If dining at just two seafood restaurants, which?

Question

We have time to have dinner at two seafood restaurants and have seen recomendations for GW Fins, Peche, and Drago's. Which two would you choose? Or, are there others you feel are even better than these three?

Answer

New Orleans is known for its incredible seafood, and you’re in for a treat no matter which two restaurants you choose! The three you mentioned—GW Fins, Peche, and Drago's—are all highly regarded, but there are a couple of other options that might offer unique experiences depending on what you're looking for. Here’s a breakdown of these and a couple of other standout options:

GW Fins – This upscale seafood restaurant in the French Quarter is consistently regarded as one of the best in the city. GW Fins is known for its impeccably fresh seafood, inventive dishes, and elegant atmosphere. The menu changes regularly based on what’s fresh, so you can expect an ever-evolving dining experience. The Lobster Dumplings and the Pan-Seared Scallops are fan favorites. If you want a refined seafood experience with top-notch service, GW Fins is an excellent choice.
Peche – Located in the Warehouse District, Peche focuses on fresh, wood-fired seafood, which gives it a distinctive flavor that sets it apart from other restaurants. The atmosphere is casual but stylish, making it a great option for those who want great seafood in a lively yet laid-back environment. Signature dishes like the Grilled Whole Fish and the Charbroiled Oysters have earned Peche rave reviews. If you’re looking for a more casual but high-quality seafood experience, Peche is a solid pick.
Drago's – Famous for its charbroiled oysters, Drago's is a New Orleans institution. The restaurant has a more casual, family-friendly vibe, but don’t let that fool you—the seafood is fantastic. If you’re a fan of oysters, this is the place to go. Their charbroiled oysters are considered some of the best in the city. If you’re looking for a fun, no-frills experience with great local seafood, Drago’s is a winner.

However, if you’re open to other options, here are a couple of other seafood restaurants that you might want to consider:

Commander’s Palace – Though not strictly a seafood restaurant, Commander’s Palace offers some of the finest Creole seafood dishes in the city. The shrimp and grits, soft-shell crab, and turtle soup are iconic dishes that showcase New Orleans' culinary heritage. It's a great option if you're looking for a more refined dining experience with a mix of seafood and Creole classics.
Casamento’s – A local favorite for its classic, no-frills approach to New Orleans seafood, Casamento’s specializes in fresh oysters, fried seafood, and po'boys. The restaurant has been serving up seafood since 1919, and its vintage tiled walls and cozy atmosphere give it an old-school charm. If you want a true taste of New Orleans' traditional seafood, this is a must-try.

If you only have time for two dinners, I would recommend going with GW Fins for a more refined, modern seafood experience, and Peche for a more laid-back, wood-fired seafood meal. Both offer distinct dining experiences that showcase the diversity of New Orleans seafood, from the elegant and creative to the casual and flavorful.

No matter which you choose, you're sure to enjoy some of the freshest and most delicious seafood in the country!