Cafe Amelie

Beautiful oasis garden in the French Quarter. The rose latte is among the best I’ve ever had. I’m gluten-free and allergic to shellfish and nuts (yes, I know—New Orleans isn’t the easiest place for that), yet I was still able to eat the quiche, which was delicious. Being able to relax in the garden without worrying about food was such a rare treat. The interior has lovely emerald-velvet seating and feels warm and inviting. There’s also that very New Orleans feature where you walk through the kitchen to reach additional seating—unexpected but charming. My waiter was lovely and helpful throughout. My husband had the shrimp and grits and said it was exceptional. Overall, a peaceful spot with great coffee and genuinely thoughtful service.

Unfortunately the menu was not marked. We were able to sit immediately because the place was mostly empty but it took over 20 minutes for our server to acknowledge us. Then, when I asked about gluten free options the server didn't know anything about anything on the menu at all. First she gave me bad information, then she said she'd ask the kitchen. Nearly 30 minutes later she came back to say that most of the menu could be done gluten free. As a celiac I basically always have to ask a server for additional information and I have never, ever encountered a server who was so unknowledgeable about the menu and the kitchen, and acted so put out that someone asked questions. The food was good but basically room temperature when it arrived and quite expensive for the portion sizes. Since our meal (one serving of poutine, shrimp and grits, and a bowl of gumbo for the whole table) took over an hour to come out with no check if from the server we wanted a second round of drinks and asked another employee. They went to get our server and she was very snippy that we had asked for something and someone had come and gotten her away from her conversations. It also took 20 minutes to get our bill after we were done eating and our drinks were long gone. This was a wild experience. The restaurant was not popular and it was fully staffed and still we regretted not leaving before our first drink showed up. I'm baffled by the good reviews. If you have at least 2-3 hours for a simple but expensive meal that will be served room temperature from someone who treats you like a bother, this is your place. I recommend basically anywhere else in the French Quarter unless you really want a restaurant experience where the waitress inexplicably resents you for existing.

I did not have a good experience. I clearly stated that I have Celiac disease and that I’m allergic to gluten. The waiter pointed out GF options for me. When I ordered I double checked that my choice was indeed GF. He confirmed. The food came out and smelled delicious. I took one bite and knew I was in trouble. I brought my concerns to his attention and then he said oops sorry that isn’t GF. Can I get you something else? He tried to make up for it by brining out a GF dessert on the house. As soon as I seen it I knew it wasn’t safe and didn’t touch it. To the waiters credit he was overheard talking to the chef about it and told Chef that I had celiac.