Ernst Cafe in New Orleans: Fascinating History and Dining Since 1902

When most people think of New Orleans they think of the French Quarter. Yes, the French Quarter has a great deal to offer, but there are other points of interest throughout the city of New Orleans for dining and entertainment. If you enjoy a little history with your Hurricane, then head over to the Warehouse District and visit Ernst Café, a locally owned and operated restaurant, café and special events location that has been in operation since 1902.

Ernst Café Atmosphere and History

Established in the early 1900s some things have changed and some things remain the same. Ernst has been able to survive several hurricanes, (and I don't mean the drinks) and still preserve the bar and restaurant look from days gone by. Much of the décor is either original or based on the original with casual seating, a long wood bar and bar mirror. But it's not too "old fashioned" you can still catch a game on one of the wall mounted televisions. Inside is small, comfortable, and cozy; a place to eat lunch or dinner, enjoy after work drinks and definitely should be on the list of a tourist place to visit.

The outdoor patio allows you to watch the world go by, and on New Orleans's streets this means you will never be bored.

Upstairs there is a 2000 square foot balcony that overlooks the Lafayette Pedestrian Mall, and you can imagine the fun that can be had on a balcony like that during Mardi Gras.

However, one little known fact about Ernst Café that has remained the same, though no longer in use is the "trough." Long ago, women weren't allowed in bars, so men would just relieve themselves where they sat at the bar and the trough would allow it to "trickle" down into a pipe system and then into the waste. Sure, the curve and pipes are still, there but luckily so was indoor plumbing and women are definitely allowed to enjoy themselves at this bar now.

Another peculiarity in the décor is the design of a swastika like symbol in the floor, however, since it was established in 1902 and is not turned in the same direction as that used during the Nazi regime.

Ernst Café Menu, Food and Drinks

No powdered drinks here, I was able to sit at the bar and chat with my bartender while he made a freshly prepared Hurricane using juice and quality liquors. I especially liked that during my visit there was a "special" on these drinks, and that they are already served in Ernst Café "to go" cups.

This "café" offers exactly what you would expect on the menu from salads and burgers to po'boys and seafood platters. But you cannot possibly expect the size of the portions or the quality of the food. The Spicy Chicken Sandwich is of course, Cajun seasoned and the Shrimp Po'Boy is another can't miss menu item.

Though Ernst offers your standard beers, there is also a pretty good selection of craft beers as well as a very talented bartending staff.

Location, location, location

Ernst isn't in the French Quarter, but it is within easy walking distance of the New Orleans Convention Center and Harrah's Casino. It was a little too convenient for me, as the last time I was in the city I was staying at The Plaza Suite Hotel Resort, which is practically next door. I admit to making more than one trip to Ernst Café during my travels to New Orleans.

Even when fully packed, the wait staff was attentive and prompt. It's no wonder that guests were spilling out from the patio and inside onto the sidewalk on Friday and Saturday night. This is also one of the few places where you can get late night food as you roam around New Orleans. The food was pretty good and reasonably priced with your average meal price between $9.00 and $13.00. Look for live music and other special events on their calendar. They also offer special event planning and catering. Don't let you next visit to New Orleans pass by without a stop at Ernst Café, so you can have a unique side of history with your Gumbo.

Sources:

Personal Experience

Interview at Ernst Café

Urban Spoon