La Petite Grocery stands as a pillar of the New Orleans dining scene, located in a historic 100-year-old building on Magazine Street that once served as a neighborhood grocery and butcher shop. Today, under the creative direction of James Beard Award-winning chef Justin Devillier, the restaurant offers a sophisticated blend of traditional Louisiana flavors and refined French techniques. Understanding the menu at La Petite Grocery is essential for anyone looking to experience contemporary Creole cuisine at its finest.

The menu is a reflection of the local landscape, utilizing Gulf seafood, seasonal produce, and heritage meats. Whether you are visiting for a relaxed lunch, a lively weekend brunch, or a multi-course dinner, the offerings provide a balance of comfort and innovation.

The Legendary Signature Items

Certain dishes at La Petite Grocery have achieved "iconic" status in New Orleans. These items rarely leave the menu because they represent the soul of Chef Devillier’s culinary philosophy.

Blue Crab Beignets with Malt Vinegar Aïoli

The Blue Crab Beignets ($21) are arguably the most famous appetizer in the Uptown district. Unlike the sweet, powdered-sugar versions found at Cafe Du Monde, these are savory fritters. In every bite, there is a generous amount of lump blue crab meat, held together by a light, airy batter. The exterior is fried to a precise golden-brown crunch, while the interior remains moist and oceanic. The accompanying malt vinegar aïoli provides a sharp, acidic counterpoint that cuts through the richness of the crab and the frying oil.

Turtle Bolognese

Turtle soup is a New Orleans staple, but La Petite Grocery reimagines this ingredient in their Turtle Bolognese ($39). This dish features hand-made tagliatelle tossed in a rich, dark ragu made from turtle meat, deglazed with sherry, and garnished with fresh parsley. The crowning glory is a fried soft-boiled egg. When the yolk is broken, it emulsifies with the sherry-infused sauce, creating a silky texture that coats the pasta. It is a bold, sophisticated take on a rustic classic.

The LPG Cheeseburger

While often overlooked at upscale establishments, the LPG Cheeseburger ($22) is widely considered one of the best in the city. The patty is a blend of high-quality beef, cooked to a juicy medium-rare, topped with melted gruyère, house-made pickles, and a sweet onion marmalade. The use of arugula adds a peppery bite, and the whole grain mustard and aïoli on a toasted brioche bun complete the flavor profile. It is served with hand-cut fries that are seasoned with sea salt and chives.

Dinner Menu Breakdown: Starters and Small Plates

The dinner experience at La Petite Grocery typically begins with a selection of appetizers that showcase technical precision.

Appetizers and Salads

The appetizer section is designed to awaken the palate with varied textures and temperatures.

  • Steak Tartare ($18): A French bistro classic elevated with pickled carrots, sesame, and a cured egg yolk. It is served with crisp lavash, providing a modern textural contrast to the tender beef.
  • Ricotta Dumplings ($15): These pillows of house-made ricotta are exceptionally light. They are often served with "hen of the woods" mushrooms and a dusting of grana padano, emphasizing earthy, umami flavors.
  • Shrimp & Okra Gumbo ($16): A deep, dark roux serves as the base for this quintessential New Orleans dish. It features Gulf shrimp, andouille sausage, and collard greens, served over popcorn rice—a fragrant, long-grain variety local to Louisiana.
  • PEI Mussels ($21): Steamed with leeks and white wine, these mussels incorporate a vibrant pistou (the French cousin of pesto) and are served with charred ciabatta for dipping into the broth.

For those seeking lighter options, the salads are far from an afterthought:

  • Local Green Salad ($13): Features radishes and toasted almonds with a creamy buttermilk dressing.
  • Apple & Celeriac Salad ($16): A refreshing combination of crisp apple, sheep's milk bleu cheese, and toasted walnuts, tossed in a white wine vinaigrette.

Dinner Menu Breakdown: Main Courses

The entrees at La Petite Grocery highlight the bounty of the Gulf South, often pairing seafood with traditional French preparations like "panéed" or "braised."

Seafood and Poultry

  • Gulf Shrimp & Grits ($32): This isn't the standard heavy version found elsewhere. The stone-ground grits are creamy and buttery, topped with succulent shrimp, roasted shiitake mushrooms, and smoked bacon. The thyme adds a floral note that elevates the dish.
  • Shellfish Stew ($39): A hearty bowl containing Gulf shrimp, blue crab, and littleneck clams. It is served with collard greens and ciabatta, focusing on the natural sweetness of the seafood and the savory depth of the pot likker.
  • Pan Roasted Chicken Breast ($43): For diners preferring poultry, this dish is served with a traditional cornbread dressing, tasso (spicy smoked pork) jus, and fried sage.
  • Roasted Duck Breast ($46): Prepared with a sauce à l'orange, bok choy, and orange marmalade, this dish pays homage to classical French cuisine while remaining contemporary.

Meat and Game

  • Panéed Rabbit ($38): A standout dish where the rabbit is thinly pounded, breaded, and pan-fried. It is served with spaetzle, turnip puree, and a sauce grenobloise (a brown butter sauce with capers and lemon). The combination of the crispy rabbit and the tangy sauce is exceptional.
  • Braised Lamb Shank ($50): A slow-cooked, fall-off-the-bone shank served over polenta with roasted red peppers and manchego cheese.
  • Pan Roasted Filet Mignon ($60): The most premium cut on the menu, paired with king trumpet mushrooms and a classic French sauce au poivre (peppercorn sauce).

Side Dishes and Accompaniments

The "Sides & Such" section allows diners to customize their meal with portions large enough to share.

  • Baked Macaroni ($13): This is a sophisticated version featuring pecorino pepato and topped with cornbread crumbs for a southern crunch.
  • Roasted Broccoli ($11): Tossed with chili flakes and bagna cauda (a garlic and anchovy-based dip), providing a savory punch.
  • Fried Green Tomatoes ($13): A southern staple served with burrata and country ham, blending Italian and Creole influences.
  • White Bean Cassoulet ($13): A rich side featuring confit pork shoulder and breadcrumbs.

Lunch at La Petite Grocery

The lunch menu is a slightly condensed version of the dinner menu, offering many of the same appetizers and signature items but with more "sandwich-forward" options suitable for a midday meal. Prices for lunch entrees typically mirror the dinner prices, though the atmosphere is significantly more casual.

The LPG Cheeseburger is the star of the lunch hour, often seen on nearly every table. The Shrimp & Okra Gumbo also serves as a popular, lighter lunch choice for those wanting a taste of New Orleans without a heavy entree.

The Weekend Brunch Experience

Brunch at La Petite Grocery is a local tradition, offering a mix of savory egg dishes and sweet breakfast treats.

What is on the La Petite Grocery Brunch menu?

The brunch menu introduces items designed to pair perfectly with a morning cocktail.

  • Brioche Pain Perdu ($17): This is "lost bread" (French toast) taken to the next level. It features thick slices of brioche with macerated fruit, mascarpone, preserved lemon, and fresh mint.
  • Blue Crab & Brie Melt ($21): A luxurious sandwich with smoked bacon and a sunny-side-up egg on multigrain bread.
  • Buttermilk Biscuits & Gravy ($25): Featuring a country-fried pork loin, this is a hearty, filling plate. Many diners choose to add a poached egg for an additional $4.
  • Poached Shrimp Benedict ($26): A seafood twist on the classic, served on cornbread with sauce choron (a tomato-spiked Hollandaise) and asparagus.
  • Cured Ora King Salmon ($22): Served with green beans, gribiche sauce, and garlic breadcrumbs.

Beverage Program and Wine List

The wine list at La Petite Grocery is heavily weighted toward French selections, particularly from regions like Chablis, Sancerre, and the Rhône Valley. This is intentional, as the high acidity and mineral notes of French whites pair exceptionally well with the rich, buttery sauces of Creole cooking.

  • By the Glass: Prices range from $10 for a crisp Pinot Grigio to $30 for a premium Pomerol.
  • Champagne: Given the celebratory nature of New Orleans dining, the restaurant offers an extensive Champagne list, including both well-known houses and small grower-producers.
  • Cocktails: The bar program focuses on New Orleans classics like the Sazerac and French 75, often with a slight seasonal twist.

How to Make the Most of Your Visit

To ensure the best experience at La Petite Grocery, consider the following practical tips:

  1. Reservations: The restaurant is highly popular, especially for dinner and weekend brunch. It is strongly recommended to book a table several weeks in advance through their website or reservation platforms.
  2. Seating: If you prefer a quieter, more intimate setting, ask for a table in the rear dining room. For those who enjoy people-watching and the vibrant energy of Magazine Street, the front windows are the place to be.
  3. Dietary Restrictions: The kitchen is known for being accommodating. Vegetarian options like the Ricotta Dumplings or various seasonal salads are always available, and the staff is well-trained in handling gluten-free requests.
  4. Dress Code: The vibe is "upscale-casual." While you will see people in suits, many diners wear nice jeans and a collared shirt or a sundress. It is polished but not stuffy.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Does La Petite Grocery have a children's menu?

While there isn't a dedicated "kid's menu" printed, the kitchen is usually happy to prepare simple versions of their dishes, such as plain pasta or a simplified burger, to accommodate younger diners.

Is there parking available near the restaurant?

La Petite Grocery does not have a private parking lot. Valet parking is often available during dinner hours. Otherwise, street parking is available along Magazine Street and the surrounding residential side streets, though it can be challenging to find a spot during peak hours.

What are the most popular desserts?

The Butterscotch Pudding ($9) with tahini ginger cookies and the Louisianan Cane Sugar Crème Brûlée are perennial favorites for those with a sweet tooth.

Does the menu change often?

Yes, the menu at La Petite Grocery is seasonal. While the signature items like the Blue Crab Beignets and Turtle Bolognese remain, the accompaniments, vegetable dishes, and specific fish preparations change based on what is fresh in the Louisiana markets.

Summary of the La Petite Grocery Dining Experience

La Petite Grocery offers one of the most consistent and culturally resonant dining experiences in New Orleans. By blending the history of its Magazine Street location with the modern culinary skills of Chef Justin Devillier, it provides a menu that is both accessible and deeply impressive. From the crispy, savory Blue Crab Beignets to the rich and innovative Turtle Bolognese, every dish is a testament to the evolution of Louisiana cuisine. Whether you are a local or a visitor, a meal here is a necessary chapter in any New Orleans culinary journey.