Dooky Chase
This business is unclaimed.
Owners who claim their business can update listing details, add photos, respond to reviews, and more.
Claim your free listing now
+1 504-821-0600+ Add websiteWrite a ReviewImprove this listing
Hours
Tue
11:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Wed
11:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Thu
11:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Fri
11:00 AM - 3:00 PM5:30 PM - 9:00 PM
Sat
5:30 PM - 9:00 PM
What is Travelers’ Choice?
Tripadvisor gives a Travelers’ Choice award to accommodations, attractions and restaurants that consistently earn great reviews from travelers and are ranked within the top 10% of properties on Tripadvisor.
Ratings and reviews
4.0
Travelers' Choice 2024
RATINGS
Food
Service
Value
Atmosphere
Details
This business is unclaimed.
Owners who claim their business can update listing details, add photos, respond to reviews, and more.
Claim your free listing now
PRICE RANGE
₱0.00 – ₱1,176.00
CUISINES
American, Cajun & Creole
Meals
Lunch, Dinner
features
Menu
Main
Fried Chicken
Red Beans And Rice
Fried Catfish
Peach Cobbler
String Beans
Collard Greens
Does this restaurant offer highchairs for toddlers?
Details
PRICE RANGE
₱0.00 – ₱1,176.00
CUISINES
American, Cajun & Creole
Meals
Lunch, Dinner
FEATURES
Takeout, Reservations, Private Dining, Seating, Parking Available, Highchairs Available, Wheelchair Accessible, Serves Alcohol, Full Bar, Accepts Credit Cards, Table Service
Contribute
4.0
768 reviews
Excellent
397
Very good
178
Average
109
Poor
51
Terrible
33
Michelle H
3 contributions
Feb 2020 • none
First time eating at this restaurant and overall experience was good. We had no reservations and was told it would be 1 - 1/2 hour wait; it ended of being 2.15 hours. The food was good but took a long time once we ordered; overall the food was good but 2 of the people in our party had food that was cold and after the waitress was told a second time, waitress replied "i watched them heat it up so I don't know what to tell you". The hostess that seats you was very rude.
Overall, I would eat there again in hopes of getting better service as the food was good and fairly priced.
Written March 1, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Jo L
Seattle271 contributions
Jan 2020 • none
Busy Friday buffet lunch for us, and while we waited for our table, we enjoy sitting at the bar and drinking a nice Bloody Mary. It is worth while to get there early. I don't know about parking because we use Uber to get there, and walk a bit because we ate so much.
The service was very good at the beginning, the buffet area had a great salad bar, many dishes to chose from, delicious fried chicken and an amazing sausage. The lady at the buffet is lovely!
Eat the sausage!
Written February 4, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Cindy P
Arlington286 contributions
Jun 2021 • couples
Bottom line up front - Dooky Chase is a dining experience in a historic setting. It should be appreciated and not rushed through.
When my husband and I began planning our first trip to New Orleans in five years we decided to make reservations at some restaurants that we had not previously visited. In January 2020 I had seen an exhibit at the Smithsonian Museum of African American History that highlighted Leah Chase and the famous Dooky Chase restaurant so when my husband proposed dining here I was all in. Our trip was scheduled for the weekend of Juneteenth and when I called a week in advance to make a dinner reservation for the Friday before I was informed that dinner was sold out because the restaurant would be closed for a special event on the night of Juneteenth (Saturday). We were, however, able to get a Friday lunch reservation.
Going in I knew the reputation of Leah Chase as a culinary icon. What I would learn is that this is just one piece of the experience. The night before our reservation we chatted with some locals at a bar. When we told them we had reservations at Dooky Chase for lunch the next day they were almost dismissive - “that fried chicken restaurant”, one of them said. I’m so glad we didn’t let that dissuade us.
Upon arrival I learned of the restaurant’s significance in the civil rights movement as a covert meeting place for organizers. We arrived at opening and were seated right away. When we entered the dining room I was taken in by the vast collection of art.
Our server, Markel, was friendly, professional, and attentive. My husband chose the red beans and rice (served with the famous fried chicken), gumbo, and a side of mustard greens while I opted for the glazed shrimp salad.
While our meal was being prepared I explored the art collection throughout the restaurant. I later learned that Dooky Chase was the first art gallery for African American artists in New Orleans. We also struck up a conversation with a local lady who has dined at the restaurant weekly for many years (at the same table always). We noted that the waitstaff had placed a menu at an empty seat at her table which she gestured to when referring to her recently deceased husband.
All of our food was exquisitely prepared. While Dooky Chase is known for fried chicken, everything else we had was also excellent. My husband exclaimed,”oh my!” upon tasting the mustard greens.
Some of the reviews criticized the speed of service. I recommend planning an hour and a half for your meal and enjoy the total experience. And save room for praline bread pudding.
Written June 18, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
tda1990
New York City91 contributions
Feb 2020 • none
as they take me on adventures, I could've done without. I should've spent that $100 for 2 on a local spot that would've been more of an authentic NOLA experience.
I ordered a meal (Shrimp over rice) but then decided I wanted to go for the buffet, to be able to experience more of their menu. I ended up leaving the shrimp in my hotel fridge! The buffet; bag salad, soup of the day was cream of asparagus, there were a few options but the only thing worthwhile; fried chicken, spicy sausage, the sauce on the beef. How in the world was I in the south and could not get a good jambalaya or just plain rice? The red beans were not good. To say I was disappointed, is an understatement. Overpriced Queens Crown drink served in a rocks glass with a collins price.
The best parts of the visit; our busboy (not yet a server) was really sweet and helpful and the peach cobbler dessert. I suggest they add the dessert to the buffet and remove about 4 of the not-so-good options.
Written February 29, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Luv2Trvl236112
Hazel Crest13 contributions
Apr 2021 • none
We waited for 1/2 hour to be seated with reservations and the restaurant was just opening. After ordering we waited another 1/2 hour just for appetizers and drinks to be served. We never did get water refilled nor a second drink.
Our food was not seasoned in any form or fashion let alone Creole seasoning. The catfish I had only warm not hot like it had been sitting. Steaks ordered were over cooked and sent back and when returned almost cooked correctly. The so called grilled pork chop had no seasoning and never saw a grill. I'm not sure how they did it but even the BBQ shrimp were awful.
The staff new it was a birthday celebration as when they sat us down a silver holder in the shape of a birthday cake was placed on table but no singing or cake was offered to the birthday person.
When making a reservation my niece was told no jeans etc. But there were men in there with ball caps on, booty shorts on women, bellies hanging out.
The most intolerable thing was after we finished eating and paying the Manager first sent waiter over then came over herself and asked with attitude were we waiting on something, basically putting us out!!
They did not live up to their long history of service nor cuisine.
I will give our waiter kudos for doing the best he could working alone with a party of 12 and being new.
Written April 23, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
romancegirl
Mobile16 contributions
Jul 2021 • none
We were last to be added to the list on 3July. We were celebrating our anniversary. We have eaten here a few times and the service has changed...not for the better. Our server brought our water and drinks...never mind my water had a bug in it, but he took it away quickly after I pointed it out. We had gumbo as appetizer and it was piping hot and delicious. I ordered crabcakes and fries. The crabcake was simply delicious, but my fries out much later as an entree. We never saw our waiter until it was check time where he gladly explained the tipping process and pointed to the highest amount and waited. I thought that was hilarious because he was very unattentive. If we choose to return, it will be on a weekday for lunch and never during another holiday.
Written July 12, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
vwlangley
Charlotte102 contributions
Aug 2022 • business
I had been looking forward to this place for awhile. We had a 6:30 reservation on Friday. We got seated and wait at least 10 minutes to get some water. Another 10 for the server. In the mean time another table got sat beside us. They obviously knew people because the server and a couple other staff hugged them. They got their drinks and ordered who’re the server ever took our drink order.
We got the beet salad which was excellent. The dressing is rather spicy so pour it on with caution. We then waited and waited for our food. The table beside us got their fried chicken and finished eating before our food even arrived. We never saw the server to ask about the delay so we asked the hostess. She told us there was big parties that came in and our food was behind them. After over an hour in the restaurant we got our food and my redfish was so over cooked it was shriveled in dried out it was inedible.
We asked for the manager she did apologize and took care of the entrees. I ended up eating a bowl of gumbo. It was fine nothing great and the crab was in shells so you are digging through your soup for crabmeat. Not good.
Food and service were just a 2 star. I would not go back.
Written August 13, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Roburado
21 contributions
Jul 2021 • none
Wonderful place, steeped in history served us one of the greatest meals of our lives. My wife and I walked to Dooky Chase Restaurant from our hotel on the outskirts of the French Quarter. We walked through Tremé to this iconic restaurant where we got takeout. We ordered the fried chicken, mustard greens, beans and rice, bread pudding, and peach cobbler.
While we waited, we took pictures of some of the photos and other artwork depicting historic icons. Dooky Chase, III, himself escorted us through the dining room to see one of the two paintings we saw of James Baldwin. We told him we would be back with reservations for a seat at the dining room.
We could smell the goodness as the brown bag containing our dinner was brought to the bar table where we were waiting. We couldn’t wait to get back to our hotel to eat it. We were floored by the delicious meal. All of the items we ordered were fantastic. We will be back for sure.
Written July 24, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
gwaltney
Richmond72 contributions
Mar 2020 • none
The is not a trendy restaurant but one steeped in old traditions. It was old school like your grand ma might have cooked and delicious. Leah Chase, now deceased, was famous for her food and her kindness and resilience during Katrina. We had Friday night dinner ( make a reservation) and loved it, I had deep fried crab stuffed shrimp. My husband had the fried chicken. It was a big mistake not to order the Mac and cheese so be sure you order it. Cozy lovely dining room and good service.
Written March 15, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
brightis
1113 contributions
Jul 2022 • couples
We (husband and I) decided to visit on o Friday, my husband called to verify the hours and then made a last minute reservation. Our reservation was for 6:00 and when arrived were seated promptly. The restaurant wasn’t crowded but more customers started to arrive as time passed. There’s so much history with this restaurant and the proof is in the photos on the wall, while you’re waiting take some time to admire the art. We ordered the BBQ shrimp as an appetizer, two chicken dinners, an extra side of potato salad and an Arnold Palmer. Honestly, the chicken was ok…nothing special BUT those sides were on point! I will admit that we should’ve tried at least one of their authentic creole dishes because those dishes looked amazing! Total bill including tip was $73.67. We were definitely satisfied and will return next time in NOLA.
Tips: call and make a reservation, please be aware there is a dress code (gentlemen must take off any hats/caps)…the hostess did politely ask my husband to remove his hat….the code is on their website.
Written July 28, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Wetravel4u614
Columbus444 contributions
Mar 2020 • couples
When it comes to soul food, the bar is set pretty high for myself. My mother is a great cook and having visited places like Sweetie Pies in St Louis, I judge such food establishments closely (lol).
We arrived as soon as the doors opened on Tuesday which was idea. This restaurant is not small, but it is also not a very large restaurant and we knew that things could get a bit crowded. We got in with ease but the crowd was right behind us so our timing was great.
First impression is Dooky Chase is truly an landmark in the city of New Orleans. Very historical and this history is preserved with the decor and feel of Dooky Chase.
There is a buffet option or you can order individual meals and al a carte sides. For the money, the buffet is your best bet in my opinion. On the buffet salad, okra, rice and peas, greens, chicken, veal, etc.
Soup and bread is also served with the buffet. It is tons of food. We are not great at buffets but it was worth a shot!
The food was good. Very much so down home cooking. This was the epitome of comfort food, no nap included. You also.get a slice of peach cobbler after the meal is complete. So much food!
I have to admit that the food was not as great as the reputation, but still quality so an institution like this is necessary when visiting NOLA! This is not a slight. As I mentioned I am a tough critic when it comes to soul food. I was not lying.
Enjoy!
Written March 5, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
JJLioness
Chicago3 contributions
Jul 2023 • couples
My experience was basic nice. I was not overwhelmed or underwhelmed by this restaurant. Staff was very kind and professional from the moment we entered the door. Decor was mediocre, more like eating in a true home dining room with carpeted floors. Interesting pictures throughout the restaurant; a lot notoriety visors have passed through this place, hence, my visit to check out this famous place. We ordered the stuffed shrimp, fried chicken, macaroni and cheese, and peach cobbler. Everything was seasoned well and tasted pretty good. The serving sizes are small in comparison to the price of each dish. The speed of service was quite disappointing; forgetful waitress and extremely slow in getting our food. It’s definitely a community restaurant, as you could figure out who was a local (much more conversation with staff/owners) vs NOLA visitor (me). This place is worth a visit to absorb some southern hospitality, tasty food, as well as, you may land an encounter with someone famous!
Written July 11, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Lenora W
Cleveland34 contributions
Aug 2021 • none
The restaurant came highly recommended by a family friend and it did not disappoint. Our meals were Louisiana Red Fish, Shrimp Clemenceau, Chicken Creole, and the Creole Gumbo. Each of the items were seasoned perfectly. Only one issue -- a side dish that was ordered never came...The overall service was good, though. If we revisit the area, we would definitely eat here again.
Written August 11, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
LHS329
Satellite Beach306 contributions
Dec 2021 • none
We've been going to NOLA for 22 years and have never eaten here. Don't make our mistake. They have very strict covid protocols. Make sure you have your vaccination card and photo ID. It will be checked. The restaurant is beautiful, with loads of great local art, white tablecloths, and terrific service. Jazz is softly playing. We both had the red beans which are served with a side of two pieces of Ms. Leah's fried chicken. You also get a basket of bread with butter. The beans are NOLA perfection and the fried chicken is exactly what fried chicken should be, crispy and perfectly spiced with not a hint of grease. And, we finished up with praline bread pudding which is just as good as it sounds. It is no wonder that this restaurant is a local land mark.
Written January 8, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
JRAJ444
163 contributions
Dec 2023 • couples
We arrived for our lunch at 11:25 AM for an 11:30 reservation. We were seated after waiting in line for other to be seated ahead of us. We were seated in a French revival interior room in mustard yellow with white trim and multiple colorful paintings. The chairs were comfortable and also mustard yellow with the tables covered in white tablecloths. The glasses and flatware are standard restaurant supply items.
The wine menu is small but reasonably priced. The lunch menu has a selection of soups and salads, sandwiches and main courses. I had the Creole gumbo and the red beans and rice which comes with red beans and rice and 2 pieces of fried chicken. You to get the choice of white, dark or mixed. My wife had the 3 pieces of fried chicken. Dooky Chase is known for their fried chicken and it is very good. The red beans and rice were very flavorful and was seasoned very well. It is the best version of red beans and rice I have had. My wife had mustard greens as a side. These were also delicious. The gumbo had a medium dark roux, chicken, shrimp and 2 types of sausage. I found it very tasty. Its price is a little expensive for the amount served when compared to other gumbos in New Orleans. The weight staff was attentive.
We enjoyed hour meals. If you have not been you should go at least once.
Written January 21, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
…
Showing results 1-15 of 753
Related Stories
Best moderately priced restaurants
See all
Best nearby
We rank these hotels, restaurants, and attractions by balancing reviews from our members with how close they are to this location.
Tremé
That sound? That flavor? That certain je ne sais quoi that lets you known you’re in “Nawlins” and nowhere else? It’s all good and in broad abundance on the streets of Tremé, where so much of what’s considered to be the very best of New Orleans culture and tradition is, put simply, just how people go about their daily lives in this historic part of town. As one of America’s oldest African-American neighborhoods and among the nation’s first established residential areas for free people of color, Tremé’s significant heritage and contribution cannot be understated. This is especially the case when considering some of Tremé’s most famous residents, most notably jazz great Louis Armstrong. For full flavored food, funky and jazzed up music, and vibrant street life presented with homegrown pride, you can’t beat a visit to Tremé.
Best nearby hotels
See all Best nearby restaurants
See all Is This Your Listing?
Own or manage this property? Claim your listing for free to respond to reviews, update your profile and much more.
Claim Your Free Listing