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Irene's Cuisine

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Irene's Cuisine Review

The walls here are festooned with enough snapshots, garlic braids, and crockery for at least two more restaurants, but it all just adds to the charm of this cozy Italian-Creole eatery. From Irene DiPietro's kitchen come succulent roasted chicken brushed with olive oil, rosemary, and garlic; delicious, velvety soups; and fresh shrimp, aggressively seasoned and grilled before they join linguine glistening with herbed olive oil. Waits here can stretch to the 60-minute mark during peak dinner hours, which is just enough time for a bottle of wine in the convivial little piano bar. The service is easily the friendliest in the French Quarter.

    Contact Information

  • Address: 539 St. Philip St., French Quarter, New Orleans, LA, 70116 | Map It
  • Phone: 504/529-8811
  • Location: French Quarter

    Restaurant Details

  • Credit cards accepted.
  • Closed Sun. No lunch.
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    Irene's Cuisine Review

    Irene's was my husband's and my absolute favorite restaurant when we lived in New Orleans--and with the restaurants in that city, that's saying something. They don't take reservations, but waiting at a romantic table in the piano bar with a martini or glass of red wine is a great part of the experience. I still dream of the Oysters Irene and the Duck St. Philip! The staff is warm and helpful, and you feel like part of the family immediately. More than likely Irene herself will be at the door to greet you as you walk in. We are going for a visit to New Orleans this weekend, and we already know where we'll be eating on Saturday night!

    by batti002, 10/13/11
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    Irene's Cuisine Review

    What a disapointment! After waiting 2.5 hours, we were 1.5 hours when we checked in, we were wedged into a miniscule table. The poor waiters were literally tripping over my feet. We ordered the spaghetti and meatballs and I it was if I was eating my 12 year olds home ec beginning meal. The pasta was not homemade, probably creamettes from a box, and was overcooked. The red sauce was uninspiring (think Ragu here) and the meatballs were mealy. The cesar sald was inedible as the sardine taste and smell was overpowering. Do not waste your time. A dinner at a chain restaurant such as Olive Garden would have been a much better experience.

    by owenthemouse, 8/11/10
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    Wish Every Night Was Irenes Night

    I evacuated from hurricane Katrina and moved to California. I still dream of irene's Cuisine and wish i had similiar options on the west coast. TRULY. Nothing compares. I miss my Duck Saint Phillip and my Pompano Almandine!!!!

    by ASpoonfulofsugar, 10/18/07

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