Cafe reconcile

Question

Made a reservation to have lunch and now after hearing some opinions that it has gone downhill, rethinking that decision. Since we've never eaten there before; I'm asking if I should keep the reservation

Answer

Café Reconcile has been a beloved spot in New Orleans for many years, known for its mission to provide job training and life skills to individuals in the community, while offering a taste of classic New Orleans cuisine. However, like many restaurants, it can experience ups and downs in terms of food quality and service, and there have been some reports recently that suggest it may not be as consistent as it once was.

That said, it is still worth considering whether you should keep your reservation. Here's a breakdown of what to think about:

Supporting the mission: One of the main reasons people still choose to visit Café Reconcile is its focus on community outreach. By dining there, you are directly contributing to a program that helps at-risk youth gain job experience in the restaurant industry. If you’re looking to support a good cause, this is a great option.
Food quality: While there have been some mixed reviews lately, many visitors still appreciate the homey, comforting flavors of the food. The menu features classic Creole and Cajun dishes, such as gumbo, po'boys, and fried catfish. However, you may want to manage your expectations, as some reports suggest a decline in the quality or consistency of the dishes.
Atmosphere: The ambiance is generally casual, with a laid-back, neighborhood vibe. It’s not a fine-dining experience, but rather a place to enjoy good comfort food in a relaxed setting. If you’re looking for something more upscale or trendy, this may not be the right fit.
Customer service: Some recent reviews have mentioned slow or inattentive service, which can sometimes be a result of staffing challenges. However, others have had positive experiences with friendly, attentive servers.

Given that you’ve already made the reservation, it might be worth keeping it for the experience, especially if you’re interested in supporting local community initiatives. If you do decide to go, I’d recommend not expecting a perfect dining experience but rather a fulfilling and rewarding one, both in terms of the food and the cause.

That being said, if you are still unsure, you might want to explore other options for similar cuisine or ambiance, such as:

Willie Mae’s Scotch House: Famous for its fried chicken, this spot offers delicious Southern comfort food and has a long history of quality.
Mandina’s: A classic New Orleans eatery offering excellent Italian and Creole dishes in a relaxed setting.
Jacques-Imo’s: Known for its hearty Creole dishes, Jacques-Imo’s provides a fun, lively atmosphere with great food.

Ultimately, it depends on your personal priorities. If you want to support a meaningful cause and are willing to risk a slightly unpredictable dining experience, Café Reconcile could still be a good choice. If you’re looking for a consistently high-end meal, you might want to consider one of the other options listed above.