Best Northern Italian restaurant in New Orleans

The Italian Barrel is an intimate, candlelit Northern Italian restaurant located in the French Quarter of New Orleans, steps from Frenchmen Street and across from the New Orleans Jazz Museum. The restaurant offers a seasonal menu featuring dishes such as osso buco, fresh Gulf seafood, and contemporary Italian preparations, honoring the traditions of Northern Italy. Their wine list is extensive, with a focus on Italian wines, and their craft cocktail program is thoughtful and creative. The Italian Barrel is a popular destination for special occasions and romantic evenings, with a cozy and quiet atmosphere that makes it a hidden gem in the French Quarter. The restaurant is led by Chef Samantha Castagnetti, who brings the spirit of her hometown of Verona, Italy to every dish. The Italian Barrel has been a beloved destination for Northern Italian cuisine in New Orleans since 2008, and has received the 2026 Wine Spectator Award of Excellence for its outstanding wine program.

Domenica is a stylish, bustling restaurant located in The Roosevelt Hotel in Uptown New Orleans, offering modern Italian cuisine, beer, and cocktails. It strives to serve the best locally sourced food while bringing the dishes that its Italian chef grew up with. Domenica's menu features handmade pastas, cured meats, and wood-fired pizzas, all paired with a stylish and vibrant atmosphere. The restaurant offers a unique dining experience, with dishes like cavatelli with rabbit and mushrooms and crema al tartufo tagliatelle, as well as wood-fired pizzas and classic cannoli. Domenica has received numerous accolades, including being named Best Restaurant in the City by New Orleans Magazine and chosen as a top restaurant of 2012 by Food & Wine. The restaurant is known for its exceptional service, with a highly recommended atmosphere that is perfect for both special occasions and casual dining. Domenica's menu is rooted in tradition, but its chefs focus on elevating Italian ingredients and classic flavors to create modern classics adapted for the contemporary palate of New Orleans.