They say that gris-gris is a sort of Voodoo talisman that is supposed to ward off evil and bring good luck. This certainly seems to be an appropriate name for Chef Eric Cook’s new restaurant by the same name. If nothing else, Gris-Gris guarantees you are safe from the evils of a lousy meal. Everything is delicious there, and you can’t get much luckier than having a chance to sample some of Chef Cook’s “elevated New Orleans staples in a welcoming atmosphere,” such as an Oyster BLT, Shrimp and Fried Green Tomatoes, and Shrimp and Gris-Gris Grits.
Cook has been devoted to making delicious New Orleans cuisine for years. He is a Commander’s Palace alum, and also headed the kitchens at the American Sector at the National World War II Museum, Tommy’s Cuisine, and Bourbon House. The August 2018 launch of Gris-Gris was the first time Cook opened his own restaurant.
The first floor offers a Chef’s Table, if you like to cozy up to the cooks and watch them work their magic on your meal. Upstairs, there is both traditional table seating and balcony seating, along with a huge bar, where the talented bar staff cranks out handcrafted cocktails such as the Mojo Tea and Voodoo Queen.
Friday night was the official kickoff party of Gris-Gris’s special Samedi Room, which is a two-floor private dining and event space. In addition to its own private kitchen, the space offers a big dining table that seats up to 12 and a kick-ass upstairs lounge with a big-screen TV and TWO private outdoor balconies. It also has a private bathroom, complete with a claw-foot bathtub (because you never know when you might need that at your next event). Named after Baron Samedi, a Haitian/Voodoo spirit, the room has a Day of the Dead feel, with décor that includes skulls, Voodoo dolls, and Voodoo-themed artwork. Book now—it’s a great space for any special occasion.
