Ralph’s on the Park

Address | 900 City Park Ave, New Orleans, LA 70119

Ralph's on the Park is a beloved New Orleans restaurant located in the picturesque Mid-City area, overlooking the historic City Park. Known for its sophisticated yet welcoming ambiance, this Ralph Brennan establishment expertly blends Southern charm with contemporary elegance. The menu features inventive Creole-inspired dishes crafted with fresh, local ingredients. Ralph's also offers a curated wine list and signature cocktails, perfect for pairing with its delectable cuisine. The restaurant’s large windows provide stunning views of the park's centuries-old oak trees, adding a serene touch to the dining experience.

It just so happens that my friend and former Spago Beverly Hills colleague is Executive Chef Christopher Vazquez who leads the culinary team at Ralph's on the Park. We had the distinct delight of New Year’s Eve dinner at Ralp’s on the Park and here’s a rundown of our excellent meal…

We started the evening in celebratory style, popping a bottle of Taittinger Champagne—its crisp effervescence perfectly setting the tone for the feast to come. For appetizers, we indulged in fried oysters crowned with caviar and a bright preserved lemon, a decadent combination that was both briny and refreshing. Next came the Shrimp Skully: tempura-fried Gulf shrimp elevated with a sweet and tangy Skully's Crystal and pepper jelly reduction, complemented by smoked almonds and a creamy soy-ginger sauce—a standout dish that balanced texture and flavor beautifully.

The City Park Salad followed, a refreshing mix of baby red oak and romaine lettuces, Granny Smith apples, and Stilton blue cheese, offering a crisp and tangy interlude.

For mains, we savored expertly grilled pompano served with tricolor cauliflower and a decadent lobster risotto, made even more luxurious by fresh shaved black truffle. The lobster risotto was a true showstopper of the evening—a dish that perfectly embodied indulgence. Creamy and rich, the risotto was expertly cooked to achieve that ideal al dente texture, where each grain of rice retained a subtle bite. The sweetness of the tender lobster was beautifully highlighted by the dish’s luxurious, buttery base, with every bite offering a harmonious balance of oceanic flavors. The addition of freshly shaved black truffle elevated the dish further, infusing it with earthy, aromatic depth that paired wonderfully with the natural richness of the lobster. This decadently plated dish was both comforting and refined, showcasing the chef’s attention to detail and mastery of flavor. It was the kind of risotto that lingers in your memory long after the last bite, embodying the elegance and sophistication of the meal.

We finished with strawberry shortcake. The strawberry shortcake was a delightful finale, with the buttery, almost biscuit-like drop cakes providing a perfect contrast to the sweet, juicy strawberries and the billowy clouds of lightly sweetened cream—a nostalgic yet elevated take on a classic dessert.

With stunning views of City Park, a menu inspired by Louisiana flavors, and an unforgettable dining experience, this gem is perfect for foodies and travelers alike. Explore more in our guide to New Orleans.