The Second Line

The Second Line Restaurant Review:

Best known for his high-end French-Creole Restaurant Iris, chef Kelly English offers more casual Cajun fare in a laidback setting at The Second Line, which is located next door. A long wooden bar and finished wooden floors give the space a rustic charm with a touch of hipster class. The small but inventive menu includes traditional and Memphis-style po’ boys. There are fried Gulf oyster and fried Gulf shrimp po’ boys, as well as po’ boys stuffed with hot ham and cheese or vegetarian mushroom debris. Diners can skip the bread and order a plate of fried oysters or shrimp or Mississippi catfish. Sides, called “groceries” on the menu, range from crispy fried onions and cheese grits to skillet cornbread and stewed beet greens. The Second Line has access to the full Restaurant Iris wine list, which is well-priced and presents a wide range of selections. Many good half bottles and numerous choices by the glass encourage exploration. The Second Line also serves the same bread pudding as its sibling, and it’s delectable.