Spring is in full swing, and so is the seasonal refresh at Beggars Banquet, the Lower Garden District’s stylish hotspot for inventive New American cuisine and artfully crafted cocktails. Since opening its doors in summer 2023, the restaurant—named after the iconic Rolling Stones album—has made its mark on the New Orleans dining scene with its bold flavors, cozy ambiance, and liveable rock ‘n’ roll edge.
This season, Beggars Banquet is unveiling new spring menus for dinner, brunch, and cocktails, along with an expanded Happy Hour that invites locals and visitors alike to sip, snack, and socialize in style.
A Fresh Take on Flavor
Under the direction of Chef/Owner Mike Dilonno and newly appointed Sous Chef Amanda Wachowski, the spring dinner menu brings together vibrant local ingredients with elegant execution. Highlights include:
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Tuna Crudo with satsuma, lemon, and pickled shallots
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Oyster Stew in puff pastry with shiitake mushrooms, garlic, ginger, onion, and tarragon
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Pan-Seared Shrimp served head-on with creamed crab rice, roasted corn, and chili butter sauce
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Pork Schnitzel with a crisp shaved Brussels sprouts salad
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Praline Bread Pudding drizzled in bourbon sauce for a sweet Southern finish
Chef Amanda is also rolling out weekly seasonal specials, keeping the menu exciting and ever-evolving.
Brunch lovers are in for a treat with new additions like Shrimp & Grits, made with Gulf shrimp, mascarpone grits, and rich Abita BBQ sauce—perfect for a laid-back weekend feast.
Cocktails with a Twist
At the bar, Head Bartender Josa Lazas is shaking up the season with a playful and balanced cocktail lineup that celebrates fresh produce and culinary creativity. New drinks include:
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Heartbreak Hotel – peanut butter-washed bourbon, cognac, banana, and chocolate-walnut bitters
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I’m a Slav 4 U – a daring mix of borscht syrup, beef fat-washed vodka, crème fraîche, and dill
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Jalisco Martini – reposado tequila, Cocchi Vermouth di Torino, Frangelico, orange bitters, and sesame oil
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Chah Cha Now Y’all – mezcal, heirloom pineapple, and genepy
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Chai Me Up, Scotty! – rum, chai, pomegranate, lime, and blood orange
For non-drinkers or the sober-curious, Beggars Banquet has an equally inspired non-alcoholic cocktail menu, with options like:
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Carrot Dreamsicle – carrot, Earl Grey, cardamom, orange, and oat milk
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Regency Romance – Lyre’s non-alcoholic gin, lavender, lemon, and bubbles
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Perfect Dichotomy – Lyre’s rum blend, chai, pomegranate, lime, and pineapple cordial
Expanded Happy Hour, Elevated Bites
Spring also brings an expanded Happy Hour that runs:
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Wednesday–Friday from 4–6 PM
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Saturday & Sunday from 3–5 PM
The menu includes flavorful bites ($5–$10) like Sriracha Cauliflower, Firecracker Calamari, Tuna Crudo, Smoked Redfish Dip, and Pimento Cheese with baked crackers. Signature cocktails are just $9, while house wine is only $7, making it easy to unwind without breaking the bank.
A Vibe for Every Occasion
Whether you’re looking for a romantic date night, after-work hangout, or group brunch, Beggars Banquet offers a magnetic atmosphere with rustic charm and rock-inspired elegance. And with its sister bar and music venue, No Dice, just down on St. Claude, the Dilonno family continues to build their culinary and cultural legacy in New Orleans.
So go ahead—slide into spring with bold flavors, beautiful cocktails, and a vibrant vibe at Beggars Banquet.
