Arnaud’s Restaurant: A Taste of New Orleans’ Garden District
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By: Ransom Patterson
Arnaud’s Restaurant, a historic jewel nestled within New Orleans’ French Quarter, has captivated diners with its classic Creole cuisine and old-world charm since 1918.
In This Article
TL;DR
Arnaud’s highlights signature New Orleans flavors through dishes like Shrimp Arnaud and Oysters Bienville.
As one of the oldest family-run restaurants, it has significantly influenced local culture and tourism.
The restaurant offers an immersive dining experience that transports guests to the golden era of New Orleans‘ culinary scene.
Historical Background of Arnaud’s Restaurant
Established by French wine salesman Arnaud Cazenave, affectionately known as “Count” Arnaud, the restaurant initially occupied a single townhouse on Bienville Street. Over three decades, Cazenave expanded the restaurant into an impressive complex of 13 interconnected buildings, creating a labyrinth of dining rooms that could accommodate up to 1,000 guests simultaneously.
Architectural and Interior Design
Housed in a building dating back to the 18th century, Arnaud’s showcases the grandeur of historical New Orleans architecture with its beveled glass windows, mosaic-tiled floors, and soaring columns.
The restaurant’s interior design elements, such as crystal chandeliers, antique mirrors, and a tin ceiling, reflect the opulence and romance of a bygone era while creating an atmosphere that is both elegant and inviting.
Signature Dishes and Culinary Reputation
Arnaud’s menu highlights the best of classic Creole cuisine, with dishes that showcase the rich flavors and fresh ingredients of the Gulf Coast region.
Standout offerings include Shrimp Arnaud, a tangy remoulade sauce served over boiled Gulf shrimp; Oysters Bienville, baked oysters topped with a creamy white wine sauce; and Pompano en Papillote, a delicate fish dish cooked in parchment paper with white wine and crabmeat.
The restaurant’s culinary reputation is built on its commitment to using high-quality, locally sourced ingredients and time-honored cooking techniques passed down through generations of New Orleans chefs.
Dining Experience at Arnaud’s
Dining at Arnaud’s is an immersive experience that transports guests back in time to the golden age of New Orleans’ culinary scene.
The atmosphere during a typical evening is lively and convivial, with the sounds of clinking glasses and laughter mingling with the strains of live Dixieland jazz music.
Guests are attended to by tuxedo-clad servers who provide attentive, personalized service, ensuring that every dining experience is memorable and enjoyable.
In addition to its main dining room, Arnaud’s offers several unique dining experiences, including the Jazz Bistro, where guests can enjoy live music while savoring classic Creole dishes, and the romantic French 75 Bar, which has been named one of the top 10 bars in America by Esquire magazine.
Arnaud’s Role in Local Culture
As a long-standing institution in the French Quarter, Arnaud’s has played an important role in shaping and preserving the culinary traditions of New Orleans.
The restaurant regularly participates in local festivals and events, such as the annual French Quarter Festival and the Tales of the Cocktail conference, which celebrates the city’s rich mixology heritage.
Arnaud’s has also forged strong relationships with local suppliers and businesses, supporting the community by sourcing ingredients from nearby farms and fisheries.
Reviews and Accolades
Over the years, Arnaud’s has received numerous accolades and awards, including the prestigious James Beard Foundation’s “America’s Classics” award in 2005, which recognizes restaurants that have timeless appeal and are beloved for quality food that reflects the character of their community.
The restaurant has been praised by notable guests and culinary experts, including celebrity chefs Emeril Lagasse and John Besh, who have cited Arnaud’s as one of their favorite dining destinations in New Orleans.
Compared to other historic restaurants in the city, such as Antoine’s and Galatoire’s, Arnaud’s is often regarded as the most consistent in terms of food quality and service, with many diners proclaiming it their top choice for classic Creole cuisine.
Visiting Arnaud’s Restaurant
Arnaud’s is open for dinner Sunday through Thursday from 6:00 pm to 10:00 pm, and Friday and Saturday from 6:00 pm to 10:30 pm. Sunday brunch is served from 10:00 am to 2:30 pm.
Reservations are recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons and holidays, and can be made by calling the restaurant directly or through online booking platforms.
The dress code for the main dining room and Jazz Bistro is business casual, with collared shirts required for gentlemen. Shorts, t-shirts, and flip-flops are prohibited.
Arnaud’s is committed to providing accessibility and accommodations for guests with special needs, including wheelchair access and dietary restrictions.
Community and Environmental Impact
As a responsible member of the New Orleans community, Arnaud’s is actively involved in various charitable initiatives and community service projects, such as supporting local schools and non-profit organizations.
The restaurant has implemented several sustainability practices to reduce its environmental impact, including sourcing ingredients from local, organic farms and implementing a comprehensive recycling and composting program.
Arnaud’s also supports the next generation of culinary professionals through educational initiatives and training programs, offering internships and mentorship opportunities to aspiring chefs and hospitality students.
Address: 813 Bienville Street, New Orleans, LA 70112
Ransom Patterson is a seasoned writer and editor with extensive experience in creating engaging online content since 2015. His fresh perspective enriches Inside NOLA with insightful articles that highlight the unique neighborhoods and cultural experiences of New Orleans. Ransom's passion for music and culinary arts shines through as he shares stories about the city's jazz clubs, live music venues, and iconic dishes. His dedication to exploring new experiences, combined with his meticulous approach to writing, makes him a trusted authority on all things New Orleans. When he's not writing, Ransom enjoys making music, cooking new dishes, and cycling, which fuels his appreciation for the vibrant lifestyle of the Crescent City.
