"The Lowcountry shrimp and grits helped put this rustic Irish Channel restaurant on the map. The Southern seafood favorite is served with andouille and Delta Grind grits and bathed in a smoked tomato, creole-spiced shrimp broth. The extensive brunch cocktails and wines list didn’t hurt either. Better still, the raucous brunch isn’t just for weekends at Atchafalaya; it’s dished Thursday through Monday. All factors combine to make this a longstanding essential brunch destination." - Beth D’Addono
"Atchafalaya is a beloved Irish Channel neighborhood restaurant with armies of regulars, both locals and visitors who book every time they come to town. Known for creative modern Creole cuisine from executive chef Chris Lynch and chef de cuisine Zack Peralta, brunch is a winner, with a creative Bloody Mary menu and one of the best shrimp and grits in town. But come evening, in the glowing dining rooms lined with spectacular Michalopoulos paintings, the magic happens. Cocktails are expertly mixed as diners tuck into the likes of a double cut pork chop with greens, or the duck leg confit, a fan favorite. Pastry chef Karl Barrett exceeds expectations with his blue cheese flan and light tres leches bread pudding. The warm service is a hallmark." - Beth D’Addono
"Atchafalaya, a sweet spot in the Irish Channel, offers a $150 feast from executive chef Chris Lynch and chef de cuisine Zack Peralta. From the osetra caviar amuse to the jumbo lump crabmeat beignet to the paneed veal marsala and duck breast, the hits keep coming. Pasty chef Karl Barrett dishes his usual best, including eggnog tiramisu. Add a wine pairing for $65." - Beth D’Addono
"The nearby Atchafalaya has kicked off Réveillon dinners with poached oyster stew with absinthe cream and then transitioned into wagyu daube, a modern interpretation of an old-school beef stew." - Adam H. Callaghan
"Atchafalaya is famous for its brunch, which includes a rotating menu of creative bloody marys like the Good Morning, Vietnam, layered with bold Southeast Asian flavors. Chef Chris Lynch spotlights what may be the best shrimp and grits in town at both brunch and dinner, shrimpy goodness powered by andouille, the trinity, and smoked tomatoes. The char on the head-on shrimp is another burst of savory, smoky flavor. Open Thursday through Friday, Atchafalaya features live music for Saturday and Sunday brunch." - Beth D’Addono