Did You Say Brunch? :: Our Favorite Brunch Spots in New Orleans

Brunch is not just another meal. It’s an event.

Brunch has gained popularity over the years and it is definitely one of my favorite past times, especially when paired with bottomless mimosas. Whether you are looking for a kid-friendly location or a place to have a girls’ meet up there are definitely options for everything in between.

Here is a list of some of my favorite brunch spots:

Birdy’s Behind the Bower

Birdy’s is fairly new (opened in 2021) and definitely IG worthy breakfast spot. The food is delicious, the service is awesome, and the vibe is so fun. Located behind the Bower (same owner), this cute Magazine Street spot has indoor and outdoor seating, delectable pastries, and an ever-changing menu that will be sure to please. They feature a regular and kids’ menu, but some of our faves are the breakfast board and cookies and milk. If you are going on the weekend, you want to be sure to make reservations, as seating fills up quickly.

Katie’s Restaurant

Katie’s has been a Mid-City favorite for quite some time. Our first visit was actually from watching an episode of Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives on Food Network. We have had quite a few visits in the past, but it was more recent when we gave breakfast a try. Some of our top choices are the fish and grits, breakfast po’boy, and the pancakes, but of course, you can’t forget the mimosas. Follow their Instagram to see if there is a weekend theme so you can dress for the occasion if you are feeling festive; this is a great spot for an adults-only or family affair.

Luke

Again, this is definitely a restaurant that I visited quite a few times and had never considered for brunch. Luke’s breakfast and brunch are definitely something you want to experience. The grits are some of my favorite in the City, and the cinnamon rolls, Brussels sprouts, and the variety of juices for mimosas make this an awesome choice for any weekend day. The service is also top tier, and we have hosted a private event here, and honestly, I didn’t have one complaint.

Monday

Another Mid-City gem that opened in 2022, Monday is run by the same owners as Morrow’s on St. Claude and in the former Trep’s location on Bienville. The majority of seating is outdoors, and you can expect to enjoy a fun and upbeat atmosphere; I suggest it for an adults’ brunch, but kids won’t be out of place if they join. The Lamb Chops, Truffle Fries, and Mimosa Tower are some of the biggest hits; just know that they are only open for Sunday Brunch.

Peacock Room

When you walk into the Peacock Room, you definitely feel like you have walked into a time machine and been brought to a fancy 1920s-era restaurant. The vibe is sexy, and the ambiance is relaxing; this is a place you want to experience. The extensive bar menu and knowledgeable staff ensure that you have a visit that you won’t forget. This is definitely more than just a dining experience. Leave the kiddos at home for this one.

Bearcat

Yes, it’s worth the wait! It took us a while to try Bearcat for weekend brunch with kiddos because they cannot handle a long wait, so we decided to make this one a weekday date for the two of us. We enjoyed the food and now understand why people wait outside in the rain, sleet, and NOLA sun to get a seat in one of the two locations of Bearcat. From the house-made juices to the extensive menu, there is plenty to explore and taste when you visit. We enjoyed the pancakes, Cajun gravy biscuits, and grits, but we plan to return to try more of the menu!

Stanley’s

I can say as a local, I hesitated to visit this Jackson Square-adjacent restaurant, but once I visited, I knew that I would be coming back again and again. The atmosphere, the food, and the music from the street performers all just make you remember why New Orleans is a special place when you visit Stanley’s. I am not sure how to begin listing my favorites from their menu, but honestly, I haven’t been sad about one item I’ve eaten here, and they don’t hold back on the mimosas. This breakfast spot is definitely a place you can enjoy with a group, on a day date, or for a weekend family meal. You won’t be disappointed, and you will remember why you chose to call New Orleans home.

Willa Jean

If you’re looking for one of the best brunch spots in New Orleans, Willa Jean is a must-visit. Known for its Southern-inspired comfort food, house-made pastries, and warm bakery atmosphere, it’s the perfect place to enjoy everything from flaky biscuits and shrimp & grits to indulgent banana bread and fresh-baked cookies. Pair your meal with one of their specialty coffee drinks, and you’ll quickly see why both locals and visitors keep coming back.

Garrison

If you’re looking for an elevated brunch in Old Metairie, try Garrison Kitchen + Cocktails. Their chef-driven menu puts a fresh spin on brunch favorites with dishes like salmon pastrami Benedict, shrimp and grits, buttermilk pancakes, and a hearty Garrison Breakfast, plus $20 bottomless mimosas on weekends. With its stylish atmosphere and focus on seasonal ingredients, it’s a great spot for everything from a casual brunch with friends to a special weekend outing.

Smoke & Honey

If you’re looking for a brunch that’s a little different, Smoke & Honey is a great choice. This neighborhood favorite blends Greek and Mediterranean flavors with classic brunch dishes, serving creative options like the Breakfast Gyro, chef-crafted bagels, Greek yogurt with honey, and fresh, house-made spreads. Pair your meal with a mimosa or espresso martini, and you’ll enjoy a unique brunch experience in a fun, vibrant setting.

RUMBA

If you’re craving a brunch with a tropical twist, RUMBA is the perfect spot. Their island-inspired brunch menu features creative dishes like Banana Bread French Toast, the Creole Coast Benedict, Shrimp & Grits, and Breakfast Taco Duos, all paired with handcrafted cocktails and bottomless mimosas. With its vibrant atmosphere and Caribbean flavors, RUMBA feels like a mini vacation without ever leaving Metairie.

The Chloe 

If you’re looking for a brunch that’s as beautiful as it is delicious, The Chloe is a must-visit. Set inside a charming Uptown boutique hotel, this stylish spot offers an elevated brunch menu featuring favorites like Fried Chicken & Biscuits, Strawberry Lemon French Toast, Steak & Eggs, and Stuffed Redfish, alongside expertly crafted cocktails. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply enjoying a leisurely weekend, The Chloe’s elegant atmosphere and creative Southern-inspired cuisine make it one of New Orleans’ best brunch destinations.

La Petite Grocery 

If you’re looking for an upscale brunch with classic New Orleans flavor, La Petite Grocery is a must-visit. Located on Magazine Street, this beloved neighborhood restaurant serves refined Southern dishes like Brioche Pain Perdu, Crawfish Benedict, Buttermilk Biscuits & Gravy, and its famous Blue Crab Beignets. With its charming atmosphere, exceptional service, and creative take on Louisiana cuisine, it’s the perfect spot for a leisurely weekend brunch or special occasion.

Restaurant des Familles

If you’re looking for a brunch that’s worth the drive, Restaurant des Familles offers a one-of-a-kind dining experience overlooking the bayou. Known for its beautiful waterfront setting and classic Louisiana cuisine, the restaurant serves an elegant Champagne Brunch featuring local favorites like BBQ Shrimp, Redfish Pitre, Softshell Crab, Seafood Gumbo, and decadent desserts. It’s the perfect spot to enjoy authentic Cajun flavors while taking in the peaceful scenery of South Louisiana.

RiverShack 

Whether you visit the RiverShack in Kenner or Gretna, you’re in for a fun, laid-back brunch with generous portions and Southern comfort food favorites. Weekend brunch features dishes like chicken and waffles, seafood Benedict, steak and eggs, French toast, and their popular Beignet Fries, plus mimosas and Bloody Marys to complete the experience. With casual atmospheres and menus packed with local flavor, both locations are great spots to gather with family or friends for a relaxed weekend meal.

Thanh Thanh 

If you’re looking for a brunch that combines classic breakfast favorites with Vietnamese-inspired flavors, Thanh Thanh in Gretna is a great choice. This family-owned restaurant offers a unique weekend brunch menu featuring dishes like Asian omelets, steak omelets, stuffed French toast, Belgian waffles, pancakes, and traditional breakfast plates, along with Vietnamese coffee and brunch cocktails. With its relaxed atmosphere and blend of Asian and American comfort foods, Thanh Thanh is a great spot for a casual weekend meal with something for everyone.

Toast 

Toast is a New Orleans brunch favorite known for its French-inspired café vibes, freshly made breads, and creative breakfast dishes. With three locations across the city and in the Gretna area, it’s an easy spot to enjoy everything from savory omelets and crepes to their famous aebelskivers (Danish puffed pancakes), French toast, and hearty breakfast plates. Whether you’re grabbing a casual weekend brunch with friends or a family-friendly meal, Toast offers a cozy atmosphere and a menu full of comforting favorites that keep locals coming back.

The Vault NOLA 

The Vault NOLA is a great choice for a unique brunch experience in a historic and stylish setting. Located in the former Jackson Brewing Company vault space, The Vault combines a cozy atmosphere with a menu featuring elevated comfort food, creative cocktails, and brunch favorites. Whether you’re meeting friends for a relaxed weekend meal or looking for a memorable spot with a little New Orleans charm, The Vault offers a fun mix of great food, drinks, and ambiance.

Jack Rose

Jack Rose is a perfect brunch destination if you’re looking for a stylish atmosphere paired with creative New Orleans-inspired cuisine. Located inside the historic Pontchartrain Hotel, Jack Rose offers an elegant yet lively setting with dishes like Crawfish, Shrimp & Grits, Fried Oyster Benedict, Quail & Waffles, and Duck Confit Hash. With its beautiful Garden District location, craft cocktails, and elevated take on Southern favorites, it’s an ideal spot for a special brunch, celebration, or leisurely weekend meal.

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