Bourbon & Bites: Local Chefs on the Best Pairings for Left Bank

A New Orleans-Inspired Feast of Flavor

In New Orleans, we don’t just eat—we celebrate. And when it comes to pairing food with a good bourbon, we go big, bold, and deliciously local. Bourbon isn’t just a drink down here—it’s a culinary experience. So we asked a few of our favorite New Orleans chefs to share their top picks for what to plate up when you’re pouring a glass of Left Bank Bourbon.

Get ready for some drool-worthy Southern flavor—and a whole lot of inspiration for your next night in.

🍗 1. Buttermilk Fried Chicken & Bourbon Old Fashioned

Chef Evie Marchand, Uptown

“There’s nothing more comforting than crispy, golden fried chicken—and nothing that cuts through the richness better than a well-balanced Old Fashioned,” says Chef Evie. The citrus twist and bitters bring brightness, while Left Bank’s caramel and spice tie it all together.

Pro tip: Add a drizzle of hot honey to the chicken and serve with pickled okra on the side.

🧀 2. Boudin Balls with Creole Mustard & Bourbon Neat

Chef Darnell LeClerc, French Quarter

“The earthy spice of boudin pairs beautifully with the oaky depth of a neat pour of Left Bank,” says Chef Darnell. “And when you dip it in that sharp Creole mustard? That’s the flavor handshake you didn’t know you needed.”

Why it works: The pork and spice echo the bourbon’s warmth, while the mustard adds a zippy contrast.

🍤 3. BBQ Shrimp & Bourbon Smash

Chef Lena Baptiste, Bywater Bistro

“I love pairing Gulf shrimp in a buttery, peppery BBQ sauce with a Bourbon Smash,” says Chef Lena. “The lemon and mint in the cocktail freshen up the dish, while the bourbon mirrors the depth of the sauce.”

Serve with: Crusty French bread and zero regrets.

🧁 4. Bread Pudding with Praline Sauce & Left Bank on the Rocks

Chef André Broussard, Garden District

“Bread pudding is the king of New Orleans desserts,” says Chef André, “and bourbon is its crown.” The praline sauce brings toasted pecan and brown sugar notes that echo the flavors in Left Bank.

Bourbon pairing: A classic pour over ice to contrast the warm, gooey dessert.

🥬 5. Collard Greens & Bourbon Milk Punch

Chef Mia Toussaint, Mid-City Supper Club

You might not think of collards and milk punch as soulmates—but Chef Mia begs to differ. “Creamy, sweet bourbon milk punch is a great match for smoky greens cooked down with ham hocks. It’s rich on rich, and it just works.”

Bonus points: Serve with cornbread and a wink.

🎉 Final Sip: A Feast for the Senses

New Orleans knows that food and drink aren’t separate experiences—they’re part of the same joyful ritual. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or pulling up a barstool, pairing Left Bank Bourbon with local flavors makes every bite and sip that much more soulful.

At Left Bank, we raise our glass to the chefs, the makers, and the flavors that keep New Orleans cooking. Bourbon and bites, y’all—it doesn’t get more NOLA than this. 🥃🍽️