New Orleans is not known for amazing Chinese or Japanese food so when my friend from California visited, I was surprised when she wanted to go to Luvi. But the food is wonderful. We tried several of the raw dishes - everything was super fresh and melt in your mouth quality - yellowtail, tuna, salmon, you name it.
The Chef also has some great Shanghainese offerings like cold cucumber that is super authentic and not something you often find. There are also enough delicious options like dumplings and noodles to satiate your hunger. I hate leaving nicer restaurants still feeling hungry, which won’t be a problem at Luvi. Also the drinks are refreshing and imaginative. All in all a superb dining experience and a much needed addition to the NOLA food scene.
Wonderful cuisine, talented chef, friendly staff, and cozy decor! Fresh menu choices mix perfectly with delicate flavors. The relaxed atmosphere is a welcoming background to the sophisticated tastings placed before you. Don't miss this Uptown gem!
Hands down the best place in the city for a curated raw fish experience. I recommend the Feed Me which is the chef’s selection (changes every day). While I usually am okay with being surprised, you can ask them what type of fish they’re using that day to help determine.
Monkey snacks is my fav menu item. It’s a little unexpected because you think “bananas with raw fish??” but the sweet chili on top combines the banana and fish for a great taste.
My hubby, kiddos, and I went for dinner and we tried EVERYTHING! We had a great overall experience. Some dishes were better then others, but you must try the "Feed Me"! We shared it as an app with 4 ppl and all 3 plates were delicious 😋
Will be back
Recently dined at the chefs counter in LUVI while visiting New Orleans. Had a wonderful time tasting Chef Haos menu, chatting with him, and learning about his inspirations. His modern takes on classical Chinese dishes - especially the Mala Holla (braised beef shank sliced thin) and Golden Nugget (fried shrimp balls) - blew my mind and carried the meal. For me, the raw dishes "Feed me" were interesting, but lacked some balance. I was also surprised that the rice was somewhat mushy. Nevertheless, I think the food that Chef Hao serves is unique, and with a little refinement it will be perfect. The meal and experience was memorable and for that, I'm giving 5 stars.
Chef Hao created a beautiful space with an inventive and a delicious menu. The Raw Bar options are all amazing, fresh and a visual delight. The hot dishes, especially the curried dumplings, are on point. We'll for sure return!
Robert “Traustam” Dugas
+4
Very interesting and new flavors I haven't had before. Service was excellent. Small but very comfortable atmosphere. I would definitely go back.
We enjoyed a fantastic dinner at LUVI. We sat at the chef’s counter and enjoyed watching the raw fish dishes get prepared. Every dish was delicious and had bold and creative flavors that worked together and innovated on traditional classics without obscuring the dish.
The price was good and was a great way to enjoy quality and unique dishes that could easily cost twice as much elsewhere. The restaurant had a nice ambiance and a theme that perfectly complemented the food.
Crawfish wontons: 8/10 delicious if not slightly predictable
Golden nuggets: 9/10 excellent and decadent, and the blueberry sauce was unexpectedly savory and delicious
Feed me: 10/10 beautiful presentation and delightful and creative flavor combinations that really elevated the raw fish
Everything on the raw menu is great. The acoustics make for some loud conversation but that’s not necessarily bad. I really enjoyed the curried dumplings. Fried cabbage was like a delectable soup with ample cabbage on top. The service was also prompt and friendly. It seemed like the people genuinely enjoyed working there which is not always the case. Overall a winner
Wife and I went here for our anniversary. We really enjoyed the place a lot. Great atmosphere that didn't feel too cramped or too spacious.
Our waiter was great and gave us great advice. We actually didn't quite love the raw that much but I can see how people would. It just wasn't something I particularly loved. However, the spring rolls were phenomenal. Also we got the curry dumplings and the dan dan noodles both of which were excellent. We preferred the curry dumplings slightly more but it would hard to go wrong with either.
Great place and we will certainly go back.
Our dinner at LUVI absolutely exceeding my expectations, which were already pretty high based on Chef Hao's reputation. We enjoyed the 'Feed Me' option which included three exotic sushi dishes. The fish was fresh and would stand alone, but that's not how they do it - they are augmented with spices, oils, and other pairings. We also enjoyed the 'Golden Nuggets' and curry dumplings. Looking for a great date spot, or a place to celebrate a special occasion? Look no further.
This restaurant is a total gem! Every single thing we ordered - which was about half the menu - was delicious! The fish is so fresh it melts in your mouth. The service was excellent and the pacing of the dishes was perfect. So happy we were able to try it! And they are doing a great job with social distancing and have an outdoor table for parties under 4 people. Can’t wait to come back!
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