Fairmont New Orleans: The luxury hotel brand returns to the city after 19 years, anchoring a converted 1970 tower in the Central Business District with two chef-driven dining concepts and a rooftop bar.
Fairmont Hotels & Resorts opened Fairmont New Orleans on November 8, 2026, ending a 19-year absence from the city. The 250-room property occupies a repurposed tower at 1010 Common Street in the Central Business District, a location that positions it near both the French Quarter and the Caesar Superdome. The building, originally constructed in 1970 and designed by architectural firm Skidmore, Owings & Merrill, previously housed the Bank of New Orleans before being redeveloped by Kailas Companies.
The hotel’s design preserves the building’s defining architectural elements. Bronze detailing, concrete surfaces, and sections of the original cypress ceiling remain intact alongside contemporary interiors developed by the Rockwell Group, the firm behind the revamped W New York at Union Square. The design approach draws from New Orleans’ cultural identity and the structure’s 1970s character, combining modern furnishings with local artistic references and restored features.
Fairmont New Orleans Welcomes Emeril Lagasse’s Two Restaurant Concepts
Celebrity chef Emeril Lagasse and The Emeril Group partnered with Fairmont to operate two restaurants within the hotel. Delmonico Steakhouse presents the finest cuts of steaks, Japanese Wagyu, seafood, oysters, and caviar, with tableside presentations including Chateaubriand, Caesar salad, and Bananas Foster. The Café by Emeril offers a more casual experience with breakfast and lunch service, blending French brasserie and Creole flavors with Southern favorites.
Room Types and Premium Tiers
The hotel spans 17 floors with guest rooms and suites featuring floor-to-ceiling windows offering city views. Individual furnishings and artwork reflect Louisiana’s landscapes and cultural traditions. Fairmont Gold, a premium accommodation tier launching in December 2026, will occupy the 29th and 30th floors. Guests selecting this tier gain access to a private lounge overlooking the Mississippi River, dedicated concierge assistance, and exclusive amenities.
Rooftop Bar and Wellness Facilities
The hotel includes a rooftop bar and wellness offerings, with the rooftop experiences and spa services scheduled to launch in December 2026. The property also features meeting facilities and a grand ballroom with the original cypress wood ceiling and vintage Italianate chandeliers, positioning it for events and galas.
The opening strengthens parent company Accor’s luxury portfolio and represents a significant step in Fairmont’s international expansion. The redevelopment revitalized a prominent commercial building in one of New Orleans’ central districts, blending historic preservation with modern hospitality infrastructure.
Sources: travelandtourworld.com, wallpaper.com
