Commander's Palace

Commander's Palace is the turquoise Garden District grande dame, haute Creole since 1893 and the launchpad for Emeril and Paul Prudhomme. A friend sends you for a special occasion, absolutely. Caveats: there's a real dress code (jackets preferred for men, no shorts), and you should reserve well ahead. The 25-cent lunch martinis are legendary.

Key facts

Frequently asked questions

What's Jazz Brunch?

Weekend brunch comes with a strolling jazz trio moving through the dining rooms, a beloved New Orleans tradition. It books up fast, so reserve early. It's festive and worth doing once.

What's the dress code?

It's business/dressy: collared shirts and closed-toe shoes required for men, jackets preferred, and no shorts, t-shirts, flip-flops, or athletic wear. Lunch is a touch more relaxed than dinner but still no shorts. Dress up; it's part of the experience.

What should I order?

The turtle soup and the bread pudding soufflé are the iconic must-haves, and the Creole seasonal dishes are excellent. The soufflé needs to be ordered early in the meal. Don't skip it.

How do I get there?

Take the St. Charles streetcar to the Washington Avenue stop and walk a couple of blocks into the Garden District. It's a lovely approach past the mansions. Rideshare works too; there's valet if you drive.

Is lunch or dinner better?

Lunch is the insider move: same kitchen, lighter bill, the 25-cent martinis, and a livelier daytime energy. Dinner is more formal and romantic but pricier. First-timers often love the weekday lunch.

Is it worth the money?

For a special occasion, yes; the food, service, and setting are top-tier and the weekday lunch makes it more accessible. It's a splurge, but a well-earned one. Set your budget with wine in mind.

Do I need a reservation?

Yes, absolutely, and book well in advance, especially for dinner, weekends, and Jazz Brunch. Use their site, Resy, or call. Walk-ins are a long shot.

Is the 25-cent martini thing real?

Yes, at lunch on Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday, martinis are literally 25 cents each (usually with a three-drink limit). It's one of the best deals in fine dining anywhere. Come for lunch to cash in.

Nearby in Ask New Orleans

• Garden DistrictNeighborhood0.08 km · 1 min walk
• Coliseum Square ParkPark1.26 km · 16 min walk
• Hansen's Sno-BlizCafé1.64 km · 21 min walk
• Domilise's Po-BoysRestaurant1.98 km · 25 min walk
• Ogden Museum of Southern ArtMuseum2.07 km · 26 min walk