When it comes down to my vacations, I do a lot of planning. This trip to New Orleans was no different, especially since it was for my husband’s 40th birthday. I had every restaurant picked out, of course after reading numerous reviews and getting personal experiences from people I know. One restaurant I was sure not to miss was Nina Compton’s Compère Lapin New Orleans.
Nina Compton, a Saint Lucian native, is not only the genius behind the menu of Compère Lapin New Orleans but also the runner up and fan favorite in Top Chef Season 11. At Compère Lapin, which is located on the ground floor of the Old No. 77 Hotel & Chandlery in New Orlean’s Warehouse District, she creates amazing French-Italian-Creole-Caribbean fusion dishes. It sounds like a mouthful, but trust me, the combinations are impeccable and mouthwatering. My husband and I got to enjoy a Compère Lapin brunch.
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Brunch at Compère Lapin
My husband and I experienced Compère Lapin for brunch. Brunch is available in two options: à la carte or prix fixe. In order for us to maximize our dining experience, we went the prix fixe route, which we do not regret. The prix fixe brunch allows you to choose two (2) items from either the small plates or “sweets and stuff” sections of the menu along with an item from the large plates section, all for $35. It’s a lot and worth every single penny!
Our brunch began with Tout La Coffee for me and the signature drink, the Copper Bunny, for my husband. Bunnies play an integral role in the theme of the restaurant, as Compère Lapin is a mischevious rabbit in St. Lucian folktales.
As a starter, my husband chose the CL Bagel Tartar with Calabrese Crema, The house-made bagel, the small piece he reluctantly parted with, was, melt in my mouth delicious.
We both ordered the grilled shrimp with coconut curry and tostones, something we could have easily shared due to the large portions, but it was too delicious to do so anyway.
I’m a girl with Southern roots and a Caribbean soul, and as soon as I saw Accra (codfish cakes) on the menu, I had to have it. It was good, but after everything else, I was almost full, and still had my main meal to tackle.
My large plate brunch option was the Coconut French Toast with a Pecan Rum Sauce, it was the perfect option after indulging in several delicious savory starters.
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My husband, on the other hand, went savory all the way through and opted for the CL Wagyu Burger with Caramelized Onion and Taleggio Cheese.
He swears it was one of the best burgers he had. As good as the food was, we couldn’t finish it all; after a walk down Bourbon Street, the Coconut French Toast made for the perfect late night snack. It was just as good cold as it was served warm and fresh.
Our brunch at Compère Lapin New Orleans was easily one of the best brunches we’ve had while in New Orleans. It’s probably one of the reasons we will return to New Orleans. I mean, we’ve only experienced brunch, and we still have dinner to tackle. We’ll definitely be back.
The next time you’re in New Orleans make sure you dine at Compère Lapin, especially for brunch. Getting the Copper Bunny is a must!
Compère Lapin
535 Tchoupitoulas
New Orleans, LA 70130
504.599.2119