Had an amazing experience eating at Dakar NOLA. The menu was fresh, thoughtful and a great marriage of Senegalese and New Orleans flavors. The service was top notch and because it’s a relatively small restaurant, the atmosphere was intimate and relaxed. Was only passing through NOLA for 1 night and there were so many great restaurants to choose from but I’m so happy I went with Dakar. It was one of my favorite meals ever!!!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Feni Dib
An absolute treat. Every course was amazing. I added on the lobster, which was amazing. Participated in the communal dinner experience as a solo traveler, it was an excellent chance to talk with others. This was definitely the highlight of my NOLA trip. I would love to return to experience more menu options. I highly recommend if you love good unique foods.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Chris Deville
Our visit to Dakar was spectacular. The food and presentation were five star in my opinion. We love this menu variety, which provided a very different experience than the usual New Orleans restaurants, which we love so much as well. Service was on point, including explanation and background on the Senegalese-based dishes. Don’t be late as there is a very structured service. Chef Mbaye was so personable and even came out to chat and thank us for coming. Price was on the high-end and you are required to pre-pay before your visit, but it was all very worth it. We are recommending to our friends and would definitely go again.
Atmosphere: 4
Food: 5
Service: 5
Karen Frye
It was an enjoyable experience and introduced Senegalese flavors while pairing it with some familiar New Orleans food. It was fun trying the different types of West African millets. The wine pairing and NA pairing were both well matched with the tasting menu. It was also fun to meet the chef at the end of the meal.
Atmosphere: 4
Food: 5
Service: 5
Gene Keenan
We have dined at Dakar three times now. The first was when they offered their Wednesday three-course menu with a couple of supplements. Each trip was better than the previous. Dining at Dakar in New Orleans is nothing short of transformative. From the moment you step inside, you're greeted with warmth, intention, and a palpable sense of place. Chef Serigne Mbaye has created more than a restaurant; it's a soulful, deeply personal celebration of Senegalese cuisine told through the lens of New Orleans' rich culinary heritage, making you feel connected to the heart of the experience.
The tasting menu, priced at around $200/person, is an unforgettable experience. Every dish arrives with a story: Layers of flavor and history beautifully plated. From the ethereal yassa to the smoky Jollof rice and tender seafood preparations, each course was bold, balanced, and thoughtfully composed. Ingredients are treated with reverence, and the connections between West Africa and the Gulf South are both subtle and striking. We loved that he is spotlighting an under appreciated and underutilized rice called Jollof.
But what truly elevates the meal is the service. The staff brings a bowl and pitcher of warm water to the table for you to wash your hands. Washing away the past and moving into the future with this culinary experience that excels on every level. The staff, who treat you like a member of their own family, are gracious, knowledgeable, and passionate about the food they're presenting. There's a familial vibe to the hospitality, warm without being fussy, attentive without being intrusive.
Dakar is more than a restaurant; it's an experience, a conversation, and a celebration of culture. Whether you're a local or a visitor, this is one of the most exciting and meaningful meals you can have in New Orleans right now, inspiring you to explore and appreciate the city's rich cultural tapestry. Expect to see even more great things from Chef Mbaye in the future.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
S Latrell
Every course was delectable! The staff members were so knowledgeable and thoughtful. After meeting the chef, his passion for food and community was palpable. Very grateful for the experience!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
c8tina
This was not just delicious food, it was an experience! The service was so polite, personable, and attentive. Your glass most likely won’t get to half full. The food itself was a 10/10 from start to finish. Everything wasn’t just delicious, but a work of art! I highly recommend the communal option, as you will have very cool people to talk to during your meal. I’d also like to thank the hostess for giving me these beautiful chocolates when she learned I was there for my birthday. We will definitely be returning! ❤️
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Deisha LaGarde
As a passionate food connoisseur with an extensive range of dining experiences, I had the pleasure of enjoying an exceptional evening at Dakar NOLA. This delightful restaurant offered a unique communal dining experience that allowed me to connect with four inspiring individuals, facilitating engaging conversations that flowed as smoothly as the dishes being served.
The highlight of the evening was Chef Serigne Mbaye’s exquisite seven-course tasting menu, a true testament to culinary artistry. Each dish was thoughtfully crafted and bursting with flavor, but a few truly stood out to me. The welcome tea, a fragrant blend that invigorated my senses, set the tone for the meal. The bread course enticed my palate with its warm, freshly baked variety, paired perfectly with a rich, spiced butter. However, it was the shrimp and grits that truly took my breath away—perfectly cooked shrimp nestled atop a bed of velvety, flavor-packed grits, creating a harmonious blend that I will reminisce about for years to come.
This evening was particularly special as I was celebrating my birthday, and the staff at Dakar NOLA went above and beyond to make me feel cherished and celebrated. Their warm hospitality and attentiveness made a lasting impression, transforming my birthday into an extraordinary culinary journey.
This is an experience that I believe everyone should have at least once in their lives—an unforgettable evening filled with delectable food and wonderful company. I will always hold this birthday celebration close to my heart. A heartfelt thank you to Chef Serigne Mbaye and the incredible team at Dakar NOLA for crafting such a memorable occasion.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
marcco smith
Out of this world and worth every penny!!!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Eboni Burton
Amazing!!!! Service, food, guests I say with, we're all exceptional!
A gastronomical delight! Chef honors his Mother, NYC, and his heritage with the most delicious food I have ever had. Family-style seating ensures good conversation and great connections. This place is brilliant in every way!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Keecha Harris
I cannot get enough of Dakar.
I was introduced to it early last year and miraculously was able to secure a reservation a few days before I got to New Orleans.
Chef and the culinary team have since made each of my five dining experiences delicious, heartwarming, and imaginative. They are culturally forward and honor the local foodshed.
The beverage program is as superb as the menu. To the person, each member of the team takes pride in the plated genius they deliver daily.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Ches Skipper
Great food and experience. We chose the communal seating option
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Jessica
This was probably our favorite dining experience in New Orleans, which is saying something! We ate here our first evening in the city and it was a great way to kick off our vacation. This truly is a next-level dining experience, not just a meal. The restaurant is in a small historic house near the Garden District and it’s a lovely quaint atmosphere. My husband and I opted for the communal seating experience and we had great conversations with our fellow diners. Each course was presented well, with a description from our waitstaff, and while it is 7 courses, it isn’t too much food at all. Cocktails are quite good too (we skipped the wine pairing). Definitely not an everyday dinner, but 100% worth the splurge!
Lancelot Keong
The prix fixe was pre-paid to include 20% tip and service. We added alcohol and wine pairings at the restaurant and when the bill came for that after the meal, it was presented that the bill only included service for the drinks but not the food. While technically true, the implication was service was not included for the prepaid food.
Many in our party included an additional 20% service for the food, amounting to a whopping 40% service. This is really unacceptable and the waitress should not have implied that service for the food was not included. So for some in our party, the bill for 2 with wine pairings came up to almost $800.
A ridiculous amount for an experience that does not match the cost. When approached about this 10 mins after receipts were signed, we were informed it was too late to reverse. This kind of deceptive posturing for tips is incompatible with the high-end image the restaurant is trying to present. This meal for two cost us easily 2-3 times more than other restaurants we visited on this trip, including the Commanders Palace and GW Fins. No other comment than 'Completely unacceptable'
Had an amazing experience eating at Dakar NOLA. The menu was fresh, thoughtful and a great marriage of Senegalese and New Orleans flavors. The service was top notch and because it’s a relatively small restaurant, the atmosphere was intimate and relaxed. Was only passing through NOLA for 1 night and there were so many great restaurants to choose from but I’m so happy I went with Dakar. It was one of my favorite meals ever!!!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
An absolute treat. Every course was amazing. I added on the lobster, which was amazing. Participated in the communal dinner experience as a solo traveler, it was an excellent chance to talk with others. This was definitely the highlight of my NOLA trip. I would love to return to experience more menu options. I highly recommend if you love good unique foods.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Our visit to Dakar was spectacular. The food and presentation were five star in my opinion. We love this menu variety, which provided a very different experience than the usual New Orleans restaurants, which we love so much as well. Service was on point, including explanation and background on the Senegalese-based dishes. Don’t be late as there is a very structured service. Chef Mbaye was so personable and even came out to chat and thank us for coming. Price was on the high-end and you are required to pre-pay before your visit, but it was all very worth it. We are recommending to our friends and would definitely go again.
Atmosphere: 4
Food: 5
Service: 5
It was an enjoyable experience and introduced Senegalese flavors while pairing it with some familiar New Orleans food. It was fun trying the different types of West African millets. The wine pairing and NA pairing were both well matched with the tasting menu. It was also fun to meet the chef at the end of the meal.
Atmosphere: 4
Food: 5
Service: 5
We have dined at Dakar three times now. The first was when they offered their Wednesday three-course menu with a couple of supplements. Each trip was better than the previous. Dining at Dakar in New Orleans is nothing short of transformative. From the moment you step inside, you're greeted with warmth, intention, and a palpable sense of place. Chef Serigne Mbaye has created more than a restaurant; it's a soulful, deeply personal celebration of Senegalese cuisine told through the lens of New Orleans' rich culinary heritage, making you feel connected to the heart of the experience.
The tasting menu, priced at around $200/person, is an unforgettable experience. Every dish arrives with a story: Layers of flavor and history beautifully plated. From the ethereal yassa to the smoky Jollof rice and tender seafood preparations, each course was bold, balanced, and thoughtfully composed. Ingredients are treated with reverence, and the connections between West Africa and the Gulf South are both subtle and striking. We loved that he is spotlighting an under appreciated and underutilized rice called Jollof.
But what truly elevates the meal is the service. The staff brings a bowl and pitcher of warm water to the table for you to wash your hands. Washing away the past and moving into the future with this culinary experience that excels on every level. The staff, who treat you like a member of their own family, are gracious, knowledgeable, and passionate about the food they're presenting. There's a familial vibe to the hospitality, warm without being fussy, attentive without being intrusive.
Dakar is more than a restaurant; it's an experience, a conversation, and a celebration of culture. Whether you're a local or a visitor, this is one of the most exciting and meaningful meals you can have in New Orleans right now, inspiring you to explore and appreciate the city's rich cultural tapestry. Expect to see even more great things from Chef Mbaye in the future.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Every course was delectable! The staff members were so knowledgeable and thoughtful. After meeting the chef, his passion for food and community was palpable. Very grateful for the experience!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
This was not just delicious food, it was an experience! The service was so polite, personable, and attentive. Your glass most likely won’t get to half full. The food itself was a 10/10 from start to finish. Everything wasn’t just delicious, but a work of art! I highly recommend the communal option, as you will have very cool people to talk to during your meal. I’d also like to thank the hostess for giving me these beautiful chocolates when she learned I was there for my birthday. We will definitely be returning! ❤️
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
As a passionate food connoisseur with an extensive range of dining experiences, I had the pleasure of enjoying an exceptional evening at Dakar NOLA. This delightful restaurant offered a unique communal dining experience that allowed me to connect with four inspiring individuals, facilitating engaging conversations that flowed as smoothly as the dishes being served.
The highlight of the evening was Chef Serigne Mbaye’s exquisite seven-course tasting menu, a true testament to culinary artistry. Each dish was thoughtfully crafted and bursting with flavor, but a few truly stood out to me. The welcome tea, a fragrant blend that invigorated my senses, set the tone for the meal. The bread course enticed my palate with its warm, freshly baked variety, paired perfectly with a rich, spiced butter. However, it was the shrimp and grits that truly took my breath away—perfectly cooked shrimp nestled atop a bed of velvety, flavor-packed grits, creating a harmonious blend that I will reminisce about for years to come.
This evening was particularly special as I was celebrating my birthday, and the staff at Dakar NOLA went above and beyond to make me feel cherished and celebrated. Their warm hospitality and attentiveness made a lasting impression, transforming my birthday into an extraordinary culinary journey.
This is an experience that I believe everyone should have at least once in their lives—an unforgettable evening filled with delectable food and wonderful company. I will always hold this birthday celebration close to my heart. A heartfelt thank you to Chef Serigne Mbaye and the incredible team at Dakar NOLA for crafting such a memorable occasion.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Out of this world and worth every penny!!!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Amazing!!!! Service, food, guests I say with, we're all exceptional!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Restaurantji Recommends
A gastronomical delight! Chef honors his Mother, NYC, and his heritage with the most delicious food I have ever had. Family-style seating ensures good conversation and great connections. This place is brilliant in every way!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
I cannot get enough of Dakar.
I was introduced to it early last year and miraculously was able to secure a reservation a few days before I got to New Orleans.
Chef and the culinary team have since made each of my five dining experiences delicious, heartwarming, and imaginative. They are culturally forward and honor the local foodshed.
The beverage program is as superb as the menu. To the person, each member of the team takes pride in the plated genius they deliver daily.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Great food and experience. We chose the communal seating option
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
This was probably our favorite dining experience in New Orleans, which is saying something! We ate here our first evening in the city and it was a great way to kick off our vacation. This truly is a next-level dining experience, not just a meal. The restaurant is in a small historic house near the Garden District and it’s a lovely quaint atmosphere. My husband and I opted for the communal seating experience and we had great conversations with our fellow diners. Each course was presented well, with a description from our waitstaff, and while it is 7 courses, it isn’t too much food at all. Cocktails are quite good too (we skipped the wine pairing). Definitely not an everyday dinner, but 100% worth the splurge!
The prix fixe was pre-paid to include 20% tip and service. We added alcohol and wine pairings at the restaurant and when the bill came for that after the meal, it was presented that the bill only included service for the drinks but not the food. While technically true, the implication was service was not included for the prepaid food.
Many in our party included an additional 20% service for the food, amounting to a whopping 40% service. This is really unacceptable and the waitress should not have implied that service for the food was not included. So for some in our party, the bill for 2 with wine pairings came up to almost $800.
A ridiculous amount for an experience that does not match the cost. When approached about this 10 mins after receipts were signed, we were informed it was too late to reverse. This kind of deceptive posturing for tips is incompatible with the high-end image the restaurant is trying to present. This meal for two cost us easily 2-3 times more than other restaurants we visited on this trip, including the Commanders Palace and GW Fins. No other comment than 'Completely unacceptable'
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