Brennan's

Brennan's is a renowned restaurant and culinary institution located in New Orleans, Louisiana, United States. Established in 1946 by Owen Edward Brennan, it has become synonymous with the development and popularization of Creole cuisine, blending local ingredients with French and Spanish cooking techniques. Brennan's is particularly famous for inventing the iconic Bananas Foster, a dessert made from bananas, vanilla ice cream, and a sauce of butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, dark rum, and banana liqueur.

History

The story of Brennan's begins in the French Quarter of New Orleans, where Owen Edward Brennan opened the original restaurant on Bourbon Street. The Brennan family, originally from Ireland, quickly became influential in the culinary scene of New Orleans. In 1956, the restaurant moved to its current location at 417 Royal Street, a historic building dating back to 1795. The move allowed for an expansion of the dining rooms and the establishment of what would become one of the most beautiful courtyards in the city.

Under the guidance of Owen's sister, Ella Brennan, the restaurant gained national fame. Ella's passion for hospitality and her innovative approach to Creole cuisine helped to cement Brennan's reputation as a must-visit destination in New Orleans. The Brennan family has since expanded their culinary empire, but Brennan's on Royal Street remains the crown jewel.

Cuisine

Brennan's menu is a celebration of Creole cuisine, with dishes that showcase the rich flavors and ingredients of Louisiana. Breakfast at Brennan's is an institution, featuring classics like Eggs Benedict and the restaurant's own creation, Eggs Hussarde, a variation that includes Marchand de Vin sauce. The dinner menu offers a range of seafood, meat, and poultry dishes, all prepared with a Creole twist.

The creation of Bananas Foster in 1951 by Chef Paul Blangé and Ella Brennan is a highlight of the Brennan's experience. This dessert was named after Richard Foster, a friend of Owen Brennan and the chairman of the New Orleans Crime Commission. It is flambeed tableside, adding a dramatic flair to the dining experience.

Atmosphere

Brennan's is known for its elegant dining rooms, each with its own theme and decor, reflecting the history and culture of New Orleans. The restaurant's courtyard is a lush oasis in the heart of the French Quarter, offering a tranquil setting for dining. The Pink Room, with its iconic rooster wallpaper, and the Queen's Room, which pays homage to the visit of Queen Elizabeth II, are among the most famous dining spaces in Brennan's.

Legacy

Brennan's has played a significant role in promoting New Orleans' culinary heritage. The restaurant has been a training ground for many notable chefs and has contributed to the city's reputation as a gastronomic destination. Despite facing challenges, including a temporary closure in 2013 due to family legal disputes and financial issues, Brennan's has remained a beloved institution, reopening in 2014 after extensive renovations.

See Also

• Creole cuisine
• New Orleans
• Bananas Foster
• Eggs Benedict