New Orleans' Windsor Court Opens New Restaurant, The Grill Room

In a city renowned for spectacular food, the Mobil Four-Star and AAA Four-Diamond restaurant in the award-winning Windsor Court Hotel has long been recognized as one of the best in the country, including one of Zagat's Top 100 Hotel Dining Rooms. As the hotel begins 2009, the restaurant has launched exciting plans to return to its original name, "The Grill Room," with a new chef, new menu, new management, service team, a fabulous dining program, and a totally new attitude.

"The Grill Room will ignite more than just your palate – it will elevate your entire evening," said General Manager, David Teich. "We have created a room that brings together a sophisticated ambiance and style that will stir your senses on all levels."

As the new Executive Chef of the Windsor Court, Drew Dzejak comes to the city's premier hotel from one of Orient-Express’ most esteemed properties, Charleston Place in Charleston, South Carolina, where he has had a celebrated career. Rising through the ranks, he most recently served as Chef de Cuisine for the hotel's award-winning Palmetto Café.

After graduating from Johnson and Wales University, Drew began his career as part of the culinary team who earned the exclusive Mobil Five Star, AAA Five Diamond award for the Woodlands Inn located in Summerville, South Carolina.

“I’m very happy to join the New Orleans culinary scene,” said Dzejak. “This is an amazing city and I feel very fortunate to be able to combine my previous experience and incorporate the wealth of Louisiana ingredients to offer a decidedly different menu in The Grill Room.” His new menu showcases innovative Contemporary American cuisine with Southern influences, local ingredients, and a unique concept of four culinary quadrants sure to provide an upscale dining experience – Southern, Unadulterated, Steakhouse and Indulge. Among the exceptional choices are Grilled Foie Gras & Lobster, Carpaccio of Angus Beef, Local Oyster Trio or a Panko Crusted Veal Chop impeccably served in an updated setting of relaxed elegance. The restaurant wine list, one of the best in the city, includes 50 wines under $50 and has been recognized by Wine Spectator Magazine with a Best of Award of Excellence.

Complimenting the culinary offering is newly appointed Executive Pastry Chef Shun Li. Shun also came from Charleston Place where he created fantastically innovative desserts for the Charleston Grill and Palmetto Café. Prior to joining Charleston Place, Li was Pastry Chef at the Sienna Restaurant training under nationally acclaimed Executive Chef Ken Vedrinski.

Overseeing both the culinary and service front are two talented newcomers Hector Rubio, Food & Beverage Director, and Sara Kavanaugh, Restaurant Manager. "Guests of The Grill Room are in for a totally different experience," said Rubio. "This new team is very passionate about providing innovative food in a lively unstuffy environment. This room is not just for special occasions anymore. It is the place to be in 2009."

Adding to the new, updated contemporary décor and relaxed environment, the entertainers and piano have been moved just inside The Grill Room to elevate evenings to a soulful level. Patrons of both the restaurant and the adjoining Polo Club Lounge have a vantage point to enjoy the upbeat, live jazz featured seven nights a week.

The Grill Room is open daily for breakfast, lunch and dinner and Sunday Champagne Brunch. Live entertainment seven days a week.

For complete information on the Frequent Dining Program, and reservations please call The Grill Room at 504-522-1994.