Set the Scene
While Jewel of the South is located in the heart of New Orleans’ French Quarter, settling in for an evening feels like a welcome respite from the revelry, beads, and debauchery just steps away. This gem has earned coveted spots on both the World’s 50 Best Bars and North America’s 50 Best Bars lists, clocking in at 44 and an impressive 4, respectively.
From the moment you arrive, it’s easy to see why Jewel of the South is, in fact, a diamond in the rough of New Orleans. A restored Creole cottage from 1835 lays the foundation for the bar and restaurant — and, even though the space only opened in 2019, it skyrocketed quickly to fame and notoriety.
You’ll find some seating in the garden, although, unfortunately, it was closed on the day I dined because of a thunderstorm. Once you step through the doors, you can either head back toward the gleaming, zinc-plated bar, or upstairs to a small variety of scattered tables. Vintage musical fliers and portraits of Louisiana luminaries line the red brick walls. While seating is limited, the space leans more cozy and inviting instead of off-putting and exclusive, thanks in large part to the kind and attentive hosts and waitstaff.
I was impressed with our waiter throughout the evening, who made it his sole purpose to ensure we found exactly what we were looking for on the menu. He painstakingly described every item on both the food and cocktail menus without airs or pretension, and impressively, without annoyance at his role of menu emcee, as well.
What’s the Food Like?
For a space revered for its cocktail program, there are many standouts on the dining menu as well. The menu is American-driven comfort food with a British-inspired twist, featuring creative spins on items like chicken liver parfait and redfish. The former included tea prunes and crisp slices of fruit toast, and was topped with large flakes of sea salt. Meanwhile, the redfish was exquisitely presented over a bed of braised leeks and murder points, and was utterly bursting with flavor.
If you’re looking to indulge, there are three different ounces of caviar to choose from, each accompanied by scallop potatoes and creme fraîche, as well as a Baron Brigod cheese wheel with cranberry chutney or a stuffed duck neck. A variety of vegetable, beef, and fish options round out the menu.
Let’s Talk About The Drinks
While Jewel of the South does have a fabulous food menu (which I’ll get to momentarily), I truly came here for the cocktails. After all, I make it a habit to visit the Best Bars in every city I visit, and this one was at the top of my list for years.
The extensive cocktail menu, crafted by partner Chris Hannah, features a variety of customized seasonal drinks and innovative takes on reinvented classics. If you’re more in the mood for a New Orleans classic cocktail, never fear. The French 75, Brandy Crusta, and Sazerac are also on display here, though of course with little twists to make them Jewel exclusives. However, my companion and I erred on the side of seasonal cocktails with limited-time offerings.
Take, for example, the Tuxedo Tails — not your average martini, thanks to a blend of Rieger gin, Luxardo liqueur, and Manzanilla sherry, accompanied by an assortment of garnishes like an olive, twist, quail egg, and cocktail onion, and enjoyed wholeheartedly by my best friend on the evening we dined.
Meanwhile, I opted for two cocktails on the seasonal Carnival menu. I began with the Feast of Avalon, mixing a blend of spice, tang, and literal smoke, thanks to a lit cinnamon stick topping it off. The standout for me, though, was the Poulez-Vous Poulet, lent a sweetly rich finish with duck fat-washed rum, which I savored with every sip.
Final Thoughts
Jewel of the South easily secures its status on the World’s 50 Best Bars and North America’s 50 Best Bars lists. The imaginative takes on classic cocktails and mouthwatering accompanying bites will bring a smile to your face and a song to your heart, before stepping back into the bustling French Quarter beyond its storied walls.
Fast Facts
Location: French Quarter, New Orleans, Louisiana
Cuisine: American-driven with a British twist
Pricing: $$
Takes Reservations: Yes, via OpenTable
The Vibe: Cozy and tavern-like with a slightly upscale feel
Our Favorite Thing on the Menu: Poulez-Vous Poulet, Tuxedo Tails, Redfish with Braised Leeks and Murder Points
The Attire: Smart Casual
Hours: Lunch: Friday – Saturday, 11:30 AM – 2:30 PM. Dinner: Wednesday – Monday, 5 PM – 11PM (kitchen until 10 PM).
New Orleans, Louisiana, United States
