Zoë Restaurant & Bar

After a morning of beignets and strolling around the French Quarter, we were ready for a little lunch and a glass of wine. Always appreciative of the clean lines and hip vibe of W Hotels, we headed to one of the two W's operating in New Orleans. The W New Orleans (the other property is called the W French Quarter) re-opened in June to the public. We're told that in the months following Katrina the property was home to many hotel staff and insurance representatives in the area to assess damage.

A few guests mingled in the vast lobby and Christmas garland looped the stairwells and framed doorways, suggesting that after a difficult 16 months, the W New Orleans has much to celebrate.

Zoë Restaurant & Bar is located on the second floor of the swanky hotel, and during busier times is probably fairly happening. We also think that the W New Orleans may be more of a business traveler's property (and thus busier during the week), whereas the French Quarter location may appeal to more of the pleasure and weekend travelers. On this particular Saturday, we were unfortunately the only people dining at Zoë. A stark contrast to the night before at Restaurant August, located a mere block away.



The Dining Room has pretty green chairs and kalamata colored walls that warm up the sleek chocolate accents.


It was a Caprese Salad with house made mozzarella

J thought the mozzarella was soft and creamy but unfortunately the tomatoes were out of season. Note to self: ordering anything with tomatoes post autumn can be risky.


Beef Carpaccio with Mixed Greens and Shaved Parmessan

If you've read some of our other blogs then you know I've never met a carpaccio I didn't like. The meat was a little overwhelmed by the greens, but I still managed to clean my plate.


Crab Cakes with Caviar and Wasabi Aioli

These little packages of flaky crab were delightful. J liked the nice little "pop" provided by the caviar.


Butternut Squash Puree with White Truffle Foam

Like a dish of sweet candy, only better. This puree was fresh and tasty, though the "foam" wasn't so foamy; more of a cream. Still, the earthiness of the truffle really completmented the nutty flavor of the squash.


Kobe Beef Burger with Blue Cheese

It was supposed to be medium. Disappointing because it was so dried out. At least the blue cheese provided a nice dipping sauce for J's fries.

The service was friendly and attentive, and the decor was right up our alley. The food just needs a little work.

Zoë Restaurant & Bar
at the W New Orleans
333 Poydras Street
New Orleans, LA 70130
504.525.9444

Technorati Tags: Travel - Dining - New Orleans - Gourmand Syndrome