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Best Restaurants that are Worth The Drive in Central Business District

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17 restaurants available nearby

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A photo of Luke restaurant
1. Luke
4.6
Exceptional(9413)
Price: Moderate
• French • Central Business District
Booked 60 times today
Nestled in the heart of New Orleans’ Central Business District on the iconic St. Charles Avenue—just steps from the French Quarter—Luke is a vibrant, Creole-inspired brasserie that welcomes both locals and visitors with its warm, energetic atmosphere. Renowned for its fresh Gulf seafood and daily selection of oysters, Luke highlights the best of regional flavors. Under the guidance of Chef Corey Sharp, the menu features dishes crafted from locally sourced ingredients and seasonal farmers’ market offerings. At the bar, guests can enjoy signature cocktails, a thoughtfully curated selection of wines from around the world, and a rotating lineup of local craft beers. Join us for breakfast, lunch, dinner, or happy hour—perfect for any occasion.
A photo of Arnaud's restaurant
2. Arnaud's
4.7
Exceptional(7598)
Price: Very Expensive
• Creole • French Quarter
Booked 46 times today
Celebrate the culture and tradition of New Orleans through exquisite flavors served in the most timeless, chic setting in the French Quarter.Our menu includes both classic Creole and inventive dishes. Enjoy an expertly crafted cocktail in our award-winning French 75 Bar, delight your ears and your mouth with nightly Dixieland Jazz in our Jazz Bistro dining room, or celebrate with our fabulous Sunday Jazz Brunch. See why Arnaud’s has been celebrating over 100 years of rich history and culinary excellence.“James Beard Award for Outstanding Bar Program”, “James Beard Award Semi-finalist for Outstanding Hospitality”
A photo of Kingfish - New Orleans restaurant
3. Kingfish - New Orleans
4.3
Awesome(1974)
Price: Moderate
• Creole / Cajun / Southern • French Quarter
Booked 9 times today
Kingfish is a popular casual restaurant and cocktail bar in New Orleans that salutes the Huey P. Long Era. The Kingfish menu embodies new Louisiana cuisine. That along with our talented bartenders' skill & expertise combine to create a unique Louisiana-centric dining experience. So whether you are a visitor to our wonderful city or one of our regulars, Kingfish is a perfect place to meet up with friends for an evening in the New Orleans' French Quarter.
A photo of Hard Rock Cafe - New Orleans restaurant
4. Hard Rock Cafe - New Orleans
4.3
Awesome(574)
Price: Moderate
• American • French Quarter
Booked 4 times today
Hard Rock Cafe in New Orleans is a global phenomenon that's definitely worth the drive. Reviewers consistently rave about the excellent service, with many specifically noting the friendly and attentive staff. The food is also highly praised, with many reviewers describing it as 'excellent' and 'delicious'. The ambiance is also loved, with the 'welcoming' and 'great' atmosphere being frequently mentioned. So, if you're looking for a fun, tasty meal in a vibrant setting, this is the place to go.
A photo of Morrow Steak restaurant
5. Morrow Steak
4.7
Exceptional(445)
Price: Very Expensive
• Steakhouse • Central Business District
Booked 61 times today
Morrow Steak by Larry Morrow redefines luxury dining with an emphasis on exceptional steakcraft and sophisticated flavors. This restaurant skillfully blends opulence with innovation, creating a distinctive dining experience that captures the vibrant essence of New Orleans. Each carefully crafted dish invites diners to explore a fresh perspective on local cuisine, featuring a range of expertly selected steaks, exceptional sushi, fine fish options, and perfectly curated cocktails. With its elegant ambiance and meticulous attention to detail, Morrow Steak not only celebrates, but also elevates the rich culinary traditions of the region, making each meal a memorable journey through flavor and culture. 15 Minute Grace Period for ALL reservations. Please call if you are running late.$35 Cake Fee
A photo of ANNUNCIATION restaurant
6. ANNUNCIATION
4.7
Exceptional(1833)
Price: Expensive
• Creole • Warehouse District
Booked 10 times today
Annunciation Restaurant, neighborhood fine dining in the heart of the Warehouse District, is the ideal spot for enjoying skillfully crafted cocktails, fine wines and an assortment of classic and contemporary Cajun and Creole dishes. We are conveniently located within walking distance of the New Orleans Convention Center and a short drive from the world-famous French Quarter. Don’t miss dishes include our Chef’s Choice Ravioli with House made pasta, Gulf Fish Capri with fresh artichoke, tomato, and capers, and our Softshell Crab Monica. Cocktails are equally impressive and include concoctions like Southern Smash 2.0 featuring cognac has the highlighted liquor, or our Pimm’s Annunciation-a modern twist on a classic NOLA cocktail! In addition to regular dining, we also offer private dining rooms that can accommodate 10-200 and are perfect for your next corporate meeting, reception, or social occasion. Enjoy Live Piano every Saturday evening in our Bar area.
A photo of The Country Club restaurant
7. The Country Club
4.7
Exceptional(1261)
Price: Moderate
• Creole / Cajun / Southern • Bywater
Booked 13 times today
Hidden away in the Bywater neighborhood, The Country Club offers an elegant escape from everyday living. Our beautiful restaurant and bar deliver exquisite food and drink in sophisticated surroundings. We offer chef-driven cuisine inspired by Italian-French and Creole-Southern heritages. Our incredible menus by Chef Chris Barbato, formerly of Commander’s Palace, has all the foodies talking. Our award-winning wine program features more than 140 bottles from 13 countries and its very own private label wines. You MUST be 21 or over to dine with us. Some outdoor seating is available. If you would like to request outdoor seating, please do so when you arrive. We book up for Drag Brunch six months out, HOWEVER, as people cancel reservations they immediately become available online, so be sure to check back often. For Parties over 20 people please contact us directly.
A photo of The Italian Barrel restaurant
8. The Italian Barrel
4.7
Exceptional(3610)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • French Quarter
Booked 11 times today
Tucked at the quiet edge of the French Quarter — just steps from Frenchmen Street and directly across from the New Orleans Jazz Museum’s outdoor stages — The Italian Barrel is often called one of the most romantic and best Italian restaurants in New Orleans. Owned by longtime guests and restaurateurs Lori and Kevin Cates, the restaurant offers refined Northern Italian cuisine in a charming, intimate setting. Founding Chef Samantha Castagnetti continues to guide new menu creations, helping preserve the soul of this beloved local gem. Chandeliers, exposed brick, and white tablecloths set the stage for a leisurely lunch, afternoon aperitifs, or a candlelit dinner. Seasonal dishes are crafted with the finest imported ingredients, paired with a curated Italian wine list and heartfelt hospitality. Our innovative craft cocktails elevate the experience further. Indoor and heated outdoor seating available.
A photo of Crescent City Steak House restaurant
9. Crescent City Steak House
4.7
Exceptional(1688)
Price: Expensive
• Steakhouse • Mid-City / City Park
Booked 14 times today
Step back in time as you step through the door into our beautiful, dining room where New Orleans’ original sizzling steaks have been served since the doors opened in 1934. We offer prime, dry-aged beef that is cut in-house and cooked to your desire as well as seafood options. Our commitment to quality does not end in the kitchen. Our extensive wine list consists of over 130 bottles from around the world. Our bar offers a wide array of quality liquors and liqueurs. Crescent City Steaks has been owned and operated by the Vojkovich family since Mr. John first opened the doors over 89 years ago, and his spirit lives on through the essence of family that transcends everything we do. So, come in; have a seat; and, become part of the family at Crescent City Steaks, the home of New Orleans’ original sizzling steak.
A photo of The Kingsway restaurant
10. The Kingsway
new
4.9
Exceptional(30)
Price: Very Expensive
• Contemporary Asian • Uptown
Booked 30 times today
The Kingsway is a fine dining Asian restaurant by Chef Ashwin Vilkhu, a 2025 James Beard Award nominee for Best Chef: South, and the next chapter from the family behind the acclaimed Saffron NOLA.Inspired by the deeply personal flavors of childhood dinners and the cultural crossroads of Asia, The Kingsway offers a contemporary interpretation of tradition—refined, intentional, and rooted in heritage.Set in a Japandi-Scandinavian inspired space defined by clean lines, natural textures, and understated elegance, the dining room mirrors the philosophy of the kitchen: thoughtful, minimal, and quietly bold. Precision and warmth guide each guest experience, from the first pour to the last bite.

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Discover best worth the drive restaurants in Central Business District

Discover the culinary gems of the Central Business District in New Orleans, a hotspot that is truly "worth the drive" for food enthusiasts and casual diners alike. This vibrant area boasts a selection of restaurants that stand out for their creative menus, exceptional service, and unforgettable dining experiences. Whether you're craving a traditional steakhouse vibe with a modern twist, unique creative dishes that stimulate the palate, or an intimate upscale dining experience, this district catures the essence of New Orleans' rich gastronomic culture. Each restaurant here offers a distinctive blend of atmosphere, innovation, and culinary excellence, making them must-visit destinations for both locals and visitors. Indulge in a dining scene that is as diverse as it is sophisticated, with each establishment striving to provide a memorable meal that goes beyond expectations. For anyone looking to savor outstanding cuisine in a setting that complements the city's historic charm, the Central Business District's dining offerings will not disappoint.

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