About Us
Nestled in a beautifully restored 200-year-old Creole cottage in the heart of the French Quarter, Bayona has been one of New Orleans’ most celebrated dining destinations since opening its doors in 1990.
Founded by award-winning Chef Susan Spicer and Regina Keever, now led by Executive Chef Christy Engeran, Bayona is known for its imaginative cuisine that blends global inspiration with the finest local ingredients. Our menus celebrate the bounty of the Gulf Coast while drawing influence from the flavors of France, the Mediterranean, Asia, and beyond—creating dishes that are both familiar and unexpected.
Dining at Bayona is about more than exceptional food. Whether you’re enjoying lunch in our lush courtyard, celebrating a special occasion in one of our intimate dining rooms, or sharing a bottle from our thoughtfully curated wine collection, every visit is designed to feel warm, welcoming, and unforgettable. For over three decades, Bayona has remained committed to gracious service, exceptional cuisine, and creating memorable experiences for every guest who walks through our doors.
Awards
Bayona Awards & Recognition
James Beard Award – Best Chef: Southeast (1993) – Chef Susan Spicer
James Beard Foundation – Who’s Who of Food & Beverage in America (2010) – Chef Susan Spicer
Mondavi Culinary Excellence Award (1995) – Chef Susan Spicer
Restaurant & Institutions Ivy Award (1996) – Bayona
Nation’s Restaurant News Fine Dining Hall of Fame (1998) – Bayona
Gourmet Magazine – America’s Top Tables
Zagat Survey – Consistently Ranked Among New Orleans’ Top 5 Restaurants
New Orleans Magazine – Favorite Chef – Chef Susan Spicer
Five Beans Rating – Highest restaurant rating awarded by The Times-Picayune
Mobile Travel Guide / Mobile Star Awards – Four-Star Rating, one of only two New Orleans restaurants to receive the distinction during that period
Additional Honors
Chef Susan Spicer was named one of Food & Wine‘s Best New Chefs (1989), prior to opening Bayona.
Chef Susan Spicer was inducted into the Food & Wine Best New Chefs Hall of Fame (2008).
Chef Susan Spicer received the Lafcadio Hearn Award from the John Folse Culinary Institute for her lasting contributions to Louisiana cuisine (2009).
Awards & Recognition
James Beard Award Winner – Best Chef: Southeast
James Beard Foundation Who’s Who of Food & Beverage in America
Restaurant & Institutions Ivy Award
Nation’s Restaurant News Fine Dining Hall of Fame
Gourmet Magazine’s America’s Top Tables
Mondavi Culinary Excellence Award
Zagat Top 5 Restaurant in New Orleans
The Times-Picayune Five Beans Rating
Mobile Travel Guide Four-Star Restaurant
New Orleans Magazine Favorite Chef