Jacques Imos wait times

Question

I realize they don't take reservations, at least for a party of two. Do they do a "wait-list"? Best tips for minimizing a long wait. I believe we've scheduled in a Thursday night dinner.

Answer

Jacques-Imo's is a popular spot in New Orleans, known for its delicious and creative dishes, but it can definitely get busy, especially on weekend evenings. While they don't take reservations for parties of two, they do have a waiting system in place, which helps to manage the flow of diners. Here’s what you can expect and some tips for minimizing your wait time:

Waitlist System:

Jacques-Imo’s does use a waitlist, but it’s important to note that it can still get quite busy. You will likely be asked to add your name to the waitlist upon arrival, and then you’ll be given an estimated wait time. The wait can vary significantly depending on the time of day, the day of the week, and the season, but it’s not unusual for it to be 30-60 minutes, or even longer on weekends.

Tips to Minimize Your Wait:

Arrive Early: Try to arrive when they open (usually around 5:30 PM) or slightly before. This can give you a better chance of getting seated quickly, especially on a Thursday night when it may not be as crowded as a weekend night.
Go Late: If you’re flexible with your dinner time, consider going a little later (closer to 8 PM or later). The peak rush tends to taper off, and you may face less of a wait.
Call Ahead for Waitlist: Although they don't take reservations, you can sometimes call ahead and get your name on the waitlist in advance. It doesn’t guarantee immediate seating, but it can help reduce the wait time once you arrive.
Visit During Off-Peak Times: Thursday night is usually a bit quieter than Friday or Saturday nights, but it can still get busy, especially during tourist season. If possible, avoid times when other large parties are expected (e.g., around 6-7 PM).
Enjoy a Drink at the Bar: If you don’t mind waiting, grab a seat at the bar while you wait for your table. Jacques-Imo’s has a small bar area where you can enjoy a cocktail or appetizer while you wait for your table to become available.
Explore the Neighborhood: If you find the wait to be too long, you can explore the surrounding area (Uptown New Orleans) for other bars or cafes while keeping an eye on the waitlist. Make sure to check in with the host if you step away from the restaurant, as they may call your name if your table is ready.

Other Things to Know:

Size of Parties: If you are in a group larger than two, you might have a better chance of getting seated faster as Jacques-Imo's tends to prioritize larger groups when space becomes available.
Menu Highlights: The food at Jacques-Imo’s is absolutely worth the wait. Be sure to try their signature dishes like the Shrimp and Alligator Sausage Cheesecake, fried chicken, or their famous catfish.
Cash and Cards: Make sure to bring either cash or a card as they accept both, but it’s always good to double-check payment options before you get there.

Ultimately, the wait is part of the experience at Jacques-Imo’s, and while it can be frustrating, the delicious food and unique atmosphere make it well worth it! Arriving early, being flexible with your timing, or enjoying a drink while you wait can help make the wait more pleasant.