Pelican Club

Restaurant Overview

In 1990, Chef Richard Hughes and his architect wife, Jeanne turned a 19^th century townhouse into The Pelican Club, one of Conde Nast Travelers’ Top 250 Restaurants in America.  The handsome renovation combines the old and new to create a warm, welcoming setting for Hughes’ cuisine. The menu is based in New Orleans tradition with French, Asian, and new American influences.  Zagat describes The Pelican Club as “always a winner”… with “consistently excellent” Creole cuisine and an “upbeat”, “genuinely friendly” staff.

Enter through the large but cozy Bar with rustic stone walls, wood-mullioned windows overlooking historic Exchange Place and a 30-foot long mahogany bar with a pelican, hand-carved by the owner’s father, perched on the end.  Enjoy a classic cocktail like the Pimm’s Cup, a locally brewed beer or a glass of wine (from over 20 selections offered by the glass).  The full wine list boasts over 200 Old and New World wines and has received Wine Spectator’s Award of Excellence for the past 18 years.

Beyond the Bar are the cypress-paneled Club Room, the bustling Main Dining Room, and the Bienville Room, each featuring original contemporary paintings by renowned Louisiana artists.  Chef Hughes’ menu emphasizes fresh fish and seafood with many choices such as Barbequed Shrimp, Baked Oysters, Crispy Whole Flounder and Steamed Maine Lobster.  Other tempting selections include Filet Mignon, Rack of Lamb, Prime Ribeye, and Duck.  Try to save room for the Warm White Chocolate Bread Pudding or the Bourbon Pecan Pie.

Make a reservation at The Pelican Club for your first night in the city.  Your evening here will be the one you will talk about years from now when you remember your trip to New Orleans.

Validated valet parking is available at the Hotel Monteleone garage on Bienville Street, just across from the restaurant ($5 for 2 ½ hours).