10
EXCITING RESTAURANTS to Celebrate a Graduate
By By Marigny Marigny Lanaux Lanaux
Graduation is a special time that marks the end and beginning of a significant period in one’s life. One way to celebrate this special occasion is to enjoy a nice meal with friends and family.
Ralph’s on the Park
1. Brennan’s Serving New Orleans since 1946, Brennan’s is a classic choice for many when celebrating a special occasion. From their original Eggs Hussarde for brunch to a bowl of turtle soup to start off dinner, this restaurant has mastered Creole cuisine. The French Quarter restaurant also offers a unique service, tableside dining, where staff can prepare an array of dishes right by your side. These dishes include Steak Diane, soft scrambled truffled eggs, and the restaurant’s staple dessert, Bananas Foster. 417 Royal St., 504-525-9711, brennansneworleans.com. 2. Justine Decked out in neon signs and fabulous art, Justine’s trendy interiors make any meal more exciting. The stylish restaurant is operated by a husband and wife duo who work hard to serve delicious French dishes in the French Quarter. As you soak up the fun atmosphere, you can start your celebratory meal with mimosas. Justine’s popular Mimosa Service allows you to order a bottle of champagne that is accompanied by fresh fruits, juices, and seasonal garnishes. 225 Chartres St., 504-218-8533, justinenola.com. 3. Commander’s Palace Commander’s Palace is a palace fit for any honoree. The restaurant has a few different dining rooms, with the Garden Room being known for its fabulous floor-to-ceiling windows. Whether you’re dining in for brunch, lunch, or dinner, each respective menu is sure to have an option for everyone. Besides the delicious food, the restaurant also offers amazing drink deals, including twenty-five cent martinis during their lunch service. Something you can count on is that the welcoming staff will make the experience
52
Jazz Fest II | Where Y'at Magazine
all the more fun during celebrations. It’s possible to have the dining room decorated with balloons and have the guest of honor adorned with a special chef’s hat. 1403 Washington Ave., 504-899-8221, commanderspalace.com. 4. Tableau Any meal is better with a view, and Tableau is known for having one of the best balconies in the French Quarter. The balcony overlooks Jackson Square, and the restaurant’s outdoor dining also includes a courtyard where patrons can enjoy their meal on a nice day. Some of their menu highlights include truffled crab claws, shrimp and grits, and crème brulee. 616 St Peter St., 504-934-3463, tableaufrenchquarter.com. 5. Meril Chef Emeril Lagasse’s restaurant Meril is a hot spot for dinner and drinks in the Warehouse District. Out of all of Lagasse’s restaurants, Meril offers a more casual dining-in experience with delicious craft cocktails and a menu that allows you to taste from an array of cuisines. To end your meal, the restaurant’s signature celebratory dessert is cotton candy topped with a sparkler. 424 Girod St., 504-526-3745, emerilsrestaurants.com/meril. 6. Ralph’s on the Park Overlooking the gorgeous City Park of New Orleans is Ralph’s on the Park. The restaurant uses locally sourced ingredients, making dishes that are fresh and sustainable. To celebrate a graduate, you can check out their popular spring lunch deals. The restaurant offers a two-course $25 menu, where guests can start with a salad or the soup of the day and follow with either the shrimp remoulade po-boy or the grilled chicken for an entrée. $5 glasses of rosé are also available for lunch, and you can finish your meal with the new dessert for the month of May: The Strawberry Bomb. This sweet dessert consists of a shortcake fresh strawberry jam, and a buttermilk mousse. 900 City Park Ave., Namecrust, of Place 504-488-1000, ralphsonthepark.com.
FROM TOP: COURTESY RALPH'S ON THE PARK (2)
And what better city to try a new and exciting restaurant than New Orleans? Whether it’s delicious food, good deals, or a lively atmosphere, all of these restaurants offer something that will make any graduate feel special on such a memorable day. Check out these ten great restaurants, and raise a glass to celebrate the new graduate in your life.
