The French Quarter in New Orleans is full of hidden gems, and some of the best dining experiences are found in the courtyards tucked behind street-facing buildings.
These courtyards are accessible through narrow corridors or carriage passages and are filled with fountains, brick walls, and tropical plants like banana trees. Here’s a guide to five restaurants that have made a name for themselves with their beautiful courtyard settings and delicious food.
Broussard’s, 819 Conti Street
Broussard’s has been serving classic Creole cuisine since 1920 in a building dating back to 1834. The courtyard features a three-tiered fountain, brick walkways, and gas lanterns. Tables sit beneath magnolia trees and banana plants, giving it the feel of dining in a private estate garden.
- Entrées: $32-48
- Hours: Dinner nightly from 5:30 pm to 9:00 pm
- Reservations: Required for courtyard seating
- Phone: (504) 581-3866
Bayona, 430 Dauphine Street
Opened in 1990 by Chef Susan Spicer, Bayona is housed in a 200-year-old Creole cottage. The intimate courtyard has 15 tables under a live oak tree, with brick walls covered in ferns and climbing vines. The menu blends Mediterranean and local ingredients like grilled duck breast and seared scallops.
- Entrées: $28-38
- Hours: Lunch Monday-Saturday 11:30 am – 1:30 pm, Dinner Monday-Saturday 5:30 pm – 9:00 pm
- Reservations: Recommended, book two weeks ahead for dinner
- Phone: (504) 525-4455
Café Amelie, 912 Royal Street
Located in the Princess of Monaco Courtyard, Café Amelie offers a more casual and lighter take on Creole cuisine. The courtyard features a fountain, gas lanterns, and tropical plants, with tables on flagstones beneath banana leaves. The menu includes dishes like duck confit salad and shrimp and grits.
- Entrées: $24-32
- Hours: Lunch daily 11:00 am – 3:00 pm, Dinner Thursday-Saturday 5:30 pm – 9:00 pm, Sunday Brunch 11:00 am – 3:00 pm
- Reservations: Recommended
- Phone: (504) 412-8965
Jewel of the South, 1026 St. Louis Street
Opened in 2021, Jewel of the South is known for its modern-elegant courtyard featuring a central fountain and European-style café chairs. The restaurant focuses on updated Creole cuisine, including charbroiled oysters and roasted chicken with dirty rice. The cocktail program is also a highlight, offering classic New Orleans drinks made with house-made ingredients.
- Entrées: $28-42
- Hours: Dinner Tuesday-Saturday 5:00 pm – 10:00 pm, Brunch Saturday-Sunday 10:00 am – 2:00 pm
- Reservations: Recommended
- Phone: (504) 309-7653
Sylvain, 625 Chartres Street
Sylvain operates in an 1830s carriage house with a patio where horses and carriages were once kept. The courtyard is smaller, with exposed brick, gas lanterns, and bistro tables. The menu offers a gastropub-style selection, including duck and andouille gumbo and fried chicken with pickles.
- Entrées: $18-32
- Hours: Lunch and Dinner daily 11:00 am – 10:00 pm
- Reservations: Not required for parties under six, walk-ins accepted
- Phone: (504) 265-8123
