New Orleans is just brimming with history, and its restaurants are no exception. Here's a fine dining establishment that's been a New Orleans icon since it opened in 1918. If you're looking for somewhere to dine for a special occasion, and you love elegance, decadence and live jazz music, this is the perfect place for you.
Arnaud's Restaurant opened in 1918, and has been an icon of New Orleans ever since.
The restaurant had quite the reputation during Prohibition (when liquor flowed freely from coffee cup, inside private rooms). Arnaud's enjoyed wild fame during the 1930s and 1940s, when its many buildings connected by tunnels occupied an entire block.
Arnaud's is still the epitome of New Orleans decadence and style.
Even after nearly 100 years, this fine dining restaurant is a gem in the crown of the city.
When you enter these iconic doors, you know you're on your way to a magical evening.
Have a drink before dinner at Arnaud's French 75 Bar.
The bar was named one of the top 10 in the country by Esquire Magazine.
The beautiful main dining room has plenty of historic details.
When renovations were completed in the late 1970s, many of the original fixtures were kept; others were replicated. The small Italian tile is original, as are the chandeliers, ceiling fans and cypress paneling.
The Main Dining Room is formal; collared shirts are required for men (though jackets are preferred). This is an elegant, romantic setting; the perfect place for a special occasion dinner.
The 1920s room is a private dining room.
It can accommodate 12 guests, so plan a party and bring your friends!
The dinner menu is both diverse and authentic.
You'll enjoy everything from spicy shrimp creole to tender filet mignon.
Order the Bananas Foster for dessert.
In addition to a tasty treat, it's the most exciting dessert you've eaten in awhile.
Enjoy some live music in the Jazz Bistro.
The Jazz Bistro is the home of the Gumbo Trio, which plays every night from 6:30 pm to 10:30 pm. The Bistro is a more relaxed setting, perfect for a fun meal with friends. Dress is business casual.
This is THE place to be for Sunday brunch.
It's served from 10:00 am to 2:30 pm, and features more live Dixieland jazz.
If all this decadence and luxury isn't enough for one evening...there's a Mardi Gras Costume Museum, too!
More than two dozen Mardi Gras costumes are the main attraction of this little museum, along with photographs and other vintage pieces from 1941-1968.
Wander through the museum during restaurant hours.
It's free to the public, seven days a week.
No matter what the occasion, an evening at Arnaud's Restaurant is one you'll never forget.
Make sure to say hello to the maitre d', Charles Abbyad. He's been at Arnaud's for 33 years!
Arnaud's Restaurant is located at 813 Rue Bienville in New Orleans. Dine for dinner seven evening per week, starting at 6:00 pm. Sunday brunch is served from 10:00 am to 2:30 pm. Reservations are recommended. Call 504-523-5433, or visit the restaurant's website.
For more great dining recommendations in New Orleans, take a look at this article!
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