The Bottom Line
Alex Patout is one of Louisiana's most prized culinary treasures, and his signature eatery, Alex Patout's Louisiana Restaurant, is easily one of the best venues for Cajun and Creole food in New Orleans. The heart and soul of New Orleans food is epitomized at Alex's--fresh, home grown ingredients put together in delicious old and new ways.
Pros
- Beautiful and unique setting
- Classic Cajun and Creole food
- Nationally renowned chef who virtually lives in his kitchen
Cons
- Much of the food is very spicy
- Many dishes are not for the diet-conscious
Description
- The wait staff is friendly and knowledgeable -- don't be afraid to follow their suggestions.
- The menu is moderately priced for an upscale French Quarter establishment.
- Extensive list of American wines to match the indigenous food.
- The bread pudding is the most popular dessert.
- Rebecca's Blueberry Pie is made with fresh Louisiana or Mississippi blueberries when in season.
- Lunch or dinner as a premiere New Orleans dining experience.
- I have never been disappointed in the meals here. Trust me on this one.
Guide Review - Alex Patout's Louisiana Restaurant
Alex's restaurant is at 720 St. Louis St. in the heart of the French Quarter. In the building where Gennifer Flowers operates her nightclub, Alex has created a setting that is as magical as the cuisine. The first floor is a mirrored bistro with ceiling fans for somewhat more casual dining. On the second floor, the walls are decked with dreamy paintings of "Bodo," the wizard "realization" of artist Martin Laborde. The gilded décor is quintessentially and gracefully New Orleans, with gilded molding and crystal chandeliers. I always feel elegant in here, no matter what I happen to be wearing. In this city, however, it is always the food and wine that keeps you coming back and Alex's faithful patrons know this better than anyone. It is difficult to choose from the appetizers, so we usually order the combination sampler, which offers shrimp remoulade, oysters brochette, crab fingers, Cajun stuffed mushrooms, Oyster Alexandre, and grilled andouille sausage. At $19.95, the Tasting Menu offers an array of Cajun specialties at a great price -- the chicken and andouille gumbo and crawfish etouffee are two of Alex's signature dishes offered here. I also like the Fresh Fish Louisiana topped with lump crabmeat, vanilla bean and crab fat sauce. For a departure from seafood, try the Cajun smothered roast duck on a bed of oyster dressing, served with sweet potato praline casserole, Cajun rice and maque choux -- marvelous.
