Condé Nast Magazine and was listed in USA Today ’ s Top Ten Bars .
Jewel ’ s signature cocktail is their version of the Brandy Crusta . The Crusta was created in the 19th century by Joseph Santini at the original Jewel of the South . It ’ s one of the original cocktails served in New Orleans . The Crusta was the first to employ citrus juice and is credited with inspiring many others , including the Margarita and Sidecar . After falling into obscurity , the cocktail was reintroduced and perfected here at Jewel of the South . The classic brandy version is a must-drink made with brandy , curaçao , fresh lemon juice and bitters . Other popular choices include the modern classics that helped Chris Hannah win a James Beard Award : include the Night Tripper , Bywater , and Winter Waltz . My favorite is the perfectly balanced cocktail called Tuxedo Tails , an elegant riff on a gin martini with Manzanilla sherry , maraschino liqueur , orange bitters , and a pickled quail egg garnish . All the cocktails are off the charts ! Sours and cobblers add to the list , one of the most esoteric and exciting in town .
They also offer spectacular eats ! Phil Whitmarsh ’ s New American food program perfectly complements the drink offerings . Among their gorgeously composed plates , there ’ s miso-roasted eggplant with tofu creme and salted plums and Italian roast pork with pickled chanterelles served on yesterday ’ s toasted bread . Jewel ’ s menu changes regularly depending on the freshest ingredients available . However , two regular favorites are the Bone Marrow with parsley , shallot , and capers , with focaccia and Burrata with salted cucumber , bitter lemon puree , and herbs . The restaurant launched Sunday brunch in November 2021 , serving dishes like eggs Florentine , baked beans on toast , and French toast with rum syrup and Chantilly cream . Wednesdays are “ Casual Caviar ” with specials on caviar , champagne , and vodka . Thursdays are Steak Nights , featuring rare cuts and unique preparations as well as a special martini menu . 1026 St Louis Street near Armstrong Park , reservations recommended . Wednesday – Thursday , 5 – 11 p . m .; Friday , 4 – 11 p . m .; Saturday – Sunday 10:30 a . m .– 2 p . m . and 4 – 11 p . m . jewelnola . com
Bacchanal
Once upon a time , on the edge of the Bywater , Bacchanal was just a little wine shop with a yard . Its first jazz was performed by interested locals ; its first food served by chefs who had lost their own kitchens in Hurricane Katrina . Today , Bacchanal has its own chef , daily jazz , and a full bar upstairs , but the original magic still remains .
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