After chasing the kiddos around one of the world’s most popular theme parks, many hungry grownups head to the nearby Downtown Disney District in search of sustenance. And while there are plenty of options in that bustling “neighborhood”, only Ralph Brennan’s Jazz Kitchen is a true dining destination.
Rich History
The Brennan name is BIG in New Orleans, the family responsible for launching some of the Crescent City’s most beloved restaurants. Think Commander’s Palace — where legendary chefs including Emeril Lagasse and Paul Prudhomme were seasoned early in their careers. This SoCal outpost is part of the restaurant group that operates Ralph’s on the Park, Red Fish Grill, Napoleon House and Brennan’s. The stellar menu overseen by executive chef Darrin Finkel is a like a list of Creole greatest hits. Here’s what you shouldn’t miss.
For Starters
Wipe away the sticky sweet memory of that booze-free version of mint julep served inside the park with an excellent rendition of the traditional bourbon cocktail, an excellent batch of crispy boudin balls on the side. Boudin is the famous pork and rice sausage from Cajun country, which works so well in these two-bite portions.
Gumbo? Ya Ya
This classic is the real test of the kitchen’s commitment to recreating the most famous dish from Louisiana and it passes with purple, green and golden colors. (Y’all know those are the hues of Mardi Gras, right?) It’s the deep mahogany of a well-tended roux that’s at the foundation of this richly flavored dish, poured dramatically into a bowl, table side. Every bite’ll make you homesick for NOLA, especially if you haven’t been in a while.
Stunning Gulf Seafood Showcase
Plump shrimp from the Gulf get a twist on the traditional jambalaya preparation. This spicy creation swaps rice for tender pasta, as andouille sausage delivers a fiery kick. An order of buttery garlic bread on the side begs to be dipped in the last bits of sauce.
Save Room For Something Sweet
Those fried puffs of dough showered in powdered sugar are seemingly so simple and so satisfying, you might find yourself wondering why beignets aren’t as famous as your average doughnut. It might have something to do with these treats being fried to order, so they’re still warm when they arrive on the table for the final course. Of course, a Jazz Kitchen coffee spiked with praline liqueur would be perfect to sip alongside those awesome pastries.
The Details
Ralph Brennan’s Jazz Kitchen serves lunch and dinner daily, with grab-and-go options offered throughout the day. There’s live music every evening in the Flambeaux Room of this two-story restaurant, which has outdoor seating. Reservations are essential.
