Guide Note

Oysters Rockefeller, a dish created at Antoine's Restaurant in New Orleans, consists of fresh oysters topped with a mixture of spinach, onions, cheese, breadcrumbs and butter, that are baked or broiled.

Fast Facts

1. Created by chef Jules Alciatore in 1899 at Antoine's Restaurant in New Orleans
2. Named for John D. Rockefeller to symbolize the richness of the dish
3. The original recipe has never been revealed

Jules Alciatore, the owner of Antoine's Restaurant, wanted to create a signature dish that would use local ingredients. So he invented Oysters Rockefeller using oysters from the Gulf of Mexico.

The dish was given its name because Alciatore wanted a name that would signify the "richest in the world." John D. Rockefeller at that time represented the absolute pinnacle of wealth and decadence.