Savoring Southern Elegance: Jewel of the South, New Orleans
Jewel of the South
Address | 1026 St Louis St, New Orleans, LA 70112
On a recent evening in New Orleans, we met up with a group of friends for dinner at renowned New Orleans restaurant, Jewel of the South. Housed in a rustic Creole cottage, Jewel of the South offers both courtyard and indoor dining. The temperate December weather enticed us to reserve a table in the picturesque courtyard and to dine under the moon. As we were led to our table, the moonlit scene unfolded before our eyes—a canopy of orange trees providing a fragrant natural overhand under the New Orleans night sky creating the perfect romantic ambiance.
With six seasoned foodies at the table we tried an array of dishes on menu. We enjoyed classics like the Crisp Tripe and Foie Gras Parfait, as well as some vegetarian dishes, the Roast Turnips and Butternut Squash. All in all the dishes were tasty but some certainly stood out more than others.
As the evening progressed, nature decided to join the festivities, and the heavens opened up with a downpour of rain. However, our large table umbrella shielded us from the rain and the turn of weather added a touch of intimacy to our dining experience. As the raindrops played a rhythmic melody on the umbrella, we reveled in the cozy warmth beneath.
This being a weekend of birthday revelry, of course, we had to have one of each dessert! The star dessert, in my opion, was the Eccles Cake with Colston Basset Stilton—which of course my wife ordered because she loves cheese and it sounded interesting. The combination was really an exquisite culinary pairing, bringing together the sweet and buttery notes of the Eccles Cake with the bold and creamy richness of Colston Basset Stilton.
Hailing from England, the Eccles Cake is a small, round pastry. At the core is a luscious filling comprising currants, brown sugar, and a hint of spice, all enveloped in flaky, buttery pastry. The exterior achieves a delightful caramelization during baking, adding a golden hue and a slight crunch to each bite.
On the savory side of this pairing is a quintessential English blue cheese renowned for its exceptional quality and distinctive taste. Produced in the village of Colston Bassett, this Stilton is known for its creamy texture and complex flavor profile. The cheese boasts rich, earthy undertones with a delightful tanginess and the characteristic blue veins that add a bold visual appeal.
Jewel of the South emerges as the epitome of a perfect night out, seamlessly blending exceptional cocktails, delectable cuisine, and an enchanting ambiance. From the first sip of expertly crafted cocktails to the last bite of culinary delights, the experience is a symphony of flavors that resonates with the soul. The ambiance, adorned with the timeless charm of New Orleans, adds an extra layer of magic to the evening, making Jewel of the South not just a restaurant but a destination for those seeking an unforgettable blend of sophistication and indulgence. In the heart of New Orleans, this culinary gem beckons, promising a night of refined pleasure for those who appreciate the finer things in life.
