Jewel of the South offers surprisingly thoughtful and flavorful vegetarian options. The broccolini was fresh and well seasoned, the second dish had great depth. Portions are on the smaller side, but the quality and creativity make it worth a visit.
Overview
If you're ever wandering through the vibrant streets of New Orleans and looking for a spot to enjoy delicious, soul-satisfying comfort food, Jewel of the South should definitely be on your radar. Nestled in the heart of the city at 1026 St. Louis St., this charming diner effortlessly blends the classic flavors of the South with a modern twist, offering a unique dining experience you won't want to miss.
Stepping into Jewel of the South, you're immediately greeted with a warm, inviting atmosphere that feels like a cozy home away from home. The interior is a mix of vintage and contemporary, reflecting the rich history and culture of New Orleans. The open kitchen lets you catch a glimpse of the culinary magic happening behind the scenes, adding to the excitement of the experience. It's not just about the food here; it’s the entire vibe that makes it memorable.
One of the things that stand out at this diner is its commitment to quality and freshness. The menu is full of mouthwatering options that showcase the best of Southern cuisine. Whether you’re in the mood for a hearty plate of shrimp and grits or a flavorful gumbo, Jewel of the South offers something for everyone. The dishes are crafted with care and attention to detail, ensuring that every bite is packed with flavor.
What makes the experience here even more special is the impeccable service. The staff at Jewel of the South are not only friendly but knowledgeable, eager to share recommendations or explain the nuances of their dishes. It’s clear they take pride in the food they serve, and that makes all the difference.
Among the highlights on the menu is their signature fried chicken. Crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, this dish has become a crowd favorite. Pair it with some cornbread and a side of collard greens, and you’ve got yourself a Southern feast that will leave you completely satisfied. For those with a sweet tooth, don't skip the classic pecan pie-it’s the perfect way to end your meal on a high note.
What’s also impressive about Jewel of the South is its attention to detail when it comes to accommodating dietary restrictions. Whether you're vegan, gluten-free, or have any other special requirements, the kitchen is happy to adjust dishes to ensure everyone can enjoy a fulfilling meal. It’s this thoughtful approach that keeps diners coming back again and again.
For those who love a great brunch, Jewel of the South serves up a fantastic weekend menu featuring everything from biscuits and gravy to avocado toast with a Southern twist. The variety makes it an ideal spot for gatherings, whether you're out with family, friends, or even enjoying a solo brunch with a good book.
Location-wise, this diner is perfectly situated for anyone exploring New Orleans. It's close to the historic French Quarter, making it a great pit stop after taking in the local sights. You’ll often find the restaurant buzzing with a mix of locals and tourists, all enjoying the same high-quality dishes and unhurried atmosphere.
If you're not in a rush, take your time and savor the meal. Whether you're dining inside or enjoying the outdoor seating, the vibe of the place will make you feel at ease. The restaurant is well-maintained and the staff is attentive, ensuring that your visit is as enjoyable as possible.
With its prime location, exceptional service, and mouthwatering menu, Jewel of the South is not just another diner-it’s a local gem that has earned a well-deserved reputation as one of the best spots in New Orleans. Don’t just take my word for it-check out the glowing reviews from diners who’ve experienced the same level of excellence.
The diner’s blend of Southern flavors, casual yet inviting ambiance, and friendly service make it a must-visit for anyone in the area. Whether you’re a first-time visitor to New Orleans or a local craving a delicious meal, Jewel of the South will not disappoint. With each visit, it’s clear that this spot has a special place in the hearts of those who know where to find the best of Southern cooking.
Good to know
Service options
✓ Outdoor seating ✓ Dine-in ✓ Delivery ✓ TakeawayHighlights
✓ Fast service ✓ Great cocktails ✓ Great wine list ✓ Serves local specialtyPopular for
✓ Dinner ✓ Solo diningAccessibility
✓ Wheelchair-accessible car park ✓ Wheelchair-accessible entrance ✓ Wheelchair-accessible seating ✓ Wheelchair-accessible toilet ✓ Assistive hearing loopOfferings
✓ Alcohol ✓ Beer ✓ Cocktails ✓ Coffee ✓ Happy-hour food ✓ Private dining room ✓ Small plates ✓ Spirits ✓ Vegan options ✓ Vegetarian options ✓ WineDining options
✓ Lunch ✓ Dinner ✓ Dessert ✓ Seating ✓ Table serviceAmenities
✓ Bar on site ✓ Gender-neutral toilets ✓ ToiletAtmosphere
✓ Cosy ✓ Historic ✓ Romantic ✓ Trendy ✓ UpmarketCrowd
✓ Family friendly ✓ Groups ✓ LGBTQ+ friendly ✓ Locals ✓ Tourists ✓ Transgender safe spacePlanning
✓ Dinner reservations recommended ✓ Accepts reservations ✓ Usually a waitPayments
✓ Credit cards ✓ Debit cards ✓ NFC mobile payments ✓ Credit cardsParking
✓ Free of charge street parking ✓ Paid parking lot ✓ Paid street parkingPets
✓ Dogs allowed outsidePhotos
1 / 4
Location
Reviews
- No ratings yet 735 reviews
The food is unique and delicious - flavors I haven't had in decades, unique combinations, fun and adventurous items. This is a special treat, a fun night out, perfect for a date night or a celebration..smaller group is better. If you have picky eaters in the group maybe not ideal, but if you like to try new things and delight your palate with unexpected flavors, this is the perfect place.
The food at Jewel of the South was absolutely amazing! Every dish was packed with flavor, and the cocktails were next-level good. The service was just as great, super friendly and attentive without being over the top. You can really tell they care about what they do. The only thing that kept it from being a full 5 stars was that the inside area felt a little tight and got pretty loud, which made it hard to chat at times. Still, the energy was fun and lively, and I’d definitely come back. Totally worth it!
Dined during Tales. Fabiana, Stefanie took care of me as I ate most of the menu, by myself, had 6 cocktails (complimentary due to the event in bar area), a glass of Champagne which they were kind enough to provide despite not offering wine during the event, and dessert. I had a nice time. This is a good restaurant
Wow! Just wow! I must say that I have not enjoyed a meal or dining experience this much in years! The attention to detail, the service, the knowledge of the staff, the teamwork, the food, the cocktails, the atmosphere. All were impeccable. Each course that I ordered out did the previous one. Heirloom tomatoes and Wagyu tongue stole the show, but the asparagus was phenomenal and the Eccles for dessert was paired so well with some Stilton! Thank you for such a great and unique experience. Kudos the chef and staff!
Best drink spot we tried in NOLA! The drinks are very unique—we tried four and loved them all. Our server, Stephanie, was knowledgeable and gave great recommendations. We sat outside, and it was nice and quiet —perfect for enjoying the experience. I would definitely go back if I’m in NOLA again!
This was probably the best meal we had in New Orleans. Wonderful experience made up of a very original and well thought out menu, attentive staff, and a great ambiance. Get the tartare!