Emeril’s Bistro 717 is a culinary gem nestled in the heart of New Orleans, offering an exquisite blend of Creole flavors and contemporary American cuisine. Known for its vibrant atmosphere and exceptional service, the bistro expertly balances traditional Southern cooking with innovative techniques.
The menu at Emeril’s Bistro 717 showcases the rich heritage of Louisiana while highlighting the chef’s commitment to fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Diners are invited to embark on a flavorful journey where every dish tells a story, from the first bite to the last.
The ambiance inside the bistro reflects the charm and warmth of New Orleans itself—lively, welcoming, and full of character. Whether you are a longtime fan of Chef Emeril Lagasse’s culinary style or a first-time visitor eager to explore bold flavors, the menu promises an unforgettable dining experience.
With a focus on bold spices, fresh seafood, and expertly prepared meats, the offerings cater to diverse palates while maintaining a cohesive identity that celebrates the spirit of Southern hospitality.
From classic appetizers to decadent desserts, Emeril’s Bistro 717 menu is thoughtfully curated to satisfy cravings and inspire culinary curiosity. Each section of the menu provides an array of choices that highlight the chef’s mastery and dedication to quality.
Guests can expect a harmonious combination of comfort and sophistication, making every meal here a memorable occasion.
Appetizers: A Flavorful Prelude
The appetizer section at Emeril’s Bistro 717 serves as the perfect introduction to the bold and vibrant flavors that define the menu. Designed to awaken the palate and set the tone for the meal, these starters range from traditional Creole dishes to creative modern bites.
Each appetizer is crafted with attention to detail, combining fresh ingredients and expert seasoning.
One of the standout offerings includes the Barbecue Shrimp, a signature dish prepared with a rich and tangy sauce that perfectly complements the succulent seafood. This dish reflects Emeril’s knack for enhancing classic recipes with a contemporary twist.
For those seeking a vegetarian option, the Grilled Artichoke Hearts with lemon aioli provide a delightful balance of smoky and tangy flavors.
The appetizers also feature a selection of charcuterie and artisanal cheeses, ideal for sharing or pairing with a glass of wine. These small plates offer a variety of textures and tastes, encouraging guests to explore multiple flavor profiles before moving on to the main course.
Popular Appetizer Highlights
- Barbecue Shrimp: Tender shrimp simmered in a spicy, buttery sauce
- Grilled Artichoke Hearts: Served with a zesty lemon aioli
- Charcuterie Board: Selection of cured meats and local cheeses
- Crab Cakes: Crispy on the outside, moist and flavorful inside
“The appetizers at Emeril’s Bistro 717 capture the essence of New Orleans with every bite—bold, comforting, and unforgettable.”
Soups and Salads: Fresh and Invigorating Choices
Soups and salads at Emeril’s Bistro 717 provide a refreshing complement to the richer dishes on the menu. Carefully prepared with fresh, local produce, these options cater to guests looking for lighter fare without compromising on flavor.
The soups are hearty yet nuanced, while the salads showcase a variety of textures and dressings crafted in-house.
The Crawfish Bisque exemplifies Southern comfort with its creamy texture and delicate spices. It’s a perfect starter for cooler evenings or a satisfying dish on its own.
For those seeking something crisp and vibrant, the Bibb Lettuce Salad offers a delightful mix of seasonal greens, toasted pecans, and a tangy vinaigrette, providing a refreshing contrast to the menu’s more indulgent items.
Salads also feature a variety of add-ons such as grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu, allowing guests to customize their meals according to dietary preferences. These thoughtfully composed dishes highlight the bistro’s commitment to quality ingredients and balanced flavors.
Comparison of Signature Soups and Salads
| Dish | Main Ingredients | Flavor Profile | Serving Style |
| Crawfish Bisque | Crawfish, cream, spices | Rich, creamy, mildly spicy | Warm, bowl |
| Bibb Lettuce Salad | Bibb lettuce, pecans, vinaigrette | Fresh, tangy, nutty | Cold, plate |
| Roasted Beet Salad | Beets, goat cheese, arugula | Earthy, creamy, peppery | Cold, plate |
“Each soup and salad at Emeril’s Bistro 717 is a testament to the power of fresh ingredients and careful preparation.”
Main Courses: The Heart of the Culinary Experience
The main courses at Emeril’s Bistro 717 embody the restaurant’s philosophy of bold, authentic flavors fused with modern culinary techniques. This section of the menu highlights a diverse selection of dishes, from expertly grilled meats to fresh seafood, all prepared with a commitment to quality and creativity.
Signature dishes like the Blackened Redfish showcase Emeril’s trademark use of spices and grilling mastery. The fish is cooked to perfection, offering a smoky exterior with tender, flaky flesh inside.
Another popular option is the Braise Short Ribs, slow-cooked to melt-in-your-mouth tenderness and served with seasonal vegetables and a rich sauce that enhances the natural flavors.
The menu also caters to guests who prefer lighter or vegetarian options without sacrificing taste or presentation. Dishes such as the Portobello Mushroom Risotto combine earthy mushrooms with creamy Arborio rice, creating a satisfying and elegant entrée.
Main Course Recommendations
- Blackened Redfish: Spiced and grilled to perfection
- Braise Short Ribs: Slow-cooked with a savory sauce
- Portobello Mushroom Risotto: Creamy and earthy vegetarian option
- Grilled Gulf Shrimp: Served with garlic butter and seasonal sides
“The main courses at Emeril’s Bistro 717 are a celebration of Louisiana’s rich culinary heritage, with every dish crafted to delight the senses.”
Sides: Complementary Flavors and Textures
Sides at Emeril’s Bistro 717 are thoughtfully designed to balance and enhance the main dishes. Featuring a variety of vegetables, grains, and starches, these accompaniments provide both comfort and contrast on the plate.
The emphasis is on fresh, seasonal ingredients that spotlight the best of Southern produce.
Popular choices include the Cheddar-Grits, a classic Southern staple that offers a creamy, cheesy texture. The Roasted Brussels Sprouts provide a crispy, caramelized flavor that pairs well with richer entrées.
Additionally, the Sweet Potato Puree brings a subtle sweetness and velvety consistency, rounding out the meal perfectly.
Many sides are also prepared with a nod to health-conscious diners, featuring lighter cooking methods and minimal added fats. This approach ensures that every component on the plate contributes to a harmonious dining experience.
Side Dish Options
- Cheddar-Grits: Creamy, cheesy, and comforting
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy and caramelized
- Sweet Potato Puree: Smooth and subtly sweet
- Seasonal Vegetable Medley: Fresh and lightly sautéed
| Side | Flavor Profile | Best Paired With |
| Cheddar-Grits | Rich, creamy, cheesy | Blackened Redfish, Short Ribs |
| Roasted Brussels Sprouts | Nutty, caramelized | Grilled Gulf Shrimp, Portobello Risotto |
| Sweet Potato Puree | Sweet, smooth | Braise Short Ribs, Blackened Redfish |
“A well-chosen side dish at Emeril’s Bistro 717 completes the meal, adding depth and contrast to the main flavors.”
Desserts: Sweet Endings to Memorable Meals
The dessert menu at Emeril’s Bistro 717 offers a decadent finale to the dining experience, featuring classic Southern sweets alongside innovative creations. These desserts are crafted to satisfy a range of tastes, from rich and indulgent to light and refreshing.
One of the most beloved desserts is the Bananas Foster Bread Pudding, a warm and comforting dish that combines caramelized bananas with a rich custard base. This dessert is flambéed tableside, adding a touch of theatrical flair.
For guests seeking something lighter, the Key Lime Tart provides a bright, tangy contrast with a buttery crust and a dollop of fresh whipped cream.
The dessert offerings also highlight seasonal ingredients, ensuring that each visit offers something new and exciting. Pastry chefs at the bistro pay close attention to presentation, making each dessert as visually appealing as it is delicious.
Featured Desserts
- Bananas Foster Bread Pudding: Warm, rich, and flambéed tableside
- Key Lime Tart: Tart, creamy, and refreshingly light
- Chocolate Bourbon Pecan Pie: A Southern classic with a twist
- Seasonal Fruit Sorbet: Light and palate-cleansing
“Desserts at Emeril’s Bistro 717 are crafted to be the perfect sweet note that lingers long after the meal ends.”
Beverages: Complementing Every Course
Emeril’s Bistro 717 offers an extensive beverage menu designed to perfectly complement the diverse flavors of the food. From a curated wine list featuring local and international selections to handcrafted cocktails inspired by classic New Orleans recipes, the beverage offerings cater to all tastes and occasions.
Cocktail enthusiasts will appreciate the expertly mixed Sazerac, a traditional New Orleans drink made with rye whiskey, absinthe, and bitters. For those who prefer non-alcoholic options, the bistro features inventive mocktails and freshly pressed juices that add a refreshing touch to the meal.
The wine list includes a variety of reds, whites, and sparkling wines chosen to pair well with the menu’s bold and subtle flavors alike. Sommeliers are available to assist guests in selecting the perfect wine to enhance their dining experience.
Popular Beverage Selections
- Sazerac Cocktail: Classic New Orleans rye whiskey cocktail
- House-made Lemonade: Fresh and tangy, perfect for warm days
- Pinot Noir: Light-bodied red wine with fruity undertones
- Seasonal Mocktails: Creative, non-alcoholic beverages
| Drink | Type | Flavor Notes | Best Paired With |
| Sazerac | Cocktail | Spicy, herbal, strong | Blackened Redfish, Braise Short Ribs |
| Pinot Noir | Wine | Fruity, light, smooth | Portobello Risotto, Grilled Gulf Shrimp |
| House-made Lemonade | Non-alcoholic | Tangy, sweet, refreshing | Appetizers, Salads |
“An exceptional beverage pairing can elevate a meal from memorable to extraordinary, and Emeril’s Bistro 717 excels at this art.”
Special Diets and Dietary Accommodations
Emeril’s Bistro 717 is committed to ensuring that all guests enjoy a satisfying dining experience, regardless of dietary restrictions or preferences. The menu includes a variety of options suitable for gluten-free, vegetarian, and vegan diets, and the kitchen staff is happy to accommodate special requests.
Gluten-free diners will find dishes such as the Grilled Gulf Shrimp served with gluten-free sides, while vegetarians can enjoy the Portobello Mushroom Risotto and several fresh salads. Vegan guests are encouraged to ask about modifications to certain dishes or explore the seasonal vegetable medley and sorbet desserts.
Emeril’s Bistro 717 takes food allergies seriously and employs rigorous procedures to minimize cross-contamination. Guests are encouraged to inform their server of any allergies or sensitivities to ensure a safe and enjoyable meal.
Dietary Options Overview
- Gluten-Free: Several entrées and sides clearly marked
- Vegetarian: Multiple options including risottos and salads
- Vegan: Customizable dishes and plant-based sides
- Allergy-Friendly: Staff trained for safe food preparation
“Inclusivity in dining is a priority at Emeril’s Bistro 717, ensuring every guest feels welcomed and valued.”
Conclusion
The menu at Emeril’s Bistro 717 is a masterful reflection of New Orleans’ rich culinary traditions, brought to life through Chef Emeril Lagasse’s innovative spirit and dedication to quality. With an extensive selection ranging from bold appetizers to refined desserts, each dish is thoughtfully prepared to showcase the vibrant flavors and fresh ingredients of the region.
The balance of classic Southern comfort and contemporary flair creates an enticing dining experience that appeals to both locals and visitors alike.
Beyond the food itself, the restaurant’s commitment to exceptional service and accommodating dietary needs ensures that every guest leaves satisfied and eager to return. Whether indulging in the iconic Blackened Redfish or savoring a perfectly crafted cocktail, diners at Emeril’s Bistro 717 are treated to a memorable occasion that honors the heart and soul of Louisiana cuisine.
This menu is not merely a list of dishes but an invitation to immerse oneself in a culinary celebration where tradition meets innovation in every bite.
