Purchased by local restaurateur Hicham Khodr after Hurricane Katrina, Camellia Grill is back up and running. Aside from an exterior paint job and some modernization in the kitchen, Khodr has kept this iconic diner just as it was. The white columns and the neon sign out front, and the fact that you may only sit at the counter – there are no tables – take you back to another time. Locals, students and visitors alike can again enjoy those juicy burgers, freshly made omelets and rich milkshakes at this Uptown landmark. From the famous chili omelet and pecan pie à la mode to the charismatic cooks and bowtied servers, this is a real New Orleans legend. No alcohol available. Serving breakfast, lunch and dinner daily, until late-night Fri–Sat.
Where the Locals Eat Rating
Top 100 Restaurant, New Orleans
"A New Orleans landmark famous with locals and tourists for its greasy spoon fare . . . featuring mainstays such as chocolate freezes, pecan pie, chili omelets and Mardi Gras sandwiches."
—New Orleans City Business
" . . . magnificent cheesecake, cream pies and pecan pies."
– Angus Lind, The Times-Picayune
"The omelets are exceptional. In fact, they are just about the best in the city -- fluffy, light and creamy."
—Offbeat magazine
"The exposed galley kitchen leaves nothing to the imagination . . . [sitting at the counter] beats reality TV hands down."
– Pableaux Johnson, Eating New Orleans
How Others Rate Camellia Grill
Zagat 2009
23 Food Quality (very good to excellent)
Gambit Weekly
Best Late-Night Dining, 2008 readers' poll
Where Y'at
Best Old School Diner, 2008 writers poll