A recent Friday lunch at Antoine’s served up a reminder of why certain French Quarter icons endure. They have the power to transform even a weekday into something festive. From an all-afternoon affair at Galatoire’s to cocktails and soufflé potatoes at Arnaud’s French 75 Bar to any meal that starts with Antoine’s seafood duo, these keepers of the city’s culinary flame fill a unique place in our hearts and bellies.
But it’s been another long year for the French Quarter stalwarts. Ongoing COVID-19 concerns kept tourists at bay and wreaked havoc on special events. Hurricane Ida disrupted operations (and oysters). Staffing woes and supply chain issues continue to take a toll. Through it all, these New Orleans institutions keep serving, hoping for better days.
According to Lisa Blount, Antoine’s Director of Sales and Marketing, the restaurant has learned to manage uncertainty. “It was challenging to figure out how to handle parties and reservations,” says Blount. “They would cancel because everyone has Covid, or a rehearsal dinner goes from 75 to 40 people – and then becomes the wedding… We learned that we can never predict anything.”
At Arnaud’s, co-proprietor Katy Casbarian has tried to “stay the course,” adjusting opening hours and menu items to streamline operations without affecting the guest experience. The restaurant also turned to private dining spaces to help guests feel safe during pandemic peaks. “That proved successful for us,” Casbarian said. “But I’m not going to sugarcoat what this year has been – it has been extremely challenging, not just for us but for the whole restaurant industry nationally.”
In late September, Antoine’s moved to opening five days a week, up from weekends only. According to Blount, the fall saw steady improvement, with more locals coming in, and she feels hopeful about the holidays: “I think this year will be a festive time.”
Arnaud’s is holiday-ready as well, with December lunches, themed cocktails and a Réveillon menu. “Arnaud’s, the French Quarter…nobody does holidays better,” Casbarian said. “Many of the restaurants down here have deep roots within the city… we are part of family traditions. That’s what makes New Orleans tick.”
Antoine’s Restaurant
713 St. Louis St. 581-4422
Antoines.com
@antoinesnola
Arnaud’s Restaurant
813 Bienville St .
523-5433
ArnaudsRestaurant.com
@arnaudsnola
Galatoire’s Restaurant
209 Bourbon St.
525-2021
Galatoires.com
@galatoiresnola
