A few weeks ago, we visited New Orleans to celebrate Ian’s birthday. This was my second time visiting the area, but Ian’s first, so while he had to experience Bourbon Street, I also knew that I wanted to make it really special, so naturally, we had to try the best seafood in New Orleans.
As always, I did my research by searching Instagram, blogs, TripAdvisor, Facebook, etc. and I found that everyone said the same thing: GW Fins has the best seafood in New Orleans. So, we made a reservation and were so excited to try it out!
Located directly off of Bourbon Street in the french quarter, GW Fins prides itself on serving only the absolute best and freshest fish possible. In fact, Executive Chef Michael Nelson told us that they send back a good chunk of the fish they receive every day because their standards are set so high. Once they receive (and accept) the fish, then they are able to create their menu for the day.
The GW Fins website says: “Chef/Owner Tenney Flynn and Executive Chef Michael Nelson locate the highest quality fish from all parts of the world to augment the bounty of wonderful seafood they locally source from the Gulf of Mexico. Using seasonal ingredients and subtle culinary techniques, the wonderful flavors and textures of each variety of fish are showcased in elegant simplicity.
Working on a daily basis with dozens of trusted purveyors from local and international regions enables our chefs the ability to ensure that every variety of seafood is served at its seasonal peak. Once the chefs receive flawless whole fish their keen butchering skills are employed. Masters of their craft, the chefs work on a specially created refrigerated table, enabling the fish to consistently maintain a cold temperature, ensuring optimal freshness.”
Everything we tried at GW Fins was absolutely amazing – I was definitely impressed and I can confidently say that they have the best seafood in New Orleans, for sure. We ordered crispy pork belly, tempura fin wings, and spearfished cobia crudo for appetizers. Chef Nelson talked to us about how he looks for new and creative ways to increase their sustainability efforts, so I loved seeing this in action through the tempura fin wings and the spearfished cobia crudo. Then, we tried the Bruleed Fig salad which was one of my favorite salads ever. The figs were so sweet! We had trouble picking our entrees because everything looked amazing. I ended up going with the Scalibut, because it is a GW Fins original and one of the most popular dishes on the menu. It was fantastic!
While GW Fins is more of an upscale restaurant, the vibe was also very upbeat and fun. We had decorations on our table for Ian’s birthday and the restaurant was not stiff and quiet, like a lot of other upscale dining options, but GW Fins also had the romantic, dim-lighting feel to it, as well (which I love!). No matter who you are, you will fit in.
With all of that being said, I give GW Fins a 12 out of 10 and I highly recommend visiting when you are in New Orleans!
Thank you so much to GW Fins for giving us a media rate to dine with them. We already had reservations before this offer and like always, all opinions are my own!
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