What is Napoleon House known for?

Napoleon House is a French Quarter icon renowned for its Pimm’s Cup cocktail and warm muffuletta sandwich, as well as its classic New Orleans cuisine.

Napoleon House is open daily, seven days a week, from 11:00 AM to 10:00 PM.

Do I need a reservation?

No, reservations are not available; walk-ins are welcome.

What is the history of the building?

Built in 1797 as the residence of New Orleans Mayor Nicholas Girod, the building was declared a National Historic Landmark in 1970 for its French-influenced architecture. It has operated as a restaurant since 1914.

Why is it called Napoleon House?

The name comes from Mayor Girod's 1821 offer to provide refuge to Napoleon Bonaparte during his exile.

What should I check before going?

Use Gyde for context, then check official sources for current hours, tickets, construction, and closures.

Napoleon House in New Orleans

Name: Napoleon House
Address: 500 Chartres St, New Orleans, LA 70130, New Orleans, Orleans Parish, US

Napoleon House

A French Quarter icon and National Historic Landmark, this European-style café is famous for its legendary Pimm’s Cups and warm muffuletta sandwiches served in a building dating back to 1797.

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What to know

Located at 500 Chartres Street, Napoleon House is a cornerstone of the French Quarter. The building was constructed in 1797 to serve as the residence for Nicholas Girod, who was the mayor of New Orleans at the time. Due to its exceptional French-influenced architecture, the site was officially designated as a National Historic Landmark in 1970. The establishment earned its evocative name from a generous gesture made by Mayor Girod in 1821, when he offered to provide refuge to the exiled Napoleon Bonaparte. While the Emperor never arrived, the spirit of hospitality remained. Since 1914, the building has operated as a restaurant, held by the Impastato family for over a century before Ralph Brennan accepted stewardship in May 2015. Today, the venue functions as a European-style café that preserves its traditional atmosphere by playing classical music and opera. It is a trailblazer in the beverage world, claiming to be the first establishment in America to offer Pimm's Cups. This house specialty is often paired with their iconic warm muffuletta, which features cured meats, sesame bread, and tangy olive salad. Visitors can also enjoy classic Cajun and Creole-inspired fare, including Jambalaya, Red Beans and Rice, and Seafood Gumbo. The interior exudes the patina of living history, making it a destination for those seeking authenticity in the heart of the city.

Visitor tips

Walk-ins are welcome as the restaurant does not accept reservations.
Plan your visit between 11:00 AM and 10:00 PM, as they are open daily.
Try the Warm Muffuletta, as most other local spots serve this sandwich cold.
Allow extra time for seating during peak hours since the venue is a popular icon.

Nearby context

Situated on Chartres Street, Napoleon House sits in the historic heart of the French Quarter, surrounded by the colonial-era charm and narrow streets characteristic of the oldest neighborhood in New Orleans.

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