COOLinary is one of our favorite New Orleans culinary events. Typically held during the whole month of August, this year marks COOLinary’s 20th anniversary and to celebrate, the entire program has been extended through September 15th–giving you a total of 46 days to try as many New Orleans restaurants as possible. And with special, multicourse pre-fixe menus priced at $28 or less for lunch and $58 or less for dinner or brunch, you can plan the perfect culinary roadmap without breaking the bank.

We’ve rounded up a few of our favorite splurge-worthy picks and iconic restaurants but special dining opportunities should feel, well, special. And what better way to add some pomp and circumstance to the week than by sharing a meal with friends?

Sarah Peters, Romaguera Photography

Choose from restaurants like Costera, which offers family-style “feed me” options, or  Plates, with its tapas-centric menu, and plan to steal bites from across the table. Similarly, Good Catch offers a “Taste of Thailand,” where groups of two or more can choose from one of four regions of Thailand, each with its own distinctive sharing menu. Craving fun and festive vibes? Justine, Mister Oso, Jack Rose, Maypop, and Common’s Club all have a naturally celebratory and fun atmosphere–perfect for keeping things lively over the course of a meal.

Justen Williams, New Orleans & Co.
The Bower

Feeling fancy? Book a table at Galatoire’s or Tableau. Looking for something with a little privacy? Request one of the curtained-off booths at either Crescent City Steaks or The Bower. Both will feel like you’re having your own little dinner party in the middle of a bustling restaurant, with Crescent City Steaks giving vintage steakhouse vibes and The Bower offering a sleek oasis along lower Magazine – perfect for people-watching.

There’s no shortage of restaurants that are perfect for lively meals spent catching up with friends. See below for some of our favorite COOLinary restaurants to dine with a group, or click here to explore all participating restaurants.

COOLinary Picks for Group Dining

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COOLinary Picks for Group Dining