New Orleans’ restaurants getting MICHELIN Stars is major. And I needed to see what the hype was about, starting with Zasu. But here’s the thing — this was my first-ever MICHELIN experience, so I’m not about to sit here acting like I knew the criteria. I went in with zero expectations. I just wanted to see what the hype was about for myself because when it comes to food, I always trust my own palate first. So if you wanna know the real spill on Zasu, let’s get into it.
The Vibe
Zasu sits real low-key on N Carrollton Ave, the kind of spot you’ll drive past a hundred times and never notice (literally me). Carrollton can feel busy and nonstop, but the moment you step inside Zasu, everything shifts. It didn’t even feel like I was on Carrollton anymore — inside, it gave Oak Street vibes. Calm, warm, intimate. Like stepping out of the noise and straight into someone’s dining room.
Led by Chef Sue Zemanick, the restaurant is housed in what feels like a renovated New Orleans shotgun home. The layout literally feels like you’re walking through someone’s house — the front room (bar and host stand), dining room, hallway with a bathroom, then the kitchen. It feels like home, but elevated.
It’s cozy and intimate. The lighting isn’t dim-dim, but it’s not bright-bright either. It’s the perfect balance. You can see who you’re eating with without feeling like you’re under a spotlight. The room feels elevated, relaxed, and comfortable.
And the service? Warm, attentive, and genuinely knowledgeable. A manager stopped by our table (I was with a foodie friend) multiple times to make sure we were good, which led to us connecting over New Orleans’ restaurant scene, spots she’s worked at, and the food we love. She even gave us complimentary glasses of champagne. The music was at a nice level where I could have a full conversation without raising my voice.
Sidebar: I didn’t know much about MICHELIN Stars and their importance until around 2017 when I learned about them watching the reality series Hustle & Soul. So to see MICHELIN Stars in New Orleans now? An über proud moment for this New Orleans girl and foodie.
What We Ate
Before going, I peeped the menu to see what I’d want. But once we got there, we decided to share a few dishes to get a real feel for the place. Everything — and I mean everything — delivered.
Appetizers
Grilled Baby Octopus
crispy fingerling potatoes, roasted red pepper, smoked paprika, garlic aioli, salsa brava
This was f-king phenomenal. So phenomenal we ordered it twice. If you’re sharing, do yourself a favor and get two from the jump. The crispiness, the flavors — chef’s kiss.
Seared Scallops
cacio e pepe butter beans, blistered tomatoes, preserved lemon
Another fire dish we ordered twice. The butter beans really tied the whole dish together. Soft, creamy, flavorful with perfectly cooked scallops.
Soup
Seafood Tomato Soup
w/ Brioche croutons
I’m not too much of a tomato girlie. I love a good tomato basil soup on the right day, but I wasn’t in the mood. I had one spoonful. It was cool, but not memorable for me.
Entrées
Ora King Salmon
charred cabbage, sugar snap peas, baby carrots, sesame, black garlic-miso vinaigrette
This dish was really good. The charred cabbage was fire AF. The flavors were balanced. We sent the salmon back to cook a little longer because it was a little under, but when it came back, it was perfect.
Redfish
gnocchi, oyster mushrooms, spinach, truffle beurre blanc
Hands down my favorite entrée out of the night. Let me tell you something — that gnocchi took me OUT. I am a gnocchi girl through and through, and this gnocchi? Fluffy. Puffy. Perfect. The manager told me they have the best gnocchi in the city, and I totally agree. One of the most memorable bites of the entire night.
Braised Beef Short Rib
roasted sunchoke, haricots verts, tamarind demi-glace
I didn’t eat this one (pescatarian life), but I watched it cut like butter. Tender, juicy, and apparently delicious.
Dessert
Pistachio Cheesecake
LA strawberry-citrus compote
This cheesecake TOOK THE CAKE. My first time having pistachio cheesecake, and I’m glad it was Zasu that broke my virginity. Silky, creamy, flavorful — absolutely delectable.
Drinks
(Non-Alcoholic) Cucumber-lime Mule
I kept it sober for the night, so I didn’t drink the champagne — my friend definitely enjoyed the extra pour. But let me tell you, that mocktail did not make me miss alcohol for one second. I had three and had to stop myself because I don’t do added sugar. It was just that good: light, crisp, refreshing, and not overly sweet.
The Experience
One of my favorite parts of the evening — beyond the food — was the people. There was a family visiting from D.C. at the table behind us. We overheard them ordering the grilled octopus and jumped in like:
“Don’t even play with yourselves. Order two. Thank us later.”
They did. And they loved it.
Before you knew it, we were swapping stories:
• They lived in New Orleans pre-Katrina.
• Their Lakefront home was destroyed.
• Dad, a retired psychiatrist, lost a jazz collection worth thousands.
• Daughter is now a top pediatrician in D.C.
We talked food, music, careers — all the things. It was SO New Orleans. The exact reason I love my city.
My Spill
Zasu was everything I didn’t know I needed that night. I left full, satisfied, and genuinely impressed. The food, the atmosphere, the human connection — a very memorable night.
If you want an elevated dining experience that still feels comfortable and welcoming, put Zasu at the top of your list. Perfect for date nights, girls’ nights out, special occasions, or if you just want fine-dining food in a casual environment.
Very pescatarian-friendly (as you can tell, I GOT MY LIFE).
Sober? You’ll still enjoy the full experience. Drinking? I heard the cocktails hit. After two Old Fashioneds and two glasses of champagne, my friend was leaning out the door.
Have you been to Zasu or any of New Orleans’ newly named MICHELIN Star restaurants? Spill your thoughts below.
MICHELIN Thoughts
After my visit, I looked up the MICHELIN criteria — ingredient quality, harmony of flavors, the mastery of culinary techniques, how the chef’s personality shines through their cuisine and, crucially, consistency across the entire menu and over time. Zasu received One MICHELIN Star, which “recognizes restaurants that deliver all of that at a truly high standard.” After experiencing it for myself, the star is well-deserved.
10/10. So ready to do it again.
Zasu New Orleans
• Location: 127 N Carrollton Ave, New Orleans, LA 70119
• Reservations: OpenTable
• Price Range: $50–$100 per person
• Hours: Mon–Sat, 5:30–10 p.m.
• Dress Code: Cute and casual
• Parking: Street parking only
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