Antoine’s Restaurant
Antoine's Restaurant, located in New Orleans' French Quarter and founded in 1840, is renowned for its French-Creole cuisine and historic significance, still operated by the fifth generation of the Alciatore family.
History of Antoine's Restaurant
Antoine's Restaurant, located in New Orleans' French Quarter, was founded in 1840 by Antoine Alciatore. Remarkably, it has remained under the ownership and management of the Alciatore family for five generations. Despite facing significant historical events such as the Civil War, two World Wars, Prohibition, the Great Depression, and Hurricane Katrina, Antoine's has continued to prosper and serve its guests. The 1840 Room in the restaurant contains treasures like a great silver duck press and a cookbook published in Paris in 1659, encapsulating the rich history of the establishment.
French-Creole Cuisine at Antoine's
Antoine's Restaurant is famously known for its French-Creole cuisine. It is the birthplace of several culinary classics, including Oysters Rockefeller, Eggs Sardou, and Pommes de Terre Souffles. The restaurant offers a variety of menus, such as brunch, lunch, dinner, and a wine list. On Sundays, guests can enjoy a Jazz Brunch from 10:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. The dinner service runs from Monday to Saturday between 5:30 p.m. and 9 p.m., while lunch is available from 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. during the same days.
Private Dining and Special Events
Antoine's Restaurant provides private dining rooms that can accommodate between 2 to 300 guests. The overall seating capacity exceeds 700, making it ideal for various events and gatherings. The establishment hosts a Jazz Brunch every Sunday, and a special lunch menu is available on Monday, Thursday, and Friday. Guest parking is accessible at the Omni Royal Orleans Hotel for $12 for up to 4 hours, ensuring convenience for attendees.
Hermes Bar at Antoine's
The Hermes Bar at Antoine's offers a relaxing atmosphere with a Happy Hour from Monday to Friday, 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. Visitors can enjoy a wide selection of beverages and bar snacks, providing an excellent complement to the main dining experience at Antoine's. The bar is a notable feature of the restaurant, enhancing the overall appeal to both locals and tourists.
Cultural Impact and Recognition
Antoine's Restaurant has featured prominently in movies and television, including 'JFK' and 'The Client.' It received a grant from the American Express and the National Trust for Historic Preservation's 'Backing Historic Small Restaurants' program, underlining its cultural and historic significance. The restaurant's longevity and resilience are testaments to its important role in New Orleans' culinary and cultural landscape.