Court of Two Sisters

The Basics

The building at 613 Royal Street had an interesting past before it was converted to a restaurant in the 1920s. Its first-ever resident was Etienne de Perier, a governor of Louisiana, then a colony of France. In the late 1880s, Emma and Bertha Camors opened what they called a “notions” shop known as “The Shop of the Two Sisters,” selling French perfumes, dresses, and other fine trinkets imported from Paris.

After the space was turned into a restaurant, actor Gary Cooper owned it for some years during and after World War II and it was a popular destination for servicemen and women stationed in New Orleans. The Fein family has been running the restaurant since the 1960s. It continues to attract visitors who come to enjoy the generous brunch buffet along with traditional creole favorites, such as jambalaya.

Things to Know Before You Go

• It’s a good idea to book in advance if you plan to visit for brunch or dinner.

• The restaurant is wheelchair accessible.

• The dress code is casual—jackets and ties are not required.

• Make sure you try a slice of king cake, a New Orleans speciality.

How to Get There

The Court of Two Sisters is located at 613 Royal Street in the French Quarter, between Toulouse and St. Peter streets. It is walking distance from most major points in Downtown New Orleans, and the Canal and St. Charles streetcar stop is a short walk away.

When to Get There

Jazz brunch is served every day from 9am–3pm. Dinner is served from 5:30pm–10pm. The restaurant is closed on Christmas Day. Reservations are recommended.

Enjoy the Sounds of NOLA Jazz at Preservation Hall

Started by Allan and Sandra Jaffe in the 1960s as a place to hold nightly live music sessions, Preservation Hall is dedicated to preserving traditional New Orleans jazz music. Over the years, it has hosted legendary musicians, including George Lewis and Punch Miller as well as modern-day performers like Harry Connick Jr. and Wendell Brunious.

Ways to explore

Known for its daily jazz brunch and Creole cuisine, the Court of Two Sisters is one of New Orleans’ top brunch spots—so it’s wise to reserve a table in advance, especially for peak morning and afternoon slots. Weekdays tend to have more availability than weekends. If you’re more interested in its history than dining, the restaurant is often featured as a stop on French Quarter walking tours, including those focused on the area’s architecture, history, or even its haunted landmarks.

Accessibility

Some areas of the Court of Two Sisters are wheelchair accessible. These include the courtyard and the Royal Court.

Age limits

None

What to pack

Camera, sunglasses and sunscreen (if dining outside)

What to wear

Casual clothing, comfortable footwear

Not allowed

Bringing luggage and bulky items with you, smoking in designated non-smoking areas

Amenities

Restrooms, private party rooms, outdoor seating

Address

The Court of Two Sisters is located on Royal Street in the city’s vibrant French Quarter. Most visitors get here on foot—either independently or on a walking tour. It’s also easily accessible via public transportation.

Driving

Driving isn’t recommended, as parking in the French Quarter is limited, expensive, and often hard to find. Public transportation, ridesharing apps, or walking are usually easier and less stressful alternatives.

Public transportation

It’s simple to get to the restaurant by public transportation. You can catch bus #08, #51, #57, #61, or #91, all of which stop nearby. You can also travel by streetcar line #47.

Best times to visit

The restaurant is renowned for its jazz brunch, so it’s best to make a reservation in the morning or early afternoon so you can have the full experience.

Best days to visit

With daily opening times, it’s always a good day to visit. Weekdays may offer better availability than weekends.

Best months to visit

New Orleans weather is usually best between March and May, so come during this time for pleasant outdoor dining.

Special events

The daily jazz brunch is the must-attend event, but coming in the festive season is especially fun if you manage to book a jazz brunch with Santa.