One of Ralph's great views
The Brennan Family is synonymous with fine New Orleans dining. Out of the various members of this amazing family comes Commander’s Palace, Cafe Adelaide, Brennan’s, Dickie Brennan’s Steakhouse and Palace Cafe to name just a few of their many distinguished restaurants. Ralph Brennan gives us Bacco, Red Fish Grill and our favorite, Ralph’s on the Park. Ralph’s, like the name says, is right across from City Park with absolutely fantastic views of majestic oaks out of every window.
Out of the French Quarter and the Garden District, Ralph’s remains an oft-forgotten spot. This isn’t to say that Ralph’s is empty, as many of the restaurant’s neighbors find an excuse to drop in for a drink or bite to eat. Ralph’s design really permits people to do either. With a main dining room, a fantastic bar and copious upstairs seating, Ralph’s can serve just about anyone. For me, I find the main dining room to be good for more formal dinners, the bar is a bit more relaxed and your private party can find its home upstairs. And all with great views!
Stocked and ready!
Whether you choose to sit in the bar or not, I highly recommend you indulge in a pre-dinner cocktail. Ralph’s bar is very well stocked and the bartenders have dialed up a wide range of specialty drinks that are sure to please. Want something a little simpler? They can easily handle that. In the mood for wine? I hope you like reading, as Ralph’s boasts quite an extensive (and incredibly affordable) wine list.
Under the direction of New Orleans native Chef Chip Flanagan, Ralph’s menu is dynamic, fluid and delicious. Always looking to stay on top of what is seasonal and what tastes great, the menu changes every few months. In what could be seen as a true culinary reality show, typically the only items that survive a menu change are the absolute favorites. To top it off, many contestants for the next show have various auditions as specials, with only a select few making the next step. The result is nothing short of yummy.
Ralph’s devotion to a great dining experience doesn’t stop with the drinks and food. A friendly, knowledgeable and honest staff is ready to assist you through your dining experience. Not quite sure what to order, ask your waiter. Their extensive knowledge and frank assessment of the menu can be of invaluable assistance if you just aren’t quite sure what to get.
Considering all this, it really isn’t hard to see why people keep coming back. Great drinks, great food and great service are pretty much a winning combo. Top it off with some great views and being a “locals place,” and you can’t lose. Still not sold? Well, Ralph’s has already upped the ante with an array of specials to make fine dining in the oaks too good to resist.
Ralph’s on the Park
900 City Park Avenue
Dinner Monday to Sunday 5:30-9:00
Friday Lunch 11:30-2:00
Sunday Brunch 11:00-2:00
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