🍊🍾Best Brunch Spots in New Orleans

Ruby Slipper

Ruby Slipper Cafe

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The Ruby Slipper is known for its Southern-inspired dishes, such as shrimp and grits, eggs cochon, and bananas foster pain perdu. My favorite item on the menu is the Chicken St. Charles, which is a fried chicken breast over a buttermilk biscuit, topped with poached eggs and tasso cream sauce. It’s a hearty and delicious meal that will satisfy your taste buds. And be sure to try their signature mimosa! If you’re looking for a place to enjoy a great brunch with friends or family, the Ruby Slipper is a must-try. You can join the waitlist online or walk into any of their locations.

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There are multiple Ruby Slipper locations in the city - so take a look on Yelp or Google Maps and find the closest one you. 

🌸Magnolia Tip: The Ruby Slipper is one of the most popular brunch places in New Orleans - and for good reason! To avoid getting stuck in an hour long line, go to their website at rubybrunch.com. Here you can virtually grab your place in line by clicking "Join The Waitlist". Now you can snuggle back into bed while the app holds your place instead of standing under the hot NOLA sun!

Bearcat Cafe

BEARCAT CAFE UPTOWN

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The Bearcat Cafe is a cozy and casual cafe that serves delicious and fresh breakfast and lunch options in New Orleans. It has two locations: one in Uptown and one in the CBD. The Bearcat Cafe offers a variety of dishes that cater to different dietary preferences, such as vegetarian, vegan, paleo, and gluten-free. You can enjoy their sustainable and micro-sourced coffees, loose-leaf teas, and house-made bottled beverages along with your meal. My favorite item on the menu is the Couyon Daddy, which is a biscuit topped with fried chicken, an egg, and hot crab dip. It’s a mouth-watering and satisfying dish that will make you feel like a couyon (a fool) for not trying it sooner. If you’re looking for a place to have a great brunch with a friendly atmosphere and a creative twist, the Bearcat Cafe is a perfect choice.

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There are two Bearcat Cafe locations in the city - so take a look on Yelp or Google Maps and find the closest one you. 

🌸Magnolia Tip: If you're looking for a brunch spot with vegetarian, vegan, paleo, and gluten-free options - Bearcat is the place for you! Get there early because this popular brunch spot gets busy the later it gets.

Morrow's

Morrow's

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Morrow’s is a trendy and eclectic restaurant that combines the flavors of New Orleans and Korea in a unique and delicious way. Founded in 2018 by mother-son duo, Chef Lenora Chong and Event Curator Larry Morrow, Morrow’s offers a variety of dishes, from classic gumbo and jambalaya to spicy kimchi and bulgogi. My favorite dish is the gumbo ramen, which is a fusion of two comfort foods: rich and savory gumbo broth with tender noodles, shrimp, chicken, and andouille sausage. It’s a hearty and satisfying meal that warms you up from the inside. Morrow’s also has a great bar with craft cocktails. The ambiance is cozy and inviting, with paintings of New Orleans icons and live music on weekends. Morrow’s is a place where great food and dope vibes collide. Enjoy!

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🌸Magnolia Tip: Morrow's only hosts brunch on Sundays. Be sure to try their signature dish - ramen g

🖤 Black-owned

Commander's Palace

Commander's Palace

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If you are looking for a brunch experience that combines the elegance of New Orleans’ history, the charm of its hospitality, and the flavor of its cuisine, then look no further than Commander’s Palace. This iconic restaurant, located in the heart of the Garden District, has been serving Haute Creole dishes since 1893. You can enjoy the award-winning food and service in one of the many dining rooms, each with its own unique decor and atmosphere. Whether you prefer the Victorian elegance of the main dining room, the cozy intimacy of the wine room, or the breezy comfort of the garden room, you will find a setting that suits your mood and taste. The brunch menu at Commander’s Palace offers a variety of dishes that showcase the best of Louisiana’s ingredients and traditions. You can start with some appetizers such as turtle soup, pecan-crusted Gulf fish, or Creole cream cheese cheesecake. Then, you can choose from a selection of entrees such as eggs Sardou, cochon de lait Benedict, or crawfish and goat cheese crepes. And don’t forget to save room for dessert, such as bread pudding soufflé, strawberry shortcake, or bananas Foster. My favorite item on the menu is the wild white shrimp and grits. This dish features succulent shrimp sautéed with garlic, herbs, and Creole seasoning, served over creamy stone-ground grits with smoked bacon and green onions. It is a perfect balance of savory and spicy flavors that will make your mouth water. Commander’s Palace is more than just a restaurant; it is a destination that celebrates the culture and spirit of New Orleans. It is a place where you can enjoy a memorable brunch with your friends and family, while listening to live jazz music and sipping on a mimosa or a Bloody Mary. It is a place where you can feel the history and tradition of this city in every bite and sip. It is a place where you can have a taste of the true New Orleans. To make a reservation at Commander’s Palace, you can visit their website or call them at (504) 899-82211.

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🌸Magnolia Tip: Commander's Palace is a very upscale restaurant - the perfect place for a special celebration or date. Be sure to check their website ahead of time for dress code. 

Brennan's

Brennan's

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Brennan’s is a historic restaurant in the French Quarter of New Orleans, known for its elegant Creole cuisine and inventive breakfast dishes. The restaurant was founded in 1946 by Owen Brennan, who wanted to create a dining experience that combined the flavors of his native city with the sophistication of France. Brennan’s is famous for inventing the Bananas Foster, a dessert made with bananas, butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, rum, and vanilla ice cream. The restaurant also offers a variety of brunch options, such as Eggs Sardou, Turtle Soup, and Oysters Rockefeller. My favorite item on the menu is the Duck Confit Hash, which is a hearty dish of shredded duck leg, sweet potatoes, Brussels sprouts, and sunny-side-up duck egg, topped with a tangy Creole sauce. Brennan’s is a must-visit for anyone who loves brunch and wants to enjoy the charm and culture of New Orleans.

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🌸Magnolia Tip: No trip to Brennan's is complete without trying their signature dessert and New Orleans staple - banana's foster. This dish is a combination of cooked sliced bananas and walnuts in a buttery rum sauce, served over vanilla ice cream. Don't miss it!

Ciao NOLA

Ciao Tapas Bar & Lounge

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Ciao Tapas is a hot new addition to New Orleans nightlife, offering upscale, chic and sexy vibes. Ciao Tapas is not your typical brunch spot, but rather a place where you can enjoy premium cocktails, hand-crafted small plates, and quality hookah flavors. Ciao Tapas is located on Tulane Avenue, in a sleek and modern space that features paintings of Edgar Degas and a cozy patio. Ciao Tapas has a diverse and creative menu that blends the flavors of New Orleans and Korea, such as gumbo ramen, shrimp and grits, and kimchi fried rice. My favorite dish is the chicken biscuit, which is a crispy fried chicken breast on a fluffy biscuit, topped with with maple buffalo mornay. It’s a sweet and savory delight that pairs well with a mimosa or a bloody mary.

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🌸Magnolia Tip: Ciao Tapas Bar is well-known for its trendy, chic vibes. Hang out in their lounge and enjoy a hookah with your brunch for excellent Insta pics!

🖤 Black-owned

Elizabeth's

Elizabeth's

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Elizabeth’s is a cozy and colorful restaurant in the Bywater neighborhood of New Orleans, known for its creative and delicious brunch dishes. Whether you’re in the mood for savory or sweet, you’ll find something to satisfy your taste buds at Elizabeth’s. Some of the popular items on the menu include the praline bacon, the duck waffle, the shrimp and grits, and the redneck eggs. But my favorite item on the menu is the banana’s foster french toast, which is a decadent treat of thick slices of bread soaked in rum sauce and topped with caramelized bananas and whipped cream, stuffed with banana's foster cream cheese! It’s like having dessert for breakfast, and I can’t get enough of it. If you’re looking for a place to brunch in New Orleans, you should definitely check out Elizabeth’s. You won’t regret it.

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🌸Magnolia Tip: Elizabeth's is best known for their praline bacon. This sweet-and-savory combo of pecan & sugar-coated bacon inspired by the unofficial NOLA candy, the praline, is worth the visit! 

Arnaud's

Arnaud's

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Arnaud’s is a historic and elegant restaurant in the heart of the French Quarter, serving classic Creole cuisine since 1918. The restaurant features a grand dining room, a jazz bistro, a private dining area, and a museum of Mardi Gras costumes. Arnaud’s is famous for its Sunday Jazz Brunch, where you can enjoy live music and a variety of dishes, such as eggs Benedict, shrimp and grits, and omelettes. My favorite item on the menu is the Savory Crabmeat Cheesecake, a rich and creamy dish with fresh Louisiana lump crabmeat, Brie and cream cheese, eggs, fresh vegetables, herbs and spices. Arnaud’s is a must-visit destination for anyone who loves the charm and flavor of New Orleans.

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🌸Magnolia Tip: Arnaud's has a dress code for their Jazz Brunch, so be sure to check their website ahead of time for their dress requirements.

Also, don't forget to check out the private Mardi Gras museum collection that features the costumes of past Mardi Gras kings & queens as well as vintage photography from the festivities.

Twisted Waffles

Twisted Waffles LLC

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Twisted Waffles is a cafe that serves flavorful, unique meals with a twist. Located on Howard Avenue, Twisted Waffles offers you the opportunity to build your own unique waffle combination. My favorite dish is the waffle bowl: a waffle bowl filled with scrambled eggs, onions, bell peppers, choice of bacon, sausage, ham, or turkey topped with shredded cheese blend!

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🌸Magnolia Tip: This unique cafe offers you the opportunity to create your own waffle creation! Try out their waffle bowl and fill it with your meats, cheese, and toppings of your choice. Yum!

🖤 Black-owned

Two Chicks Cafe

Two Chicks Café - CBD

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Two Chick’s Cafe is a cozy and casual restaurant in the Central Business District, offering breakfast, lunch, and a full juice bar. You can savor freshly squeezed juices and smoothies, or indulge in their delicious all-day breakfast and lunch specials. They serve traditional, Cajun, and vegetarian-friendly dishes, with a touch of creativity and flair. My favorite item on the menu is the Under the Sea Omelet, a mouthwatering omelet stuffed with shrimp, crabmeat, cheese, and spinach, topped with a creamy hollandaise sauce. Two Chick’s Cafe is a great place to enjoy a satisfying and healthy brunch in New Orleans.

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There are two Two Chicks Cafes locations in the city - so take a look on Yelp or Google Maps and find the closest one to you. 

🌸Magnolia Tip: If you're looking for a lighter, healthier option for brunch - this is the place to go! Their full juice bar, smoothies, salads, and wraps make this a great option when you've been eating heavy the last few days.

Toast

Toast

@WanderingWildflowerTravel

Toast is a cozy and charming cafe that serves delicious breakfast and brunch dishes in three locations in New Orleans. Whether you crave for savory or sweet, Toast has something for everyone. You can enjoy classic French toast, pancakes, waffles, omelettes, sandwiches, salads, and more. Or you can try their signature dishes like the puffed pancakes, the breakfast tacos, the croque madame, or the shakshuka. Toast also offers vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options to accommodate different dietary preferences. My favorite dish is the lemon curd & cream crepe, which is a delicate and tangy treat that melts in your mouth. You can find more information about their menu and locations on their website or read some of their rave reviews on Tripadvisor. Toast is one of the best brunch spots in New Orleans that you don’t want to miss!

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There are three Toast locations in the city - so take a look on Yelp or Google Maps and find the closest one to you. 

🌸Magnolia Tip: All breads, biscuits, jams, custards, and curds are made in-house daily - so be sure you get there early to enjoy them fresh!

Surrey's Cafe

Surrey's Café & Juice Bar

@WanderingWildflowerTravel

Surrey’s Cafe is a funky and eclectic cafe and juice bar that offers fresh and tasty breakfast and brunch dishes in two locations in New Orleans. You can find a variety of dishes with a Latin twist, such as the huevos rancheros, the breakfast burrito, the Costa Rican breakfast, or the shakshuka. You can also enjoy their organic juices, smoothies, coffee, and tea. Surrey’s Cafe is the oldest organic juice bar in New Orleans, opened in 20011. My favorite dish is the corned beef hash, which is a hearty and flavorful dish with tender corned beef, boudin, andouille sausage, potatoes, and two eggs any style. Surrey’s Cafe is a great brunch spot in New Orleans that you should try!

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🌸Magnolia Tip: Surrey's is the oldest organic juice bar in New Orleans - so be sure to order a glass of their fresh-squeezed juice. It's especially wonderful on a hot summer day! 

Willa Jean

Willa Jean

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Willa Jean’s is a contemporary bakery and restaurant that serves Southern cuisine with a modern and elegant touch. Located in the Central Business District in downtown New Orleans, Willa Jean’s is open daily from 7 am to 3 pm. Whether you are looking for a quick coffee and pastry to go, or a relaxed meal with friends and family, Willa Jean’s has something for everyone. The menu features a variety of snacks, breakfast plates, sweet treats, and sandwiches, all made with fresh and local ingredients. Some of the popular dishes include the biscuit situation, the WJ shrimp and grits, the southern coconut cake, and the banana puddin’ cup. My personal favorite is the hangover bowl, which consists of short rib, cheesy grits, onion, garlic, potatoes, and egg. It is hearty, savory, and satisfying. If you are looking for a place to enjoy the best brunch in New Orleans, you should definitely check out Willa Jean’s. You won’t regret it!

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🌸Magnolia Tip: Not in the mood for a full meal but just need a lil pick-me-up? Willa Jean's has a full service to-go coffee bar! I recommend the NOLA classic, a Cafe Au Lait made with Willa Jean's personal blend of coffee. 

Mother's Restaurant

Mother's Restaurant

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Mother’s Restaurant is a New Orleans institution that has been serving up delicious Cajun and Creole dishes since 1938. Located on Poydras Street, near the waterfront and the courthouse, Mother’s is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. Whether you’re looking for a hearty breakfast, a satisfying lunch, or a mouthwatering dinner, Mother’s has something for everyone. You can enjoy their famous baked ham, roast beef, debris and gravy, crawfish étouffée, jambalaya, red beans and rice, seafood gumbo, and more. Don’t forget to try their signature po’ boys, especially the Ferdi Special, which is packed with ham, roast beef, debris and gravy. My favorite dish is the turkey ferdi, which is a variation of the Ferdi Special with turkey instead of ham. It’s tender, juicy, and flavorful. Mother’s also offers a gluten-free and vegetarian menu, as well as catering and shipping services. Mother’s Restaurant is one of the best brunch spots in New Orleans, and you’ll love their food as much as I do.

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🌸Magnolia Tip: No reservations are accepted, so be prepared to wait in line during peak hours. But trust me, it’s worth it!

Katie's Restaurant

Katie's

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Katie’s Restaurant & Bar is a neighborhood restaurant located in midcity New Orleans that serves poboys, salads, pizza, pasta, fresh seafood, and so much more. It has a full bar, a great, casual atmosphere, and sidewalk dining available. Katie’s Restaurant & Bar has been featured on Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives for its delicious and creative dishes. One of the best things to try at Katie’s Restaurant & Bar is the breakfast pizza, which is my favorite dish. It is a thin crust pizza topped with scrambled eggs, bacon, sausage, ham, cheese, and green onion. It is served with a side of sour cream and salsa. The breakfast pizza is available on Sundays from 10am to 6pm. It is a hearty and satisfying meal that will make you feel like you are in heaven. If you are looking for a brunch spot in New Orleans that has something for everyone, you should definitely check out Katie’s Restaurant & Bar. You won’t regret it!

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🌸Magnolia Tip: Katie's was featured on Diners, Drive-ins, & Dives!  They only have brunch available on Sunday so be sure to prioritize this great spot in your itinerary.

Birdy's Behind The Bower

Birdy's Behind The Bower

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Birdy’s Behind The Bower is a breakfast, brunch, and lunch spot located in the back of the Framework building in midcity New Orleans. It serves Southern-inspired, locally-sourced American cuisine alongside a welcoming outdoor courtyard. It partners with Sugar Roots Farm in New Orleans to source fresh, local ingredients for dishes that range from comforting, house-made breakfast staples to lighter, health-conscious fare. It has been praised for its chic patio, friendly service, and delicious food. One of the best things to try at Birdy’s Behind The Bower is the BLT, which is my favorite dish. It is a classic sandwich with smashed avocado, tomato, bacon, malt vinegar aioli, multigrain bread, & served with a side salad. It is a simple but satisfying meal that will make you feel like you are at home. If you are looking for a brunch spot in New Orleans that has something for everyone, you should definitely check out Birdy’s Behind The Bower. You will love it!

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🌸Magnolia Tip: When you first arrive, you may have difficulty finding Birdy's. It is literally, as the name says, behind The Bower! Walk through the Bower's courtyard and you'll find it. 

Cafe Degas

Cafe Degas

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Cafe Degas is a charming French bistro that offers a taste of Paris in the heart of New Orleans. Located on the historic Esplanade Avenue, Cafe Degas has been serving authentic French cuisine since 1980, making it the longest-running French bistro in the city. The cozy and intimate atmosphere, enhanced by the paintings of Edgar Degas and the live oak trees, makes it a perfect spot for brunch with friends or family. Cafe Degas offers a variety of dishes, from classic croque monsieur and eggs benedict to more adventurous escargots and duck confit. My favorite dish is the Ravioles d’Ecrevisse, which are delicate house-made ravioli stuffed with Louisiana crawfish, sautéed mushroom duxelle and spinach, topped with lemon beurre blanc. The portions are generous and the prices are reasonable, especially for the quality of the food. If you are looking for a romantic and relaxing brunch experience, Cafe Degas is a must-try. Bon appétit!

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🌸Magnolia Tip: Cafe Degas is known for their selection of handpicked wines. I love enjoying a glass of white wine on their beautiful, intimate Parisian-inspired patio.