The Best Michelin Restaurant in the American South | Emeril’s 🌟

This is hands-down the strongest Michelin-starred restaurant in the American South! I was blown away when I visited New Orleans earlier this year — the experience felt like it could easily compete with two- or three-star spots in New York. Later, when we heard Michelin was finally rating the American South, we predicted Emeril’s would start with at least two stars (as mentioned in our previous “Michelin Latecomers Comparison”). And sure enough — in its debut year, it landed two Michelin stars, well-deserved! (Honestly, it wouldn’t have been outrageous if they gave it three.) Since this was Michelin’s first year rating the American South and there were no three-star restaurants — only Emeril’s received two stars — calling it “the best in the South” is no exaggeration. 🏆 They also ranked #30 on North America’s 50 Best Restaurants this year — congratulations! Our dining experience was outstanding from start to finish. The service was impeccable (we had to reschedule three times due to flight delays, and they handled everything smoothly, including refunds). The dishes are infused with Creole elements, beautifully reflecting local flavors. The ambiance is elegant, and every detail feels thoughtfully crafted — from the kitchen tour to take-home treats and a beautifully printed menu as a keepsake. 💫 Here’s what we enjoyed: 🧆 Fried Bites A playful and tasty amuse-bouche served during the kitchen tour. 🍤 Small Starters A few delightful bites to open the meal — each one flavorful and refined. 🌿 New Orleans-Inspired Canapés Mini po’boys, gumbo, and crawfish tart — a delicious and creative nod to NOLA. 🍞 Cornbread Warm, soft, slightly sweet — perfect with butter. 🍰 Salmon “Cheesecake” with Caviar A signature dish! Savory, airy, and perfectly balanced. A similar style can be found at Birdsong in San Francisco. 🦪 Foie Gras & Oyster Soup Rich, savory, and utterly delicious. 🐟 Trout Super crispy skin, paired with aromatic mushrooms — seasoned just right. 🦞 Crawfish With tomato, luffa, and caviar — a lovely balance of salty and tangy, great texture. 🥔 Potatoes Covered in black truffle — incredibly fragrant! 🌭 Boudin Tasty sausage served with Creole mustard — solid and flavorful. 🍖 Sweetbreads Extremely tender, topped with black truffle — exquisite texture. 🥩 Beef Cooked perfectly, well-seasoned, each cut served with vegetables for balance. 🐦 Quail Savory with a hint of sweetness, served with chicory, beetroot, and blackberry — refreshing and not heavy. 🍧 Sorbet Mango and strawberry flavors — fruity and not overly sweet. 🍌 Banana Cream Pie Another signature! Looks like a rich Southern dessert but isn’t too sweet — packed with banana flavor. 🍩 Beignets Ended the meal with this New Orleans classic — executed flawlessly. Overall, Emeril’s delivers at a three-star level while staying true to the soul of New Orleans. Highly recommended for anyone visiting the city! ❤️ #Michelin #MyFavoriteRestaurant #FineDining #Foodie #MichelinTwoStar #NewOrleans