There are many things the crescent city can take pride in: unique architecture, vibrant festivals, no open container laws -- the list could go on and on. But among all the insanity and uniqueness that is New Orleans, there is one thing that has truly made me fall in love with this city: the food. It is no secret that New Orleans is known for its delicious southern cuisine, from the fresh seafood to the fried anything. I have found that you can find amazing food on any street corner in this city, whether it's a street vendor or world renowned restaurant.
As lover of all things food, brunch happens to be my favorite meal -- how could it not be? New Orleans happens to have a fantastic line-up of restaurants with mouth-watering brunch menus, and as my second year at Tulane winds down to an end I've made it my mission to try as many as I can.
Here's a list of the top 8 brunch spots I've had the pleasure of dining at since I first moved to the Big Easy.
1. Ruby Slipper Café
Ruby Slipper has locations all over the city, but you will never find a single location empty. The atmosphere is very laid back, giving you the perfect lazy Sunday feeling as soon as you enter. But despite its casual ambiance, the food outdoes itself. The biscuits are the best I've ever had (they're the size of your face), and they have a diverse list of eggs benedict options on the menu -- a brunch staple they nail perfectly.
2. Commander's Palace
Commander's Palace is on the pricier end, but it is one of those places everyone needs to try at least once. Apart from the fantastic assortment of options on the three-course menu, the service is great and the vibes are upbeat. Not to mention a live band always plays traditional New Orleans Jazz during their brunch hours.
3. Atchafalaya
This quaint brunch spot has its own make-your-own Bloody Mary bar: enough said. OpenTable diners included Atchafalaya on the 100 best brunch menus in the country list, so it is not surprise that this local favorite is included in my favorites. Guests get to dine on their savory dishes while listening to the tunes of a live jazz band. To add, their cream cheese grits are the best I've had in New Orleans.
4. A Court of Two Sisters
Located in the heart of the French quarter, A Court of Two Sisters has a Jazz Brunch every single day of the week. You get to dine in their secluded courtyard accompanied by a jazz trio, giving every visitor those authentic New Orleans vibes. They serve an assortment of hot and cold dishes and are known for using only the freshest ingredients.
5. Elizabeth's Restaurant
Elizabeth's has tasty southern cuisine at reasonable prices. They are known for their super sweet praline bacon and large portions of grillades and grits.
6. Apolline
Not only does Apolline offer bottomless mimosas at their Sunday brunch, but they also have the most fabulous, over the top, double shot Bloody Mary featuring all the fixins' -- pickled vegetables, boiled shrimp, and a biscuit.
7. Dante's Kitchen
Another creole inspired menu, Dante's Kitchen takes southern comfort food very seriously. With Eggs Benedict being my favorite brunch order of all time, I was very pleased to try their take on the classic, which included rosemary-crusted pork and honey on a buttermilk biscuit. Their tropical patio and close location to the Mississippi River make it a great way to start off your morning.
8. Surrey's Café and Juice Bar
One of the more leisurely spots on my list, Surrey's is the best place to get a casual brunch with upscale taste. Its magazine location makes it an easy commute for Tulane students, and the avocado and crabmeat omelet is one of my personal favorites.
