New and Now in NOLA Dining: October 2019

We see no slowing in the growth of New Orleans’ restaurant scene. Taste and cuisine diversity is seeing a fascinating uptick, as diners clamor for more of the same and something different. Here’s what’s new on the table.

An easygoing atmosphere, coupled with a small, well-executed menu, make Thalia a must-try. (©Lorin Gaudin)

THALIA

Just off Magazine Street, this new spot has a casual vibe and simple-yet-sophisticated food. Try the “cheese salad” of creamy burrata with pesto and grape slices and the stunning gemelli pasta Bolognese topped with cool ricotta. For dessert, order the airy meringue-and-crème anglaise Floating Island. 1245 Constance St., 504.655.1338

Late riser? At the Daily Beet, healthy breakfast options are offered throughout the day. (©The Daily Beet)

THE DAILY BEET

This mostly vegetarian restaurant was once a burger joint. Ironic, no? In addition to popular smoothies, toasts and bowls, dive into fabulous Banana Oatmeal Pancakes with strawberry crema or a Beet Benedict with avocado mash and miso-beet Hollandaise. 3300 Magazine St., 504.766.0377

Bonci brings a taste of Rome to downtown New Orleans. (©Isabelli Media Relations)

BONCI

Imagine a large case filled by giant rectangular pizzas with a variety of toppings. Imagine paying by weight and that pay means “no cash.” That’s Bonci, the third U.S. outlet of this Roman-born “pizzarium,” and it’s delicious fun. 726 Julia St., 504.766.6071

A sampling of dishes at Long Chim, which in Thai means “have a taste.” (©Long Chim)

LONG CHIM

Tucked in the Auction House Market, this Thai cuisine stall has many dishes worth trying, both meaty and plant-based. Start with the Green Papaya salad, any/all of the dumplings, deep and soothing Kao Soi soup, a noodle dish and definitely get dessert…or maybe start with dessert and work backward. 801 Magazine St., 504.372.4321