Christopher N.
Yelp
I visit New Orleans every year, often more than once. I have tried several of the various Brennan establishments (and yes, I do realize the family is sort of split). I've been to Brennan's (my "go to" brunch spot), Commander's Palace (fantastic), Palace Cafe (odd waiter, but good) and Tableau (not a favorite). I decided to try Dickie Brennan's Steakhouse over the 2024 Memorial Day weekend.
I had a reservation for 6:45 and was seated promptly. The hostess was very friendly, as was my waiter. He made appropriate banter with me, as I was alone, and he made me feel welcome. So no complaints as to the service itself. That's about as good as it got, however.
There was a roaming duo singing to various tables, some of whom appeared mortified that they were standing in front of them singing, and of course, a tip was expected post-performance. I was happy they decided to pass me by. It would look odd to have 2 guys sing to you when you're by yourself. I digress.
I ordered the wedge salad as my starter. Let me say I'm not a huge fan of strong bleu cheese, so I know in advance it's risky to order it. You never know how strong it will be until it's in your mouth. Well, this was strong. Not the restaurant's fault, of course, as it's my personal taste. However, the salad itself wasn't very cold, which was a ding against it that they could control.
For my entrée, I ordered the petite filet mignon with a side of steamed asparagus with hollandaise sauce, and the fries with béarnaise sauce (at the waiter's recommendation). The steak was definitely petite - I'd guess 3 ounces based on the appearance. It wasn't much larger than a golf ball. I'm not counting that against them either, because I typically don't eat much - however, if you do, don't order the petite filet. I'd ordered it medium, and it was definitely well past that. It was very tough, and only slightly pink in the very middle. I should have sent it back, but I chose not to. A steak that pricey at a dedicated steakhouse should be flawless - regardless of the size. The asparagus, however, was flawless. Truly some of the best asparagus I've eaten - large stalks, but very tender and not overly cooked. The hollandaise was also great. The fries? They were very dark, almost burned looking. Although they didn't taste burned, I think they should have come out of the oil a minute or two earlier. The accompanying béarnaise saved them, with it's slight hit of tarragon acidity.
For dessert, I ordered the coconut cake. It was also not my favorite. It was oddly textured, almost like a tres leches cake, with far too much moisture to resemble a normal coconut cake. I get that was probably the point, but I didn't care for it.
Overall, the restaurant is beautiful. The staff was amazing. The food was mediocre - which is a shame for a steakhouse of the caliber this one is supposed to be. I won't return, but there are plenty of other Brennan places out there to work in.