellent and servers were attentive. Drinks were served quickly even when ordering impromptu wine when the meal arrived. Wine showed up in minutes so it could be enjoyed with the meal. It really was a perfect meal out with colleagues.
    More info
    LukePrice: Moderate• French• Central Business District
    •
    4.7
  • Rene
    Las Vegas •2 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    Irene’s never disappoints. The food is amazing, and our Server, Honeybear was fantastic. If you want to treat yourself to a very nice dinner, go to Irene’s!
    More info
    Irene'sPrice: Expensive• Italian• French Quarter
    •
    4.9
  • douglas
    Minneapolis - St. Paul •33 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    A delightful and delicious discovery for dinner while on a visit to New Orleans. Had a great meal at
    More info
    CouvantPrice: Expensive• French• Central Business District
    •
    4.5
  • James
    Dallas - Fort Worth •11 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 4 days ago
    1st class food and service. Our best meal in new Orleans over the 4 days I was here. Service great and food outstanding. I would go back the next time I am in town.
    More info
    Arnaud'sPrice: Very Expensive• Creole• French Quarter
    •
    4.7
  • Mimi
    Portland / Oregon •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 5 days ago
    We were looking for a delicious French restaurant with a nice wine selection and Justine exceeded our expectations! Angelo our waiter was so wonderful and made some great suggestions. Jasmine who was the server in training was so sweet & attentive. The hostess Taylor was also very sweet. The food was amazing as well. I had the Justine burger and my husband had the shrimp and grits. We ate every last bite and enjoyed the entire experience. We highly recommend Justines and will definitely come back next time we're in NOLA!!
    More info
    JustinePrice: Expensive• French• French Quarter
    •
    4.6

Discover best French restaurants in Central Business District

Discover the essence of French cuisine right in the heart of New Orleans' Central Business District. Renowned for its blend of sophisticated French flavors and local flair, this area offers a diverse selection of restaurants that cater to both the aficionado and the curious diner alike. From traditional brasseries serving classic dishes like beef tartare and seafood bouillabaisse to innovative eateries that infuse Creole elements into time-honored French cooking techniques, the gastronomic scene here is vibrant and inviting. Each restaurant prides itself on utilizing fresh, high-quality ingredients, ensuring every meal is not only delicious but also a true representation of culinary craftsmanship. The dining experience is enhanced by the tasteful atmospheres and exceptional service, making each visit memorable. Whether you're a local or a visitor, exploring the French culinary offerings in New Orleans' Central Business District is sure to delight your palate and provide a dining experience like no other. This culinary hub is a testament to New Orleans' rich cultural tapestry and its ongoing love affair with exceptional food.

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