Nola

Restaurant Review

Anecdotes & Analysis

Emeril Lagasse hung around NOLA a lot in the early days of the restaurant, when NOLA was his first expansion restaurant property and he was only beginning to be known nationwide. It was a fun place to be, back then, because Emeril and his kitchen staff would create some wild dishes. Jambalaya on a pizza. Shrimp remoulade served warm over pasta. Fish roasted on planks of wood that would start smoldering, thereby giving a fascinating flavor. NOLA evolved into a different animal, particularly since Katrina. Its customer base has become heavy with visitors, although it has no small number of French Quarter residents at its tables. You can spot the latter easily: they never ask for Emeril.

Why It's Essential

NOLA is Emeril Lagasse's most casual restaurant, at least in New Orleans. In recent years it's evolved into Emeril's Greatest Hits Cafe. There's nothing wrong with that, and it likely appeals tremendously to the many visitors that wander into the superb location. NOLA has created more than a few of its own specialties, too.

Backstory

"NOLA" is familiar to all New Orleanians as shorthand for "New Orleans, Louisiana." It was Emeril's second restaurant, opened a couple of years after his flagship a mile away. It took over a space built out as a very hip Italian restaurant called Spunto, and took full advantage of the edgy decor while adding more of it. It has historically been the place where his organization brings up new chefs, managers, and dishes.

Dining Room

The restaurant occupies three floors, the bottom one sporting an open kitchen and its popular food bar. There you sit right in front of the wood-burning oven and grill, and watch the food as it's cooked. The tables on the first and second floors can look at each other over the atrium-like fore part of the restaurant. The third floor is a private dining space with a very cool bar.

For Best Results

Emeril's people very much appreciate locals, so be sure to let them know you are if you are. Leave room for dessert, a very strong course here.