Best Falafel in New Orleans
Calling all falafel lovers and newcomers—June 12 is the perfect day to try this Mediterranean delight. While New Orleans culinary specialty lies with Cajun, Creole and soul food, delicious Mediterranean cuisine can be found across the city with everything from hummus to shawarma to falafel.
These hidden gems combine Southern hospitality with the comfort of Mediterranean food for an all around delightful experience. Whether you try one or all, be sure to peruse these 10 spots for your perfect restaurant. Ranging from bars with appetizers to fine dining establishments, there is something for everyone to enjoy.
1. Olive
339 Carondelet St., (504) 766-9271
olivenola.com
Known for their homemade Mediterranean delicacies, Olive offers fresh falafel made with fried ground chickpeas, spices, onions, and parsley. Each bite is bursting with flavor and offers a refreshing yet filling meal for all to enjoy in the thick of the summer heat. Stop by for a bite or reserve your spot for a family meal to enjoy authentic Lebanese food in the heart of the Big Easy.
2. Shaya
4213 Magazine St., (504) 891-4213
shayarestaurant.com
Focused on locally sourced ingredients and contemporary culinary techniques and innovation, Shaya offers a wide ranging menu in a modern space. With the experience and culinary skills of Executive Chef Fariz Choumali ensuring the authenticity of Mediterranean flavors, falafel can be found across the menu and pairs perfectly with their innovative hummus selections.
3. 1000 Figs
3141 Ponce De Leon St. Suite 1, (504) 301-0848
1000figs.com
With their falafel platter as one of their specialty dishes, 1000 figs is guaranteed to satisfy your crispy chickpea cravings. Featuring four falafel, hummus, kale and cabbage salad, toum, tahini, zhoug, and their fresh bread, this dish provides a holistic taste of Mediterranean cuisine. Perfect for first time falafel-eaters, this plate adds dipping sauce and other features to give you the best first taste.
4. Saba
5757 Magazine St., (504) 324-7770
eatwithsaba.com
Paying homage to the cultural and culinary landscape of Israel, Saba reflects on the Israeli heritage of Chef Alon Shaya and the ever-changing nature of cuisine. Serving their meals family style with locally sourced seafood and meat, Saba is a gorgeous establishment with a delicious variety. Known for their bright green falafel made with zhoug, amba, and tahini, Saba is perfect for a date or a family meal.
5. Lebanon's Cafe
1500 S. Carrollton Ave., (504) 862-6200
lebanonscafe.com
Offering a variety of hearty comfort foods, Lebanon Cafe has been serving Uptown New Orleans for more than 22 years. Respecting traditional Middle Eastern flavors and culinary traditions, Lebanon Cafe follows family recipes to ensure authenticity and maintain a comforting and cozy environment. For first time falafel enjoyers, the chef special at Lebanon's Cafe features hummus, baba ganuj, labna, tabouleh, falafel, and vegetarian grape leaves, providing a holistic taste profile of authentic Lebanese foods.
6. Mona's Cafe
3901 Banks St., (504) 482-7743
monas-cafe.foodjoyy.com
Known for their vegan and vegetarian options, Mona's Cafe is perfect if you are looking to get takeout and enjoy your falafel at home this June 12. Offering dine in, delivery, takeout, and catering services, Mona's fresh and flavor packed dishes sit as a hidden gem in Mid-City. The interior is decorated with Middle Eastern designs providing a comforting dining experience and is very reasonably priced.
7. Tal's Hummus
4800 Magazine St., (504) 267-7357
talshummus.com
Offering traditional Israeli street food in a quick service style, Tal's Hummus menu serves a wide selection of healthy and mouth-watering meals. From falafel to shakshuka and everything in between, Tal's offers an easy way to celebrate National Falafel day in a welcoming atmosphere. From the quirky wall decor to the casual outdoor seating, Tal's makes it easy to eat falafel.
8. Cleo's Mediterranean Cuisine
940 Canal St., (504) 522-4504
facebook.com/CleosNOLA
Open 24/7, Cleo's is perfect for late night eats in the CBD. Offering a well-lit modern interior and a variety of dietary options, Cleo's might just be the place for falafel in New Orleans. From their authentic flavors, organic options, flexible hours, and welcoming atmosphere, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Offering a wide variety of veggie options, this is perfect for those looking to eat healthier or stay away from meat.
9. Attiki Bar & Grill
230 Decatur St., (504) 587-3756
attikineworleans.com
Sharing family recipes for Mediterranean dishes and drinks, Attiki Bar & Grill offers a fun and lively environment to enjoy your falafel. This family owned and operated grill offers a hookah bar and wide ranging menu of authentic Middle Eastern deliciousness. With reasonable prices and late night hours, Attiki Bar & Grill is an accessible option after a night out in the French Quarter.
10. Dolma
2381 St. Claude Ave., (229) 805-2406
dolmanola.square.site
Offering large portions and potent flavors, Dolma is a friendly and affordable Middle Eastern restaurant known for its authenticity. Located in St. Roch Market, there are plenty of choices for the rest of your group on the menu and throughout the market. Don't skip over the falafel wrap, paired with parsley, tomatoes, cucumber, and tahini, making a light but hearty wrap that anyone could enjoy.
Making the Most of National Falafel Day
From the late-night spots in the French Quarter to the hidden gems in Mid-City and favored establishments on Magazine, falafel can be found in every corner of the city, whether you are looking for it or not. These 10 spots showcase the ways that Mediterranean food has found its place in this city and embraced the authentic innovation of cuisine across the Crescent City.
From family operated Lebanese restaurants to Israeli street food and modern techniques, these 10 spots offer all the flavors you could dream of and more.
