If you’re looking for a place that captures the warm soul of the South with a modern twist, Willa Jean New Orleans should be at the top of your list. Tucked in the heart of the city’s Central Business District, Willa Jean is more than just a bakery—it’s a full experience of Southern comfort, delightful pastries, and feel-good brunches that keep locals and tourists coming back for more.
In this guide, we’ll take a deep dive into what makes Willa Jean New Orleans a culinary gem. From its creative menu and inviting ambiance to the woman-led legacy behind the name, this article explores it all.
Willa Jean was opened in 2015 by Chef Kelly Fields and her partner Chef Lisa White. It started as a modern bakery but quickly evolved into a full-service restaurant. The name “Willa Jean” pays tribute to Fields’ grandmother, a strong Southern woman whose spirit lives through every bite.
Chef Fields’ mission was clear: to bring new life to Southern food traditions while keeping the warmth and authenticity intact. And she succeeded. Willa Jean became a beloved spot for people who love scratch-made biscuits, creative comfort food, and a Southern-style hospitality that feels like home.
From the moment you walk in, you’re greeted with a modern-rustic vibe. The design balances industrial elements—exposed brick, high ceilings—with soft, inviting touches like wooden accents and warm lighting. It’s a place where you can come with friends for brunch, bring a laptop and work solo, or enjoy a casual date.
But the real star? The menu at Willa Jean New Orleans.
No trip to Willa Jean is complete without trying their biscuits. Whether you go for them plain with butter and jam or order them smothered in sausage gravy or fried chicken, these biscuits are a flaky, buttery dream.
Willa Jean is arguably one of the best brunch spots in New Orleans. Their brunch menu is a playful yet soulful collection of Southern dishes with modern twists:
Each dish feels familiar yet exciting, thanks to bold flavors and perfect presentation.
The bakery section at Willa Jean deserves its own spotlight. From giant cookies and brownies to seasonal pies and cakes, every sweet item is made fresh, in-house. Some of the favorites include:
Pair any of these with their signature coffee or matcha latte, and you’re in for a treat.
Willa Jean offers much more than food. Their beverage menu includes locally roasted coffee, lattes with house-made syrups, and brunch-worthy cocktails like mimosas and Bloody Marys.
If you’re there later in the day, you can enjoy:
This makes Willa Jean a versatile spot—from morning meetings to weekend celebrations.
Willa Jean sits right in downtown New Orleans, close to major hotels, office buildings, and attractions like the Superdome and French Quarter. It’s a perfect pit stop whether you’re sightseeing, heading to work, or just craving a solid meal.
The space is designed to be welcoming for everyone. You’ll find communal tables, small booths, bar seating, and even outdoor spots if the weather is nice. Whether you’re alone or with a group, Willa Jean makes it easy to relax and enjoy.
Southern hospitality shines here. The staff is warm, attentive, and always ready to offer recommendations. It’s the kind of place where you feel taken care of, not rushed—perfect for a slow brunch or relaxed afternoon.
During holidays like Thanksgiving, Christmas, and Easter, Willa Jean offers special take-home meals and baked goods. From entire pies to savory holiday dishes, you can enjoy their flavors even from the comfort of your home.
They also sell curated boxes filled with pastries, cookies, and branded items—great for gifts or self-care weekends.
Willa Jean New Orleans has received praise from food critics, magazines, and travel bloggers. Chef Kelly Fields was awarded the James Beard Award for Outstanding Pastry Chef in 2019. This not only brought more spotlight to Willa Jean but also reinforced its reputation as one of the best spots in the South.
Location: 611 O’Keefe Ave, New Orleans, LA 70113
Phone: (504) 509-7334
Website: www.willajean.com
There’s ample parking nearby, and the restaurant is easily accessible by public transportation or a quick rideshare from most downtown hotels.
Here are some common themes from reviews on Yelp, TripAdvisor, and Google:
It’s clear that Willa Jean leaves a lasting impression.
Willa Jean New Orleans is a perfect example of how food can be comforting, fun, and elevated all at once. It blends the heart of Southern hospitality with innovative, high-quality cooking. Whether you’re a New Orleans local or just visiting for the weekend, this bakery and brunch hotspot should absolutely be on your list.
From the flaky biscuits to the banana bread and everything in between, Willa Jean New Orleans is more than a restaurant—it’s a love letter to Southern food.
So next time you’re in town, pull up a chair, order that coffee, and let yourself be wrapped in the warm, buttery embrace of Willa Jean.
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