Best Restaurants in New Orleans
American
Bearcat Café is a popular choice in the New Orleans
brunch scene, offering up the perfect blend of Southern comfort food and a few
modern twists. With dishes such as their vegan quesadilla, their signature
Bearcat Breakfast, or shrimp & grits, Bearcat combines the best of local
ingredients and bold flavors to ensure happy customers have full bellies. Multiple Locations, bearcatcafe.com
Crescent City Steaks has not been waning since 1934. They have high-quality steaks and an old-school ambience that brings everyone together. The flavors of their cowboy ribeye, a tender and rich steak, lasso your taste buds in to enjoy a one-of-a-kind experience. Head down to Crescent City Steaks and give your taste buds the ride of their lives. 1001 N. Broad St., (504) 821-3271, crescentcitysteaks.com
Daisy Dukes is the perfect hotspot for funky vibes and mouth-watering Southern cuisine. Serving up sizzling seafood, delicious po-boys, award-winning Cajun Bloody Marys, and other New Orleans classics, this joint is sure to delight the entire party. Make sure to devour the delicious gator, hot sausage, or shrimp po-boys at Daisy Dukes, as well. Multiple Locations, daisydukesrestaurant.com
Dat Dog is known for their creative hot dogs and a myriad of flavor combos that make hot dog aficionados learn a few new tricks. With all sorts of hot dogs, from the Irish Channel dog to the Étouffée Special, the restaurant infuses new flavors into every bite. Fetch yourself a bite of New Orleans flair at Dat Dog. Multiple Locations, datdog.com
Eats Inc. is a friendly
neighborhood coffee shop and bakery that takes pride in making their dishes
from scratch. With fresh pastries such as their bear claws, fruit turnovers,
and jalapeño croissants, they also serve up Italian classics including chicken piccata and caprese salad. It's a local favorite where comfort food meets
homemade charm that you can't miss. 7716
Maple St., (504) 372-3289
Gattuso's Neighborhood Restaurant & Bar brings laid-back charm and bold New Orleans flavor together in Old Gretna. Serving up dishes such as their sloppy roast beef po-boy and their red beans & rice, Gattuso's also prides itself on their craft beers and signature cocktails such as their Blue Moon, Lavender Haze, and their Rum Punch. It's where Southern hospitality is served. 435 Huey P. Long Ave., Gretna, (504) 368-1114, gattusos.net
Ike's Love & Sandwiches is rewriting the sandwich playbook. Ike's is bringing out sandwiches with wild flavors and eccentric names such as their Halal Backstabber, Matt Cain, and their vegan-friendly Time Traveler's Wife that all come with their signature dirty sauce. One bite of their sandwiches and your regular turkey and cheese sandwich will never taste quite the same again. 1940 Dauphine St., (504) 581-8230, ikessandwich.com
Jimmy J's Café puts the pop into mom & pop shops with loud colors, louder flavors, and zero tolerance for the bland. Whipping up brunch specials such as their Cajun Cuban sandwiches, Monte Cristo French toast, or their JJ's Breakfast Bowl, they're bursting with flavor. Jimmy J's is perfect for a quick bite or a laid-back time with friends. 115 Chartres St., (504) 309-9360, jimmyjscafe.com
Legacy Kitchen's Steak + Chop elevates the steakhouse experience without presenting a stuffy atmosphere. With juicy, sizzling steaks seasoned to perfection, such as their Legacy surf & turf, center cut top sirloin, and their cowboy bone-in ribeye, all of their steaks hit the spot. Steak + Chop cuts out the gimmicks and tricks and presents truly killer plates. 91 Westbank Expy., Gretna, (504) 513-2606, legacykitchen.com
Luke is where "Creole" meets "cool and fresh." This brasserie blends French, German, and Creole flavors into every dish from their croque monsieur to their Luke burger and their seafood gumbo a la Creole, each bite brings out that special experience. So whether it's breakfast, lunch, or late bites, Luke proves timeless flavors that never fail to impress. 333 St. Charles Ave., (504) 378-2840, lukeneworleans.com
New Orleans Vampire Café is offering a fang-tastic dining experience in the heart of the French Quarter. With hypnotizing options such as their alligator po-boys, French toast, and their vampire breakfast burger, all are paired perfectly with their refreshing bottomless mimosas and Bloodiest Marys. This is a perfect spot for those seeking a little intrigue with their meal. 801 Royal St., (504) 581-0801, nolavampirecafe.com
NOLA Steak hits the jackpot for your taste buds. Feast on jumbo lump crab cakes, the magnolia mushroom campanelle, or their juicy 14 oz. NOLA Strip steak, all of which hits the spot with their beers or mixed drink specials. Whether you win or lose at the slots in Boomtown Casino, you'll certainly win at the tables in NOLA Steak. 4132 Peters Rd., Harvey, (885) 805-5596, boomtownneworleans.com
Sala is the place where cocktails flow as smoothly as the conversation. Indulge in dishes such as their panne chicken linguine and blackened catfish topped with crabmeat or enjoy their drinks such as the coconut mojito or the frozen peach bellini. Come for the food and stay for the good times and a second round of drinks. 124 Lake Marina Ave., (504) 513-2670, salanola.com
Spudly's Super Spuds turns the humble baked potato into a superb meal to enjoy. With dishes such as their Wisconsin super spud, crawfish spud, or their pizza spud, the sky's the limit for flavor. Also serving soups, salads, and gourmet burgers, Spudly's has the perfect line-up to give everyone a generous pinch of spud-stuffed satisfaction. 2609 Harvard Ave., Metairie, (504) 455-3250, spudlys.com
Vacca Steakhouse invites guests to sink their teeth into their premier steaks and enjoy their smooth drinks. With dishes such as their succulent 16 oz. NY Strip and shrimp fra diavolo, as well as their buttery Chilean sea bass, each plate is a masterclass in flavor. Vacca is a dining experience that leaves an impression, so make your reservations now. 3524 Severn Ave., Metairie, (504) 318-3808, vaccasteakhouse.com
Vampire Apothecary Restaurant and Bar is an immersive dining experience where dark elegance meets tantalizing flavors. With offerings such as their roasted bone marrow, duck breast pastrami arugula salads, or their tea brined chicken thighs, they all combine exceptionally with their wide array of coffees, teas, and cocktails. It's the perfect nook to sink your teeth into something unforgettable. 725 St. Peter St., (504) 766-8179, vampireapothecary.com
Virgin Hotels New Orleans has fantastic businesses to try: Commons Club and the Pool Club. Serving dishes such as swordfish, la wagyu burger, and wild mushroom rigatoni, Commons Club's menu is perfectly catered to suit your palette. Meanwhile, the Pool Club offers fancy small bites including blue crab dip, craft cocktails, and a refreshing rooftop pool. 550 Baronne St., (504) 603-8000, virginhotels.com/new-orleans
Asian
Asia serves up bold Chinese and Vietnamese flavors packed with flair in Boomtown Casino & Hotel on the Westbank. From their sizzling shaking beef to their delectable Asia's Pan entree, or even their take on Vietnamese rice noodle soup, every dish is packed with personality. It's the perfect spot for a flavorful escape from the slots. 4132 Peters Rd., Harvey, (504) 364-8812, boomtownneworleans.com
Mikimoto Restaurant has got your back when your sushi craving goes hard. Some favorites include their explosive Crunchy Dynamite Roll, their sweet Mango Mania Roll, and their unique Fantasy Box, which combines spicy tuna, crawfish, salmon, mango, and more. With fresh seafood, fast service, and feel-good vibes, sushi night has found its happy place at Mikimoto. 3301 S. Carrollton Ave., (504) 488-1881, mikimotosushi.com
Thai'd Up is bringing the heat with authentic Thai cuisine with bold flavors and street food charm. Including their crispy roti with curry dip, spicy basil stir-fry, creamy panang curry, and their delicious tom yum, nothing is worth missing. Cozy, casual, and full of kick, it's dangerously easy to get "Thai'd up" and stay for a long while. 1839 Gentilly Blvd., (504) 644-5790, thaidup.co
Bars With Great Food
Bourbon "O" Bar, tucked inside the Bourbon Orleans Hotel, offers a refined retreat from the hustle and bustle of Bourbon Street. Enjoy classic cocktails such as their Ramos Gin Fizz, the Brown Sugar Old Fashioned, and their Veuve Clicquot. With nightly live jazz and a sophisticated vibe, it's the perfect spot to unwind in the French Quarter. 730 Bourbon St., (855) 771-5214, bourbonorleans.com
Buffa's Bar & Restaurant has been around since 1939 and features delicious NOLA-style bar food and live musical entertainment seven days a week. From burgers and wings to specialty and deli sandwiches, there's plenty to dig into. Make sure to get one of Buffa's speciality dishes including blackened redfish, red beans & rice, crawfish étouffée, and redfish del Buffa. 1001 Esplanade Ave., (504) 949-0038, buffasbar.com
JB's Fuel Dock serves up both lakeside views and tasty bites. Whether you're digging into their juicy burgers, enjoying their finger-licking amazing wings, or digging into their unique pizzas, this spot has something for everyone. With both indoor and outdoor seating, friendly service, and a dog-friendly vibe, JB's Fuel Dock is the perfect pitstop for a relaxing meal. 126 S. Roadway St., (504) 510-2260, jbsfueldock.com
Le Bon Temps Roule has stood the test of time since 1979, offering live music, lively conversation, and renowned Bloody Marys. With dishes such as their blackened mahi sandwich and their Texas steak melt, you'll find the perfect bite to match the bar's bold personality. With pool tables and live brass band music, the good times are truly rolling. 4801 Magazine St., (504) 897-3448, lbtrnola.com
Peacock Room, nestled in the Kimpton Hotel Fontenot, dazzles guests with its vibrant ambience and inventive menu. Dishes, such as their smoked Gulf fish dip and curry cashews, pair exceptionally with their inventive beverages, such as their Birds of Paradise. If you wish to drink somewhere with style and charm, then this venue serves all your needs. 501 Tchoupitoulas St., (504) 324-3073, peacockroomnola.com
Rivershack Tavern is a funky spot with live music, drinks galore, and eclectic decor. The tavern offers a menu filled with favorites such as fried alligator bites, boudin egg rolls, and the Shank-You burger, which match well with local beers including Abita Purple Haze and Parish Envie. It's hard to beat their good eats, cold drinks, and fun vibes. 3449 River Rd., Jefferson, (504) 834-4938, rivershacktavern.com
Surrey's Cafe & Juice Bar offers a vibrant and invigorating
brunch experience with a Latin twist. Signature dishes include Banana Foster
French toast, Surrey's egg plate, the Costa Rican breakfast, and the crabmeat
omelet. Bagels, coffees, teas, and freshly-squeezed juices also bring the whole
menu together. Open Thursday through Monday, Surrey's a great start to the day.
1418 Magazine St., (504) 524-3828, surreysnola.com
The Blackbird Hotel offers a chic lobby bar that serves a curated selection of cocktails, mocktails, tequilas, whiskeys, and a wine list. With drinks such as their Blackbird Bramble, Quoth the Raven, and the Sea Level Spritz, they provide a relaxed yet refined atmosphere that can be enjoyed with friends. Have a bite and give a toast to The Blackbird. 1612 Prytania St., (504) 383-7500, theblackbirdnola.com
The Channel combines Irish pub charm with NOLA flavor to serve up cold pints and bold banter. Dig into favorites such as hot honey fried chicken sandwiches, roast beef po-boys, and the Irish Channel cheeseburger, along with their cold pints to drink it all down. Head on over to The Channel, in the Irish Channel, to kick back and relax. 2604 Magazine St., (504) 381-4680, thechannelneworleans.com
The Jimani, a French Quarter staple since 1971, is known for their iconic jello shots, including Mysterious Margarita and Bananas Foster flavors, plus a huge beer and spirits selection. Said to be haunted, it stills offers a welcoming, lively vibe for all. With big-screen sports, a jukebox, and plenty of drinks, it's a go-to-spot for locals and visitors alike. 141 Chartres St., (504) 524-0493, thejimani.com
Café
Café Amelie strives to treat all their clients like royalty with its romantic ambiance and refined take on Louisiana cuisine. Signature dishes include the Cajun catfish sandwich, their confit duck leg, and their Amelia pasta, which is rich with flavor. Save some room for their seasonal desserts because they are just as sweet as the romance in the air. 900 Royal St., (504) 412-8065, cafeamelie.com
Crack'D Brunch has cracked the code for amazing brunch with friends and family. With dishes such as their shrimp & grits, the bacon tower, and their signature seafood omelet, everyone at the table will be satisfied. You don't need to break a few eggs to enjoy an amazing brunch with family or some friends over at Crack'D. 1901 Sophie Wright Pl., (504) 381-4678, crackdbrunch.com
The Vintage Restaurant offers a chic café experience with a focus on gourmet beignets, craft cocktails, and artisanal coffees that are sustainable sourced. The flavors they present just pop out, so try their dulce de leches, cortados, or orange chai latte. This chic and inviting venue is ideal for some alone time or a fun hangout with friends. 3121 Magazine St., (504) 608-1008, thevintagenola.com
Willa Jean is where biscuits meet brilliance. This chic Southern bakery and dining spot offers a menu that's both comforting and inventive with a focus on hearty breakfasts and diverse brunches. Indulge in their Hangover Bowl with cheesy grits and short ribs or savor their Southern coconut cake for dessert. From breakfast to brunch, Willa Jean steals the show. 611 O'Keefe Ave., (504) 509-7334, willajean.com
Caribbean
Jamaican Jerk House brings bold Caribbean flavor to the
heart of New Orleans. Starring jerk chicken, spicy XL oxtails, and curry
snapper, their extensive menu is packed with spice. Wash it all down with their
peanut punch or JK mango tea, and you've got a meal worth remembering. Bring
your appetite and maybe a fire extinguisher for your tongue, too. 4017 St. Claude Ave., (504) 441-8905, jamaicanjerkhouse.com
French
King Brasserie and Bar offers a refined yet cordial dining experience that blends French and Mediterranean influences with Southern flavors for all guests to indulge in. Signature dishes include their crawfish beignets, steak tartare, and sea urchin carbonara, to name only a few. King Brasserie is a restaurant for all to enjoy, where sophistication flirts with indulgence. 521 Tchoupitoulas St., (504) 324-3000, kingbrasserieandbar.com
Restaurant August exudes class and a love for vintage European cuisine with a dash of Louisiana flair in New Orleans' Central Business District. Dishes such as their chanterelle mushroom pithivier, pan-seared golden tilefish, and their gnocchi "black and blue" are crafted with precision. This is the right place for all seeking refined cuisine for any month in the year. 301 Tchoupitoulas St., (504) 299-9777, restaurantaugust.com
Italian
Domenica Restaurant is serving up bold, handcrafted Italian dishes that take your taste buds on a tour of Italy. With handcrafted pastas and wood-fired pizzas in addition to their specialty dishes such as affettati misti, squid ink tagliolini, and their delightful gianduja budino, nothing disappoints. It's the perfect vacation that you don't need to book a flight for. 123 Baronne St., (504) 648-6020, domenicarestaurant.com
Mosca's Restaurant has been dishing out Creole Italian cuisine as a family business since 1946. Signature dishes such as their oysters mosca are served family-style and are perfect for sharing. Even their seasonal desserts come with a local touch, selected from Bae's Bakery and Angelo Brocato's, proving that our local businesses look out for one another. 4137 US Highway 90 W., Westwego, (504) 436-8950, moscasrestaurant.com
Paulie's is a brand-new restaurant that has set up shop on NOLA's hip and popular Oak Street. The joint specializes in New York Italian cuisine and offers plenty of delicious sandwiches including unique options such as the Buffalo Bill and the Jackie Robinson. Paulie's also offers salads and hot dogs, so there is plenty of variety over there. 8201 Oak St., pauliesneworleans.com
Pizza Domenica makes pizza so well, you'll think you have been transported to Naples with every bite. Delivering wood-fired pizzas, unique crust dipping sauces, craft beers, and more, there's so much that will hit the spot. Swing by during happy hour from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. Mondays to Fridays and enjoy half-off on pizzas, draft beers, and wines. Multiple Locations, pizzadomenica.com
Pulcinella!, located in the heart of the 7th Ward, serves homestyle Italian dishes that are not to be missed. Executive Chef Matty Hayes uses modern techniques on family recipes in order to create standout dishes including seafood cannelloni, grilled steak tagliata, pollo alla cacciatore, and more. Make sure to pair your meal with a glass of wine. 1300 St. Bernard Ave. 1st Floor, (504) 221-1560, dirtydimeproductions.com/pulcinella
U Pizza will have you making u-turns to head over there for a taste of their food. Choose from gourmet pizzas such as their Meat Lovers, Margherita, and Philly Classic or try their original Cajun-inspired Streetcar pizza and their signature U Special pizza. Toss in hearty pastas, sandwiches, and fresh salads, and there's so much to love at U Pizza. 1513 St. Charles Ave., (504) 381-4232, upizzanola.com
Venezia has been serving the best pizza all over New Orleans since 1957 and has now spread over to Gretna. With Italian classics such as pizzas, veal parmigiana, lasagna, and shrimp scampi, along with signature dishes such as their house special salad and their veal Pontchartrain, generous service comes packed with generous servings. One bite, and you're famiglia. Multiple Locations, venezianeworleans.com
Latin
34 Restaurant & Bar is Chef Emeril Lagasse's first restaurant dedicated to Portuguese cuisine and heritage. Dishes such as shrimp san miguel, arroz de paella, and bacalhau à Brás all burst with bold flavor. With a jamon bar, Portuguese architecture, and so much more to enjoy, 34 blends tradition and energy seamlessly into an experience to remember. 710 Baronne St., (504) 498-3434, 34restaurantandbar.com
Alma Café offers a vibrant fusion of Honduran heritage with Louisiana's local flavors. With signature dishes such as their handmade baleada sencillas, crispy camarones a la diables, and their tender bistec encebollado capture all of the soul and passion that is poured into every dish. At Alma Café, every bite feels like a warm embrace. Multiple Locations, eatalmanola.com
Empanola is a charming café that brings Latin
American and New Orleanian flavors all under one roof. These empanadas are
stamped with the names of their fillings so you know what flavors you're biting
into, such as chicken Peruvian, beef Argentina, crawfish étouffée, and vegan
yellow curry. This cafe doesn't just serve food—it leaves an impression. Multiple Locations, empanolaempanadas.com
Felipe's Mexican Taqueria, with multiple locations across the Greater New Orleans area, is the place to be for quality Mexican food. You can customize your burritos and tacos however you want or you can select one of Felipe's selections including their Philly quesadilla, California burrito, and Mexico City tacos. Make sure to also order a refreshing margarita or sangria. Multiple Locations, felipestaqueria.com
Middle Eastern
Lebanon's Café has been NOLA's go-to-spot for authentic Middle Eastern cuisine for over 20 years. From bona fide hummus and falafels to mouthwatering chicken shawarmas and rosemary lamb chops to delectable baklava and burma, this menu does not disappoint. Adorned with stunning art and decor and impeccable service, this venue creates an immersive dining experience into Middle Eastern hospitality. 1500 S. Carrollton Ave., (504) 862-6200, lebanonscafe.com
Shaya, in Uptown New Orleans, offers Israeli-inspired dishes with a menu crafted by Lebanese-born Executive Chef Fariz Choumali. Signature dishes included wood-fired pita with vegetable dips, wild mushroom hummus, and chicken schnitzel sandwiches. Save up room for the dark chocolate halva brownie. For a casual, modern take on Israeli food, Shaya is a more than worthy choice. 4213 Magazine St., (504) 891-4213, shayarestaurant.com
New Orleans Cuisine
3rd Block Depot is located in the Hotel de la Poste and offers mouthwatering Creole, Cajun, and other types of cuisine. Enjoy selections from their lunch menu, including the NOLA BBQ shrimp & grits, or order the crawfish omelet or the vegetable frittata from their Big Easy Breakfast menu. Save some room for their beignets or Basque cheesecake. 316 Chartres St., (504) 552-4095, 3rdblockdepot.com
Cajun Flames is where New Orleans and Creole spices shine. Menu favorites include fried calamari, frog legs, alligator bites, BBQ shrimp & grits, and Cajun seafood pasta, just to name a few. So if you're down to turn up the heat with delicious dishes paired with handcrafted draft beers and cocktails, then Cajun Flames is ready to serve. 1117 Decatur St., (504) 354-1214, cajunflames.com
Charlie's Restaurant & Catering is truly worth the scenic drive over to Violet, Louisiana. This spot specializes in traditional Louisiana food and also offers breakfast items and stuffed potatoes.You can't go wrong with any of Charlie's different po-boy options, including the garlic roast beef & debris, Cajun boudin sausage, fried catfish, and breaded veal cutlet. 6129 E. St. Bernard Hwy., Violet, (504) 682-9057
Chef Ron's Gumbo Stop is the pit stop that goes above and beyond with its gumbo. This restaurant has you covered with varied dishes such as mumbo gumbo, freckled gumbo, yumbo mumbo gumbo, bayou scampi, shrimp & mango salad, and more. It's bold, hearty, and proudly local— their stellar gumbo will make you vocal with delight. 2309 N. Causeway Blvd., Metairie, (504) 835-2022, gumbostop.com
Crescent City Brewhouse is the oldest brewpub in Louisiana, so you'll be tasting history while there. With beverages such as English stouts, Cajun micheladas, and dark 'n' stormys served alongside their oysters, classic Creole snacks, and entrees, you'll be satisfied. This venue is out of this world, so head on over and try a glass or two of their quality brews. 527 Decatur St., (504) 522-0571, crescentcitybrewhouse.com
Desire Oyster Bar, nestled in the Royal Sonesta Hotel on Bourbon Street, offers that quintessential New Orleans dining experience. Featuring classic dishes such as bourbon smoked wings, seafood gumbo, Louisiana crab cakes, chargrilled oysters, and fried seafood plates, Desire ensures all your desires are appeased. At Desire Oyster Bar, the world really is your oyster. 300 Bourbon St., (504) 553-2281, sonesta.com
Headquarters by Nice Guys NOLA puts everyone in the right headspace with their Creole and Southern-inspired dishes. With options such as their crispy gator bites, burgers, wings, and shrimp po-boys, you'll find something for every craving. Boasting craft cocktails, live music, and a laid-back atmosphere, it's the perfect space for a casual night out with your friends or family. 445 S. Rampart St., (504) 217-6851, headquartersnola.com
House of Blues New Orleans will get you out of any funk with its lively atmosphere, bold Southern flavors, and nonstop entertainment. Dive into their Voodoo shrimp, crispy wings, baby back ribs, or their HOB smash burger while soaking in their beverages or their live music. Feeling blue? This is the best place to enjoy it. 225 Decatur St., (504) 310-4999, houseofblues.com/neworleans
Lakeview Harbor is a local, family-owned restaurant known for hearty burgers, seafood, and Southern comfort food. Favorites include their catfish and oyster po-boys, wings, and their full rack ribs paired with their fresh Typhoon, cool Life Jacket, or their tropical Blue Hawaiian. Come hungry and leave happy, because this harbor always has a great catch. 8550 Pontchartrain Blvd., (504) 486-4887, lakeviewharbor.us
Legacy Kitchen's Craft Tavern has perfected the craft of Southern hospitality with elevated comfort food and house-made cocktails. From crawfish beignet bites to shrimp Breaux Bridge pasta and crawfish étouffée, every dish is a hit. Whether it's brunch, dinner, or drinks, Craft Tavern is the ideal spot for friends and families looking for a good time. 700 Tchoupitoulas St. #3612, (504) 613-2350, legacykitchen.com
Lil' Dizzy's Cafe has been a beloved family-operated hub for Creole soul food for decades. Favorites such as their golden fried chicken, gumbo, shrimp grillade, and their signature trout Baquet keep the family's culinary legacy alive and the locals stuffed. So come hungry to this community gem in the Tremé neighborhood and feel like you're part of the family. 1500 Esplanade Ave., (504) 766-8687, lildizzyscafe.net
Loretta's Authentic Pralines bakes up the sweetest sweets that New Orleans has to offer with delectable pralines and unique beignet creations. With praline flavors such as chocolate, coconut, and rum along with unique beignets such as praline, chocolate, crab, seafood, and peanut butter & jelly, Loretta's offers everything you might be craving. From sweet to savory, Loretta's knows how to satisfy. Multiple Locations, lorettaspralines.com
Lyons Corner has perfected brunch by serving fresh roasted coffee, perfectly crafted cocktails, and a delightful mix of creative and indulgent fare. With standout dishes such as breakfast empanadas, avocado toast, the catfish sandwiches, and Mr. T's double smash burgers, every bite is filled with flavor and style. Head down to Lyons Corner for the best brunch in town. 537 Gravier St., (504) 527-0006, lyonscornernola.com
Mandina's Restaurant is where Creole and Italian flavors come together like family. Serving up classic favorites such as crawfish cakes, homemade seafood gumbo, veal parmesan & spaghetti, and Gulf fish meunière, this family-owned gem has been satisfying locals and visitors for decades. With their cozy atmosphere and generous portions, you and your family will be coming back for more. 3800 Canal St., (504) 482-9179, mandinasrestaurant.com
Melba's is a local favorite
serving up NOLA comfort food around the clock for groups of all sizes. With
standout dishes including their Philly Voo-doo po-boy, 9th Ward gumbo, and the
shrimp 'n' fish plate, you can't help but go back for seconds. At Melba's, there's
always time for a po-boy and a daiquiri. 1525
Elysian Fields Ave., (504) 267-7765, melbas.com
Meril
is
where Emeril Lagasse's culinary expertise and New Orleans' vibrant flavors
collide. Offering a menu inspired by Chef Lagasse's global escapades and
personal favorite dishes such as Vietnamese caramel wings, red curry crab
noodles, and Gulf shrimp & pork dumplings, there's something for all walks
of life. At Meril's, every bite is a journey around the globe. 424 Girod St., (504) 526-3745, bemeril.com
Mother's Restaurant emulates mom-made cuisine filled with love and flavor. Since 1938, they've been cooking and serving up authentic flavors that feel just like home including dishes such as their famous Ferdi Special po-boys, shrimp Creole omelet, and Mae's filé gumbo alongside other Louisiana classics. At Mother's, you're not just a customer—you're treated like family. 401 Poydras St., (504) 523-9656, mothersrestaurant.net
New Orleans Creole Cookery brings bold flavors and rich history to their menu. This is a French Quarter favorite known for its lively courtyard and classic Creole dishes such as redfish Pontchartrain, shrimp & grits, and the Taste of New Orleans sampler with red beans & rice, jambalaya, shrimp Creole, and crawfish étouffée. New Orleans Creole Cookery celebrates true New Orleans flavors. 510 Toulouse St., (504) 524-9632, neworleanscreolecookery.com
Neyow's Creole Cafe is a vibrant gem offering authentic Creole cuisine with a lively atmosphere and lovely drinks. With dishes such as chargrilled oysters, Neyow's smokin' wings, and Shrimp on the Avenue pasta, this spot serves up generous portions and bold flavors in spades. The flavors are not to be missed at Neyow's Creole Cafe. 3332 Bienville St., (504) 827-5474, neworleans.neyows.com
Neyow's XL takes everything you love about Neyow's Creole Cafe and suits it up, steakhouse-style. Serving up their 16 oz. ribeyes, fried lobster tails, and their XL "over the top" pasta with style, this venue blends Creole flavor with upscale presentation. At Neyow's XL, the portions are big, the flavors bigger, and the vibe is unmistakably New Orleans. 3336 Bienville St., (504) 503-1081, xl.neyows.com
Nice Guys NOLA dishes out explosive Creole and Cajun flavors with crowd-pleasers such as their chargrilled oysters, seafood rice bowls, shrimp & grits, Earhart fries, and boozy sno-balls to make sure all the guys and gals are satisfied. With soul-filled flavors and a playful vibe, it's clear that Nice Guys really knows how to cook up a good time. 7910 Earhart Blvd., (504) 302-2404, niceguysnola.com
Orleans Grapevine Wine Bar and Bistro is offering the perfect blend of French, Cajun, and Creole cuisine in a refined yet cozy venue for all guests to enjoy. Featuring dishes such as gumbo du jour, black mussels, and ravioli Orleans, each plate can be expertly paired with selections from their extensive wine list. Head through the grapevine to Orleans Grapevine. 720 Orleans Ave., (504) 523-1930, orleansgrapevine.com
Parasol's Bar & Restaurant has boasted some of the best po-boys, gumbos, and other specialties in the city for almost 60 years. With options such as their roast beef po-boys, muffuletta sandwiches, and chicken tender baskets, this corner of the Irish Channel is satisfying many cravings. Don't forget to grab a bite under the Parasol and enjoy the shade. 2533 Constance St., (504) 354-9079, facebook.com/ParasolsNOLA
Parkway Bakery and Tavern fixes up poor boys of the highest quality with options such as their specialty house-made roast beef with gravy, alligator smoked sausage, deep fried Creole BBQ shrimp, and even a caprese poor boy. Served on crispy bread packed with bold, local flavors, these are more than sandwiches—they are New Orleans in a bite. 538 Hagan Ave., (504) 482-3047, parkwaypoorboys.com
Please-U-Restaurant is dedicated to pleasing their guests from all walks of life with their menu of Southern classics united with Greek-inspired dishes. Highlights from their menu include the shrimp & oyster po-boys, half Southern fried chicken, mixed seafood platters, gyro with fries, and hearty veal or eggplant parmigianas. The name truly says it all at Please-U. 1751 St. Charles Ave., (504) 525-9131, pleaseunola.com
Short Stop Poboys has been serving up overstuffed sandwiches bursting with seasoning for over 50 years. With a menu stacked with po-boys such as softshell crab, oysters, BBQ roast beef, and their four meat special, this stop has something for every craving. At Short Stop Poboys, there are no bites that come up short. 119 Transcontinental Dr., Metairie, (504) 885-4572, shortstoppoboysno.com
The Country Club is a true gem in the Bywater neighborhood, having been in service for over 40 years. This beautiful spot incorporates elements of French, Italian, Creole, and Southern cuisine to create dishes such as crab beignets, crispy parmesan oysters, jumbo Louisiana shrimp, and more. Visit their bar for beers, mocktails, and cocktails such as the Blood Orange Spritz. 634 Louisa St., (504) 945-0742, thecountryclubneworleans.com
Voodoo Chicken and Daiquiris offers a vibrant fusion of crispy fried chicken and creative daiquiris in New Orleans. Featuring Southern staples such as fried chicken, crawfish Natchitoches pies, and red beans & rice, their food goes great alongside a variety of fresh fruit daiquiris. Head on over and spice up your day with a little Voodoo magic. Multiple Locations, voodoochickenanddaiquirisnola.com
Willie Mae's NOLA is all about soulful, Southern comfort
that is aimed to please. Their world-famous fried chicken is the star, paired
with other classic Southern sides such as red beans, macaroni & cheese,
candied yams, and fried okra to bring it all together. After one bite, you'll
start questioning every other fried chicken you've ever loved in your life. 898 Baronne St., (504) 354-8194, williemaesnola.com
Seafood
Blue Bayou Restaurant & Oyster Bar serves up Gulf Coast goodness with a focus on oysters, fried seafood baskets, hearty po-boys, and Cajun comfort dishes. Every plate comes out hot, crispy, and begging for a cold drink that Blue Bayou is more than happy to pour for you. Whether for a casual lunch or a party, this spot shouldn't be missed. 717 Canal St., (504) 453-9905, bluebayourestaurantnola.com
Bon Temps Boulet's Seafood is a seasonal gem that brings out those
authentic Gulf flavors for every bite. With award-winning crawfish by the
pound, shrimp, potatoes, street corn, and everything else needed for a
Cajun-style cookout, it's always a good time there. One visit, and you'll be
counting down the days until crawfish seasons come back around. 4701 Airline Dr., Metairie, (504) 885-5003,
bontempsboulets.com
Briquette is serving up more than tasty seafood and steaks—they're serving true showstoppers. With dishes such as their snapper Pontchartrain, crawfish & goat cheese crepes, and veal osso bucco, the show never stops, especially when paired with their international wine list from the Americas, Europe, and New Zealand. This spot doesn't just hit the spot—it lingers long after the last bite. 701 S. Peters St., (504) 302-7496, briquette-nola.com
Drago's Seafood Restaurant is a must-visit for seafood enthusiasts of all stripes and colors. Renowned for the legendary charbroiled oysters that they originated, the menu also boasts dishes such as Mama Ruth's seafood gumbo, crunchy fried shrimp platters, and its succulent lobster marco, all bursting with flavor. No matter what, Drago's delivers big flavors with plenty of heart. Multiple Locations, dragosrestaurant.com
Legacy Kitchen's Tacklebox is for true seafood lovers. The restaurant reels in big flavors and offers terrific textures with their chargrilled oysters and creamy shrimp & grits, as well as their crispy South Georgia chicken sandwiches. Serving up comfort food with enough kick to keep you on your toes, Legacy Kitchen's Tacklebox is here to please. 817 Common St., (504) 827-1651, legacykitchen.com
The Galley Seafood hauls in flavor by the boatload with fresh Gulf catches, as well as that iconic Southern charm we all know and love. From buttery, buttery crab legs to golden fried shrimps, this menu hooks seafood lovers of all stripes. When you come hungry, be prepared to leave shell-shocked by the explosive flavors they're serving up. 2535 Metairie Rd., Metairie, (504) 832-0955
