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The recipient of two James Beard Foundation awards, Peche Seafood Grill is one of New Orleans’ best restaurants to experience culinary magic at its finest. Perched on a lively corner in New Orleans’ Warehouse District, the eatery is a part of Chef Donald Link’s family of delicious dining establishments. But, Peche is different and unique in its own right. It focuses on coastal seafood cooked in an open kitchen over hardwood coals. The result? Scrumptious dishes that highlight the best of the region’s treasures, many of which hail from the Gulf of Mexico.
I dined at the restaurant recently and was instantly at home when I walked-in and laid eyes on their magnificent oyster bar. The area was brimming with oysters, crab, gulf fish and other delights which are sourced fresh, daily. The dining room is lively and casual, yet has an air of a “hot spot”, a place where people come to be seen. Unlike many “hot spots” though, Peche offers serious food for those who consider themselves foodies.
The menu is small, but is well-curated with dishes for everyone. Even if seafood is not your cup of tea, items like skirt steak, chicken diablo and lamb skewers will put you at ease. I decided on an all-seafood meal, delving into oysters, gulf shrimp, grilled tuna and smothered catfish. Sides like grilled okra and fried brussels sprouts with chili vinegar rounded everything off perfectly. For dessert, I indulged in sticky apple toffee cake (with sour cream ice cream) and salted caramel cake – truly some of the best desserts in New Orleans. Peche sources their ingredients from farms across the United States, which is a admirable commitment. You can find the list of the farms they work with on their website.
Service at Peche is on point, attentive, but not disruptive. The staff seem to anticipate your needs, showing-up just when you’re ready for another one of their signature cocktails. If you’re in New Orleans and looking for a dinner spot that will leave an impression, choose Peche. You won’t regret it.
