The Cellar Restaurant

Caught the word about this little gem in Unilocal.Traveling thru and always looking for quality and value. Found it. Had the Tasters Menu and it was more than I could eat at $ 20. The Roasted Apple salad melted in my mouth and the Sweet Potatoe gnocchi with Brussels sprouts was even better– and I HATE Brussels sprouts. The Spicy Creole shrimp and the Pork Grillades loin were fresh and tender and filled with wonderful flavor like I have not had in many a day. For dessert I had the Cannoli of the day and it was so big I couldn’t finish it. Hats off to the staff for an understated and over-​delivered taste treat. My server was Steve and he did a great job explaining the offerings and laying it all out. Who’d a thunk you could go to the local grocery store hungry, eat a great meal inside, and not go home with lotsa junk in your shopping bag?

The restaurant wasn’t serving food the night I was there for a special event but the ambiance here is spectacular — a giant wine cellar in the bottom of a gorgeous NOLA mansion that houses the Culinary Institute of New Orleans. A lovely courtyard complete with fire pit, and there were a bunch of outdoor heaters to warm up near during the chilly night. Would love to find out about taking classes here, but sadly came home to discover the noci website is pretty weak on useful information.

A great atmosphere. Having recently opened, they are working out some kinks, but the food was amazing. I had goat with the best risotto I have ever had. My companion had shrimp and grits which he thoroughly enjoyed. Soup and salad were served family style and were wonderful as well. Really hit the spot on a chilly night. Wine was reasonably priced, and they have a retail license so they can just sell bottles as well. The place is looking to expand to neighboring lots, but the house that it is currently in is a beautifully restored historic property. The restaurant is the preview to the culinary school (New Orleans Culinary Institute) that will be opening in 2011. Chefs are not students, but trained professionals contrary to what it sounds like. Service was great — friendly and enthusiastic. Meal is a package and includes 4 dishes (choice of 3 entrees), with alternating menus each week. Highly recommend this up and coming place. Only reason for 4 stars is its not a place I can afford to go every week, though I would love to. They also host wine tastings on Wednesdays with specialty classes each month.