Willa Jean

Southern restaurant (US) · Central Business District

13

@afar

"Pastry chef Kelly Fields does complicated things with simple ingredients at her modern bakery and eatery. It’s part of the restaurant group overseen by local star chef John Besh, so it’s no surprise that it’s drawn nods from the James Beard Foundation, among others, for its delectable biscuits, corn bread, and more-involved dishes like crawfish and grits. Located in the sleek new district of mid-rise condos and apartments a couple blocks north of Lafayette Square, Willa Jean makes a great spot for a lazy breakfast or brunch—reservations are all but essential on weekends. It’s local knowledge that it’s also open for dinner and that the quality at that time of day remains high, with varied delicious dishes like braised lamb pasta and beer-can chicken (plus, it’s easier to get in)."

The Best Restaurants in New Orleans
Photo by Randy Schmidt

611 O'Keefe Ave, New Orleans, LA 70113 Get directions

willajean.com
@willajeanneworleans

13 Postcards

See full details

More Places For You

Willie Mae's Scotch House

Southern restaurant (US) · Treme

Since 1957, this family-owned gem in New Orleans serves award-winning, crunchy fried chicken and comforting soul food in a laid-back vibe.

19 Postcards

Loews New Orleans Hotel

Hotel · Central Business District

Loews New Orleans Hotel combines expansive, artistically adorned rooms with stunning city or river views, a chic bar, and a modern Creole restaurant, all set in a vibrant Central Business District location.

2 Postcards

Frey Smoked Meat Co.

Barbecue restaurant · Mid-City

Dive into Frey Smoked Meat Co., where savory barbecue meets a rustic vibe, serving up everything from mouthwatering ribs and burgers to indulgent milkshakes.

7 Postcards

Cafe Degas

French restaurant · Fairground

A charming French bistro with a tree in the dining room that serves mouthwatering dishes like French onion soup and decadent desserts in a relaxed, romantic setting.

20 Postcards

Budsi’s Authentic Thai

Thai restaurant · Marigny

Nestled in the Marigny, Budsi's Authentic Thai serves up vibrant dishes from the Isan region, blending street food flair with homestyle hospitality.

12 Postcards

St. Pizza

Pizza restaurant · Lower Garden District

This bustling New Orleans pizza spot serves up mouthwatering, quality pies with crispy crusts and fresh toppings, perfect for a bite or a sit-down with wine.

5 Postcards

Williby's Catfish | Fresh Catfish Restaurant

Restaurant · Dillard

Wiliby's Catfish is a charming spot in the 7th Ward serving up crispy fried catfish and comfort dishes, perfect for a satisfying takeout meal.

1 Postcard

Faubourg Wines

Wine store · St Claude

Faubourg Wines is a cozy neighborhood gem on St. Claude Avenue, serving a fantastic selection of small-production wines by the glass or bottle, perfect for sipping while enjoying gourmet snacks.

4 Postcards

Commander's Palace

Creole restaurant · Garden District

Commander's Palace, a New Orleans icon since 1893, dazzles with its haute Creole cuisine and stunning Victorian décor, hosting legendary jazz brunches and offering the unforgettable bread pudding soufflé.

66 Postcards

Gabrielle Restaurant

Cajun restaurant · Treme

Tucked away in the Tremé, Gabrielle is a cozy, family-run bistro dishing out refined Cajun favorites like BBQ shrimp pie and legendary duck in an inviting atmosphere.

13 Postcards