“Commander’s Palace” in New Orleans Fine Dining Spectacular Experience (5/05)
In one of the most elaborate dining experiences ever, The Commander’s Palace did it right! From incredible service and knowledge by our waiter and staff; sparkling atmosphere; to the exquisite delicious food and preparation, this place is not too be missed on your next visit to New Orleans. This restaurant is not only a Legend starting back in 1880, but remains the most popular restaurant voted by the Zagat Survey the last 15 years. There have been many great chefs coming from the Palace including Paul Prudhomme, Emeril Lagasse and Jamie Shannon to name a few. The Executive Chef these days is Tory Mcphail, who has worked for the restaurant’s group since being hired in 1993 by Chef Shannon at that time. He worked his way through the kitchen for 2 years before being named Sous Chef for the Palace Cafe, which at that time was a part of the Commander’s Palace group. Tory brings and astounding array of Creole creations and dishes to the Palace which has accomplished numerous awards including the James Beard Foundation Lifetime Outstanding Restaurant Award.
Here is a bit about the menu to wet your pallet. Caviar specialties are a big part of the restaurant. Choices and can change but at the time we visited, “Paddlefish, Choupique, and Hackleback” were offered. There is also a Specialty of the House called “The Chef’s Playground” which offers many unique small dishes as an 8 course dinner. You can pair that up with wine tasting if you wish for an additional price. The main menu has some delightful offerings.
The 2 most popular soups are the Commander’s classic “Turtle Soup” spiked with Sherry and the ever famous Gumbo of the day. Other starters worth trying are the Tasso Shrimp Henican (pictured below) quickly seared served with 5 pepper jelly to make this dish a bit spicy; The Louisiana Oysters with Cajun Bowfin Roe; and the Pan Roasted Foie Gras, cooked unlike anywhere else. Entree selections range from Fresh Pecan Crusted Gulf Fish; Redfish Courtbouillon with Jumbo Shrimp in a saffron vinaigrette and special sauce; Ginger Glazed Blue fin Tuna; Crispy Soft Shell Crab with crawfish potato salad; Grilled Veal Chop from Wisconsin; Black Angus Filet Mignon grilled with Creole spices, truffle mashed potatoes, caramelized onions, & smoked mushrooms; and finally the Creole Mustard Colorado Rack of Lamb with spring veggies and jus roti sauce.
The evening couldn’t be complete without one of 3 highly suggested desserts such as Bread Pudding Soufflé’ that has people coming for from all over the world, The Chocolate Molten and Praline Parfait.
The Commander’s Palace is a MUST on your next visit to New Orleans. For reservations, please call 504-899-8221. Open for lunch-weekdays, dinner daily and jazz brunches on the weekend, make your way over to the Garden District at 1403 Washington Ave to see why this great establishment has one so many awards for dining excellence. More info at www.commanderspalace.com