As definitively New Orleans as Mardi Gras, upscale and wonderfully classic Commander's Palace has commanded the New Orleans restaurant scene for over two centuries. Since 1974, the Brennan family has made Commander's one of the most famous and award-winning restaurants in the world. This James Beard and DiRoNA award-winning Creole/American (not Cajun) mecca, situated in the beautiful Garden District, remains today "a well-run party given by old friends," as the restaurant itself claims. The Jazz Brunch in the courtyard (Sat 11:30 am–1 pm, Sun 10:30 am–1:30 pm) with live Dixieland and jazz music is a New Orleans experience like none other. Traditionally, the brunch includes Gulf seafood gumbo, crawfish boudin and eggs, and, of course, the Creole bread pudding soufflé. Jacket suggested for dinner. Full bar. Serving lunch Mon–Fri, dinner nightly. Sat–Sun brunch.
Where the Locals Eat Rating
Best Cajun/Creole Uptown
Best Brunch
Top 100 Restaurant, New Orleans
"Nestled in the middle of the Garden District, stands this turquoise and white Victorian fantasy of a building -- complete with turrets, columns, and gingerbread. Since 1880, Commander's Palace has been a New Orleans landmark known for the award winning quality of its food and many commodious dining rooms. . . . Commander's cuisine reflects the best of the city, both Creole and American heritages as well as dishes of Commander's own creating. Seafood, meats, fruits and vegetables; everything is as fresh as it possibly can be."
–Commander's Palace website
"Commander's turtle soup is still the gold standard."
–Brett Anderson, The Times-Picayune
"Whatever you do, make sure you save room for dessert. I would mug someone for a piece of their bread pudding souffle."
–Where Y'at Magazine
"Although our meals here have ranged from the superlative to the merely good, it's usually the whole package that brings us back time and again."
–Frommer's
". . . the reigning queen of special-occasion restaurants."
–Epicurious.com
"If you doubt the concept of ‘elegant excess,' book a long weekday lunch at Commander's, in the relaxed Garden District. . . . . the efficient, brigade-style service never disappoints."
–Condé Nast Traveler
How Others Rate Commander's Palace
The New Orleans Menu by Tom Fitzmorris
***** (among the best restaurants in the New Orleans area)
Where Y'at
Best Upscale Restaurant and Best Service, 2008 Readers' Survey
Gambit Weekly
Best New Orleans Restaurant, 2008 Readers' Survey
Best Brunch, 2008 Readers' Survey
Best Lunch Specials, 2008 Readers' Survey
Best Place to Get Bread Pudding, 2008 Readers' Survey
Best Place to Get Creme Brulee, 2008 Readers' Survey
DiRoNa (Distinguished Restaurants of North America)
Award of Excellence