New Orleans

In New Orleans, Brunch Is Sacred. Here’s Where to Go

by Carolyn Heneghan

Photograph by Carolyn Heneghan

Brunch restaurant with music in New Orleans.

Jazz Brunch at Antoine’s (Photo: Joshua Brasted)

New Orleans is known for its nonstop revelry, so it’s no surprise both locals and visitors love to indulge in restorative, morning-after brunches. Here are four of NOLA’s best meals to help you recover from a long night.

Atchafalaya

Cochon Du L’Eggs at Atchafalaya
Cochon Du L’Eggs at Atchafalaya (Photo: Joshua Brasted)

Voted one of the 100 best brunch menus in the country by OpenTable diners, Atchafalaya offers memorable dishes like Cochon Du L’Eggs and Duck Hash — not to mention a Bloody Mary bar. What’s more: Atchafalaya is one of the only places in New Orleans open for brunch on weekdays.

Antoine’s

Jazz Brunch at Antoine’s in New Orleans.
Jazz Brunch at Antoine’s (Photo: Joshua Brasted)

If you’re in the mood for a fancy French Quarter brunch, head over to 174-year-old Antoine’s, the oldest family-run restaurant in the United States. Thanks to its long history, Antoine’s knows how to give New Orleans residents exactly what they want — just check out the restaurant’s world-class French Creole Sunday Jazz Brunch menu. In addition to Bloody Marys and mimosas, you can order an Antoine’s Smile cocktail along with your Grillades & Grits or Oeufs (Eggs) Sardou. Antoine’s is a place to see and be seen by a crowd of upscale brunch lovers.

Elizabeth’s

Elizabeth's (Photo: Joshua Brasted)
Elizabeth’s (Photo: Joshua Brasted)

Nestled the artsy, eclectic Bywater neighborhood, this funky eatery is a people-watching destination. You can’t go wrong with Elizabeth’s unforgettable brunch menu, complete with local favorites like Praline Bacon, Fried Chicken Livers With Elizabeth’s Pepper Jelly, Banana’s Foster French Toast or the Duck Waffle, a sweet potato and duck hash atop a cornbread waffle. The restaurant’s Bloody Marys are New Orleans’ boozy darlings, but the selection also includes the Corpse Reviver, Ghetto Fabulous Mimosa and make-your-own mimosas. Plus, you’ll be surrounded by vibrant “Be Nice or Leave” signs from Dr. Bob, a beloved local artist.

Katie’s Restaurant & Bar

Crawfish Beignet at Katie's Restaurant & Bar (Photo: Joshua Brasted)
Crawfish Beignet at Katie’s Restaurant & Bar (Photo: Joshua Brasted)

If you’re traveling — and drinking — on a budget during your trip to New Orleans, what more do you need than a brunch with $15 bottomless mimosas, sangria and Bloody Marys? The line for Katie’s unbeatable brunch gets long fast thanks to its drink specials and stellar menu items like Veal Grillades, Lemon-ricotta Pancakes and the restaurant’s signature Crawfish Beignets. The laid-back Mid-City location offers its own irresistible charm, making this charismatic corner restaurant a choice brunch hotspot.