During my recent getaway to New Orleans, I brunched at Gianna, a rustic Italian restaurant in the Warehouse District on Magazine Street. They’re most known for their woodfired pizzas, but they recently added a weekend brunch menu with several exciting dishes and great drinks.
| Website: | https://giannarestaurant.com/ |
| Pricing: | $$-$$$ |
| Cuisine: | Italian, Brunch |
| Good to Know: | Reservations recommended |
| BGMW Faves: | Polenta Pancakes, Jungle Bird Cocktail |
I arrived shortly after Gianna opened, so most of the city was still rolling out of bed. The hospitality team greeted us and quickly ushered us through the beautiful dining room, past the centrally placed circular bar, to a comfy leather booth in the corner. I knew I’d pick the right spot when I heard a mix of Leon Bridges and Khruangbin tracks quietly playing throughout the There’s a visually fascinating octopus mural stretched along the back wall above the booths – I should have snapped a picture!
Drinks
I focused on craft cocktails during this New Orleans getaway, and Gianna’s bar menu kicked things off with a refreshing start.
THE JUNGLE BIRD
A rum-based cocktail with pineapple juice, bitters, and lime garnish was So refreshing and perfect for those steamy New Orleans days.
Blueberry Italian Soda
Since I was pacing myself for a day of craft cocktails, I switched to a sober sip and ordered one of Gianna’s Italian sodas. Very delicious!
Antipasti (Appetizers)
CIABATTA GARLIC BREAD
Photo By: Raquel Seymone/Black Girl Meets World
Topped with melted provolone and chili-infused butter, these garlic bread sticks were good, but I think they’d be better if they were served with an Italian red sauce.
POLENTA PANCAKES
Photo By: Raquel Seymone/Black Girl Meets World
By far my favorite dish from Gianna’s brunch menu! Fluffy, slightly sweetened polenta pancakes (with the crispy edges) served with Louisiana strawberry compote, fresh blueberries, lemon ricotta, and cane syrup – it’s perfect for those who prefer sweet breakfast options over the savory bites.
Secondi (Main Courses)
CRISPY SHORT RIB HASH
Photo By: Raquel Seymone/Black Girl Meets World
Admittedly, this dish fell short of my expectations. I LOVE a good hash because the goal is to meld together the best flavors of best parts of brunch. Unfortunately, the potato cake and short rib were overpowered by the cherry tomato confit and broken vinaigrette from the side salad. I’d pass on this one next time…
Scampi
First, I must emphasize how much I love the dainty printed dishware at Gianna. It’s a refreshing departure from the often generic dishware most restaurants insist on. Secondly, my best friend, the resident BGMW seafood dish reviewer, raved about the Italian scampi! It’s served with grilled focaccia to sop up the rosemary butter sauce.
Should you check out Gianna for Brunch in New Orleans?
Short answer: Yes. Gianna’s brunch is a great addition to New Orleans’ weekend dining options. Good food coupled with the incomparable New Orleans hospitality, and a great soulful musical playlist? Count me in.
BGMWEats Rating
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