Chef Nina Compton recently moved to New Orleans to open her first restaurant in the city's Warehouse Arts District. But the popular St. Lucia-born chef, who came in second in Top Chef New Orleans, already feels the city is the right fit.
"I like the diversity in the food scene here. People are open-minded and looking to explore new types of food," says Compton, whose anticipated Compère Lapin opens June 2 in Provenance Hotels' Old No. 77 Hotel & Chandlery.
"When I started developing the menu, I knew I wanted to incorporate Louisiana's rich culinary heritage. It's been a wonderful learning experience meeting with coffee roasters, spending time at the farmers markets and tasting all of the unique things that come out of this state."
The name of the restaurant is inspired by a mischievous rabbit from a Caribbean folk tale. Its menu will draw on local flavours, but also Compton's Caribbean roots, classic French training and love of Italian cuisine.
Look for crispy pig ears with smoked aioli, Compton says, plus, "I am doing curried goat with sweet plantain gnocchi and a conch croquette with pickled pineapple. There are twists on the things I grew up with."
Here, Compton shares five other great places to eat in New Orleans.
Coquette - 2800 Magazine St.
"I love this cool bistro on Magazine Street. They have an upstairs and downstairs dining room and the food is spectacular. I particularly like going there for the five-course blind tasting. It's only $70 [U.S.] and you can add a wine pairing for $30 more. It's great to be treated to a surprise meal with whatever chef feels like creating or whatever is fresh and available that day. The whole table has to participate in the blind tasting, so only go with adventurous eaters who are willing to enjoy the journey."
Shaya - 4213 Magazine St.
"I think [chef] Alon Shaya is really talented. The restaurant offers really clean, fresh Israeli and Middle-Eastern food. I love the hummus and the carrots are simply outstanding. It's a cool neighbourhood spot with a great relaxed ambience. It's a perfect spot for lunch or dinner."
Emeril's - 800 Tchoupitoulas St.
"This is Emeril Lagasse's first restaurant. It's a classic and has been around for 25 years. I think David Slater, the chef de cuisine, is one of the best chefs in the city. I am a huge fan of the barbecue shrimp there, but everything on the menu is terrific. It's a great buzzy room with a really cool, fun atmosphere. I think it's a must-do in New Orleans."
Gene's Po-Boys - 1040 Elysian Fields Ave.
"This is a tiny, no-frills joint in the Marigny, but hands-down one of my favourite spots in the city for po-boys. The hot sausage and cheese is amazing. It's right near Frenchman Street and it's open 24/7, so it's perfect after a night of hearing music. It's also great to pop in and grab a po-boy and take it with you."
Balise - 640 Carondelet St.
"I was on Top Chef New Orleans with Justin [Devillier] and this is his second restaurant. He's a great guy and extremely talented. I love the atmosphere, and the venison tartar is wonderful."
This interview has been edited and condensed.