A revived New Orleans institution where a son has taken over from his father and an up-and-coming Gulfport, Mississippi hot spot were named among the 2025 best new restaurants in the U.S. by Esquire .

Emeril’s, fresh off of being awarded two Michelin stars in November, received its latest accolade after it reopened under chef E.J. Lagasse. Siren Social Club, a Gulfport restaurant located inside Hotel Vela that opened last year, was also named to the list. They are the only two eateries in Louisiana and Mississippi to make the rankings.

Emeril’s

The widely-acclaimed tasting menu iteration of Emeril’s was named comeback of the year by Esquire.

The 22-year-old E.J. Lagasse was also named rising star of the year.

In his write-up, Joshua David Stein praised E.J. Lagasse’s refinements

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