The Camellia Grill, A New Orleans Institution

The Camellia Grill in New Orleans came highly recommended. Friends that had been to New Orleans told us to check it out and locals also told us to check it out. So, obviously, we checked it out.

We took the St. Charles Streetcar for a good long while, but I didn't mind the ride. We got to see a lot of beautiful neighborhoods and houses. I don't know how many times I said, "Oh, that is so cute." or, "Look at that one, it's so pretty."

Anyway, we got off on Carrolton Street and there it was! The Camellia Grill!

The Camellia Grill is known for basic diner fare as well as Creole and Cajun favorites. It's also known for cloth napkins and the servers wearing white coats and bow ties! The food might not be super fancy, but the place sure feels special.

It is not a very big establishment, but those are the best kind of places. It was cozy. All white with pink accents.

Camellia Grill has been open since 1946 and then closed due to Hurricane Katrina. Locals and travelers left notes on the building expressing their love for the restaurant and hopeful wishes that it would reopen. Their website explains, "Finally, after months of being closed, the fabled eatery was purchased and reopened by local restaurateur Hicham Kodr. As soon as the restaurant opened its’ doors to the hungry crowds, it was serving up its famous grub like it had never skipped a beat."

I ordered a Breakfast Po Boy and Tim ordered the Greek Omelette. Our server suggested we try their famous pecan pie. Twist my arm. I mean, even breakfast deserves dessert, right?

We sat outside to enjoy the warm morning and I noticed the salt on the table had rice in it. I'm assuming that is to keep the salt from congealing in the humidity. There was also Tony Chachere's seasoning on every table. We saw that on a lot of tables around New Orleans and I totally understand why It's delicious.

Also, I would like to note that New Orleans was hit by Hurricane Zeta about a week after we were there. It is very humbling to know that we just missed the storm and it is great to see that the places we patronized seem to be bouncing back and doing fine!