When Beggars Banquet opened quietly in July 2023 at 1330 Prytania Street in New Orleans, New Jersey native Chef Mike Dilonno set out to bring contemporary New American fare, sophisticated cocktails and a funky, yet inviting vibe to the Lower Garden District. Named after the Rolling Stones’ famous album, Beggars Banquet has become a bustling eatery for cocktails, dinner and weekend brunch just a stone’s throw from downtown New Orleans.
Dilonno – along with wife Patty and daughter Kat – redesigned the 65-seat space to include a cool bar, two-tiered dining area and funky elements throughout. Dark woods are offset by lush greenery and a stained-glass window, while a martini-drinking alligator logo, banquettes upholstered in a vintage face collage, and bathrooms covered in Rolling Stones lyrics add quirk and whimsy to the mix. A spellbinding mural by local tattoo artist Vivian Hava completes the look.
The menu highlights many of the favorite dishes from Chef Mike’s illustrious 50-year career, which includes owning and operating six restaurants throughout New Jersey. Many dishes pay tribute to the American south, touched with Italian, French, and Asian nuances. Appetizers include Fried Green Tomatoes with burrata, balsamic reduction and arugula; Sriracha Cauliflower, Crispy Firecracker Calamari; and Mushroom Toast – an array of mushrooms, cipollini onion, caper pesto, crispy garlic, and shaved radish atop of toasted focaccia with cured egg yolk. Entrees include Pan Seared Scallops with crab hash, potatoes, bacon, onions and Old Bay aioli; Fresh Gnocchi with Shiitake, Cremini, Oyster and Portabella mushrooms in a truffle cream sauce; and Duck Leg Confit with butternut squash, onion, bacon, pecans and hot honey. Fresh-caught fish and top-notch meats also take center plate with dishes like Pan Seared Red Fish with charred corn maque choux, smoked bacon, blue crab and a lemon-tarragon beurre blanc; potato-crusted Fresh Gulf Fish with rotating preparation; Steak Frites, Boneless Short Ribs, and a Pork Schnitzel with shaved Brussels sprouts, pear, crispy bacon and toasted pecans served with cider mustard.
Weekend Brunch features sumptuous dishes including Pear Toast with sweet ricotta, roasted pears, hot honey and pecans; Crabby Benny – poached eggs, fresh Gulf crabmeat and remoulade atop an English muffin with hollandaise and potato hash; and Stuffed French Toast with cream cheese and fresh strawberries. Salads and sandwiches are also on offer including Kale Caesar Salad with crispy chickpeas, chili-artichoke tapenade, parmesan, boquerones and cured egg yolk and Crispy Chicken on grilled ciabatta with Key lime aioli, hot honey and Boston lettuce.
The cocktail program, under the direction of Head Bartender Josa Lazas is meant to complement the menu with creative concoctions that cater to any palate. Those who enjoy floral and herbaceous cocktails will love the Lady Lavender – gin, lavender, lemon and bubbles and the Chamomile Cowboy – pisco, amaro chamomile, honey, lime and egg whites. For citrus, spice and everything nice try the Spicy Boi with tequila, grapefruit, maraschino, and jalapeño. Other libations include Sailors Choice – house rum blend, dry curacao, and lime; Kitten Mittens – Dewars White Label, Amontillado sherry, spiced pear, cinnamon and ginger; Best of Both Worlds – bourbon, sweet vermouth, Campari, cacao and coffee; and the wildly-popular Espresso Martini – a rich, salty and sweet concoction featuring vodka, Borghetti and espresso, topped with sea salt.
An array of non-alcoholic cocktails are also available including Carrot Dreamsicle – carrot, Earl Grey, cardamon, orange and oat milk and Yacht Rock – Lyres non-alcoholic rum blend and pineapple cordial. Happy Hour, available Wednesday – Sunday from 3PM – 5PM, features $9 select signature cocktails, $7 house wine by-the-glass, and a selection of discounted appetizers and sandwiches.
Beggars Banquet is located at 1330 Prytania Street. The restaurant serves dinner Monday – Sunday and weekend brunch. Closed Tuesdays. Telephone: (504) 766-6711. www.beggarsbanquetneworleans.com