Where to Eat in New Orleans LA: Best 18 Restaurants For You

Explore the culinary delights of New Orleans at renowned eateries like Commander’s Palace and Cochon. Savor authentic Cajun and Creole cuisine in this food lover’s paradise.

New Orleans, a vibrant city famed for its rich cultural tapestry and gastronomic excellence, offers a feast for the senses. Whether you’re craving the classic beignets and café au lait at Café du Monde or the spicy jambalaya from a local hotspot, the city’s dining scene won’t disappoint.

 

Dive into the heart of Southern cooking with gumbo, po-boys, and fresh seafood, or treat yourself to upscale dining experiences that fuse traditional flavors with modern culinary techniques. Each restaurant in New Orleans tells a story, through dishes crafted with local ingredients and a touch of Southern hospitality. So, pack your appetite and join the throngs of food enthusiasts who make their way to this epicurean wonderland.

 

What to Eat in New Orleans?

Famous Food Lists in New Orleans:

1. Gumbo
2. Crawfish Etouffee
3. Jambalaya
4. Red Beans and Rice
5. Muffaletta
6. Beignets
7. Po-Boys
8. Bananas Foster
9. Sno-balls
10. King Cakes
11. Pralines
12. BBQ Shrimp
13. Oysters
14. Fried Seafood
15. Fried Chicken
16. Turtle Soup
17. Shrimp and Grits

 

Where to Eat in New Orleans? Top Restaurant List:

1. Cochon Restaurant – Address: 930 Tchoupitoulas St Ste A, New Orleans, LA 70130
2. Daisy Dukes French Quarter – Address: 121 Chartres St, New Orleans, LA 70130
3. GW Fins – Address: 808 Bienville St, New Orleans, LA 70112
4. Napoleon House – Address: 500 Chartres St, New Orleans, LA 70130
5. Verti Marte – Address: 1201 Royal St, New Orleans, LA 70116
6. Shaya – Address: 4213 Magazine St, New Orleans, LA 70115
7. Mr. B’s Bistro – Address: 201 Royal St, New Orleans, LA 70130
8. Compère Lapin – Address: 535 Tchoupitoulas St, New Orleans, LA 70130
9. Sylvain – Address: 625 Chartres St, New Orleans, LA 70130
10. Willa Jean – Address: 611 O’Keefe Ave, New Orleans, LA 70113
11. Two Chicks Cafe – Address: 901 Convention Center Blvd #109, New Orleans, LA 70130
12. Joey K’s Restaurant & Bar – Address: 3001 Magazine St, New Orleans, LA 70115
13. Sweet Soulfood – Address: 1025 N Broad St, New Orleans, LA 70119
14. Liuzza’s by the Track – Address: 1518 N Lopez St, New Orleans, LA 70119
15. Maypop – Address: 611 O’Keefe Ave, New Orleans, LA 70113
16. Heard Dat Kitchen – Address: 2520 Felicity St, New Orleans, LA 70113
17. Bon’s New Orleans Street Food – Address: 620 Decatur St #1B, New Orleans, LA 70130
18. Dakar NOLA – Address: 3814 Magazine St, New Orleans, LA 70115

 

Iconic New Orleans Cuisine

New Orleans is famous for its unique flavors and dishes. This city is a food lover’s paradise. Rich with history, every meal tells a story. The blend of French, African, and Spanish influences creates unforgettable tastes. Let’s explore the classic dishes you must try and the must-visit restaurants that serve them.

 

Classic 6 Dishes To Try

New Orleans’ food scene is a mix of sweet, spicy, and everything nice. Here are some top dishes:

1. Gumbo: A hearty stew with meat, seafood, and veggies.
2. Jambalaya: A spicy dish with rice, meat, and bold seasonings.
3. Po’boys: Tasty sandwiches filled with fried seafood or roast beef.
4. Beignets: Soft, pillowy doughnuts covered in powdered sugar.
5. Crawfish Étouffée: A savory dish with crawfish in a thick sauce.
6. Red Beans and Rice: A classic Monday dish with smoky flavors.

Each dish is a must-try for anyone visiting New Orleans. They are part of the city’s soul. Many restaurants serve these foods, but some do it best.

 

Must-visit Restaurants

The city is home to many great places to eat. Here are some restaurants you can’t miss:

Restaurant	Dish	Location
Commander’s Palace	Turtle Soup	Garden District
Antoine’s	Oysters Rockefeller	French Quarter
Willie Mae’s Scotch House	Fried Chicken	Treme
Café du Monde	Beignets	French Market
Galatoire’s	Shrimp Remoulade	Bourbon Street

Each restaurant offers a unique taste of the city’s heritage. They are perfect for trying the dishes mentioned earlier. Their chefs have perfected recipes passed down through generations. A trip to New Orleans is incomplete without dining at these iconic spots.

 

Cajun And Creole Flavors

New Orleans, a city bursting with flavors, offers an unforgettable culinary journey. The city’s vibrant food scene is a blend of Cajun and Creole traditions. Both cuisines bring unique tastes to the table, making it a paradise for food lovers. Visitors can savor dishes that have been perfected over generations. The city’s eateries range from street-side vendors to high-end restaurants, each promising a taste of Louisiana’s rich cultural heritage.

 

Cajun Specialties

Exploring New Orleans, food enthusiasts will encounter Cajun cuisine, a rustic cooking style from Louisiana’s rural areas. This cuisine uses bold spices and hearty ingredients. Seafood gumbo and jambalaya stand out as classic examples.

They often feature a mix of meats and vegetables, simmering in a flavorful stock. Many local spots serve these dishes with a side of dirty rice, which gets its color from finely chopped liver. Crawfish étouffée is another beloved dish, smothered in a thick, spicy sauce, and typically served over rice. Here’s a snapshot of must-try Cajun dishes:

• Seafood Gumbo: A soup with a mix of seafood, okra, and spicy andouille sausage.
• Jambalaya: Rice combined with shrimp, chicken, and sometimes sausage, flavored with Cajun spices.
• Crawfish Étouffée: Crawfish tails cooked in a sauce with onions, bell peppers, and celery.
• Boudin: A spicy sausage filled with rice, pork, and herbs.

 

Creole Classics

Creole cuisine, born in New Orleans, is a sophisticated blend of French, Spanish, African, and Native American influences. It often features tomatoes and uses classical cooking techniques. Shrimp Creole is a popular dish with a tomato-based sauce, served over white rice. Red beans and rice, traditionally cooked on Mondays, is a simple yet flavorful meal.

 

Ingredients include smoked sausage or ham hocks, kidney beans, and spices. Oysters Rockefeller, created in New Orleans, consists of oysters on the half-shell topped with a rich sauce. Below, find a table listing some iconic Creole dishes:

Dish	Main Ingredients	Description
Shrimp Creole	Shrimp, tomatoes, onions, bell peppers	A spicy tomato-based sauce over rice with tender shrimp.
Red Beans and Rice	Kidney beans, smoked sausage, rice	A hearty dish often flavored with Cajun spices and smoked meats.
Oysters Rockefeller	Oysters, butter, herbs, breadcrumbs	Oysters baked with a rich buttery sauce and seasoned breadcrumbs.

 

 

Street Food Delights

New Orleans is a city full of tasty street food. People come from all over to try it. You can find many different foods, from sweet treats to spicy dishes. Let’s explore where you can eat the best street food in this amazing city.

 

Food Trucks To Follow

Food trucks in New Orleans offer some of the best meals on wheels. Each truck has its own special dish that you must try. Here are a few favorites:

• Tasty Tacos Truck – Known for their spicy and delicious tacos.
• Beignet Bus – Serves sweet beignets covered in powdered sugar.
• Creole Caravan – Offers a mix of Creole dishes, full of flavor and spice.

These trucks move around, but you can find their locations on social media. They often visit parks and festivals, bringing their yummy food to you.

 

Best Stalls And Markets

In New Orleans, stalls and markets are great places to enjoy food. The French Market is a popular spot. It has many stalls with different kinds of food. You can try:

Stall Name	Specialty
Seafood Heaven	Fresh oysters and shrimp
Sweet Treats	Homemade pies and cakes
Spicy Bites	Jambalaya and gumbo

These markets are open every day. They offer fresh and tasty food to everyone. You can eat there or take food home to enjoy later.

 

Fine Dining Experiences

New Orleans is famous for its vibrant food scene. This city serves up some of the most diverse and delicious dishes. Diners find a blend of French, African, and American flavors. For those seeking luxury, the city boasts fine dining options. These spots offer exceptional food and memorable experiences. Let’s explore where gourmets should indulge in New Orleans.

 

Top Michelin-starred Spots

New Orleans does not have Michelin-starred restaurants, as the Michelin Guide does not currently cover this city. However, it boasts establishments of similar caliber. These are renowned for their exquisite cuisine and service. Below is a list of high-end restaurants that offer an experience akin to Michelin dining:

• Commander’s Palace – Known for its Creole cuisine and elegant setting.
• Restaurant August – Offers a modern take on Southern gastronomy.
• Herbsaint – A spot where French and Southern dishes meet.

 

Elegant Atmospheres

An elegant atmosphere is a key part of the fine dining experience. Restaurants in New Orleans are no exception. They provide settings that make meals special. Here are a few spots where the ambiance matches the high quality of food:

• The Grill Room – Here, diners enjoy meals in a luxurious setting.
• Arnaud’s – This place offers classic Creole elegance.
• Galatoire’s – Guests here find traditional decor and a festive vibe.

These restaurants not only serve food but also create an experience. They transport diners to a place of Southern charm and sophistication.

 

Local Favorites

New Orleans, a city bursting with flavor, offers an array of dining spots. Diverse cuisines reflect its rich culture. Every corner presents a chance to savor local dishes. This guide helps you discover must-visit eateries.

 

Neighborhood Gems

New Orleans‘ neighborhoods are home to some of the best eateries. These spots serve mouthwatering dishes that locals love. Find below a curated list of places that should be on your radar:

• Coquette – A Garden District favorite, known for Southern flavors.
• Shaya – This spot in the Irish Channel offers amazing Israeli food.
• Willie Mae’s – Treme’s go-to place for the best fried chicken.

Each restaurant stands out with its unique charm and menu. Trying them is a must for any food lover. Not just tourists, but locals frequent these gems regularly.

 

Hidden Treasures

Some of the city’s best spots are tucked away. These hidden treasures offer an intimate dining experience. Here’s a peek into where you can find them:

• Parkway Bakery & Tavern – Famous for their po’boys, a true New Orleans classic.
• The Joint – Located in the Bywater, this place serves up some serious BBQ.
• Paladar 511 – A Marigny spot with an inventive menu that locals adore.

These places may require a bit of a hunt, but the reward is worth it. Each offers dishes that capture the essence of New Orleans cuisine. A meal at any of these spots is an unforgettable experience.

 

Brunch Hotspots

New Orleans is a city full of delicious food and amazing brunch spots. This city is known for its unique cuisine that blends French, Spanish, and Southern flavors. Exploring where to eat in New Orleans, especially for brunch, is a tasty adventure.

From classic beignets to savory shrimp and grits, the brunch options are endless. Let’s dive into some of the best places to start your morning right and discover menus that stand out in the bustling city of New Orleans.

 

Best Breakfast Spots

New Orleans wakes up to the smell of fresh coffee and beignets. Many cafes and restaurants offer a cozy atmosphere. Here are a few top picks:

• Café du Monde – Famous for its beignets and café au lait.
• Willa Jean – Known for its bakery and Southern breakfast dishes.
• Toast – Offers a variety of egg dishes and unique breakfast options.

Each spot has its own charm, making breakfast not just a meal but an experience. Visitors love the warm, welcoming vibe of these places. They often come back for more. Don’t miss out on trying the local favorites like shrimp and grits or banana foster French toast. These dishes will start your day off perfectly.

 

Unique Brunch Menus

New Orleans’ brunch scene includes menus that mix traditional dishes with modern twists. Restaurants aim to surprise guests with their creative takes on brunch. Here are some examples:

Restaurant	Unique Dish
Commander’s Palace	Turtle Soup
Atchafalaya	Duck Hash
Elizabeth’s	Praline Bacon

These dishes show how New Orleans chefs love to experiment and push the boundaries of traditional brunch. Guests can expect to find something new and exciting on their plate. The city’s rich history and cultural mix influence these unique dishes, making brunch in New Orleans an unforgettable experience.

 

Dessert Destinations

New Orleans, a city bursting with flavor, offers a myriad of dining experiences. It is especially renowned for its dessert destinations. Food lovers find delight in the city’s unique sweets and pastries. From historic treats to innovative confections, there’s a dessert to satisfy every palate.

 

Iconic Sweets

New Orleans’ desserts are as rich in history as they are in taste. The city boasts classic treats that have been adored for generations. Let’s dive into the sweet side of the Big Easy:

• Beignets: These fluffy, powdered sugar-coated treats are a must-try.
• Bananas Foster: This flambeed dessert was invented in New Orleans.
• Pralines: Sweet, nutty, and creamy, they’re a true Southern favorite.

Each dessert tells a story of New Orleans’ rich cultural tapestry. Beignets, served hot and fresh, are a staple at the famous Café du Monde. Bananas Foster, with its dramatic tableside preparation, can be enjoyed at Brennan’s, where it was created. The sweet crunch of pralines echoes the city’s French influence and can be found in candy shops throughout the French Quarter.

 

Best Bakeries

For those with a love for baked goods, New Orleans’ bakeries are a treasure trove of delectable delights. They serve a wide array of pastries, bread, and cakes.

Here are some top spots:

Bakery	Specialties
La Boulangerie	Croissants, baguettes
Willa Jean	Chocolate chip cookies, cornbread
Bywater Bakery	King cakes, quiches

La Boulangerie is famous for its flaky croissants and traditional French baguettes. Willa Jean’s chocolate chip cookies are the talk of the town, and their cornbread is a nod to Southern comfort food. Bywater Bakery is the go-to for colorful king cakes during Mardi Gras season, and their quiches are perfect for any brunch.

 

Beverage Scene

New Orleans is a treasure trove of culinary delights, known not only for its food but also for its vibrant beverage scene. This city offers a unique blend of traditional Southern drinks and innovative cocktails. The culture here takes its cocktails seriously, and each sip tells a story of the city’s rich history.

Discover the famous cocktails that are a must-try and the best bars that you simply cannot miss on your gastronomic journey through New Orleans.

 

Famous Cocktails

New Orleans is the birthplace of many world-renowned cocktails. These drinks capture the city’s spirit and flavor.

• Sazerac – Often called the oldest American cocktail, with roots in pre-Civil War New Orleans.
• Hurricane – A sweet, fruity rum punch that became famous at Pat O’Brien’s bar in the 1940s.
• Ramos Gin Fizz – A frothy, creamy delight that’s been enjoyed since the late 19th century.
• Vieux Carré – A potent mix that reflects the city’s multicultural heritage.
• Mint Julep – A refreshing bourbon cocktail that’s a staple in the South.

These drinks are not just tasty but are a part of the city’s soul. You can find them at most bars, but for the authentic taste, visit the bars where they originated.

 

Best Bars To Visit

New Orleans’ bars are as diverse and exciting as its cocktails. Each bar has its own character and charm.

Bar Name	Famous For	Location
Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop Bar	Being one of the oldest bars in America	Bourbon Street
The Carousel Bar & Lounge	Its iconic, spinning carousel bar	Hotel Monteleone
Bar Tonique	Handcrafted cocktails and a cozy atmosphere	North Rampart Street
Pat O’Brien’s	The famous Hurricane cocktail	St Peter Street
The Sazerac Bar	Its namesake cocktail, the Sazerac	Roosevelt Hotel

Each bar on this list offers a unique experience. They serve up history with every drink and are a must-visit. A trip to these bars is not just about the beverages; it’s an immersion into the city’s culture.

 

 

Frequently Asked Questions

 

What Are New Orleans’ Must-try Foods?

New Orleans is famous for its unique and flavorful cuisine. Must-try foods include beignets, jambalaya, gumbo, po’boys, red beans and rice, and crawfish étouffée. Each dish offers a taste of the city’s rich culinary heritage, blending French, Spanish, African, and Creole influences.

 

Where To Find The Best Gumbo In New Orleans?

The best gumbo in New Orleans can often be found in the French Quarter and Garden District. Restaurants like Dooky Chase’s Restaurant and Commander’s Palace are renowned for their authentic and flavorful gumbo, showcasing a perfect blend of spices, seafood, and sausage.

 

Can You Eat Well On A Budget In New Orleans?

Yes, eating well on a budget in New Orleans is entirely possible. The city offers a variety of budget-friendly eateries, food trucks, and markets. Look for po’boy shops, local diners, and street food for delicious meals that won’t break the bank.

Happy hours also offer great deals.

 

What’s Unique About New Orleans’ Dining Scene?

New Orleans’ dining scene is unique for its blend of cultures, creating a culinary melting pot. From upscale Creole restaurants to casual Cajun eateries, the city celebrates food with a passion. Its vibrant food festivals, street food, and open-air markets add to the uniqueness.

 

 

Conclusion

New Orleans dazzles with its culinary scene, inviting you to indulge in its rich flavors. As you explore this vibrant city, let your taste buds lead the way to unforgettable dining experiences. From classic Creole to innovative fusion dishes, the options are endless.

Don’t miss the chance to savor the soul of the Big Easy through its food. Bon appétit and happy exploring!