African
Bennachin
Bennachin is a small but delicious restaurant with origins from Gambia and Cameroon. Each dish packs a punch of West African flavors with vegan-friendly options. From carnivores to vegans, this Big Easy take on African specialties has something for everyone. 1212 Royal St., 522-1230, bennachinrestaurant.com
American
Andy’s Bistro
Andy’s Bistro is a local favorite that specializes in Louisiana’s French-influenced cuisines, like seafood, steak and flatbreads. Recently voted the best pizza in Metairie, they provide upscale dining with a casual atmosphere. Their Happy Hour specials, like Tuesdays’ and Thursdays’ Martini Madness, are always a hit. 3322 N Turnbull Dr., Metairie, 455-7363, andysbistro.com
Barcadia
Barcadia brings out the inner child in everyone with its vintage games, including life-sized Jenga, Connect Four and arcade games. Even some of the food-- like the fried PB&J, is a nostalgia trip. It’s the only place where an adult can eat, drink and play. 601 Tchoupitoulas St., 335-1740, barcadianeworleans.com
Belle’s Diner
Belle’s Diner pays tribute to ‘50s rock-n-roll with its diner dishes and rockabilly flare. Whether you order gumbo, hash browns or a malt, you’ll find this diner has perfected the art of comfort food. For the late risers, breakfast is served all day. 1122 Decatur St., 566-6003, bellesdinerneworleans.com
Cheesecake Bistro
Cheesecake Bistro by Copeland’s isn’t just about cheesecake, although everyone wants a slice. They also have delicious entrées and appetizers of a variety of cuisines, including firecracker shrimp and crawfish ravioli. Stop by for their Sunday Jazz Brunch Buffet for $2 mimosas. 2001 St. Charles Ave., 593-9955, copelandscheesecakebistro.com
City Diner
City Diner is a 24-hour landmark off of I-10. Their giant pancakes, casual atmosphere and friendly service make it both a great late night and early morning spot. City Diner is all about great breakfast, appetizers, New Orleans specialties and more. 3116 S. I-10 Service Rd. East, 831-1030, citydiner.biz
The Columns Hotel
The Columns Hotel is all about location. This classic New Orleans hotel, built in 1883, is located in the Garden District right next to the streetcar line. It’s a beautiful spot for breakfast, lunch or dinner. Enjoy their live jazz band on Sunday afternoons. 3811 St. Charles Ave., 899-9308, thecolumns.com
Copeland’s of New Orleans
Copeland’s of New Orleans is dedicated to serving an authentic, hometown New Orleans taste to guests who enjoy mouth-watering food and southern hospitality. All of their offerings are made from scratch on-site. Don’t miss their signature brunch menu on Sundays from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. 1319 W Esplanade Ave. 617-9146, copelandsofneworleans.com
Crescent City Steaks
Crescent City Steaks has been a landmark destination for both locals and travelers looking for authentic, timeless food since 1934. Their award-winning menu includes such classics as the “New Orleans” style steak, sizzled in butter. With the best prime beef and expert preparation, this steakhouse is hard to beat. 1001 N Broad St., 821-3271, crescentcitysteaks.com
Daisy Dukes
Daisy Dukes has a variety of fundamental New Orleans dishes 24/7. Enjoy their award winning, bottomless Cajun Bloody Marys at any hour. They also have a variety of fried delicacies, including shrimp and fried green tomatoes. French Quarter, CBD, Metairie daisydukesrestaurant.com
Dat Dog
Dat Dog features a variety of gourmet hot dogs and sausages that are finger-lickin’ good. They’ve also got a bar stacked with quality draft beers and hard milkshakes that go perfectly with any dog. With locations all around town, they’re a New Orleans staple that’s difficult to miss. datdognola.com
Gattuso’s Neighborhood Restaurant
Gattuso’s Neighborhood Restaurant, located in the beautiful Gretna Historical District, has been serving the West Bank for over a decade. A local spot that always offers great food and friendly service, they offer daily specials and nightly events that make it worth coming in any day of the week. 435 Huey P Long Ave., Gretna, 368-1114, gattusos.net
Gordon Borsch
Gordon Biersch knows a thing or two about good beer. The pub-style restaurant brews their own award-winning beers and their gourmet dishes can be anything from bar snacks to seafood to house made desserts. Their friendly atmosphere makes this a place you don’t want to miss. 200 Poydras St., 522-2739, gordonbiersch.com
Lakeview Burgers & Seafood
Lakeview Burgers & Seafood, which opened just last summer, is a family-owned and operated restaurant that offers a wide variety of New Orleans specialties. Open late night, they have fresh seafood plates, burgers and more. Their large portions and welcoming ambience make them a local favorite. 872 Harrison Ave., 289-1032, (no website).
Ma Momma’s House of Cornbread, Chicken and Waffles
Ma Momma’s House of Cornbread, Chicken and Waffles is southern hospitality at its finest. Everyone loves their secret weapon-- a special cornbread recipe that has customers coming back for more. In this establishment, that gets its name from the owners’ two mothers and grandmother, you’re sure to feel at home. 5741 Crowder Blvd., 244-0021, mamommashouse.com
Orleans Grapevine
Orleans Grapevine is a fine dining experience combined with affordable prices, allowing you to indulge on a budget. You’ll get bacon with your drinks during their Bacon Happy Hour. Their wine list will impress any oenophile and their courtyard is a perfect date spot. 720 Orleans Ave., 523-1930, orleansgrapevine.com
Phil’s Grill
Phil’s Grill is a family owned burger joint inspired by the delicious burgers the owner grew up enjoying in bars. Voted 7 years in a row Best Place to Get a Burger by Where Y’at readers, this restaurant will always make you feel at home. 3020 Severn Ave., 324-9080, http://phils-grill.com/
Spudley’s Super Spuds
Spudly’s Super Spuds lives up to their slogan, “A meal in a baked potato.” They have been serving up baked potatoes for over 30 years. Potatoes are their specialty, but they also offer gourmet burgers, soups and salads for those who want to branch out. 2609 Harvard Ave., 455-3250, spudlys.com
Sun Ray Grill
Sun Ray Grill combines Caribbean, Pacific and Gulf Coast flavors for mouthwatering and original dishes. Chef Tom Hinyup’s Gretna restaurant makes sure to get the freshest cuts to deliver quality seafood. They also have a new brunch menu for Sunday mornings. 2600 Belle Chasse Hwy., 391-0053, sunraygrill.com
Ted’s Frostop
Ted’s Frostop, an Uptown favorite since 1926, has been featured on the Travel Channel and is home to the world famous Lot-O-Burger. They have all-you-can-eat pancakes every day for just $4.95, weekday plate lunch specials and root beer floats that you won’t want to miss. 3100 Calhoun St., 861-3615, tedsfrostop.com
Warehouse Grille
Warehouse Grille delivers fantastic food in a relaxed setting. Their brunch fare is to die for, adding a Cajun twist to brunch favorites. Add more booze to your breakfast with their house made beer syrup, made with Pabst Blue Ribbon, and their weekend brunch bottomless mimosas. 869 Magazine St., 322-2188, warehousegrille.com
Willie Mae’s Scotch House
Willie Mae’s Scotch House, founded by Willie Mae Seaton and now run by her daughter, has been serving legendary southern fried chicken in New Orleans since 1957. This Tremé institution does southern fare the right and delicious way. Their chicken has soul. 2401 St. Ann St., 822-9503 (no website)
Asian
AJ & J Asian Bistro
AJ & J Asian Bistro is a hidden gem in New Orleans. Their melt-in-your-mouth sashimi is some of the freshest in the city and their Happy Hour lasts from 3 to 6 p.m. Located in the Garden District, AJ & J has craft cocktails, a sleek atmosphere and the freshest seafood. Magazine St., 609-2282, ajjasianbistro.com or umi3sushi.com
Five Happiness
Five Happiness has been a New Orleans staple in Chinese cuisine for 30 years. Where Y’at readers have consistently voted Five Happiness “Best Chinese,” because its great food and affordable prices never disappoint. Whether you dine in or order delivery, they’ll leave you happy. 3605 S Carrollton Ave., 482-3935, fivehappiness.com
Kyoto
Kyoto boasts creative takes on sushi rolls, like the Funky Margarita Roll, the Hot Box Roll and barbeque squid. Their fresh sushi cuts and expert chefs never fail to delight. A favorite for locals, Kyoto offers a variety of delicious sushi and Japanese fare. 4920 Prytania St., 891-3644, kyotonola.com
Kyoto 2
Kyoto 2 is tucked behind the AMC Movie Theater in the Elmwood shopping center. Though the restaurant itself is relatively small and cozy, its big-enough-to-split sushi rolls make up for it. They also have fresh fish every day and a large selection of Japanese beers. 5608 Citrus Blvd., Harahan, 818-0228
La Thai
La Thai was voted best Thai restaurant in New Orleans, due to its delicious Southeast Asian Cuisine. They boast a menu with both traditional and modern Thai specialties and their curry specials are delicious. Combined with its posh atmosphere, La Thai is sure to please. 4938 Prytania St., 899-8886, lathaiuptown.com
Miyako
Miyako offers one of the best cooking shows right at your table, with hibachi dining. The Japanese bistro is a great place to bring a date or family, with the specialty meals providing enough food for a large group. They have a separate Sushi Menu and Teppanyaki Menu. 1403 St. Charles Ave., 410-9997, japanesebistro.com
Origami
Origami is a fusion of traditional Japanese and southern cuisine located Uptown, within walking distance of Tulane. Go for lunch to get great specials. In addition to their quality seafood and an extensive sake list, they have some of the most knowledgeable sushi chefs in town. 5130 Freret St., 899-6532, sushinola.com
Viet Orleans Bistro
Viet Orleans Bistro offers delicious Vietnamese dishes and fresh sushi. Their many varieties of pho and large portions make it a CBD staple, and it’s a great lunch spot if you don’t want to leave Downtown. It’s always busy, but service is quick and friendly. 300 Baronne St., 333-6917, (no website)
Bars with Great Food
Backspace Bar
Backspace Bar & Kitchen has a unique literary theme and specialty cocktails that will transport you back in time. Its drinks pay tribute to famous New Orleanian literary figures and its décor references the 1920s. This trendy dive is great for late night cocktails and snacks. 139 Chartres St., 322-2245, backspacenola.com
Bamboula’s
Bamboula's offers the best of both worlds-- great music and great food. Its ever- changing music lineup is matched with its full lunch, dinner and late-night snack menu. Enjoy a thirst-quenching local brew on tap while dancing the night away to funky tunes. 514 Frenchmen St., 944-8461, bamboulasnola.com
Bayou Beer Garden
Bayou Beer Garden is Mid-City’s friendly neighborhood bar. With 180 beers to choose from, a late-night kitchen and live music, you’ll never be left wanting. The large outdoor patio and plentiful TVs make it great for game day or any day. 326 N Jefferson Davis Pkwy., 302-9357, bayoubeergarden.com
Bombay Club
Bombay Club, located in the Quarter, is known for the largest and best selection of martinis in New Orleans. Chef Nathan Richard’s menu is influenced by both British and Cajun cuisine. There’s nothing like live music and The Bombay Club offers it almost every night. 830 Conti St., 577-2237, bombayclubneworleans.com
Bruno’s Tavern
Bruno's Tavern is an Uptown college sports bar serving typical pub fare. Their daily specials offer great deals for students, like half off food on Wednesdays and $2 Tuesdays. It’s a great place to watch the game and enjoy a beer. 7538 Maple St., 861-7615, brunostavern.com
Buffa’s Bar and Restaurant
Buffa's Bar and Restaurant has been on the border of the Quarter since 1939, recently dubbed “the best place you’ve never been”. The bar and kitchen are open 24/7, and the backroom is great both for brunch on Sunday and live music at night. 1001 Esplanade Ave., 949-0038, buffasbar.com
Ernst Café
Ernst Café has been locally owned and operated for over 100 years. The building’s pre-civil war architecture has been preserved, along with its original pressed tin roof. Its delicious New Orleans-inspired bar food and great specialty drinks (like the “Mojitarita”) make this a place you don’t want to miss. 600 S Peters St., 525-8544, ernstcafe.net
The Jimani
The Jimani, located in the French Quarter, has been the late-night haunt for food, cocktails and sports since 1971. Just a couple blocks off Bourbon Street, this sports bar always has a mix of locals and tourists and a relaxed atmosphere. 141 Chartres St., 524-0493, thejimani.com
Kajun’s Pub
Kajun’s Pub has drinks and singing all night long. Open 24/7 year round, this Marigny pub has a Happy Hour seven days a week from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. and karaoke starting at 5 p.m. every night. On game days, they offer free Jello shots whenever the Saints score a touchdown. 2256 St. Claude Ave., 947-3735, kajunpub.com
Mid-City Yacht Club
Mid-City Yacht Club has had many names since the 1950s. After Hurricane Katrina, the owner dubbed the then underwater establishment the Yacht Club and rebuilt it using Katrina-salvaged wood. This neighborhood bar also boasts one of the best Bloody Marys in town and has crawfish boils every Friday starting at 4 p.m. 440 S St. Patrick St., 483-2517, midcityyachtclub.com
Mimi’s in the Marigny
Mimi’s in the Marigny is a locals’ bar with a self-proclaimed “house party vibe” and cocktails and tapas at any hour. Voted “Best Neighborhood Bar” by Where Y’at readers, this local establishment has both classy dishes and affordable prices. Request the chef’s special, aptly named “Trust Me”. 2601 Royal St., 872-9868, mimismarigny.com
Parasol’s
Parasol’s has been a long-time casual hangout with stiff drinks, sports on TV, po-boys and other Cajun eats. This Irish Channel establishment has been around since 1952. It’s a great place to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day, especially with their St. Patty’s Day block party. 2533 Constance St., 302-1543, (no website)
Poppy’s Time Out Sports Bar
Poppy’s Time Out Sports Bar is the ultimate spot for watching sports. You won’t miss a play with their 21 televisions. They’ve got 20 beers on tap, frozen daiquiris and great food. Located just outside the Riverwalk Outlet Mall, its scenic vistas and shopping are easily accessible and so is the excitement of the French Quarter nearby. 500 Port of New Orleans Pl., 247-9265, poppystimeoutsportsbar.com
Rebellion Bar and Urban Kitchen
Rebellion Bar and Urban Kitchen is a Gastropub with emphasis on Asian, Latin and southern flavors. The bar focuses on craft beer and Japanese whisky. They have a bamboo garden and a covered patio where you can enjoy their novel combinations of your favorite cuisines. 748 Camp St., 298-7317, rebellionbarurbankitchen.com
Rivershack Tavern
Rivershack Tavern is known as New Orleans’ most unusual bar and home of the tacky ashtray and handmade “Bar Legs” barstools, patterned after people from all walks of life. Trade your ashtray for a drink! They have live music from local musicians almost every night. 3449 River Rd., 834-4938, therivershacktavern.com
Shamrock Bar ans Grill
Shamrock Bar and Grill is the biggest neighborhood bar in the city at 16,000 square feet. It’s an emporium of fun including pool, bowling and skee ball. You can even throwback to your college days by playing a round of beer pong. 4133 S Carrollton Ave., 301-0938, shamrockparty.com
Tchoupitoulas beer Garden
Tchoupitoulas Beer Garden has all of the essentials of a German-style brewery: great beer, delicious food and large community tables. There’s even a selection of games to enjoy, including ping pong and shuffleboard. Modeled after an indoor German beer garden, they also have a large projection screen for game days. 840 Tchoupitoulas St. #103, 224-2889, www.tbgnola.com
Tracey’s Irish Bar and Restaurant
Tracey’s Irish Bar and Restaurant was the original Irish Channel Bar. It’s been around since 1949 and it was the first in the neighborhood to get color TVs to watch the game. It’s also home of the best roast beef po-boy on Earth. 2604 Magazine St., 897-5413, traceysnola.com
Wit’s Inn
Wit’s Inn is a friendly neighborhood bar located in the heart of Mid-City. Watch your favorite sports on one of their 15 giant flat screen TVs. The kitchen serves gourmet pizzas till 2 a.m. with local ingredients and on Thursdays those pizzas are just $5. 141 N Carrollton Ave., 486-1600, witsinn.com
Café
Another Broken Egg Café
Another Broken Egg Café offers some of the freshest dishes in the city. Established in 1996 in Mandeville, there are now 34 locations across the Southeast. Stop by their Lake View location on Harrison or the location on Magazine Street for delicious breakfast and brunch. Uptown, Lakeview, 301-2771, anotherbrokenegg.com
Biscuits & Buns on Banks
Biscuits & Buns on Banks has been a darling spot for breakfast and lunch in Mid- City since they opened in 2013. Their Blueberry-Brie Waffle has been featured as Louisiana’s most delicious waffle, and their Chicken and Waffles are a great southern classic. 4337 Banks St., 273-4600, biscuitsandbunsonbanks.com
Café Amelie
Café Amelie is named after Amelie Miltonberger, the mother of the first American Princess of Monaco. The readers of Where Y’at have voted this hidden gem “Best Brunch” and the lush courtyard sets the tone for an alfresco dining experience. 912 Royal St., 412-8965, cafeamelie.com
Café Carmo
Café Carmo‘s eclectic cuisine takes inspiration from around the world—the Caribbean, West Africa, South and Central America and more. Certified by local and national conservation organizations, this café takes pride in being environmentally conscious. They also have a variety of vegan options. 527 Julia St., 875-4132, cafecarmo.com
Café Degas
Café Degas is the longest running Gallic restaurant in New Orleans. It was designed to be reminiscent of bistros found along the Marne River in France. The relaxing atmosphere and authentic French cuisine with a New Orleans flair are always sure to please. 3127 Esplanade Avenue, 945-5635, cafedegas.com
Café Navarre
Café Navarre is a laid-back, neighborhood joint right around the corner from City Park. They have something for everyone, offering breakfast, lunch and dinner with dishes that range from thin crust gourmet pizza to po-boys. It’s the perfect place to grab a bite to eat. 800 Navarre Ave., 483-8828, cafenavarre.com
Café Reconcile
Café Reconcile is a non-profit restaurant that offers workforce development and training for at-risk youth in the neighborhood. Since 2000, their program has helped over 1,000 young people make positive changes in their lives. They serve soul food that reflects the culinary tradition for which this city is known. 1631 Oretha Castle Haley Blvd., 568-1157, cafereconcile.org
Compère Lapin
Compère Lapin is the latest from Top Chef contestant Nina Compton. The name, meaning “brother rabbit,” comes from a St. Lucian folk legend about a rabbit. The menu draws inspiration from Italian, French and Caribbean cuisine, and now features a boozy Bananas Foster Milkshake. 535 Tchoupitoulas St., 599-2119, comperelapin.com
Jimmy J’s Café
Jimmy J's Café is a funky little café with a colorful, lively atmosphere. They feature a big selection of breakfast, lunch and dessert options. Breakfast is served all day, including their delicious Bacon Bloody Mary. Dine in, take-out and delivery options available Downtown. 115 Charters St., 309-9360, jimmyjscafe.com
Lakeview Brew
Lakeview Brew is a cozy neighborhood café serving homemade pastries and desserts, fresh fruit, and breakfast alongside mugs of gourmet coffee and tea. Lakeview Brew is best known for its breakfast fare, but they offer lunch and dinner menus as well. 5606 Canal Blvd., 483-7001, lakeviewbrew.com
Maple Street Patisserie
Maple Street Patisserie brings back the rustic simplicity of European baking with their wonderful bakery. Now with two locations, one on Magazine and one on Maple Street, they offer a great selection of pastries, breads and sandwiches. Chef Ziggy is always friendly and generous with tasty samples. 7638 Maple St., 304-1526, and 3138 Magazine St., 309-9283, maplestreetpatisserie.com
Morning Call
Morning Call has been serving café au lait and beignets since 1870. It prospered in the Quarter for over a century before moving to City Park. Open 24 hours a day, Morning Call’s location in the Old Casino building is both convenient and historic. 56 Dreyfous Dr., 300-1157, morningcallcoffeestand.com
Ricobono’s Panola Street Café
Ricobono's Panola Street Café is the quintessential New Orleans neighborhood spot for breakfast or lunch. From Crab Cakes Benedict to grits, they do New Orleans food right. Their hot plate lunch specials are always a great deal. Enjoy their breakfast fare all day. 7801 Panola St., 314-1810, panolastreetcafe.com
Italian
Dolce Vita Pizza
Dolce Vita Pizza has some of the best pies in the city. Their wood-fired pizzas are named after different Italian cities and their pasta is handmade. This family-friendly, casual restaurant combines a relaxed atmosphere with authentic Italian cuisine. 1205 Saint Charles Ave., 324-7674, dvpizzeria.com
Mandina’s Restaurant
Mandina’s Restaurant opened in 1932 by an Italian immigrant named Sebastian Mandina. The menu features delicious home-style cooking, including Italian-Creole specialties. With two locations, one in Mid-City and one in Mandeville, you’re never too far away to stop by. 3800 Canal Street, 482-9179, and 4240 Highway 22, Azalea Shopping Center, Mandeville, 985-674-9883, mandinasrestaurant.com
Pascal’s Manale
Pascal's Manale is a blend of Creole-Italian dishes that are backed by 100 years of rich recipes. Their claim to fame is having created the original Barbecue Shrimp and theirs is simmered in shell in a blend of Creole seasonings to perfection. Manale’s oyster bar is also one of the best in town. 1838 Napoleon Ave., 895-4877, pascalsmanale.com
Red Gravy
Red Gravy began as the dream of a 10-year-old Italian girl in 1972. It’s a great place for a home-cooked meal in the CBD. Their Italian-American style breakfast is a local favorite, with such tasty dishes as cannoli pancakes and Sicilian egg pie. Open Table named Red Gravy a Top 100 Brunch Restaurant in America. 125 Camp St., 561-8844, redgravycafe.com
Venezia
Venezia has cooked delightful Italian fare in the heart of Mid-City since 1957. The family-style restaurant boasts a friendly staff and a perpetually well-stocked bar. You can’t go wrong with their classic and locally praised pizzas or their expertly cooked veal. 134 N Carrollton Ave., 488-7991, venezianeworleans.com
Wood Pizza
Wood Pizza features handmade, wood-fired pizzas with thin crust and the freshest ingredients. They also have over 40 beers on tap, many of which are from local breweries, and a great backyard patio. Check out their daily specials and their weekday Happy Hour for some great deals. 404 Andrew Higgins Dr., 281-4893, woodpizzaneworleans.com
Middle Eastern
Lebanon’s Cafe
Lebanon’s Café has earned a solid reputation among many as the #1 Middle Eastern dining destination in New Orleans. Conveniently located in the Carrollton neighborhood, they always have an expansive menu. It’s BYOB, so make sure to bring your favorite drink to pair with their phenomenal kabobs or to-die-for hummus. 1500 S Carrollton Ave. 862-6200, lebanonscafe.com
Mona’s Café
Mona’s Café has been serving traditional Lebanese and Turkish fare for over 20 years. In addition to their full food menu, some of the cafés also have an international market inside, so you can stock up on whatever goodies you need to cook with at home. And you can always take advantage of corkage-free BYOB drinks so don’t forget to pack yours. Frenchmen, Banks, Magazine St., monascafeanddeli.com
Pyramid’s Café
Pyramids Café is some of the best Greek food in the city. Their Uptown location is close to Tulane, but if you don’t want to dine out they also offer delivery. Always affordable and flavorful, you can easily get a good-sized meal for under $10. 3149 Calhoun St., 861-9602, pyramidscafeneworleans.com
New Orleans Cuisine
Antoine’s Restaurant
Antoine’s Restaurant has been a fixture in the French Quarter for 175 years and is world-renowned for inventing Oysters Rockefeller. With 14 dining rooms, they can fit up to 700 guests. Be sure to head over for their 25 cent martinis during lunch. 713 Saint Louis St., 581-4422, antoines.com
Café 615 Home of Da Rabbit
Café 615 Home of Da Wabbit is a taste to be reckoned with. This West Bank favorite is located right off Kepler Street, near the levee bike path. Their lunch specials offer great homemade classics like red beans and rice, and of course their namesake Da Wabbit burgers are always a meaty favorite. 615 Kepler St., Gretna, 465-1225, dawabbit.net
Café Maspero
Café Maspero has been one of the French Quarter’s tastiest landmarks for over 40 years. They’ve been serving New Orleans sandwiches, seafood and other Cajun and Creole classics since 1971. Be sure to check out their $1 strawberry daiquiris and their generously portioned muffalettas. 601 Decatur St., 523-6250, cafemaspero.com
Charlie’s Restaurant
Charlie’s Restaurant cooks delicious southern fare in Chalmette. The home-style comfort dishes are served in extremely generous portions. Their menu features over 300 dishes, like their deep-fried Cajun turkey. They even won the People’s Choice award at United Way’s “Got Gumbo?” cook-off. 6129 E Saint Bernard Hwy., Chalmette, 682-9057, charliesrestaurantla.com
Crescent City Brewhouse
Crescent City Brewhouse, the city’s first brewpub, is located on a historical property in the French Quarter included in the earliest known city plan. Voted “Best Place to Drink Beer” this year by Where Y’at readers, this microbrewery is a great place to relax. 527 Decatur St., 522-0571, crescentcitybrewhouse.com
EAT integrates Louisiana culture by creating versions of traditional southern dishes with farm-fresh ingredients, including local seafood and seasonal produce. Their décor is indicative of their commitment to supporting and remaining loyal to their Louisiana roots, with the work of local artists on display. 900 Dumaine St., 522-7222, eatnola.com
Evangeline
Evangeline is a taste of Louisiana culture and cuisine, specializing in fresh seasonal fare with ingredients purchased locally. It gets its name from Henry Wadsworth Longfellow’s 1847 epic poem Evangeline: A Tale of Acadie. Their seafood is procured directly from local markets and fishermen. 329 Decatur St., 373-4852, evangelineneworleans.com
Fiorella’s Café
Fiorella’s Café specializes in traditional southern food that’s good for the soul. From fried pickles to po-boys, their homegrown specialties are sure to delight. With balcony seating looking out on the scenic French Quarter, this joint has been serving Creole staples since 1937. 1136 Decatur St., 553-2155, fiorellasnola.com
Frankie and Johnny’s
Frankie and Johnny’s has been a New Orleans tradition since 1942, opened by Johnny Morreale. The long-time institution sits one block from the river and made a name for itself by feeding hungry dockworkers. These days, the restaurant retains its friendly spirit and commitment to fresh and delicious seafood, and to feeding the hungry and hard working. 321 Arabella St., 243-1234, frankieandjohnnys.net
Katie’s Restaurant
Katie’s Restaurant opened in 1984 as a corner lunch spot, following the rich tradition of creating a homey neighborhood eatery in many areas of New Orleans. Come here to get a true taste of the Mid-City community. This family-owned establishment has a lot of history, and always serves up a welcoming atmosphere and meals created with care. 3701 Iberville St., 488-6582, katiesinmidcity.com
Kingfish
Kingfish serves Louisiana specialties in the French Quarter. Named for Huey P. Long, this cocktail restaurant/gourmet kitchen offers an elegant atmosphere and Cajun favorites. They take their cocktails seriously, from the classic New Orleans Sazerac to their original invention, the Cable Car. Both their seafood and their beer are local. 337 Chartres St., 598-5005, kingfishneworleans.com
Langlois
Langlois offers one-of-a-kind dining experiences for adventurous eaters and curious culinarians. It’s a supper club with a Creole twist, named after the mother of Creole cuisine Madame Langlois. Their menu changes monthly and explores all influences of Creole and Cajun cooking. They even offer interactive dining demonstrations, which are cooking classes and then some. 1710 Pauger St., 934-1010 langloisnola.com
Marti’s Restaurant
Marti’s Restaurant is a revival of a New Orleans classic. In the 1970s and 1980s, this establishment was central to the city’s arts community. After a 25-year hiatus, the brasserie reopened to bring back the distinctive New Orleans experience with delightful takes on Louisiana’s specialties. 1041 Dumaine St., 522-5478, martisnola.com
Monty’s on the Square
Monty's on the Square recently opened on Jackson Square, offering modern French-Creole food with its own unique twist. Located on the corner of historic Jackson Square, you can enjoy your meal while admiring the view. Make sure to check out this new and savory cuisine. 801 Decatur St., 525-4478, (no website)
New Orleans Cooking Experience
New Orleans Cooking Experience offers classes to all ages, with expert chefs instructing how classic Creole food is made. Learn the secrets behind Louisiana cuisine at this fun and informal cooking school. They offer everything from weekend cooking getaways to half-day classes. 1519 Carondelet St., 430 5274, thenoce.com
New Orleans Creole Cookery
New Orleans Creole Cookery offers traditional southern fare, including Shrimp Creole and gumbo three different ways. Launched by the famous Tusa restaurant family, this restaurant includes Shrimp Creole and gumbo three different ways. It’s even haunted by a ghost named Mary. 508 Toulouse St., 524-9632, neworleanscreolecookery.com
RF”s Martini Bar & Restaurant
RF's Martini Bar & Restaurant is named after the quintessential New Orleans restaurateur, Richard Fiske. RF’s offers food all day, courtyard dining, no-cover live music daily and one of the best Happy Hours around--seven days a week from noon til 7 p.m. As you might guess from the name, they also have an extensive selection of craft martinis. Located just a block from Bourbon Street yet miles away from its craziness, it’s your own little oasis in the French Quarter. 301 Dauphine St., 586-0972, rfsnola.com
Short Stop Poboys
Short Stop Poboys is a laidback joint with the best po-boys in Metairie. Quick and delicious, you can choose from three sizes of sandwich with a wide range of options, including everything from tuna salad to fried oysters. You can always order online and pick up at the drive-thru if you’re in a hurry. 119 Transcontinental Dr., Metairie, 885-4572, shortstoppoboysno.com
Vacherie
Vacherie is the home of authentic Cajun food. Located in the Hotel St. Marie and just steps from Bourbon Street, it gets its name from Vacherie, Louisiana. You can find all of your New Orleans favorites here-- like fried green tomatoes and shrimp and grits. Choose from their elegant restaurant, their bar that serves excellent Happy Hour drink specials and snacks, or, for a more casual dining experience or even take-out, try the adjacent Vacherie Cafe. 827 Toulouse St., 207-4532, vacherierestaurant.com
Seafood
Acme Oyster House
Acme Oyster House was opened in 1910 and it has been serving up quality seafood in the French Quarter ever since. Their fresh, hand-shucked oysters are delicious whether chargrilled, fried or on the half shell. You’re likely to find a long line, but it’s worth the wait. 724 Iberville St., 522-5973, acmeoyster.com
Crazy Lobster Bar and Grill
Acme Oyster House was opened in 1910 and it has been serving up quality seafood in the French Quarter ever since. Their fresh, hand-shucked oysters are delicious whether chargrilled, fried or on the half shell. You’re likely to find a long line, but it’s worth the wait. 724 Iberville St., 522-5973, acmeoyster.com
Mr. Ed’s Oyster Bar & Fish House
Mr. Ed's Oyster Bar & Fish House gets its name from its owner, Ed McIntyre. He is known for his home cooking, and it shows. They offer all kinds of Louisiana classics, from gumbo to crawfish etouffée. Dine outside, inside or at their stand-up oyster bar. 512 Bienville, 309-4848, mredsoysterbar.com
Poseidon
Poseidon offers a wide spectrum of seafood delicacies, from Creole-style oysters to fresh sushi. They also cook sustainably, by donating proceeds to ocean conservancy and advocacy programs. Their karaoke rooms are a great place to relax after dinner with friends. 2100 Saint Charles Ave., 509-6675, poseidonnola.com
Royal Oyster House Bar
Royal House Oyster Bar is one of New Orleans’ most exemplary oyster spots, with oysters done many different ways (from chargrilled to Rockefeller) but always deliciously. Sit on the balcony and enjoy the hustle and bustle of the French Quarter, in a building that was once home to the famous Tortorici family. They also offer brunch on weekends starting at 9 a.m. Royal St. 528-2601 royalhouserestaurant.com
Mexican
Izzy’s Illegal Burrito
Izzo’s Illegal Burrito serves burritos so tasty they’re nearly criminal. The co-founder, Ozzie Fernandez, was inspired by the traditional Mexican cooking he grew up eating and helping his mother Elda prepare. Roll your own with their endless options of fresh ingredients. Multiple Locations, izzos.com
La Casita
La Casita serves up delicious tacos, guacamole and margaritas in the Warehouse District. They also have a daily Happy Hour from 3 p.m. until 7 p.m. with half off guacamole and salsa. They are opening a new location on Oak Street soon, taking over the space previously occupied by Squeal. Warehouse District, Oak Street. eatlacasita.com
Caretta’s Grill
Caretta's Grill is a Tex-Mex restaurant with locations in Metairie, Harahan and Slidell. Their margaritas are to die for and they deliver a Texan spin on all things Latin, from refried beans to Al Pastor. Make sure to try their Très Leches Cake too. Multiple Locations, carretasgrillrestaurant.com
Vegan
Seed
Seed is a vegan oasis in a city that’s oversaturated with rich southern cuisine. The menu is garden-based with a New Orleans taste, with original takes on classics like southern fried tofu. They are committed to using ingredients that are good for you and the environment. 1330 Prytania St., 302-2599, seedyourhealth.com
