Best Places to Eat in New Orleans for 2026
AMERICAN
Anita's Grill brings American flavors to the Warehouse District neighborhood with a lively atmosphere and menu packed with Southern flavors. Breakfast options include steak & eggs, a biscuit breakfast sandwich, and pancake and waffle options. They also offer a variety of po-boy dishes, including the hamburger po-boy and the liver & onion po-boy. 833 Howard Ave., (504) 354-8979, anitasgrillnola.com
Bearcat Café is a popular destination known for its health-conscious options and comfort dishes. The menu offers "good cat" and "bad cat" options, differentiating from more health-conscious to heavier dishes. Specific options include the "good cat" mushroom soft scramble and vegan ranchero, as well as the "bad cat" shrimp & grits, breakfast club sandwich, and crab scramble. Multiple Locations, bearcatcafe.com
Commons Club offers a contemporary dining experience inside the Virgin Hotels New Orleans. The menu highlights modern American cuisine, featuring seasonal ingredients and creative presentation. Food options include charcuterie boards, Wagyu steak fries, truffle campanelle pasta, burrata, and lobster scampi. The atmosphere is bright and vibrant, making it an ideal spot for brunch or dinner. 550 Baronne St., (833) 791-7700, virginhotels.com
Crescent City Steaks is a historic Mid-City steakhouse that's been known for old-school charm and prime-aged beef since 1934. Family-owned for generations, it delivers classic steakhouse fare in a nostalgic setting. Specific steak options include the rib eye, filet wrapped in bacon, strip sirloin, and cowboy rib eye. The restaurant also serves seafood, potatoes, and vegetables á la carte. 1001 N. Broad St., (504) 821‑3271, crescentcitysteaks.com
Daisy Dukes Restaurant delivers delicious Southern comfort food in a lively and casual setting. Known for their filling breakfasts, po-boys, and New Orleans favorites, it offers big portions in an authentic Southern atmosphere. Specific menu options include French toast, breakfast sandwiches, and country fried steak with gravy served with eggs, hash browns, or a biscuit. Multiple Locations, daisydukesrestaurant.com
Desi Vega's Steakhouse is a spot for classic, high-quality steaks served in an upscale setting. Known for its elegant atmosphere, the restaurant serves traditionally Southern flavors with a modern touch. Be sure to try the rib eye & fries served with whipped bearnaise. Seafood options include the jumbo LA shrimp Creole and Louisiana crawfish bisque. 628 St. Charles Ave., (504) 523-7600, desivegasteaks.com
Jack Rose offers a vibrant, art-filled dining experience inside the historic Pontchartrain Hotel, blending New Orleans based dishes with global influences. The menu features a mix of Italian, French, and Spanish-inspired dishes alongside classic New Orleans meals. Specific menu options include fried chicken parmesan, radiatore, banana leaf wrapped speckled trout, and fettuccine nero. The restaurant also offers brunch options. 2031 St. Charles Ave. Fl. 1, (504) 608-7112, jackroserestaurant.com
Legacy Kitchen's Craft Tavern blends elevated American comfort food with an industrial tavern atmosphere in the Warehouse District. Their brunch menu offers crawfish & egg beignets and the Bananas Foster waffle with whipped cream and honey butter. The main menu offers favorites including a BBQ pulled pork sandwich and the redfish St. Charles, served with asparagus and crawfish cornbread. 700 Tchoupitoulas St. #3612, (504) 613-2350, legacykitchen.com
Legacy Kitchen's Steak + Chop brings delicious steakhouse fare to the Westbank. In addition to plenty of craft cocktails and fine wines, the restaurant offers hot plate specials from Monday to Friday. Menu options include the chicken & waffle, a "build your own burger," and trout amandine. They also offer many different cuts of steak such as center cut top sirloin. 91 Westbank Expy., Gretna, (504) 513-2606, legacykitchen.com
Luke is known for a refined take on French and German-inspired cuisine, served in a brasserie-style setting. Known for classic preparations of oysters and seafood dishes, options for breakfast include the LA crawfish omelette and the crispy fried chicken biscuit, along with dinner entrees including the flammenkuchen with Alsatian onion tarte, bacon, and cheese. 333 St. Charles Ave., (504) 378-2840, lukeneworleans.com
Moe's Original BBQ, named in the "Top 10 BBQ Chains in America" by USA Today and the Daily Meal, serves Alabama-style barbeque in a casual setting. Popular for its catering packages, its relaxed atmosphere and hearty quality make it a great spot for a satisfying meal. The menu features pulled pork, smoked chicken, and fried catfish platters with cornbread. 1101 N. Causeway Blvd., Metairie, (504) 407-3533, moesoriginalbbq.com
New Orleans Vampire Café brings a theatrical approach to dining with a gothic, vampire-inspired setting and menu. The atmosphere is mysterious, with dishes that blend New Orleans flavors with vampire-esque presentation. They offer drinks with sangria, vodka pomegranate lemonade, and more prepared in ghastly blood bag packaging. Food options include the alligator po-boy and shrimp & grits. 801 Royal St., (504) 581-0801, nolavampirecafe.com
Rib Room is a classic French Quarter steakhouse known for its prime rib and elegant atmosphere. Located inside the Omni Royal Orleans, it blends traditional fine dining with a relaxed environment. Dinner options include prime steaks, mustard-fried flounder, Cajun corn ribs, and more. The turtle au sherry soup consists of baby spinach, egg, and lemon broth. 621 St. Louis St., (504) 529-7045, ribroomneworleans.com
Sala NOLA offers a savory dining experience with a focus on coastal Italian cuisine and fresh seafood. Specific menu options include the house cured salmon board, veal parmesan, blackened catfish topped with crab meat, and chicken caprese. The restaurant also offers breakfast, weekend brunch, happy hour, and steak nights. 124 Lake Marina Dr., (504) 513-2670, salanola.com
Spudly's Super Spuds specializes in loaded baked potatoes packed with toppings. The menu also includes starters, soups, salads, burgers, and sandwiches. Potato options include the traditional spud with cheese, sour cream, bacon bits, and chives. The Super Duper MKT is stuffed with crabmeat, shrimp, and crawfish topped with cheese sauce, cheddar, and chives. 2609 Harvard Ave., Metairie, (504) 455-3250, spudlys.com
Vacca Steakhouse brings a modern, upscale approach to the steakhouse experience in Metairie. Their dish presentation exhibits attention to detail, and the atmosphere is refined and sophisticated. Specific menu options include appetizers including the fried shrimp cocktail, oysters seven, or bacon wrapped scallops. The steak entrees include the NY strip, ribeye, and center cut filet, served Pittsburgh-style on a sizzling plate. 3524 Severn Ave., Metairie, (504) 318-3808, vaccasteakhouse.com
Vampire Apothecary offers cocktails and cuisine inspired by gothic themes and a rustic atmosphere of storytelling. Located in the French Quarter, it specializes in creative cocktails crafted with unique presentation. Their food options are fresh and health-oriented. Dishes include baked salmon, tea brined chicken thighs, baked oysters, and dessert options such as the poached pear and the hazelnut chocolate dome. 725 St. Peter St., (504) 766-8179, vampireapothecary.com
ASIAN
Aroma Indian Cuisine offers traditional Indian dishes with a focus on bold spices and authentic preparation. The menu features favorites such as curries, biryani, and tandoori specialties. Its welcoming atmosphere and quality make it a reliable choice for both casual meals and exploring Indian cuisine. Specific options include the chili paneer, Chicken 65, and malai kofta. Multiple Locations, aromanolaindiancuisine.com
Mantra Original Indian Cuisine offers Punjabi flavors and hospitality with curries, tandoori flavors, and recipes passed through generations. Some of their menu options include chicken entrees, baked breads, lamb and goat entrees, seafood entrees, and vegetarian options. Specific options include the chicken vindaloo, lamb curry, karahi goat, fish tikka masala, tandoori fish, and aloo gobhi. 3116 S I-10 Service Rd. W. E., Metairie, (504) 354-8349, mantraoriginalindiancuisine.com
Mikimoto Restaurant offers a menu full of Japanese cuisine including sushi, hibachi, and more. The restaurant is known for its quality ingredients, fresh food, and welcoming environment. Sushi options include the Diane roll with crabstick, avocado, and cream cheese, as well as the Fuji Mountain roll. The menu also offers sashimi, rice dishes, and udon noodles. 3301 S. Carrollton Ave., (504) 488-1881, mikimotosushi.com
Thai'd Up brings Thai flavors to the Gentilly neighborhood in a welcoming setting. The menu features classic items such as pad Thai, curries, and more prepared with Thai spices. Specific menu options include the Thai beef jerky, chicken satay, butter Thai shrimp, and the papaya salad. Its authentic approach to Thai cuisine makes it a must-visit spot. 1839 Gentilly Blvd., (504) 644-5790, thaidup.co
BARS WITH GREAT FOOD
Bamboula's is a classic spot that combines New Orleans cuisine with live music. Known for its Cajun/Creole cuisine, cocktails, and lively atmosphere, menu options include the Creole jambalaya, Hawaiian burger, seafood po-boys, and boudin balls. The restaurant hosts daily music performances and is great for hanging out with a group of friends. 514 Frenchmen St., (504) 451-7306, bamboulasmusic.com
JB's Fuel Dock offers waterfront dining with views of Lake Pontchartrain, making it a great choice for sunset views. The menu leans into seafood favorites, po-boys, and casual Italian dishes. Specific menu options include pepperoni or sausage calzones, JB's BLT sandwich, and a good range of pizza options including buffalo chicken, jalapeno pepper, and margherita. 128 S. Roadway St., (504) 510-2260, jbsfueldock.com
Le Bon Temps Roule is an Uptown bar offering live music, drinks, and New Orleans bar food. The establishment is open late and is always lively, making it a neighborhood staple for its authentic local atmosphere. Be sure to order their smash burgers including the mushroom Swiss or Oklahoma fried onion, the blackened mahi sandwich, and their loaded fries. 4801 Magazine St., (504) 897-3448, lbtrnola.com
Rivershack Tavern is a restaurant known for its rustic decor, tacky ash trays, and famous "bar legs." The menu features tasty New Orleans fare, and the restaurant also hosts live music. Menu options include the Leaf Me Alone house salad, the Double R sandwich with bacon and ham, and the alligator sausage po-boy, which deliciously blends pork and alligator together. 3449 River Rd., Jefferson, (504) 834-4938, rivershacktavern.com
Swamp Room Bar & Grill, located over in Metairie, is a great bar and restaurant to hang out at. Not only is it home to the "swamp burger," the restaurant also offers plenty of creative bites such as red beans & rice balls. They also have The Cypress Room, which is a private event space that can hold up to 250 people. 5400 Veterans Memorial Blvd., Metairie, (504) 888-5242, theswamproom.com
The Channel features American cuisine with a focus on seasonal ingredients. Located on Magazine Street, its traditional feel enhances a menu featuring seafood and shareable plates. On the menu is the Irish club sandwich, a triple decker sandwich with ham, turkey, and American cheese. They also offer fried green tomatoes and the shrimp, fish, chicken, and oyster baskets. 2604 Magazine St., (504) 381-4680, thechannelneworleans.com
CAFÉ
Kitchen Table Café is a neighborhood spot in Arabi where classic Southern meals meet a homestyle cooking dynamic. Food options include hearty meals such as the thick cut-center pork chop, the Asian flank steak, and a creamy alfredo pasta. The atmosphere is friendly and relaxed, with live music nightly to go along with some of the area's best gumbo. 7005 St. Claude Ave., Arabi, (504) 301-2285, facebook.com/kitchentablearabi
Prince Tea House offers an elegant, Parisian-inspired café experience with a focus on premium teas, brunch, and housemade desserts. Blending Asian and European influences, the menu features tea service and mille crêpe cakes. They also offer an applewood bacon egg Benedict and their afternoon tea service with finger sandwiches, scones, assorted desserts, and unlimited tea refills. 3012 N. Arnoult Rd. Ste. B, Metairie, (504) 330-0360, princeteahousenola.com
The Vintage is a cozy wine bar and café known for a relaxed atmosphere, curated wine list, and tapas-style dishes. Located on Magazine Street, it offers a laid-back space for brunch or evening drinks. The menu offers beignets and pastries served all day, flatbreads, and charcuterie. They also offer espresso martinis, beer and wine on tap, and Prohibition-era cocktails. 3121 Magazine St., (504) 324-7144, thevintagenola.com
Willa Jean combines freshly baked goods with Southern comfort food in a casual setting. The restaurant offers a range of breakfast and brunch options, along with the city's best chocolate cookies. Biscuit options include the fried chicken and tabasco honey biscuit and the bacon, egg, and pimento cheese biscuit. The menu also offers options including amazing avocado toast and a crawfish omelette. 611 O'Keefe Ave., (504) 509-7334, willajean.com
CARIBBEAN
Jamaican Jerk House brings Caribbean flavors to New Orleans with a menu centered on traditional Jamaican dishes. From jerk chicken to curry goat, each plate is rich in authentic flavors. Specific menu options include their oxtail pasta, jerk shrimp plate, pork rib, and authentic jerk chicken served with rice & peas and two additional sides. Multiple Locations, jamaicanjerkhouse.com
ITALIAN
Domenica, located in the Roosevelt Hotel, brings Italian flavors to downtown New Orleans with a focus on handmade pastas, wood-fired pizzas, and seasonal ingredients. The lively, upscale atmosphere pairs itself with a refined menu. Options include tutto carne and clam pizza, squid ink tagliolini with blue crab and herbs, and the chicken al mattone with field peas and escarole. 123 Baronne St., (504) 336-6541, domenicarestaurant.com
Mosca's Restaurant is a Westbank institution known for its classic feel, Creole-Italian cuisine, and family-friendly dining experience. It has a longstanding history and unique menu that is for sharing. Specific menu options include the oysters Mosca, baked and topped with breadcrumbs, as well as the bordelaise pasta and the chicken cacciatore, sauteed with rosemary and Italian seasoning. 4137 US-90, Westwego, (504) 436-8950, moscasrestaurant.com
Pizza Domenica serves wood-fired pizzas and Italian-inspired dishes made with fresh, quality ingredients in a casual, yet modern setting. The restaurant is known for their creative toppings and shareable small plates. On the menu, specific pizza options include the margherita, chicken pesto, and crawfish pizzas. They also serve garlic knots, delicious salads, and wood roasted wings. Multiple Locations, pizzadomenica.com
U Pizza, located in the Lower Garden District, serves creative, New York-style pizzas, sandwiches, wraps and pastas. It offers a casual, fast-paced dining experience, perfect for meals on the go. Pizza options include the BBQ chicken and the Garden District pizza with spinach zucchini and yellow squash. They also offer avocado chicken sandwiches, the Esplanade burger, and jalapeño cheesy breadsticks. 1513 St. Charles Ave., (504) 381-4232, upizzanola.com
Venezia is a long-running Italian restaurant known for its extensive menu of pizzas, pastas, and comfort dishes. The atmosphere is casual and family-friendly, making it an ideal spot for relaxed meals in New Orleans and Gretna. Specific menu options include the house special pizza with pepperoni, sausage, mushrooms, and artichoke; fettucini alfredo; lasagna; and prime New York strip. Multiple Locations, venezianeworleans.com
LATIN
Empanola specializes in handcrafted empanadas filled with savory and sweet options inspired by many different flavors. Its casual setting and to-go offerings make it a convenient and satisfying choice for quick bites and relaxed meals. Specific menu options include many different empanadas including the Asian dumpling, beef Argentina, buffalo chicken, caprese, crawfish étouffée, guava cheese, and apple pecan, among others. Multiple Locations, empanolaempanadas.com
MIDDLE EASTERN
Lebanon's Café brings authentic Lebanese cuisine to Uptown with a menu full of Mediterranean dishes. It has a casual welcoming atmosphere, making it a favorite for healthy, satisfying dining. The menu features options from hummus and falafel to grilled meats and vegetarian flavors. Specific choices include the safeheh mini pizza, zaater bread, and halloumi cheese. 1500 S. Carrollton Ave., (504) 862-6200, lebanonscafe.com
Mona's Café brings Middle Eastern food to Mid-City with a menu focused on fresh, flavorful, and affordable dishes. Known for its sandwiches from the grill, the menu highlights bold spices and flavors. The menu is extensive with specific options including the gyro plate, chicken shawarma sandwich, hummus dip with peppers, meat grape leaves, and much more. 3901 Banks St., (504) 482-7743, facebook.com/monasnola
Shaya offers modern Levantine cuisine with a focus on fresh flavors and creative presentation. Highlights include their housemade pita, hummus, and variety of small plates. Specific menu options include their lamb ragu hummus, crispy halloumi, crawfish arayes, and chicken schnitzel sandwich. It has a bright, modern atmosphere that makes it one of Uptown's most acclaimed dining spots. 4213 Magazine St., (504) 943-7231, shayarestaurant.com
NEW ORLEANS CUISINE
3rd Block Depot offers an upscale, modern take on Creole cuisine in the French Quarter, blending New Orleans flavors with modern presentation. The menu spans from brunch dishes, such as the morning quesadilla, buttermilk pancakes, and Chartres breakfast sandwich, to refined dinner entrées including the chicken & sausage gumbo, blackened redfish, and braised short rib. 310 Chartres St., (504) 552-4095, 3rdblockdepot.com
Charlie's Restaurant is a neighborhood-style restaurant serving classic American and Southern comfort food in a casual setting. Its friendly service and New Orleans-inspired menu makes it a local spot for everyday dining. Specific menu options include the hamburger steak, crazy crab pasta, and delicious gumbo, in addition to their steak, rib, and po-boy dishes. 6129 E. St. Bernard Hwy., Violet, (504) 682-9057
Chef Ron's Gumbo Stop is a Metairie favorite celebrated for its gumbo and seafood dishes. Its generous portions and their authentic flavors make it a go to spot for comfort food lovers. Specific menu options include the bayou scampi, bronzed drum fish, chicken & sausage gumbo with okra and tomato, and the crawfish étouffée served in a Cajun roux. 2309 N. Causeway Blvd., Metairie, (504) 835-2022, gumbostop.com
Crescent City Brewhouse pairs classic New Orleans flavors with house-brewed beers in a scenic French Quarter setting. The menu features Creole favorites alongside pub-style fare, designed to complement rotating craft brews. Menu options include raw oysters, crispy chicken salad, and crabmeat hushpuppies. For drinks, customers can order beer flights, fine wine, and a range of cocktails. 527 Decatur St., (504) 522‑0571, crescentcitybrewhouse.com
Desire Oyster Bar, located in the Royal Sonesta Hotel, offers a Bourbon Street experience with Gulf oysters and Creole dishes in a classic New Orleans atmosphere. Their extensive menu offers gumbos, salads, po-boys, New Orleans specialties, and dessert. Desire Oyster Bar features raw oysters, chargrilled oysters, and boiled shrimp in Cajun spices. 300 Bourbon St., (504) 553-2281, sonesta.com
Galliano puts a focus on Southern Louisiana and Cajun cuisine in an upscale and rustic environment. Appetizer options include the alligator Creole, seafood jambalaya, and Wagyu arancini. Their house specialties range from the swamp pasta with Gulf shrimp, andouille sausage, and fried alligator to the Wagyu po-boy cheese burger. They also offer an extensive list of cocktails and spirits. 200 Julia St., (504) 218-5753, gallianorestaurant.com
Lakeview Harbor is a neighborhood restaurant home to Lakeview's original burger. They offer large portions and consistent quality, making it a good spot for casual dining. Menu options include deep-fried potato skins with cheese, fried mushrooms, a catfish po-boy, and chili cheese dogs. The atmosphere is laid-back, making it perfect for hanging out with friends. 8550 Pontchartrain Blvd., (504) 486‑4887, lakeviewharbor.us
Lil' Dizzy's Café is a Tremé institution serving classic Creole food in a warm, family-run setting. Known for their fried chicken, Creole gumbo, and other Baquet family recipes, it delivers comforting New Orleans dishes rooted in tradition. It has a deep local history and daily specials including red beans & rice on Monday and jambalaya with fried chicken on Wednesday. 1500 Esplanade Ave., (504) 766-8687, lildizzyscafe.net
Loretta's Authentic Pralines is a destination for classic New Orleans sweets and Creole-inspired desserts. The business is known for its sweet praline beignets, crabmeat beignets, and burger beignets, as well as pralines, king cakes, and other sweet treats. Praline options include their coconut pralines, rum pralines, and chocolate pralines, in addition to praline shoe soles. Multiple Locations, lorettaspralines.com
Lyons Corner is a contemporary downtown café and bar that offers American classics with modern New Orleans energy. The menu consists of breakfast, lunch, and dinner options. Menu selections include the lamb lollipops with chermoula sauce, the chicken BLT flatbread, and the Camp catfish sandwich. For a pick-me-up, enjoy their iced chai latte or a cappuccino. 537 Gravier St., (504) 527-0006, lyonscornernola.com
Mandina's Restaurant is a Mid-City institution serving Creole-Italian dishes in a family-friendly setting. Known for its red gravy, seafood options, and large portions, their menu is comforting and traditional. Specific dishes include the Gulf fish meunière or almandines with fries, as well as po-boys and Italian specials including eggplant parmesan and spaghetti. 3800 Canal St., (504) 482-9179, mandinasrestaurant.com
Meril offers contemporary New Orleans cuisine in the Warehouse District. Visitors can enjoy brunch, lunch, and dinner options in an upscale, modern setting. The menu offers plates such as the Gulf yellowfin tuna bundles and candied pork ribs. Other entrees include the fettuccine with truffle butter and buttermilk fried chicken. Meril's new brunch menu includes creative breakfast cocktails. 424 Girod St., (504) 526-3745, bemeril.com
Melba's offers a 24-hour dining experience featuring New Orleans comfort food and other favorites. Known for po-boys, breakfast plates, and daiquiris, it delivers classic flavors and is devoted to helping the community. Specific menu options include breakfast po-boys such as the bacon & egg po-boy, in addition to great catering options for any party. Multiple Locations, melbas.com
Mother's Restaurant is a classic New Orleans eatery known for its hearty, filling Creole cooking and famous po-boys. Visitors can expect a casual, lively setting where there is often a line to get in. Menu favorites include the debris po-boy, crawfish étouffée omelet, and cheese grits with shrimp Creole. The eatery also has a large drink menu and fantastic homemade desserts. 401 Poydras St., (504) 523-9656, facebook.com/mothersrestaurant
New Orleans Creole Cookery offers local cooking traditions in a beautiful French Quarter setting. The menu highlights classic Creole cuisine with seafood offerings, jambalaya, and raw or chargrilled oysters that can be enjoyed in a quaint French Quarter courtyard. Specific menu highlights include Creole red beans & rice, catfish Decatur, and crawfish étouffée. 510 Toulouse St., (504) 524-9632, neworleanscreolecookery.com
Neyow's Creole Café is a lively spot known for its Creole flavors and warm, neighborhood vibe. Signature dishes such as chargrilled oysters and hearty seafood plates draw customers seeking authentic tastes. The menu leans on New Orleans flavors with dishes including red beans, Southern fried chicken, shrimp on the avenue pasta, po-boys, and their redfish combination platter. 3332 Bienville St., (504) 827‑5474, neyows.com
Neyow's XL expands on Neyow's success with a larger space and more fine dining menu. Guests can look forward to seafood specialities and craft cocktails. It offers a variety of dishes including steaks, desserts, and an extensive drink menu. Specific dishes include classic soups, a seafood omelet, seared fillet of salmon, and the XL burger. 3336 Bienville St., (504) 503‑1081, xl.neyows.com
Orleans Grapevine Wine Bar and Bistro combines a romantic ambiance with a menu of American and Creole dishes. The restaurant is tucked in a historic French Quarter building and features a courtyard and vast wine selection. Menu options include the Cajun surf & turf served with smashed potatoes and vegetables, the Creole pasta, roasted duck breast, and blackened crawfish caprese. 720 Orleans Ave., (504) 523-1930, orleansgrapevine.com
Parasol's is a neighborhood staple famous for their roast beef po-boys and Irish pub-like atmosphere. Popular with both locals and tourists, it offers hearty sandwiches, cold drinks, and a friendly vibe. Other menu options include the firecracker shrimp po-boy, crawfish bites, and the oyster BLT. The restaurant is an option for casual dining and for hanging on St. Patrick's Day. 2533 Constance St., (504) 354-9079, facebook.com/ParasolsNOLA
Parkway Bakery and Tavern is a famous destination for hearty po-boys and old school New Orleans vibes. The menu offers overstuffed sandwiches with classic flavors that consistently draw in crowds. Specific dishes include po-boys with the golden fried Gulf oysters, deep fried Creole barbeque shrimp, and house-made roast beef with gravy. Desserts include their poor boy ice cream sandwich. 538 Hagan Ave., (504) 482-3047, parkwaypoorboys.com
Please U Restaurant is a local diner serving classic New Orleans breakfast and comfort food. Known for their traditional local dishes, the menu consists of hot plates including red beans & rice, baked chicken, gumbo, and seafood platters. Breakfast specials, served all day, include hot cakes with bacon, ham, or sausage; chicken & waffles; and much more. 1751 St. Charles Ave., (504) 525-9131, pleaseunola.com
Restaurant Rebirth is the Warehouse District's only spot for farm-to-table Cajun and Creole cuisine. Their atmosphere is rustic but also elevated, offering Louisiana inspired plates paired with wine or craft cocktails. Dinner options include the chicken & mirliton rochambeau, the blackened scallops with potatoes and fennel pickles, filet mignon, and a list of toppings for steak dishes. 857 Fulton St., (504) 522-6863, restaurantrebirth.com
Short Stop Poboys is a Metairie staple known for overstuffed po-boys served on local French bread. The atmosphere is casual and laid-back, with quick service and generous portions. The menu features options including the catfish po-boy, BBQ roast beef po-boy, and tasty gumbo. Short Stop is a fantastic spot for catering any special event. 119 Transcontinental Dr., Metairie, (504) 885-4572, shortstoppoboysno.com
Willie Mae's NOLA offers famous, and hearty, Southern flavors. The restaurant has some of the best fried chicken in the country. The menu is extensive with highlights such as the Creole butter rotisserie chicken, catfish étouffée, and fried chicken served with a choice of side and cornbread. Visitors can also enjoy an extensive wine and cocktail list. Reservations are recommended. 898 Baronne St., (504) 354-8194, williemaesnola.com
SEAFOOD
Briquette offers a polished and inviting dining experience in the Warehouse District, specializing in contemporary and coastal dishes. The open kitchen and 18-inch seafood display highlight the day's freshest seafood offerings. Dinner highlights include oysters Bienville en casserole with shrimp, pork belly, and mushroom dressing, as well as ahi tuna poke and blackened redfish. 701 S. Peters St., (504) 547‑6330, briquette-nola.com
Deanie's Seafood Restaurant is a favorite for fresh Gulf seafood served in large, filling portions. From boiled crawfish to fried seafood platters and other signature dishes, the menu celebrates Louisiana flavors. Specific menu selections include the stuffed crab, broiled stuffed flounder, and barbeque shrimp. The menu also features po-boys, boiled seafood, and gumbos. Multiple Locations, deanies.com
Delacroix offers a coastal Louisiana dining experience with an emphasis on fresh Gulf seafood. Located next to Spanish Plaza, the restaurant features a view of the Mississippi River. Seafood specialties include the osetra caviar with housemade ranch dressing and, when available, the jumbo Louisiana stone crab claws. Their savory alligator meat pie is served with smoked bacon and jalapeños. 1 Poydras St. Spc. 1005, (504) 655-9002, delacroixrestaurant.com
Drago's Seafood Restaurant is known for originating chargrilled oysters and for seafood dishes that exemplify Louisiana flavors. The menu offers traditional seafood flavors and signature specialties in a lively, welcoming setting. Specific menu options include their original charbroiled oysters, grilled shrimp tacos, and fresh lobster. Try their crawfish fest, with crawfish tails served three ways. Multiple Locations, dragosrestaurant.com
Felix's Restaurant and Oyster Bar is a staple known for its fresh oysters and classic Creole dishes. Its vibrant atmosphere adds to its charm, while its menu delivers on the seafood Louisiana is famous for. Menu options include a variety of oysters that come chargrilled or on the half-shell. The menu also offers soups, boiled seafood, and plenty of po-boys. Multiple Locations, felixs.com
Jack Dempsey's Restaurant is a neighborhood spot in the Bywater known for Creole and seafood dishes. It is family-owned and is a local favorite, with recipes that have been passed down for generations. The specific menu options include a range of platters including redfish, fried crawfish, and more. They also offer broiled shrimp, stuffed flounder, and lobster with dressing. 738 Poland Ave., (504) 943-9914, jackdempseys.net
Legacy Kitchen's Tacklebox offers a New Orleans and Louisiana inspired menu in a refined yet casual locale. Shareable options include the seafood gumbo and the crawfish bread, and main dishes include the soft shell crab BLT and the Maine-style shrimp roll. The restaurant offers happy hour and featured drinks, in addition to a raw bar for seafood lovers. 817 Common St., (504) 827-1651, legacykitchen.com
The Blue Crab Restaurant & Bar combines New Orleans seafood with views of Lake Pontchartrain. Known for its crab dishes and chargrilled oysters, it offers a comfortable atmosphere. The restaurant offers live entertainment, as well as an outdoor patio. Specific menu features include seafood gumbo, the fried oyster platter, and a variety of pizza options. 7900 Lakeshore Dr., (504) 284-2898, thebluecrabnola.com
The Galley Seafood is a neighborhood favorite that offers fresh seafood and classic Louisiana dishes in Old Metairie. The environment is friendly, warm, and casual. Specific menu options include the cheese and crab meat jalapenos, fresh grouper, and their famous soft shell crab po-boy. Additionally, there are offerings that include seafood platters, chicken parmesan, and crawfish étouffée. 2535 Metairie Rd., Metairie, (504) 832-0955
