Cafe Degas: Authentic French Cuisine in New Orleans
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By: Inside NOLA
Situated in the historic Faubourg St. John neighborhood of New Orleans, Cafe Degas has been serving authentic French cuisine with a local twist since 1986. Named after the renowned French Impressionist painter Edgar Degas, who once resided in New Orleans, this charming bistro has become a beloved institution among locals and visitors alike.
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TL;DR
Cafe Degas offers a unique blend of French culinary traditions and local New Orleans flavors.
The restaurant’s ambiance combines art, history, and a charming outdoor dining experience.
Cafe Degas plays a significant role in preserving French culture and culinary excellence in New Orleans.
The History and Inspiration Behind Cafe Degas
Cafe Degas was founded in 1986 by French native Jacques Soulas, who sought to bring a piece of his homeland to New Orleans. Inspired by the city’s rich French heritage and the legacy of Edgar Degas, who lived in New Orleans for a brief period in the 1870s, Soulas created a restaurant that celebrates the best of both worlds.
Over the years, Cafe Degas has evolved into a New Orleans culinary institution, known for its commitment to traditional French cooking techniques and its use of fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. The restaurant has played a significant role in preserving French culture in New Orleans, serving as a gathering place for the city’s Francophile community and introducing new generations to the joys of French cuisine.
The Ambiance and Setting
One of the most striking features of Cafe Degas is its unique location and artistic decor. The restaurant is housed in a charming 19th-century Creole cottage, complete with a lush courtyard and a spacious outdoor dining area. The interior is adorned with reproductions of Edgar Degas’ paintings, creating an atmosphere that is both elegant and inviting.
The outdoor dining experience is a particular highlight at Cafe Degas, especially during the mild New Orleans winters and balmy spring and fall evenings. Guests can enjoy their meals under the shade of a sprawling oak tree, surrounded by the sights and sounds of the vibrant Faubourg St. John neighborhood. This al fresco dining experience is a quintessential part of New Orleans’ culinary culture, and Cafe Degas offers one of the most charming and authentic settings in the city.
The Culinary Experience at Cafe Degas
At the heart of Cafe Degas’ success is its exceptional menu, which features a blend of classic French dishes and New Orleans-inspired creations. The restaurant’s chefs are committed to using the freshest local produce and the finest imported ingredients to create a dining experience that is both authentic and innovative.
Some of the standout dishes at Cafe Degas include:
Moules Frites: Steamed mussels served with crispy, hand-cut French fries and a white wine sauce.
Escargots de Bourgogne: Tender snails cooked in garlic butter and served in their shells.
Steak Frites: A classic French bistro dish featuring a perfectly cooked steak and crispy French fries.
Bouillabaisse: A traditional Provençal seafood stew with a variety of fish, shellfish, and vegetables in a saffron-infused broth.
The menu at Cafe Degas changes seasonally to showcase the best local ingredients available, ensuring that each visit offers a new and exciting culinary experience.
The Chefs Behind the Magic
The culinary team at Cafe Degas is led by Executive Chef Ryan Hughes, a New Orleans native with a passion for French cuisine. Hughes trained under some of the most renowned chefs in the city before taking the helm at Cafe Degas, where he has been instrumental in maintaining the restaurant’s high standards and innovative spirit.
Under Hughes’ leadership, the chefs at Cafe Degas have continued to refine their craft, blending classic French techniques with the bold flavors and ingredients of New Orleans. Their philosophy is simple: to create delicious, memorable dishes that showcase the best of both culinary worlds.
The Role of Cafe Degas in the New Orleans Culinary Scene
In a city renowned for its culinary diversity and excellence, Cafe Degas stands out as one of the premier French restaurants in New Orleans. Its commitment to authentic flavors, innovative techniques, and warm hospitality has earned it a loyal following among locals and visitors alike.
Cafe Degas has played a significant role in promoting French cuisine in New Orleans, introducing new generations to the joys of classic dishes like escargots and coq au vin, while also showcasing the versatility of French cooking through its creative use of local ingredients. The restaurant’s success has contributed to New Orleans’ reputation as a world-class culinary destination, drawing food lovers from around the globe to experience its unique blend of French and Creole flavors.
Engaging with the Community
Beyond its culinary offerings, Cafe Degas is also known for its strong commitment to the local community. The restaurant regularly participates in local events and festivals, such as the annual French Quarter Festival and the New Orleans Wine and Food Experience, showcasing its signature dishes and introducing new audiences to its unique brand of French-Creole cuisine.
Cafe Degas also collaborates with local artists, musicians, and cultural organizations to create immersive dining experiences that celebrate the rich cultural heritage of New Orleans. From live jazz performances in the courtyard to art exhibitions featuring local talent, the restaurant is dedicated to supporting and promoting the city’s vibrant creative scene.
In addition, Cafe Degas is committed to sustainable practices and supporting local producers. The restaurant sources many of its ingredients from nearby farms and fisheries, ensuring the freshest possible flavors while also reducing its environmental impact and supporting the local economy.
Practical Information for Visitors
If you’re planning a visit to Cafe Degas, here are some tips to help you make the most of your experience:
Reservations are highly recommended, especially for dinner and weekend brunch. You can make reservations online through the restaurant’s website or by calling (504) 945-5635.
The best times to visit Cafe Degas depend on the experience you’re looking for. For a quiet, intimate dinner, consider booking a table on a weeknight. For a lively brunch with live music, Sunday mornings are ideal.
If you’re dining with a group or looking for a special experience, Cafe Degas offers private dining options in its charming courtyard and indoor spaces. Contact the restaurant for more information on private events.
When it comes to menu selections, you can’t go wrong with any of the classic French dishes like the escargots or the steak frites. For a taste of New Orleans, try the gumbo or the shrimp Creole. And be sure to save room for dessert – the creme brûlée and the chocolate mousse are both divine.
Cafe Degas has an extensive wine list featuring a variety of French and international selections. The knowledgeable staff can help you choose the perfect pairing for your meal.
To fully immerse yourself in the Cafe Degas experience, consider timing your visit to coincide with one of the restaurant’s special events or exhibitions. Throughout the year, Cafe Degas hosts a variety of cultural programs, from art shows featuring local painters and sculptors to wine dinners showcasing the best of French viticulture.
For a truly memorable experience, combine your visit to Cafe Degas with a stroll through the charming Faubourg St. John neighborhood. This historic area is home to a variety of unique shops, galleries, and parks, offering a glimpse into the rich cultural fabric of New Orleans.
And of course, no visit to Cafe Degas is complete without indulging in some of the restaurant’s signature dishes and drinks. Be sure to try the French 75, a classic cocktail made with gin, champagne, lemon juice, and sugar, or the Sazerac, a New Orleans original featuring rye whiskey, absinthe, and Peychaud’s bitters.
Whether you’re a longtime local or a first-time visitor, Cafe Degas offers a truly unique and unforgettable dining experience. With its commitment to authentic French cuisine, its warm and inviting atmosphere, and its dedication to supporting the local community, this beloved bistro is a standout in the crown of New Orleans’ culinary scene.
