GENERATIONS OF SERVICE By Kim Ranjbar Portrait photography by Romney Caruso
The two-story building with art deco accents on the corner of St. Phillip and N. Broad has long been a landmark on the edge of Bayou St. John. Almost 90 years ago, John Vojkovich took the industry knowledge he gained working in local restaurants and opened Crescent City Steak House at the tender age of 26, and it has remained in the family ever since. Generations of diners' voices have risen in approbation to the building's pressed tin ceilings and echoed off of the Victorian mosaic-tile floors. Patrons and their children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren have returned year after year to celebrate birthdays, graduations, and anniversaries in this venerated New Orleans steakhouse. Vojkovich's story is the archetypal American dream. Born and raised in Sucuraj on the Croatian island Hvar, John (then only 15 years old) traveled to Louisiana with his father. The two began working on an oyster boat with their fellow Croatians in Plaquemines Parish, saving their money to bring his mother and sisters to America. He only lasted two months on the boat before he headed back into New Orleans and sought employment at several Downtown restaurants, working his way up in the local tradition from dishwasher to management. After 11 years learning the ins and outs of the industry, Vojkovich opened his legendary steakhouse, offering a simple menu focused on prime USDA aged beef from Chicago. After earning respect as an established restaurateur in New Orleans, Vojkovich
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Holiday Dining Guide | Where Y'at Magazine
FROM TOP: GENNI NICHOLSON; STAFF IMAGE
The Vojkovich family has been feeding prime USDA steaks, served “sizzling in butter,” to over four generations of New Orleanians.
