New Orleans is renowned for its rich culture, vibrant history, and amazing cuisine. Family-owned restaurants are at the heart of the city’s culinary scene, offering a taste of tradition, love, and community amidst the bustling streets and lively music. These establishments provide more than just food. Here are eight of the best family-owned restaurants in New Orleans that you won’t want to miss.
1. Commander’s Palace: A New Orleans Icon
Commanders Palace is a historic New Orleans restaurant. The restaurant is run by the Brennan family and has been under their direction since 1969. Chef Meg Bickford serves up elevated Creole dishes. If you’re looking for New Orleans cooking meets Haute Creole, try out their pecan-crusted gulf fish, turtle soup, and soufflé.
2. Willie Mae’s Scotch House: Southern Comfort Food
This restaurant has been family-operated since 1957. After the original owner, Willie Mae Seaton passed, the restaurant was turned over to her great-granddaughter. Kerry Seaton Stweart has been keeping the restaurant flourishing with the crispiest fried chicken in town and hearty Southern sides. The restaurant has earned national acclaim.
3. Domilise’s Po-Boys: A Sandwich Lover’s Dream
The restaurant was founded by the Domilise family in 1930. The restaurant has been in the family for four generations and is still a popular stop in the city. Domilise’s has been serving authentic po’boys stacked high with shrimp, roast beef, and catfish for over 100 years.
4. Cochon: Rustic Cajun Flavors
Couchon and Cochon Butcher are owned by Chef Donald Link and his family. Cochon is the more upscale restaurant of the two. They offer a cozy setting for smoked ham hocks, boudin, and wood-fired oysters. They also have a tasting menu that is out of this world. Cuchon Butcher is the more laid-back restaurant. They have cozy dishes centered around sandwiches and simple go-to meals.
5. Dooky Chase’s Restaurant: A Cultural Staple
Dooky Chase’s Restaurant has been up and running since 1941. It was and is still run by the Chase family. Today, Creole chef Leah Chase serves down-home staples in a vibrant, art-filled space. What started as a sandwich shop and lottery ticket outlet, has transformed into a restaurant that blends history and soul food with gumbo, jambalaya, and red beans that have fed presidents.
6. Katie’s Restaurant: Classic Italian with a Twist
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Katie’s Restaurant started out as a lunch counter in 1984. It was the vision of Mr. Leininger and his daughter Cathy. In 1994 the family sold off the restaurant to the Craig family who still operate the business today. The New Orleans restaurant has friendly service and generous portions. They offer creative pizzas and Italian-inspired New Orleans favorites.
7. Mother’s Restaurant: Hearty Comfort Dishes
Owned by the Amato family since 1986, this establishment specializes in classic New Orleans breakfast dishes, ham biscuits, and etouffee. During my last visit to New Orleans, I had the pleasure of dining at this Mother’s Restaurant. Their breakfast menu, which I indulge in daily, offers affordable and delicious options like eggs, spicy sausage, and grits. A word of advice: arrive early to avoid the lines, as this place is a must-try when in the city.
8. Neyow’s Creole Café: Modern Creole Cooking
Neyow’s is owned and operated by Chef Tanya Dubuclet. The restaurant is a rising star in the New Orleans food scene. They serve up some of the most delicious gumbo, chargrilled oysters, and signature cocktails.
Family-owned restaurants in New Orleans provide an authentic dining experience that goes beyond just a meal. These establishments are pillars of their communities, offering recipes passed down through generations and a sense of connection to the city’s heritage. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, these eight spots promise a dining experience you’ll cherish.
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