Personal Best Of: New Orleans Brunches, May 2019

Welcome to the first of many “Personal Best Of” posts, where I share lists of personal favorite places to go and things to do. In honor of National Foodie Day earlier this week (and procrastinators anonymous), my first Personal Best Of is dedicated to my favorite food group: brunch!

1. Paladar 511 - 3 words: lemon ricotta pancakes. A few more words: the brunch menu here is super diverse, with an item catering the tastes of every dietary restriction known to man. Once the post-chicken-sausage-and-polenta itis settles in, take a short stroll to Crescent park, just a block away from the restaurant. Here you’ll have stunning views of the city from across the Mississippi River.

2. Bearcat Café - Pro: everything here is good and pleasing. Con: no reservations. Their (non-alcoholic) drink selection is expansive and adventurous, and I’ve yet to be disappointed by any shot in the dark I’ve made at the menu. Their “Good Cat” and “Bad Cat” options satisfy those who want to let the good times roll but the way their carb count set up…

3. Carrollton Market - Best cinnamon roll in America. Nuff said

4. Atchafalaya - You’ll find the best version of any traditional Nola brunch here and the best version of every breakfast protein you can think of here as well

5. Toups South - I don’t know why more people don’t believe in Central City. But I believe in Central City. Two things you’ll always find at this restaurant: a table and something you never thought to try but now cannot live without. Heads up, the main attraction entrees tend to change quite frequently. Their Instagram account is the best way to know what’s on the menu that day.

6. Jack Rose - The ambience is enough to draw me in (if you’ve been looking for that restaurant with the massive painting of Lil’ Wayne and the best rooftop view of the city, it’s all here at The Pontchartrain Hotel), and the quail and waffles are enough to keep me coming back.

7. Paloma Café - A new favorite of mine in the Bywater neighborhood, I’m still thinking about (and drooling over) their tres leches French toast.

8. Café Amelie -I’ve only been here once. As a local, I make the effort of going to the French Quarter a bigger deal than it is. It’ll take a lot for me to go there. But let me tell ya, Amelie’s chicken and waffles with andouille gravy is worth the effort.

That’s all for now! Happy brunching, y’all!

In love and veritas,

Chioma