AFRICAN
Bennachin’s West African flavors are a welcome break from conventional New Orleans fare. Their lunch menu is incredibly affordable—and it’s BYOB. They serve delicious vegetarian dishes and sides, like coconut rice, pounded cassava, and fried ripe plantains. Or, you can start with their traditional fish pies and move on to try their Domoda, a spicy beef and peanut stew. 1212 Royal St. | 522-1230 | bennachinrestaurant.com
AMERICAN
Apolline, nestled in an old shotgun house, offers dishes influenced by flavors from around the world, all made with local ingredients. Try their Louisiana Cioppino, combining Gulf seafood and alligator sausage in a sherry broth. Enjoy delectable small plates and drink specials during Happy Hour, wine specials on Wednesdays, and bottomless mimosas and Bloody Marys at brunch. 4729 Magazine St. | 894-8881 | apollinerestaurant.com
Bayou Hot Wings is finger-lickin’ good. With irresistibly spicy wings and meaty wraps, this is a game-day must-have. Chefs Nguyen and Makepeace show their culinary expertise with the care they put into each perfect wing—24 hours of seasoning and brining’s worth! Don’t miss out on their popular house-made sauces, like Bayou Sweet Heat and Bayou Hotboy. 6221 S. Claiborne Ave. | 662-9933 | bayouhotwings.com
City Diner offers their giant, pizza-sized pancakes all day, every day, along with omelettes, Hashbrown Creations, burgers, salads, and much more. How can you resist? Their menu is overflowing with overstuffed plate options, from diner classics to New Orleans staples. Whether you order the Eggs Benedict or the Cajun Crawfish Pasta, you’re in for a truly satisfying treat. 3116 S. I-10 Service Road E. | Metairie | 831-1030 | citydiner.biz
The Country Club has been setting the standard for low-key chic in New Orleans for over 40 years. Just imagine luxuriating by the pool, sipping cocktails, and swimming the day away. Their various menus—brunch, lunch, dinner, poolside, small-plate, and dessert—all showcase expertly executed contemporary Creole cuisine. And rain means that it’s Happy Hour all day! 634 Louisa St. | 945-0742 | thecountryclubneworleans.com
Cowbell is where you can sink your teeth into a “Locally World-Famous” grass-fed beef burger—or try the hot tuna or vegetarian harvest burger instead. They also serve dishes to please all palates, including skirt steak, tacos, and grilled chicken or fish. Their Signature Mac & Cheese, Riverbend Fries, and homemade pies will have you coming back for more. 8801 Oak St. | 866-4222 | cowbell-nola.com
Daisy Dukes is known for its Cajun Bloody Mary Mix, but they also deliver equally noteworthy New Orleans staples, like boiled seafood, fried seafood platters, and po-boys, to quell your appetite. Two of their five locations are 24/7, and you can order breakfast here throughout the day, too. Trouble choosing? The New Orleans Sampler gives you a taste of it all. Multiple Locations | daisydukesrestaurant.com
Fullblast Brunch is one of the Crescent City’s newest breakfast spots, with a menu featuring a variety of breakfast and brunch options, all with Creole, Cajun, and Latin influences. Pair a mango mimosa with their traditional New Orleans Grillades & Grits or their signature Chicken Milanesa Benedict, served with pico de gallo over a black bean cake. 139 S. Cortez St. | 302-2800 | fullblastbrunch.com
Gattuso’s Neighborhood Restaurant shines in the heart of Gretna, serving all the flavorful dishes locals expect and love, from crab and corn bisque and fried seafood to burgers and muffulettas. They also cater to help you feed your guests for any occasion. Their Dirty Bird po-boy—stuffed with turkey, roast beef, Swiss, and gravy—can’t be beat. 435 Huey P. Long Ave. | Gretna | 368-1114 | gattusos.net
Gordon Biersch is taking over the handcrafted brewing scene with its German brews and grub alongside eclectic American fare. They have an impressive variety of beers on tap and a menu built specifically for pairing with their award-winning beers. They even have a gluten-sensitive menu! Grab a table on their Fulton Street patio for lunch or dinner and enjoy the Big Easy. 200 Poydras St. | 522-2739 | gordonbiersch.com
Lakeview Harbor might take inspiration from local waters for its name, but you’ll find a lot more on the menu than just seafood. They are famous for their burgers, sliders, steaks, and loaded potatoes. Don’t miss out on their classic daily specials, such as Paneed Chicken on Tuesdays and Shrimp Creole with Cheese Grits on Fridays. 8550 Pontchartrain Blvd. | 486-4887 | lakeviewharbor.us
Legacy Kitchen has been slowly building a legacy, thanks to their dedication and commitment to always using fresh and flavorful ingredients, prepared to order. Be sure to join them for dinner on Friday and Saturday nights, when all wine bottles are half price, or get your charbroiled oyster fix during their daily Happy Hour, when they serve up charbroiled oysters for just $1 each. Multiple locations | legacykitchen.com
Liberty Cheesesteaks is making a home for itself in the land of the po-boy, one Philly steak at a time. They serve up traditional cheesesteaks, like The Original and The Wiz, which any native Philadelphian would approve of, and folks are raving about their Boil Fries. The Pizza Steak Hoagie with mozzarella and marinara is also a must-have. 5039 Freret St. | 875-4447 | libertycheesesteaks.com
Pokéworks was founded on the concept of bringing the flavors and ingredients of Hawaii to the mainland—in poke form. The menu offers “poke your way,” so you can make your own poke just the way you like it. Pick from a bowl, burrito, or salad, and then add a protein, mix-ins, toppings, and the sauce of your choosing. Pokéworks swears by using the freshest ingredients and also promotes a policy of sustainability and environmental responsibility. 3413 Veterans Memorial Blvd #119 | Metairie | 218-5352 | pokeworks.com
Spudly's Super Spuds is a potato heaven where overstuffed spuds take center stage. Optional toppings include seafood, veal, chicken, corned beef, veggies, and many more. They also serve Small Spuds and Spud Skins as well as soups, salads, starters, and sides—along with burgers and specialty sandwiches, like the Italian Dream—for those who want to mix up their meals. 2609 Harvard Ave. | Metairie | 455-3250 | spudlys.com
Willie Mae’s Scotch House knows how to make memorable fried chicken. They’ve been pleasing foodies with their short and sweet menu since 1957! With accolades that include a James Beard Award and Travel Channel’s distinction for Best Fried Chicken in America, this place is an absolute must if you’re in the market for unrivaled flavor. Be sure to try the cornbread! 2401 St. Ann St. | 822-9503 | williemaesnola.com
WOW Café Doubletree will have your taste buds begging for more of their wings with signature sauces, which range from spicy to sweet and tangy. Wings aside, their vast menu offers handhelds and New Orleans-inspired dishes as well as a breakfast buffet and brunch classics. The Shanghai Shrimp Po’Boy has won Best in Fest at the Oak Street Po-Boy Festival. 300 Canal St. | 212-3250 | wowcafe.com/stores/double-tree-new-orleans
ASIAN
Bao & Noodle is the perfect place in the Marigny to slurp down a bowl of authentic Chinese soup or tear into a steamed bun. Start with a small plate, like their Scallion Pancakes, and stay for an entrée, like the Dan Dan Noodle with Pork. The restaurant is not only vegetarian/vegan-friendly but also BYOB, so everyone leaves happy. 2700 Chartres St. | 272-0004 | baoandnoodle.com
Green Tea has got your back. This eatery serves healthy options, soups, fried rice, noodles, and customizable dinner and lunch combos—all at an extremely reasonable price. Their menu even features family dinner specials for two to nine people! Offering dumplings to Mai Fun to General Tso’s chicken, these Chinese take-out (and dine-in) titans will feed you in a flash. 3001 Napoleon Ave. | 899-8005 | greenteanola.com
Kyoto 2, located in an unassuming strip mall, has perfected the art of sushi, with a creative menu of rolls you won’t find anywhere else—and a complimentary bowl of noodle salad with every meal. Don’t like sushi? Try the lightly seared tuna tataki to test the waters or one of the many other adventurous (and fully cooked) options available. 5608 Citrus Blvd. | Harahan | 818-0228 | facebook.com/Kyoto2Nola
Mikimoto infuses Japanese favorites with New Orleans flavor. Their rolls rep the entire city, from the Uptown roll (stuffed with seafood, asparagus, and cream cheese, then fried) to the Metairie roll (crab, tuna, and avocado with BBQ eel sauce). But they don’t stop there, and neither should you. Spice things up with their Seafood Yakiudon and end with something sweet, like their Tempura Cheesecake. 3301 S. Carrollton Ave. | 488-1881 | mikimotosushi.com
Miyako offers dinner with a fiery show. Their hibachi chefs perform daring feats of culinary artistry, all the while chopping, flipping, and masterfully preparing your entrees before your eyes. Perfect for a night out with friends or family or even for a fun-filled date, Miyako is great for other occasions, too, offering various hibachi lunch combos, sushi bar standards, and dessert. 1403 St. Charles Ave. | 410-9997 | miyakonola.com
Origami may be a paper-folding art, but here it takes the form of an artful roll. Located in the hip dining area of Freret between Napoleon and Jefferson Avenues, the restaurant's ambience is as notable as its food. Lunch extends to 3 p.m., and they have poke bowls as well as combo meals. Their sake cocktail game is strong, too, making Origami a great spot to start your night out in town. 5130 Freret St. | 899-6532 | sushinola.com
BARS WITH GREAT FOOD
Backspace Bar & Kitchen is a one-of-a-kind gastropub where you can sip and nibble on some delicious offerings that pay homage to famed authors. Their specialty drinks, like Death in the Afternoon, are quickly becoming classics at this sophisticated nook. Get inspired in this cozy literary haven with creative works like the Whitman Roast Beef sammy, stuffed with fried oysters and debris gravy. 139 Chartres St. | 322-2245 | backspacenola.com
Buffa’s Bar and Restaurant in the Marigny is known not only for its daily offerings of live local music, but also for its delicious food, including red beans and rice and their inventive half-pound burgers and dishes like Carrot Croquettes. They’re open 24/7, making it a perfect destination for any meal. Check out their Sunday jazz brunch. 1001 Esplanade Ave. | 949-0038 | buffasbar.com
Copper Vine Winepub has a cute courtyard, a unique fine-dining menu, and all the wine on tap you’ll ever need to relax and enjoy life in the CBD. They also have a selection of draft beers and cocktails designed to please even the most discerning palate. Try the duck confit flatbread or the crabmeat deviled eggs. 1001 Poydras St. | 208-9535 | coppervinewine.com
Flamingo A-Go-Go will have you flocking to the Warehouse District to sample fresh salads, NOLA classics, and creative “flocktails,” including the Bloody Mary A-Go-Go with vodka, a spice mix, and Zing Zang Bloody Mary Mix, to get the party started. Pair your drink or draft wine with a juicy Hawaiian Steak Kabob, made tropical with grilled pineapple and mango salsa. 869 Magazine St. | 577-2202 | flamingonola.com
The Jimani is a sportsman’s paradise—for those more into watching any game imaginable than participating in sports. Drink a beer with the locals and relish amazing bar food, like nachos made special with the addition of chorizo or chicken sausage. With 10 screens to watch, 100 beers to choose from, and an extensive menu, you’ll have plenty to feast your senses on here. 141 Chartres St. | 524-0493 | thejimani.com
Mimi’s in the Marigny is technically a bar, but when it comes to the bar food, don’t expect simple peanuts here. The menu features gourmet tapas for vegetarians and carnivores alike. You can’t go wrong with the lamb chops or the ultimate shareable staple: a cheese board. For more venturesome patrons, order the “Trust Me” cocktail or small plate. You won’t be disappointed. 2601 Royal St. | 872-9868 | mimismarigny.com
Ole Saint takes you down memory lane with Deuce McAllister’s football memorabilia but brings you back to reality when a game is on. Watch your team and have a local brew at this former New Orleans Saint’s watering hole. You’ll find everything from American favorites to coastal cuisine, like the aptly named Southern Catfish with white beans and shrimp. 132 Royal St. | 309-4797 | olesaint.com
Orleans Grapevine pairs classic and contemporary French-Creole cuisine with over 65 varieties of wine and champagne by the glass and 375 by the bottle. Have a wine flight in the courtyard of this casual fine-dining bistro. Or, take advantage of Happy Hour from 4 p.m. till 6 p.m. and 10 p.m. till 12 a.m. daily, when you’ll get FREE BACON! 720 Orleans Ave. | 523-1930 | orleansgrapvine.com
Parasol’s is a neighborhood bar with rave-worthy po-boys. Their classic roast beef debris po-boy is the talk of the town—but you might want to spice things up with their popular firecracker shrimp or try the Irish Sundae (potato salad topped with that delicious debris!) instead. Add a side of onion rings or red beans and rice to make your meal complete. 2533 Constance St. | 302-1543 | facebook.com/ParasolsNOLA
Rivershack Tavern is about as funky as New Orleans gets. With tacky ashtrays, fun novelty bar stools with legs, and an exterior covered with vintage ads, this River Road joint dishes out local flavor that is not to be missed—just try their undeniably great po-boys and “boigers” to see for yourself. Bring in a kitschy ashtray and belly up to the bar for a free cocktail. 3449 River Rd. | 834-4938 | therivershacktavern.com
Shamrock Bar and Grill is all about the games—and the food and libations. Challenge your friends to some air hockey, mini-bowling, ping pong, or darts at the city’s largest neighborhood bar. Then, refuel with a ribeye steak dinner, including mashed taters and salad. Games aren’t your thing? The dance floor is open all night long, so you can get your groove on. 4133 S. Carrollton Ave. | 301-0938 | shamrockparty.com
Three Palms Bar and Grill is home to spring crawfish boils, chicken wings, and $12 steak dinners. The friendly staff and atmosphere make for a fun neighborhood bar with a happy hour you can count on. Get your seafood fried or grilled or take advantage of one of their daily specials, incuding free red beans and rice on Mondays between 11 a.m. and 2 p.m., Taco Tuesdays, or Wednesday Wing Nights. 3813 Tulane Ave. | 459-4474 | 3palmsnola.com
Tracey’s Irish Bar and Restaurant is famous for its wild St. Patty’s Day party, but their tasty bar food keeps the crowds coming back. They’re distinguished as having had the first colored TVs in the ‘hood, and they feature great local beers. Try out some alligator or crawfish sausage or another local delicacy, the French fry po-boy, “dressed” and doused in roast beef debris gravy. 2604 Magazine St. | 897-5413 | traceysnola.com
CAFÉ
Another Broken Egg Café is here if you’re looking for a gourmet breakfast or brunch featuring local seafood, sweet treats, or seasonal specials. Try their biscuit beignets with honey marmalade or the delicious Bananas Foster French Toast. With plenty of outdoor seating, this brunchery is sure to make your top ten. Garden District | Lakeview | 301-2771 | anotherbrokeneggcafe.com
Café 615 Home of Dawabbit offers great homestyle meals at great prices. Their crispy fried chicken was voted among the best fried chicken in the New Orleans area, and they certainly don’t skimp on portions. Offering seafood plates and daily lunch specials, such as red beans and rice, meatloaf, and catfish, there’s a reason that Café 615 was voted best restaurant on the Westbank. 615 Kepler St. | Gretna | 365-1225 | dawabbit.net
Café Amelie is perfect for a romantic night in a scenic French Quarter courtyard. Located in the 150-year-old Princess of Monaco Courtyard and Carriage House, this place will have you rethinking café dining altogether. No other café will serve you perfectly prepared salmon topped with horseradish cream, paired with fingerling potatoes. Try their jumbo lump crab cake, beet salad, or oven-roasted chicken and waffles. 912 Royal St. | 412-8965 | cafeamelie.com
Café Beignet has some of the best chicory coffee and beignets anywhere. Order breakfast here any time of day or try one of their Cajun specialties. Stop by the Musical Legends Park at their Bourbon Street location for live local jazz beginning at 8 a.m., relax in their beautiful courtyard on Royal Street, or people-watch through their large French windows on Decatur Street. Multiple locations | cafebeignet.com
Caffe! Caffe! beats all the coffee chains when it comes to a vast array of cakes and pies. If you don’t have a sweet tooth, order from their extensive breakfast and lunch menus. Looking for a healthier option? This café also offers soups, salads, and Eat Fit selections. Start your morning off right with an avocado salad drizzled with homemade mango vinaigrette. Two Metairie Locations | caffecaffe.com
Compère Lapin guarantees a one-of-a-kind experience with an artful menu, blending indigenous ingredients with both French and Italian culinary expertise, as inspired by Chef Compton’s Caribbean heritage. Imagine spiced carrot soup and curried goat with sweet potato gnocchi for lunch or conch croquettes and confit duck leg for dinner. The drink menu is equally tasteful, and brunch is also an option. 535 Tchoupitoulas St. | 599-2119 | comperelapin.com
Cru by Chef Marlon Alexander is elevating the culinary status of the Marigny. Sip a specialty cocktail while you nibble on one of several varieties of caviar or keep it simple with a gourmet sandwich on brioche. They also offer sushi and vegan rolls and entrees showcasing classic American, New Orleans, and Italian influences. Cru’s weekend brunch features live entertainment and bottomless cocktail options. 535 Franklin Ave. | 266-2856 | crunola.com
Jimmy J’s Café is here to make all your breakfast dreams come true, even at 10 p.m. Pork Chop Eggs Benedict and French toast for lunch, brunch, and dinner? They’ve got it. They are a small, funky café, tucked away in the French Quarter, but they’re big and bold when it comes to Southern flavor and hospitality. 115 Chartres St. | 309-9360 | jimmyjscafe.com
Petite Amelie is a great spot for a healthy breakfast or lunch. In a corner shop on Royal Street, this eatery has a rotating menu of fresh and fast gourmet cuisine. Offering locally sourced milk, juices, salads, and pastries, this place is sure to satisfy. Try the panini waffle melt with Gruyère and ham or their show-stopping tomato soup. 900 Royal St. | 412-8065 | petiteamelienola.wordpress.com
Riccobono’s Panola Street Café is a neighborhood go-to for a filling, homestyle breakfast. Wake up to a delicious iced coffee, made with chocolate milk, or skip right to the bellinis. Try the California Benedict, with avocado and tomatoes, or the Crawfish Sauté Three-Egg Omelette. Especially popular with Uptown students and locals, Riccobono’s doesn’t disappoint. 7801 Panola St. | 314-1810 | panolastreetcafe.com
Surrey’s Cafe & Juice Bar is the place to go for freshly squeezed organic juices. Its New Orleanian- and Latin-influenced cuisine is not to be missed, and the vibrant décor is as inviting as the staff. For brunch, try the Huevos Rancheros Deluxe or the Black Bean and Veggie Burger. With their gluten-sensitive, vegan, and vegetarian options, Surrey’s has something for everyone. 1418 & 4807 Magazine St. | surreysnola.com
The Vintage is a one-of-a-kind café on Magazine Street with mouthwatering beignets, delicious coffees and teas, and an atmosphere that allows all patrons to sip, savor, and shine. Be sure to sample one of their well-crafted flatbreads, like the Vintage flatbread with generous portions of marinara, pepperoni, sliced roma tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil. You also have the option of pairing any of their yummy menu items with a great glass (or bottle) of champagne. 3121 Magazine St. | 324-7144 | thevintagenola.com
FRENCH
Café Degas, with its unbeatable romantic ambiance, has been voted one of the 15 best restaurants in the city. This lauded traditional Gallic French eatery is located in a charming historic area once frequented by the restaurant’s famed namesake. For something really special, try the Caille Rôtie—roasted quail over baby greens—or the homemade crawfish and mushroom ravioli. 3127 Esplanade Ave. | 945-5635 | cafedegas.com
ITALIAN
Josephine Estelle, an Italian osteria run by James Beard nominees, knows good pasta. Combining Italian cooking with flavors of the American South, this upscale eatery has all your favorite dishes. Head on over to this soaring dining room with ornate decor for some homemade spaghetti or delicate soft-shell crab bathed in brown butter. Don’t forget to stay for the praline mousse. 600 Carondelet St. | 930-3070 | josephineestelle.com
Mellow Mushroom on Oak Street is a necessary stop for any hungry patron in the Carrollton area. Their classic pizza parlor menu is anything but the usual. They have classic and thin-crust specialty pizzas, like the Holy Shitake with black truffle oil. Build your own salad, swap out your mozzarella for vegan cheese, or feast on pizza that is deliciously gluten-free. 8227 Oak St. | 345-8229 | mellowmushroom.com
Mosca’s Restaurant has served some of the best Italian food in New Orleans for over 70 years. Orders are made fresh and served family-style. It’s impossible to resist their Italian crab salad, heaping plates of spaghetti and meatballs, or their signature Shrimp Mosca. Order a bottle off their impressive wine menu and be sure to save room for some pineapple fluff! 4137 U.S. Highway 90 West | Westwego | 436-8950 | moscasrestaurant.com
Red Gravy, a rustic Italian café, makes it okay to have cannoli, spaghetti, meatballs, and gnocchi for breakfast, brunch, or lunch. Try their highly rated Sicilian egg pie or their delicious polpetta for an authentic Italian treat. Most of their recipes have been passed down from generation to generation, making the dishes here time-tested homestyle masterpieces. 125 Camp St. | 561-8844 | redgravycafe.com
Tavolino has a family-friendly atmosphere up front, but a party out back, so you can enjoy pizza with the family in the dining room or drinks with adults in the lounge. The thin-crust 13-inch pies with gourmet toppings will drive you across the river. Try their stuffed and fried “Ping” olives or the Prosciutto Brie pizza with arugula. 141 Delaronde St. | Algiers | 605- 3365 | facebook.com/TavolinoLounge
Venezia has been a Mid-City staple for over 60 years. With everything from veal and spinach cannelloni to chicken marsala, fresh fish almondine, and muffalettas, the menu never disappoints. Don’t forget to check out the pizzas, such as the House Special, topped with pepperoni, sausage, mushrooms, onions, and artichoke hearts. Our mouths are watering already! 134 N. Carrollton Ave. | 488-7991 | venezianeworleans.net
Vincent’s Italian Cuisine has been a New Orleans staple since 1989, boasting some of the best Italian food in the city. This cozy little restaurant is perfect for a date night and serves luscious dishes, including their famous corn and crabmeat bisque in a fresh-baked bread bowl and traditional osso bucco. If you’re really hungry, order the homemade lasagna or the roasted duck breast. Multiple Locations | 866-9313 | vincentsitaliancuisine.com
MEXICAN
Carreta’s Grill is sure to impress with large portions of ceviche, chicken fajitas, and even vegetarian options. Check out their delicious Mariachi Fries or tortilla soup to start or skip to the Chile Ranchero, a poblano stuffed with queso fresco and wrapped in carne asada. Don’t forget about the margaritas either, and remember to save room for the tres leches for dessert. Multiple locations | carrettasgrillrestaurant.com
Juan’s Flying Burrito is a hip Creole-infused taqueria that makes Taco Tuesday happen every day. Don’t miss their freshly made guac or their Banh Mi Tacos: Vietnamese-style tacos with your choice of meat (or tofu), veggies, and sriracha sour cream. And as far as drinks go, they’ve got everything from margaritas to boozy lemonade to mojitos at this neighborhood joint. Multiple locations | juansflyingburrito.com
NOLA Cantina has great food, live music, and salsa dancing, right off of Frenchmen Street. Relax on the patio while you chow down on their gourmet tacos and other Central American fare. You’ll definitely want to sample all of their artfully crafted cocktails, such as the Smoke & Mirrors Margarita with chamomile and lavender. Plan a visit for their burlesque brunch on the last Sunday of the month. 437 Esplanade Ave. | 266-2848 | nolacantina.com
MIDDLE EASTERN
Lebanon’s Café is under the shady oak trees of Uptown, serving generous portions of Middle Eastern food in a warm environment. Snack on savory hummus, grape leaves, and falafel and drink sweet Lebanese tea with pine nuts. Make sure to save room for their gyro plate—with spiced lamb and beef, tomatoes, and onions—all cooked in delectable spices. 1500 S. Carrollton Ave. | 862-6200 | lebanonscafe.com
Pyramid’s Cafe is a classic Mediterranean storefront diner slinging some seriously delicious dips, salads, and entrees that come with a side of hummus. Stop by for standards like the shawarma or kibby—spicy lamb, onions, and pinenuts, crusted with cracked wheat and ground beef and then deep-fried. Or, have a family feast: a whole lamb stuffed with chickpeas, perfect for a special dinner. 3149 Calhoun St. | 861-9602 | pyramidscafeonline.com
NEW ORLEANS CUISINE
Antoine’s Restaurant is the oldest family-run restaurant in the country, having been established in 1840. Antoine’s is famous for consistently delivering a classic French-Creole fine-dining experience in a city known for just that. This iconic foodie destination also invented the world-renowned Oysters Rockefeller. Visit for a romantic dinner or make Sunday classy with their jazz brunch. 713 St. Louis St. | 581-4422 | antoines.com
Chef D’z Cafe has a new location and will make you feel like family with its hospitable staff, great food, and large portions. Try their blackened chicken or catfish fettuccine, fried fish po-boy, or fresh jambalaya. Or, come in early for their $2 breakfast deal. If you’ve saved room, make sure to try the pecan Mardi Gras beignets, a really special treat. 1535 Basin St. | 982-3287 | facebook.com/chefdzcafe
Chef Ron’s Gumbo Stop has some legit Louisiana-style cooking. Their Mumbo Gumbo, Southern fried chicken, and crab cakes make for a classic New Orleans experience. Enjoy a half po-boy and half-gumbo meal to sample their best. A hidden gem of a mom-and-pop café, Chef Ron’s will have you returning soon for more. 2309 N. Causeway Blvd. | 835-2022 | gumbostop.com
The Columns Hotel offers a memorable dining experience in a graceful historic mansion built in 1863. With breakfast, brunch, and an award-winning Happy Hour, this establishment holds the title of one of the top 100 bars in the country. Try their seasonal charcuterie and cheese combination board in the Victorian dining room or front gallery with a view of beautiful Saint Charles Avenue. 3811 St. Charles Ave. | 899-9308 | thecolums.com
Coterie NOLA Restaurant & Oyster Bar has classic New Orleans and American munchies. Here, you can eat blackened alligator, seafood specialties, beignets, fried pickles, salads, or burgers in a casual environment amidst the beauty of the French Quarter. Their extensive breakfast, lunch, and dinner menus warrant multiple visits, and you’ll want to stop by during Happy Hour to sample from their raw oyster bar. 135 Decatur St. | 529-8600 | coterienola.com
Crescent City Brewhouse, the French Quarter’s only microbrewery, is an experience for all the senses. Enjoy live jazz music, local art, traditional Louisiana fare with a creative flair, and a monthly beer selection. Take a beer flight on the balcony or in the courtyard of this unique bistro setting while snacking on small plates, sandwiches, and mains that pair with their premium brews. 527 Decatur St. | 522-0571 | crescentictybrewhouse.com
Crossroads at House of Blues is at a “crossroads” between music, art, and great food, all inspired by the American South. Try the melt-in-your-mouth brisket plate with cornbread while listening to live music or, for a 100 percent vegan option, try their “Impossible Cheeseburger”—made with a vegan burger patty, cheese, lettuce, pickles, and a secret sauce on a bun. 225 Decatur St. | 310-0499 | houseofblues.com/neworleans/menu
Dick and Jenny’s is located in a cozy, eclectic Creole cottage on Tchoupitoulas Street and serves local classics, like their famous crab cakes and Creole Style BBQ Gulf Shrimp with goat cheese grits. Serving locally sourced ingredients that are artfully prepared, Chef Merlin prides himself on “creating Cajun Creole culinary dishes with just a touch of Thai influence.” 4501 Tchoupitoulas St. | 894-9880 | dickandjennys.com
Neyow’s Creole Café serves us authentic Creole cuisine that is “straight from their grandmother’s recipes.” Located in Mid-City, this elegant stop has charbroiled oysters you can’t go wrong with. They’ve got a large selection of specials every day of the week, ranging from the Shrimp Creole to an eight-ounce ribeye. And if you’re thirsty, try their Bow Wow punch, which features both light and dark rum. 3332 Bienville St. | 827-5474 | neyows.com
New Orleans Cajun Cookery is located among some of the city’s trendiest restaurants, but it’s keeping traditions alive with its take on the classics. Located in the Warehouse District, this spot shows that a good ol’ shrimp po-boy can still be the best meal around. Oh, and let’s not forget to mention their Bacon Bloody Mary. 701 S. Peters St. | 985-778-2529 | facebook.com/pages/category/Restaurant/New-Orleans-Cajun-Cookery-659728691032348/
New Orleans Creole Cookery, with its reputation for excellent food and service, is perfect for a night on the town. They’ve got great boozy beverages, like the Hurricane (drink the Category 5 at your own risk), and a large selection of delicious NOLA-style food, like blackened redfish, gator bites, and jambalaya. Enjoy dining in their courtyard, bar, or dining room. 508 Toulouse St. | 524-9632 | neworleanscreolecookery.com
Parran's Po-Boys and Restaurant serves up a variety of delicious fried and grilled po-boys on fresh French bread, as well as gigantic muffalettas and mouthwatering Italian dishes, such as their Eggplant Parran and spaghetti. Can’t decide which po-boy to try? Get half fried shrimp and half fried oyster. Try the fried cauliflower or the roast beef po-boy and leave deliciously satisfied. Multiple locations | parranspoboys.com
Public Service at the NOPSI Hotel truly serves the public with scrumptious options for any meal of the day. Start your day with the Crab Cakes Benedict. For lunch, try the Cuban Muffaletta. Their dishes do us all a public service by consistently offering twists on Creole classics, including Cajun Poutine or their Braised Short Ribs with Wild Mushroom and Potato Ragout. 311 Baronne St. | 962-6527 | publicservicenola.com
Short Stop Poboys doesn’t mess around when it comes to making the city’s famed sandwich. Hopefully you’re hungry, because it’s the only place around where you can get a king-sized 14-inch soft-shell crab po-boy. Try something different with the French fry po-boy, topped with homemade roast beef gravy. If you’re still hungry, go for the peanut butter pie, which is to die for. 119 Transcontinental Dr. | Metairie | 885-4572 | shortstoppoboysno.com
SEAFOOD
Briquette may make its home in an old molasses refinery, but it offers a classy taste of New Orleans. Begin your night with the Crabcake Napoleon or the Spotlight Gumbo. Try one of their mouthwatering entrées, such as the Skinhead Salmon or the Snapper Pontchartrain, to taste the colors of the city. Finish strong with the delectable Dark Chocolate Creme Brulee. 701 S. Peters St. | 302-7496 | briquette-nola.com
Felix’s Restaurant & Oyster Bar takes pride in having the “first name in oysters.” They’re sure to appease all mollusk-lovers, whether you like them raw or fried. Try the Oysters Bienville or the Oysters Rockefeller. Not in the mood for oysters? Check out their classic New Orleans dishes, like jambalaya. Finish your meal with a tasty slice of Creole pecan pie. Multiple locations | felixs.com
Landry’s Seafood is renowned for their unique takes on classic seafood dishes, but with a gluten-sensitive menu and vegetarian options, Landry’s truly has something for everyone. Try the Blackened Redfish Etouffée or the Mahi Mahi topped with Firecracker Shrimp. If you’re looking to level up your meal, check out their extensive wine menu. Be sure to save room for a slice of praline cheesecake! Multiple Locations | landrysseafood.com
Poseidon serenades you with its sushi rolls, hibachi, and even karaoke. Open six days a week and until 2 a.m. on Fridays and Saturdays, it serves everything in the sea. Warm up your vocal chords with a fancy cocktail and enjoy the divine atmosphere as you dig into their specialty rolls, such as the Poseidon and Crouching Tiger. 2100 St. Charles Ave. | 509-6675 | poseidonnola.com
Seaworthy carries a selection of seafood worthy of trying. They are known for sustainably harvested seafood, specifically oysters, prepared with a global flair. Try oysters from the East Coast, West Coast, or Gulf Coast. Pair your oysters with the Squid Hushpuppies and a handcrafted cocktail, like Scarlet in the Library. And don’t miss out on the brunch! 630 Carondelet St. | 930-3071 | seaworthynola.com
Tito’s Ceviche and Pisco takes you to Peru without your having to hop on a plane. Spice up your meal with an assortment of ceviches, mixed seafood platters, or grilled octopus that the competition just doesn’t offer. Take a trip into uncharted territory with the Causa de Cangrejo, a dish made with Louisiana crab meat, aji potatoes, avocado, and olives. 5015 Magazine St. | 267-7612 | titoscevichepisco.com
VEGAN
Green Goddess showcases the influence of Thai cuisine on Cajun classics with dishes for everyone. Romantically tucked into the Exchange Place pedestrian zone, they offer inventive gluten-free, vegan, and vegetarian options, like the tofu po-boy or the Veggie Cuban Luau. But they also cater to carnivores, offering dishes like Duck Off! and Chimichurri Brisket, for those feeling a little less green. 307 Exchange Pl. | 301-3347 | greengoddessrestaurant.com
Max Well prides itself on transparent sourcing and clean eating with organic whole foods. Visit for fresh cold-pressed juices, soups, salads, and protein bowls, stuffed with greens or rice and toppings like almonds, avocado, and sweet potatoes. Try the Banh Mi Bowl or the Hippie Salad, featuring cucumber avocado dressing and quinoa cranberry stuffing, for a healthy and satisfying meal. 6101 Magazine St. | 301-0510 | maxwellneworleans.com
Seed has firmly planted itself in a city known for its love of seafood and everything fried. But that’s not stopping them from sharing their version of tantalizing vegan soul food, with items such as their eggplant po-boy, Seed Gumbo, and even beignets. Thirsty for something healthy? Try a drink off of Seed’s fruitful juice, smoothie, and cocktail menu. 1330 Prytania St. & 2372 St. Claude Ave. | 302-2599 | seedyourhealth.com
