A City of Legendary Dining Experiences
New Orleans isn’t just a place—it’s a mood, a memory, a melody. And when it comes to hosting a private group dining in New Orleans, the city delivers experiences as rich as its history. Whether you’re planning an intimate private wedding dinner or a celebratory feast, these ten restaurants offer not just exquisite menus but settings steeped in history, charm, and impeccable service. Let’s dive into the best places to indulge in a private dining experience that your guests will rave about for years.
No one in the world will argue that New Orleans isn’t known for its incredible food. When our chefs prepare a meal, they prepare it with love—every dining experience is oh-so chef’s kiss! From the first sip of a perfectly crafted cocktail to the last bite of a decadent dessert, dining in this city is nothing short of a work of art.
1. Restaurant August – A Refined, French-Inspired Experience
Signature Dish: Potato Gnocchi with Blue Crab & Black Truffle
John Besh’s flagship restaurant is the epitome of fine dining in New Orleans. Housed in a 19th-century building, August offers a grand yet intimate setting perfect for private group dining in New Orleans. Imagine the delight of your guests as they savor impeccably crafted French-influenced cuisine in a space adorned with gleaming chandeliers and antique mirrors. The private dining rooms here make any occasion feel like an exclusive event.
This restaurant’s commitment to excellence extends beyond the plate. The service is impeccable, with a team that treats every guest like royalty. The attention to detail in both food presentation and hospitality makes Restaurant August a premier destination for those seeking an elevated private dining experience. Whether celebrating a milestone or hosting an elegant private wedding dinner, expect sophistication at every turn.
2. Tableau – French Quarter Elegance with Balcony Views
Signature Dish: Shrimp & Grits with Tasso Cream
Overlooking Jackson Square, Tableau is where old-world grandeur meets modern culinary excellence. This Dickie Brennan gem serves elevated Creole cuisine in an elegant yet inviting space. Whether dining in the grand private room or on the balcony with sweeping views, guests will feel the charm of historic New Orleans at every bite.
Tableau takes pride in blending tradition with innovation. The menu highlights local ingredients, bringing authentic Louisiana flavors to life. Pair your meal with one of their expertly curated wines or a signature cocktail for an unforgettable culinary adventure. Their private dining spaces cater to various group sizes, ensuring a personalized and luxurious experience.
3. Muriel’s – Hauntingly Beautiful with Timeless Flavors
Signature Dish: Blackened Redfish with Crawfish Étouffée
Dine with history—literally. Muriel’s, located in Jackson Square, is famous for its opulent interiors and resident ghost. (Yes, there’s a Séance Lounge!) But its private dining spaces offer an equally captivating experience. The menu is a love letter to Creole cuisine, making it perfect for an unforgettable private wedding dinner or group celebration.
Guests at Muriel’s are transported to another era. The richly decorated dining rooms, complete with antique furnishings and candlelit tables, create an ambiance of mystery and elegance. The restaurant’s dedication to culinary craftsmanship ensures that every dish is both visually stunning and packed with unforgettable flavors. If you’re looking for an intimate setting with a touch of the supernatural, Muriel’s is the place to be.
4. Brennan’s – Birthplace of Bananas Foster
Signature Dish: Bananas Foster (Made Tableside!)
Brennan’s is a New Orleans institution, dripping in pink-hued charm and Southern hospitality. Established in 1946, it remains a go-to for elegant private dining. Whether hosting brunch in a courtyard shaded by lush greenery or an intimate dinner in the lush Roost Bar, guests will feel pampered at every turn. And no evening is complete without the dramatic tableside flambéing of their legendary Bananas Foster.
Beyond the iconic dessert, Brennan’s offers a carefully curated menu of Creole classics prepared with modern finesse. Their private dining spaces range from intimate rooms for small gatherings to grand banquet halls for lavish celebrations. Every detail—from the classic décor to the impeccable service—contributes to a dining experience that embodies New Orleans luxury.
5. Napoleon House – Timeless Atmosphere with a Side of Pimm’s Cup
Signature Dish: Muffuletta (served warm!)
Step into a 200-year-old landmark that once offered refuge to Napoleon himself. Napoleon House’s old-world charm, peeling paint, and classical music set the stage for a relaxed yet elegant dining experience. The private rooms here feel like stepping back in time, offering an ambiance that’s as unforgettable as the cuisine.
Their legendary Muffuletta, served warm unlike most, is a must-try. Pair it with their famous Pimm’s Cup, and you’ve got the perfect blend of tradition and refreshment. Whether you’re planning a corporate gathering or an intimate celebration, Napoleon House provides a one-of-a-kind setting filled with historic charm.
6. Justine – Parisian Chic Meets New Orleans Vibe
Signature Dish: Steak Frites with Herb Butter
Justine is where classic French brasserie fare meets the lively energy of the French Quarter. The private dining spaces exude a sexy, sophisticated feel—perfect for a vibrant celebration. Between the plush red velvet seating and decadent menu, Justine offers a unique take on private group dining in New Orleans that’s both upscale and lively.
The ambiance at Justine strikes the perfect balance between Parisian elegance and New Orleans flair. It’s an ideal choice for those who want to combine great food with an atmosphere that encourages lively conversation and celebration. Their menu is built around high-quality ingredients, with dishes that are both indulgent and beautifully plated.
7. Galatoire’s – A New Orleans Tradition Since 1905
Signature Dish: Crabmeat Maison
For over a century, Galatoire’s has been the go-to for celebrations, power lunches, and leisurely Friday afternoons. Private dining at this Bourbon Street icon means impeccable service, classic Creole dishes, and an atmosphere buzzing with old-school charm. If you want your event to feel like a timeless New Orleans experience, this is the place.
Guests at Galatoire’s know they’re in for a treat the moment they step inside. White tablecloths, tuxedo-clad waiters, and a menu steeped in tradition set the stage for a refined dining experience. The private rooms here are ideal for those looking to embrace the grandeur and history of New Orleans cuisine.
8. Bayona – A Hidden Gem in the French Quarter
Signature Dish: Smoked Duck with Pepper Jelly
Bayona, housed in a charming 18th-century Creole cottage, is the kind of place where private dining feels like a secret indulgence. Chef Susan Spicer’s menu blends global flavors with Louisiana’s bounty, offering dishes that are as artistic as they are delicious. The private courtyard, lined with lush greenery, provides an intimate setting for any special occasion.
9. N7 – A French Hideaway Off the Beaten Path
Signature Dish: Seafood Selection & Steak Tartare
Tucked away in the Bywater, N7 is an enchanting escape that feels worlds away from the usual hustle. Its intimate private dining space, dim lighting, and incredible wine selection create a dreamy ambiance. Perfect for those who want a quiet, atmospheric setting with refined French-Japanese cuisine.
10. Arnaud’s – The Grandeur of Old New Orleans
Signature Dish: Oysters Arnaud
For a setting that exudes classic New Orleans elegance, Arnaud’s is unmatched. With multiple private dining rooms (all uniquely appointed with period treasures), impeccable Creole fare, and a historic cocktail lounge, it’s the epitome of fine dining. Whether it’s a grand affair or an intimate gathering, Arnaud’s makes any night feel like a special occasion.
The Perfect Setting for Your Private Dining Experience
New Orleans is a city that knows how to celebrate, and there’s no better way to do so than with an unforgettable dining experience. Whether you’re looking for a grand, historic venue or an intimate hidden gem, these ten restaurants offer the best private group dining in New Orleans. From the refined elegance of Restaurant August to the old-world charm of Napoleon House, each of these establishments brings something unique to the table—literally.
So, whether you’re planning a private wedding dinner, a milestone celebration, or simply gathering with loved ones over world-class cuisine, you can be sure that every meal in New Orleans is prepared with heart, soul, and a little bit of magic. After all, here in the Big Easy, food isn’t just sustenance—it’s an experience, a story, and a love letter to the city itself. Bon appétit!
And if you’ve made the incredible decision to elope in New Orleans—just the two of you or with a select few—we offer curated packages designed to create a stress-free and unforgettable experience. Enjoy your time in New Orleans – Marcia with Ibay Photography 🙂
