Get ready to take your taste buds on a flavorful journey through the heart of New Orleans. Commander's Palace, located in the charming Garden District of the Big Easy, is a culinary institution that has been serving up delectable Creole and American dishes since 1880. So, put on your finest attire and join me for a dining experience that's as iconic as the city itself.

A History of Elegance and Excellence

Commander's Palace is more than just a restaurant; it's a piece of New Orleans history. The elegant, turquoise Victorian building, surrounded by white wrought-iron fences and majestic oak trees, is as inviting as it is impressive. From its inception, Commander's Palace set a standard for excellence that has endured for over a century.

As you enter Commander's Palace, the lush Garden District provides a serene backdrop. The restaurant's interior combines classic elegance with a touch of whimsy. The Garden Room, adorned with chandeliers and large windows, offers a delightful view of the courtyard's colorful flowers. The Garden District Room, with its mirrored walls and vintage photos, provides an elegant dining space that's reminiscent of the city's grandeur.

Commander's Commander: Chef Meg Bickford

At the helm of Commander's Palace is Chef Meg Bickford, a culinary virtuoso with a passion for Creole and Louisiana cuisine. Chef Meg is a true artist who takes inspiration from the rich history of Creole cooking, but she doesn't let tradition confine her. She's the mastermind behind the menus that pay homage to the past while forging into the future.

As Chef Meg says, "All of our best meals are still ahead of us." Her dedication to the craft and her commitment to using farm-raised local products and bayou ingredients are evident in every dish that graces the Commander's Palace menu.

Awards and Accolades Abound

Commander's Palace has racked up more awards than you can shake a crawfish at. The James Beard Foundation has bestowed its Outstanding Restaurant Award on Commander's Palace, an accolade that proves this place is a heavyweight in the culinary world.

A Feast for the Senses

Commander's Palace is not just a restaurant; it's an experience. The ambiance is lively, yet steeped in tradition, with vibrant jazz melodies that serenade your visit. The courtyard garden and Creole townhouse perfectly capture the essence of New Orleans.

Now, let's talk about the main event—the food and drinks. Here's a selection of Commander's Palace's culinary highlights that will tantalize your taste buds:

Appetizers

• Turtle Soup: Dive into the depths of Creole flavor with a rich and savory turtle soup that's a true Louisiana classic.
• Gulf Shrimp Remoulade: A dish that showcases the essence of Louisiana—plump Gulf shrimp with a tangy remoulade sauce.
• Deviled Eggs: Classic deviled eggs, executed with a Creole twist.
• Soup Du Jour: Always a delightful surprise, the Soup Du Jour showcases seasonal ingredients and the Chef's creativity.

Entrees

• Pecan Crusted Gulf Fish: The Gulf fish, crusted with pecans, is a masterpiece that seamlessly blends flavors of the sea and the earth.
• Shrimp & Tasso Henican: A dish that defines the term "Creole fusion," combining succulent shrimp, spicy tasso, and a melody of other flavors.
• Cast Iron Seared Gulf Fish: A cast-iron seared Gulf fish that's bursting with the flavors of the region.
• Chargrilled Tasso Brined Duroc Pork Chop: Experience the tantalizing flavors of a chargrilled pork chop with the essence of Tasso brine.

Dessert

• Lally's Praline Parfait: A sweet and nutty delight, this dessert captures the essence of Louisiana pralines.
• Old Fashioned Banana Cream Pudding: See above... it's as delicious as it looks!

Drink Highlights:

• Pear and Sage Martini: A delightful cocktail featuring pear and sage-infused gin, elderflower liqueur, and lemon juice. It's a sip of sophistication with a twist.
• The Crescent City Cooler: Pineapple mango vodka, freshly squeezed lime, bitters, and ginger ale come together to create a refreshing and unforgettable beverage.

The Jazz Brunch Experience

New Orleans is famous for its jazz music, and its culinary scene deserves just as much praise. Don't miss Commander's Palace's famous Jazz Brunch, an event that combines live jazz with a sumptuous brunch menu.

Brunch Highlights:

• Cochon De Lait Eggs Benedict: Eggs Benedict, Commander's Palace style, featuring slow-cooked Cochon de Lait—a porchetta-like delight.
• Commander's Crisp Romaine Salad: A refreshing and crisp salad that's the perfect prelude to your Creole brunch.
• Louisiana Wild White Shrimp: Savor the pristine taste of Louisiana's wild white shrimp in a brunch dish that's a true homage to local seafood.

A True New Orleans Experience

Commander's Palace is more than a restaurant; it's a culinary institution that embodies the spirit of New Orleans. From the historic setting to the innovative cuisine, it's a place where tradition and creativity meet. So, whether you're a local or a visitor, this Garden District gem is a must on your New Orleans dining checklist.