Irene's Cuisine Restaurant Review
539 St. Philip St. (Chartres St.) 
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New Orleans, LA 70116
504-529-8811
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Irene's Cuisine Restaurant is one of our 2012
Hot 10 New Orleans Restaurants|
Cuisine
Open
Dinner Mon.-Sat.Features
- Romantic setting
- Kid-friendly
- Full bar
- Reservations suggested (limited)
- Casual
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| Recalling a classic New York bistro---think Elaine’s if you’re a New Yorker---Irene’s relies for atmosphere at least partly on old and new photos of regular customers and famous diners lining the walls. The dining rooms are intimate (even a bit snug) and the waiters are old favorites in the French Quarter. A décor enriched with garlic braids, crockery and gewgaws proclaims Sicilian influences just as loudly as the menu does, although a Creole accent also comes through to ground many of the dishes in their New Orleans roots. This cooking relies on the southern Italian sauces, rather than the truffles-and-cream cuisine of northern Italy. For instance, a marinara has a toss of garlic and oil that's glorious in its simplicity. In a more complex vein are a stuffed veal chop and grilled red snapper with shrimp and peppers. If you are a rosemary chicken aficionado, you’ll find one of the best preparations here. An Italian-style baked Alaska aflame with grappa is the perfect conclusion. The small wine list features Italian selections that pair well with this lusty food. Service is efficient, considering the wacky space configuration and the constant bustle. Limited reservations can mean long waits for tables. |
RESTAURANT AWARDS
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