Manning’s Restaurant is known for its upscale, family-friendly atmosphere and its dedication to classic comfort food with a modern twist. The restaurant aims to provide a memorable dining experience for everyone, from casual diners to those celebrating special occasions.
This outline explores the key aspects and offerings of the Manning’s Restaurant menu, highlighting its emphasis on fresh, locally sourced ingredients and its signature dishes that blend traditional flavors with innovative culinary techniques. The Manning’s Restaurant menu is structured around familiar categories like appetizers, entrees, and desserts, but it’s the quality and creativity within these sections that truly set it apart.
Ultimately, the Manning’s Restaurant menu offers a diverse selection of dishes, catering to a variety of tastes while emphasizing high-quality ingredients and a commitment to culinary excellence.
Appetizers and Starters
Manning’s aims to kick off your dining experience with a solid selection of appetizers, with options ranging from hot and crispy to cool and refreshing. You’ll generally find a mix of fried favorites like calamari and stuffed mushrooms alongside lighter choices such as seasonal salads and a shareable charcuterie board loaded with local cheeses and cured meats.
Vegetarian and vegan diners will find a few dedicated options in this section, and many of the salads can be easily modified to suit specific dietary needs.
Signature Starters
One appetizer that always draws a crowd is Manning’s Creole Crab Cakes. These aren’t your average crab cakes; they’re packed with sweet Louisiana blue crab, seasoned with a blend of Creole spices, and pan-fried to a golden brown. They’re served with a dollop of remoulade sauce and a sprinkle of green onions.
Another standout is the Boudin Balls. These crispy spheres are made with a blend of pork, rice, and Cajun spices, then deep-fried and served with a tangy dipping sauce. The portion size is generous, making them perfect for sharing (or not, we won’t judge!). What makes these unique to Manning’s is the family recipe that has been passed down through generations.
Soups and Salads
Manning’s always has a soup of the day, often a rich, creamy bisque or a light, flavorful broth. They highlight seasonal ingredients whenever possible. Be sure to ask your server about today’s special!
The salad selection includes a classic Caesar, a fresh garden salad, and several specialty salads. You can add grilled chicken, shrimp, or fish to any salad for a heartier meal. The dressings are all made in-house, and you can customize your salad with extra veggies or other toppings.
Manning’s prides itself on using only the freshest, locally sourced ingredients. You can taste the difference in every bite!
Main Courses: Meat and Poultry
When it comes to the heart of the meal, Manning’s doesn’t disappoint, offering a wide array of meat and poultry dishes to satisfy any craving.
Meat Dishes
Carnivores, rejoice! Manning’s menu typically features a selection of beef, pork, and lamb prepared with flair. You might find juicy steaks grilled to perfection, classic burgers piled high with toppings, and slow-roasted beef for a melt-in-your-mouth experience. Pork lovers can indulge in tender chops, succulent ribs, or perhaps even some tangy pulled pork. And for a touch of elegance, lamb dishes like chops or a rack of lamb might make an appearance, often prepared with herbs and spices.
Poultry Dishes
If you prefer poultry, Manning’s offers equally enticing options. Chicken is a staple, often available grilled, roasted, or fried for that satisfying crunch. Duck, with its rich flavor, might be served roasted or as a flavorful confit. And during the holidays, keep an eye out for seasonal turkey dishes that bring all the comfort of home.
Considering Dietary Needs
Manning’s strives to accommodate various dietary preferences. If you’re looking for a healthier choice, grilled chicken or leaner cuts of meat are often available. Don’t hesitate to ask your server about gluten-free options or other dietary modifications; the kitchen is usually happy to adjust dishes where possible.
Main Courses: Seafood and Vegetarian Options
If you’re in the mood for seafood or prefer a vegetarian dish, Manning’s has you covered. You can find classics like salmon, cod, and tuna alongside shellfish favorites like shrimp, scallops, and lobster, when in season.
The chef prepares the seafood in a variety of ways: grilled, pan-seared, or fried. Manning’s is committed to sustainability, so they source their seafood with an eye toward protecting our oceans and waterways.
Vegetarians will find plenty to love at Manning’s, too. They feature pasta dishes loaded with seasonal vegetables, hearty vegetable entrees, and even a plant-based burger that meat-eaters will enjoy. Many vegetarian dishes can be modified to suit a vegan diet, and the kitchen is always happy to accommodate your preferences.
The chefs at Manning’s don’t treat vegetarian and vegan dishes as an afterthought. They put just as much creativity and care into these items as they do their meat and seafood offerings, which means you can expect vibrant flavors and beautiful presentations.
Side Dishes
Our side dishes change seasonally, and we strive to source everything locally. You can always find some type of potato – mashed with cream, roasted with herbs, or cut into thick-cut fries. We also offer a rotating selection of seasonal vegetables, as well as steamed greens.
If you’re looking for something a little different, ask your server about our grits of the day. And don’t be afraid to ask for your sides prepared a certain way. We’re happy to customize your meal to your liking.
Satisfy your sweet tooth
Manning’s offers a tempting array of desserts, from creamy cheesecakes and sky-high layer cakes to seasonal fruit pies and flaky pastries. Ice cream lovers can choose from several flavors or sample a luscious sundae.
Be sure to ask about our signature dessert and seasonal specials, which change frequently. We also offer several gluten-free and sugar-free choices.
Quench your thirst
The drink menu at Manning’s has something for everyone, from classic sodas and juices to freshly brewed coffee and a wide variety of teas. Our bartenders concoct creative cocktails with fresh ingredients, and we always have a selection of local craft beers on tap.
Our wine list features selections from around the world, and our knowledgeable staff can suggest the perfect pairing for your meal.
Final Thoughts
Manning’s Restaurant offers something for everyone, thanks to its diverse menu, high-quality ingredients, and unique takes on classic dishes. Whether you’re craving a comforting bowl of gumbo or something a little more adventurous, you’re sure to find it here.
Manning’s is committed to culinary excellence, customer satisfaction, and deep engagement with the local community. That’s why it’s a New Orleans institution.
So, what are you waiting for? Make a reservation, explore the menu, and get ready for an unforgettable dining experience!