August 22, 2025
As summer loosens its grip and the first cool breezes sweep through the Quarter, New Orleans shifts into one of its most beloved rhythms, football watch parties, weekend festivals and that seasonal craving for bold, satisfying bites.
In a city where no dish is ever truly “standard,” steak, burgers, and brews become a canvas for local flair, elevated technique, and a generous pour of Southern hospitality. From smoky chargrilled masterpieces to burgers layered with unexpected decadence, these spots offer more than just comfort food, they’re fall traditions in the making.
Bon Ton Prime Rib
btprimerib.com
401 Magazine St.
At Bon Ton Prime Rib, classic New Orleans hospitality and prime steakhouse standards meet under one historic roof. Located in the 1840s Natchez building on Magazine Street, this is the city’s third-oldest restaurant, tracing its roots to the “St. James Saloon” before becoming The Bon Ton in 1877. Their signature 40-day aged USDA prime rib is salt-crusted, served medium-rare with creamy horseradish and au jus, and carved tableside with a touch of ceremony. Dinner guests often book ahead to ensure availability, a sign of its place at the heart of the menu.
Beyond prime rib, the offerings include steaks, BBQ shrimp, crab cakes and crabmeat au gratin. One standout starter is the hanging Cajun bacon, thick-cut, smoky and lightly spiced, served as an eye-catching appetizer. Sides like mac & cheese, crispy Brussels sprouts and the signature puffed corn casserole, light and soufflé-like, complete the experience.
The bar and dining room blend exposed brick, chandelier lighting, and historic details with a polished yet comfortable atmosphere. Cocktails range from the classic Rum Ramsey to an elevated Sazerac, all served by an attentive, welcoming staff.
Chophouse New Orleans
chophousenola.com
322 Magazine St.
Just across Magazine Street from its sister restaurant, Bon Ton Prime, Chophouse New Orleans is a prime-only steakhouse that knows exactly what it does best, and does it exceptionally well. Every cut here comes from 28-day aged USDA Prime beef, seared “Pittsburgh-style” for that beautiful smoky char on the outside while staying tender inside. Whether you go for a bone-in ribeye, a perfectly trimmed filet mignon, or the impressive 40 oz porterhouse for two, you’re in for a true steak lover’s experience. Seafood lovers can dress things up with grilled shrimp or a jumbo lobster tail for a little surf-and-turf indulgence.
The starters set the tone early, thick-cut sizzling bacon arrives at the table still hot, while the beef carpaccio melts in your mouth. There’s also fresh, chilled lump crab cocktail and baked shrimp bubbling under a blanket of garlic, butter and parmesan.
Sides are just as thoughtfully done, from steak-cut fries and golden onion rings to creamy spinach, grilled asparagus, and a fully loaded baked potato. It’s comfort food without shortcuts, each dish prepared with care.
The atmosphere is equal parts lively and intimate, with brick walls, arched ceilings and warm lighting. A pianist/singer plays nightly near the bar, giving the space a relaxed elegance that makes you want to linger over dessert or one last glass of wine.
For anyone craving a great steak in the heart of the city, Chophouse delivers the kind of experience that’s polished yet welcoming, one you’ll want to come back to again and again.
Cochon Butcher
cochonbutcher.com
930 Tchoupitoulas
You can smell Cochon Butcher before you see it, smoke, spice and the promise of something rich and satisfying. Tucked into a corner of the Warehouse District, it’s compact, a little noisy, and packed with locals who know exactly what they came for: next-level sandwiches, house-cured meats and sides that make it hard to order just one thing.
This isn’t your average sandwich shop. Inspired by Southern traditions and fueled by a nose-to-tail ethos, Cochon Butcher serves up charcuterie with swagger, think pork rillettes, pancetta mac and cheese and hot boudin you’ll want to order twice. Their Le Pig Mac, a cheeky take on the classic fast-food double, stacks two pork patties with special sauce, pickles and onions on a sesame bun, while the muffuletta packs house-cured meats and olive salad between sesame bread that crackles at first bite. Every sandwich is a love letter to Southern flavor, layered, smoked, spiced, and served up fast.
The vibe? Industrial but warm, with garage doors rolled up to the street, meat aging in clear view, and a steady stream of guests grabbing lunch, craft cocktails, or cured meats to-go. There’s no table service, no fuss, just bold flavors and sharp execution. Cochon Butcher isn’t just where you eat. It’s where you watch the art of meat in motion.
Crescent City Brewhouse
crescentcitybrewhouse.com
527 Decatur St.
Established in 1991, Crescent City Brewhouse was the first brewpub to open in the French Quarter since Prohibition, reviving a local tradition of craft brewing paired with full-service dining. It has since become a go-to spot for both locals and visitors seeking hearty meals and quality house-brewed beer.
At the center of the menu is the Brewhouse Burger, a thick, half-pound beef patty cooked to order and served on a soft pretzel bun, topped with classic fixings that balance rich and fresh flavors. The garlic Parmesan fries, seasoned with fresh parsley, provide a savory, crispy side that perfectly complements the burger. To accompany the meal, the Brewhouse offers several Bavarian-style beers brewed on site, including a crisp Pilsner and smooth Vienna lager, all crafted in adherence to traditional brewing methods that emphasize quality and flavor.
The restaurant’s atmosphere matches its menu, welcoming and full of local character. Located in a historic two-story building on Decatur Street, the first floor features exposed brick and wood accents, creating a cozy, casual setting. Upstairs, guests can enjoy live jazz nightly, with local musicians performing in an intimate space that overlooks the street and French Market below. The music adds an authentic New Orleans vibe, making Crescent City Brewhouse a favorite spot for both dining and entertainment.
Desi Vega’s Steakhouse
desivegasteaks.com
628 St. Charles Ave.
Desi Vega’s Steakhouse has long been a standout on St. Charles Avenue, where white tablecloths meet warm hospitality and sizzling USDA Prime steaks are always on the menu. But this fall, the celebrated steakhouse is mixing things up with new flavors that honor tradition while embracing the season. Lunch now brings a fresh energy to the menu. From hearty, house-made pastas to seafood salads that showcase lobster, shrimp, and crab in a light, elegant mix, the midday offerings are as vibrant as they are satisfying. A new lineup of sandwiches rounds things out, making this an ideal stop for a refined yet approachable lunch.
Dinner still delivers the signature steakhouse experience, but with some exciting new additions. The USDA Prime New York Strip gets a luxe upgrade with bone marrow butter. Appetizers now include hand-cut Steak Tartare with Dijon, capers, and shallots on crostini, a velvety Beef Carpaccio and rich Roasted Bone Marrow, each one bold enough to stand on its own.
And just in time for football season, Desi Vega’s will be open for home Saints games, giving fans the perfect pre-game or post-win destination.
Polished, flavorful, and evolving with the season, Desi Vega’s continues to set the standard for elevated dining in the heart of New Orleans.
Dickie Brennan’s Steakhouse
dickiebrennanssteakhouse.com
716 Iberville St.
Opened in 1998 by Dickie Brennan, part of the legendary New Orleans restaurant family, this steakhouse is all about doing the classics right. Steaks are the star, prime cuts grilled or broiled to perfection, lightly seasoned, and finished with house-made sauces like pepper cream or a rich béarnaise. The menu also nods to its Louisiana roots with gumbo, turtle soup and sides like garlicky Pontalba potatoes.
The cocktail game is strong too, classic martinis, a deep wine list, and bartenders who know their stuff. Service is polished but friendly, and the vibe is upscale without feeling too formal. It’s the kind of place where the steak is always perfect, the wine flows easy, and the staff makes you feel like a regular, even if it’s your first time.
Whether you’re winding down after a long day exploring the Quarter or dressing up for a special occasion, Dickie Brennan’s Steakhouse delivers a consistently excellent New Orleans dining experience. The blend of classic steakhouse fare with Creole influences creates a menu that feels both familiar and distinctively local. With attentive service that strikes the perfect balance between professional and personable, you’ll feel welcomed and well cared for from the moment you sit down. The elegant yet relaxed atmosphere makes it a great spot for everything from intimate dinners to celebratory gatherings, where the focus is always on quality food, thoughtful pairings, and savoring the moment.
Doris Metropolitan
dorismetropolitan.com
620 Chartres St.
For those seeking a refined twist on the classic steakhouse, Doris Metropolitan offers one of the most elevated dining experiences in the French Quarter. With roots in Tel Aviv and a passion for dry-aged meats, Doris brings something unique to the New Orleans culinary scene: a marriage of traditional steakhouse indulgence with bright, creative Mediterranean influences.
The stars of the menu are the dry-aged cuts, prepared in-house and grilled to perfection. The ever-popular ribeye is richly marbled and deeply flavorful, while their rotating “Classified Cut” keeps regulars intrigued. But Doris doesn’t stop at steak, the sides and starters are where the kitchen’s imagination shines. The Beetroot Supreme, for instance, is a showstopper: roasted beets filled with whipped mascarpone and ricotta, finished with a drizzle of balsamic glaze. Even the Caesar salad arrives elevated, with crisp whole leaves, smoked white anchovies and a crunchy Parmesan tuile.
The wine list is thoughtfully curated, cocktails are smart and balanced, and the service is polished without feeling stiff. The atmosphere, clean lines, warm lighting, and a sleek open butcher counter, makes it equally suited for date night, client dinners or an indulgent solo escape.
For steak lovers who want more than just meat and potatoes, Doris Metropolitan delivers a globally inspired, detail-driven meal that reflects the richness of New Orleans itself, just with a sharper edge.
Port of Call
portofcallnola.com
838 Esplanade Ave.
Established in 1963 on Esplanade Avenue, Port of Call has quietly grown into one of New Orleans’ most beloved casual dining spots. Its famous half-pound burger, topped with cold, shredded cheddar that melts slightly over the sizzling patty, was born by accident when the kitchen fryer broke down, prompting a permanent switch from fries to a foil-wrapped baked potato.
This burger is pure, bold flavor, crafted from freshly ground chuck and charbroiled over high heat, delivered with unapologetic simplicity. The baked potato, oversized and ready for your choice of toppings like cheddar, bacon bits, mushrooms or sour cream, is just as essential to the meal as the burger itself. Step inside and you’ll feel like you’ve walked into an old portside dive, dimly lit with thick sailor’s ropes draped from the ceiling and nautical relics lining the walls. Strands of Christmas lights casually hang along dark wood paneling, casting a warm, soft glow that perfectly complements the laid-back, slightly gritty vibe. Their signature cocktails, like the Monsoon and the Huma Huma, come in oversized plastic cups emblazoned with the restaurant’s logo, souvenirs as much as drinkware.
Whether you’re here for the iconic burger and baked potato, a strong drink, or just good company, Port of Call serves up a no-frills, satisfyingly local experience that’s a must-visit for anyone hungry in the French Quarter.
Rizzuto’s Prime
rizzutosristorante.com
601 Loyola Ave.
Located inside New Orleans’ Hyatt Regency, Rizzuto’s Prime delivers upscale steakhouse sophistication with an Italian flair, perfect for a night out before catching a show or event in the nearby theater district.
The steak list here is seriously curated: think USDA Prime ribeyes, center-cut filets, and a massive tomahawk ribeye, all cooked just right and available with customizable toppers or surf-and-turf upgrades like grilled shrimp or oysters. But don’t skip the appetizers, especially the house-made ground ribeye meatballs served with ricotta and marinara, generously sized and rich with flavor.
Rizzuto’s also draws on Italian-inspired sides, seafood manicotti, veal Rizzuto and lobster fra diavolo, pairing beautifully with the steaks for a well-rounded meal.
One of its standout features is the full-length marble bar, framed by elegant décor and offering a refined space to sip a cocktail or a glass of wine before or after dinner. Often described as one of the longest bars in New Orleans, it adds to the restaurant’s sense of grandeur and timeless charm.
In a city where no dish is ever truly “standard,” steak, burgers, and brews become a canvas for local flair, elevated technique, and a generous pour of Southern hospitality. From smoky chargrilled masterpieces to burgers layered with unexpected decadence, these spots offer more than just comfort food, they’re fall traditions in the making.
Bon Ton Prime Rib
btprimerib.com
401 Magazine St.
At Bon Ton Prime Rib, classic New Orleans hospitality and prime steakhouse standards meet under one historic roof. Located in the 1840s Natchez building on Magazine Street, this is the city’s third-oldest restaurant, tracing its roots to the “St. James Saloon” before becoming The Bon Ton in 1877. Their signature 40-day aged USDA prime rib is salt-crusted, served medium-rare with creamy horseradish and au jus, and carved tableside with a touch of ceremony. Dinner guests often book ahead to ensure availability, a sign of its place at the heart of the menu.
Beyond prime rib, the offerings include steaks, BBQ shrimp, crab cakes and crabmeat au gratin. One standout starter is the hanging Cajun bacon, thick-cut, smoky and lightly spiced, served as an eye-catching appetizer. Sides like mac & cheese, crispy Brussels sprouts and the signature puffed corn casserole, light and soufflé-like, complete the experience.
The bar and dining room blend exposed brick, chandelier lighting, and historic details with a polished yet comfortable atmosphere. Cocktails range from the classic Rum Ramsey to an elevated Sazerac, all served by an attentive, welcoming staff.
Chophouse New Orleans
chophousenola.com
322 Magazine St.
Just across Magazine Street from its sister restaurant, Bon Ton Prime, Chophouse New Orleans is a prime-only steakhouse that knows exactly what it does best, and does it exceptionally well. Every cut here comes from 28-day aged USDA Prime beef, seared “Pittsburgh-style” for that beautiful smoky char on the outside while staying tender inside. Whether you go for a bone-in ribeye, a perfectly trimmed filet mignon, or the impressive 40 oz porterhouse for two, you’re in for a true steak lover’s experience. Seafood lovers can dress things up with grilled shrimp or a jumbo lobster tail for a little surf-and-turf indulgence.
The starters set the tone early, thick-cut sizzling bacon arrives at the table still hot, while the beef carpaccio melts in your mouth. There’s also fresh, chilled lump crab cocktail and baked shrimp bubbling under a blanket of garlic, butter and parmesan.
Sides are just as thoughtfully done, from steak-cut fries and golden onion rings to creamy spinach, grilled asparagus, and a fully loaded baked potato. It’s comfort food without shortcuts, each dish prepared with care.
The atmosphere is equal parts lively and intimate, with brick walls, arched ceilings and warm lighting. A pianist/singer plays nightly near the bar, giving the space a relaxed elegance that makes you want to linger over dessert or one last glass of wine.
For anyone craving a great steak in the heart of the city, Chophouse delivers the kind of experience that’s polished yet welcoming, one you’ll want to come back to again and again.
Cochon Butcher
cochonbutcher.com
930 Tchoupitoulas
You can smell Cochon Butcher before you see it, smoke, spice and the promise of something rich and satisfying. Tucked into a corner of the Warehouse District, it’s compact, a little noisy, and packed with locals who know exactly what they came for: next-level sandwiches, house-cured meats and sides that make it hard to order just one thing.
This isn’t your average sandwich shop. Inspired by Southern traditions and fueled by a nose-to-tail ethos, Cochon Butcher serves up charcuterie with swagger, think pork rillettes, pancetta mac and cheese and hot boudin you’ll want to order twice. Their Le Pig Mac, a cheeky take on the classic fast-food double, stacks two pork patties with special sauce, pickles and onions on a sesame bun, while the muffuletta packs house-cured meats and olive salad between sesame bread that crackles at first bite. Every sandwich is a love letter to Southern flavor, layered, smoked, spiced, and served up fast.
The vibe? Industrial but warm, with garage doors rolled up to the street, meat aging in clear view, and a steady stream of guests grabbing lunch, craft cocktails, or cured meats to-go. There’s no table service, no fuss, just bold flavors and sharp execution. Cochon Butcher isn’t just where you eat. It’s where you watch the art of meat in motion.
Crescent City Brewhouse
crescentcitybrewhouse.com
527 Decatur St.
Established in 1991, Crescent City Brewhouse was the first brewpub to open in the French Quarter since Prohibition, reviving a local tradition of craft brewing paired with full-service dining. It has since become a go-to spot for both locals and visitors seeking hearty meals and quality house-brewed beer.
At the center of the menu is the Brewhouse Burger, a thick, half-pound beef patty cooked to order and served on a soft pretzel bun, topped with classic fixings that balance rich and fresh flavors. The garlic Parmesan fries, seasoned with fresh parsley, provide a savory, crispy side that perfectly complements the burger. To accompany the meal, the Brewhouse offers several Bavarian-style beers brewed on site, including a crisp Pilsner and smooth Vienna lager, all crafted in adherence to traditional brewing methods that emphasize quality and flavor.
The restaurant’s atmosphere matches its menu, welcoming and full of local character. Located in a historic two-story building on Decatur Street, the first floor features exposed brick and wood accents, creating a cozy, casual setting. Upstairs, guests can enjoy live jazz nightly, with local musicians performing in an intimate space that overlooks the street and French Market below. The music adds an authentic New Orleans vibe, making Crescent City Brewhouse a favorite spot for both dining and entertainment.
Desi Vega’s Steakhouse
desivegasteaks.com
628 St. Charles Ave.
Desi Vega’s Steakhouse has long been a standout on St. Charles Avenue, where white tablecloths meet warm hospitality and sizzling USDA Prime steaks are always on the menu. But this fall, the celebrated steakhouse is mixing things up with new flavors that honor tradition while embracing the season. Lunch now brings a fresh energy to the menu. From hearty, house-made pastas to seafood salads that showcase lobster, shrimp, and crab in a light, elegant mix, the midday offerings are as vibrant as they are satisfying. A new lineup of sandwiches rounds things out, making this an ideal stop for a refined yet approachable lunch.
Dinner still delivers the signature steakhouse experience, but with some exciting new additions. The USDA Prime New York Strip gets a luxe upgrade with bone marrow butter. Appetizers now include hand-cut Steak Tartare with Dijon, capers, and shallots on crostini, a velvety Beef Carpaccio and rich Roasted Bone Marrow, each one bold enough to stand on its own.
And just in time for football season, Desi Vega’s will be open for home Saints games, giving fans the perfect pre-game or post-win destination.
Polished, flavorful, and evolving with the season, Desi Vega’s continues to set the standard for elevated dining in the heart of New Orleans.
Dickie Brennan’s Steakhouse
dickiebrennanssteakhouse.com
716 Iberville St.
Opened in 1998 by Dickie Brennan, part of the legendary New Orleans restaurant family, this steakhouse is all about doing the classics right. Steaks are the star, prime cuts grilled or broiled to perfection, lightly seasoned, and finished with house-made sauces like pepper cream or a rich béarnaise. The menu also nods to its Louisiana roots with gumbo, turtle soup and sides like garlicky Pontalba potatoes.
The cocktail game is strong too, classic martinis, a deep wine list, and bartenders who know their stuff. Service is polished but friendly, and the vibe is upscale without feeling too formal. It’s the kind of place where the steak is always perfect, the wine flows easy, and the staff makes you feel like a regular, even if it’s your first time.
Whether you’re winding down after a long day exploring the Quarter or dressing up for a special occasion, Dickie Brennan’s Steakhouse delivers a consistently excellent New Orleans dining experience. The blend of classic steakhouse fare with Creole influences creates a menu that feels both familiar and distinctively local. With attentive service that strikes the perfect balance between professional and personable, you’ll feel welcomed and well cared for from the moment you sit down. The elegant yet relaxed atmosphere makes it a great spot for everything from intimate dinners to celebratory gatherings, where the focus is always on quality food, thoughtful pairings, and savoring the moment.
Doris Metropolitan
dorismetropolitan.com
620 Chartres St.
For those seeking a refined twist on the classic steakhouse, Doris Metropolitan offers one of the most elevated dining experiences in the French Quarter. With roots in Tel Aviv and a passion for dry-aged meats, Doris brings something unique to the New Orleans culinary scene: a marriage of traditional steakhouse indulgence with bright, creative Mediterranean influences.
The stars of the menu are the dry-aged cuts, prepared in-house and grilled to perfection. The ever-popular ribeye is richly marbled and deeply flavorful, while their rotating “Classified Cut” keeps regulars intrigued. But Doris doesn’t stop at steak, the sides and starters are where the kitchen’s imagination shines. The Beetroot Supreme, for instance, is a showstopper: roasted beets filled with whipped mascarpone and ricotta, finished with a drizzle of balsamic glaze. Even the Caesar salad arrives elevated, with crisp whole leaves, smoked white anchovies and a crunchy Parmesan tuile.
The wine list is thoughtfully curated, cocktails are smart and balanced, and the service is polished without feeling stiff. The atmosphere, clean lines, warm lighting, and a sleek open butcher counter, makes it equally suited for date night, client dinners or an indulgent solo escape.
For steak lovers who want more than just meat and potatoes, Doris Metropolitan delivers a globally inspired, detail-driven meal that reflects the richness of New Orleans itself, just with a sharper edge.
Port of Call
portofcallnola.com
838 Esplanade Ave.
Established in 1963 on Esplanade Avenue, Port of Call has quietly grown into one of New Orleans’ most beloved casual dining spots. Its famous half-pound burger, topped with cold, shredded cheddar that melts slightly over the sizzling patty, was born by accident when the kitchen fryer broke down, prompting a permanent switch from fries to a foil-wrapped baked potato.
This burger is pure, bold flavor, crafted from freshly ground chuck and charbroiled over high heat, delivered with unapologetic simplicity. The baked potato, oversized and ready for your choice of toppings like cheddar, bacon bits, mushrooms or sour cream, is just as essential to the meal as the burger itself. Step inside and you’ll feel like you’ve walked into an old portside dive, dimly lit with thick sailor’s ropes draped from the ceiling and nautical relics lining the walls. Strands of Christmas lights casually hang along dark wood paneling, casting a warm, soft glow that perfectly complements the laid-back, slightly gritty vibe. Their signature cocktails, like the Monsoon and the Huma Huma, come in oversized plastic cups emblazoned with the restaurant’s logo, souvenirs as much as drinkware.
Whether you’re here for the iconic burger and baked potato, a strong drink, or just good company, Port of Call serves up a no-frills, satisfyingly local experience that’s a must-visit for anyone hungry in the French Quarter.
Rizzuto’s Prime
rizzutosristorante.com
601 Loyola Ave.
Located inside New Orleans’ Hyatt Regency, Rizzuto’s Prime delivers upscale steakhouse sophistication with an Italian flair, perfect for a night out before catching a show or event in the nearby theater district.
The steak list here is seriously curated: think USDA Prime ribeyes, center-cut filets, and a massive tomahawk ribeye, all cooked just right and available with customizable toppers or surf-and-turf upgrades like grilled shrimp or oysters. But don’t skip the appetizers, especially the house-made ground ribeye meatballs served with ricotta and marinara, generously sized and rich with flavor.
Rizzuto’s also draws on Italian-inspired sides, seafood manicotti, veal Rizzuto and lobster fra diavolo, pairing beautifully with the steaks for a well-rounded meal.
One of its standout features is the full-length marble bar, framed by elegant décor and offering a refined space to sip a cocktail or a glass of wine before or after dinner. Often described as one of the longest bars in New Orleans, it adds to the restaurant’s sense of grandeur and timeless charm.
