Slay Your Way to NOLA's Restaurants
Slather on your glitter and wear your best outfit but leave room for a good meal this Pride.
Every year, thousands gather in the Big Easy to celebrate Pride with parades, bar crawls, and events galore. As we gear up to celebrate Pride in New Orleans, it is important to remember that Pride Month falls on the anniversary of the Stonewall riots, and, while a celebration of love, it also draws attention to the ongoing struggle for equal rights and visibility.
Supporting LBGTQ+ businesses during Pride is crucial as it not only celebrates the community's resilience but also fosters economic empowerment and creates spaces where individuals can authentically express themselves without fear of discrimination. One of the simplest ways to support queer businesses during Pride is to simply enjoy a good meal out. We've compiled a list of 10 restaurants within New Orleans city limits you should consider visiting this Pride.
1. Clover Grill
900 Bourbon St., clovergrill.com
Situated in the heart of the French Quarter's gay district, Clover Grill is an iconic diner renowned for its classic American fare and retro ambiance. With its chrome-lined counter and cozy booths, it exudes old-school charm. Clover Grill opened its doors in 1939 and, since then, has become home to some of the best breakfasts and burgers on Bourbon Street.
2. Crossing NOLA
439 Dauphine St., crossing-nola.com
Crossing is a bar and restaurant located in the historic Vieux Carré and is renowned for its soulful ambiance, blending rich culinary traditions with modern flair. The menu offers classic bar lunch and dinner options with an eclectic drink selection. Crossing boasts a large TV, perfect for hosting RuPaul watch parties, karaoke nights, and watching the game with your friends.
3. Italian Barrel
1240 Decatur St., theitalianbarrel.com
With its rustic charm and modern sophistication, Italian Barrel offers a wonderfully inviting fine dining experience. Located near the historic French Market, Italian Barrel exudes a warm ambiance, offering an authentic Italian dining experience surrounded by exposed brick walls. From handcrafted pastas to savory wood-fired pizzas, each dish is a testament to the chef's dedication to quality and tradition. They also boast an extensive wine selection to complement the flavors. Italian Barrel is the perfect place to savor the essence of Italy in the vibrant atmosphere of the Quarter.
4. Louisiana Pizza Kitchen Uptown
615 Carrollton Ave., louisianapizzakitchenuptown.com
Louisiana Pizza Kitchen Uptown, a cozy eatery in the Riverbend, specializes in gourmet pizzas and Italian-inspired dishes. They offer a relaxed ambiance perfect for enjoying artisanal pies topped with fresh, locally sourced ingredients, alongside a selection of delicious appetizers and salads.
5. Mona Lisa
1212 Royal St., monalisaneworleans.com
Tucked away in the heart of the French Quarter, Mona Lisa has a name that reflects its fun decor, which is covered head to toe with different versions of Mona Lisa. With its charming courtyard and cozy interior adorned with vibrant artwork, the ambiance is as inviting as the menu. Mona Lisa is a culinary gem, offering a delightful fusion of Italian and Creole cuisines. From traditional pasta dishes to flavorful seafood creations, every bite at Mona Lisa is a delicious journey through the rich flavors of New Orleans' culinary heritage.
6. Up&Adam Eatz
3903 Canal St., getupandadam.com
Starting out as a local coffee brand, Up&Adam recently opened Up&Adam Eatz in Mid-City, serving mouthwatering breakfast and brunch delights with a creative twist. From gourmet breakfast sandwiches to fluffy pancakes topped with local fruits, each dish bursts with flavor and freshness, making it a go-to spot for morning cravings. Up&Adam Eatz also offers a full bar, which is essential for any good brunch. With their welcoming environment, tasty food, and great coffee, Up&Adam has quickly become a local brunch favorite.
7. Chef Ron's Gumbo Stop
2309 N. Causeway Blvd., gumbostop.com
Chef Ron's Gumbo Stop is a cozy, award-winning authentic Cajun and Creole comfort food eatery. Located in nearby Metairie, the restaurant is known for its famous "stuffed gumbo." From seafood such as the fried shrimp and oysters to Louisiana staples such as red bean and rice and Creole jambalaya, Chef Ron's Gumbo Stop has a bit of everything. Part of the menu reflects Chef Ron's Italian heritage with specialty pasta dishes. The restaurant's delicious multi-cuisine menu embodies its warm, friendly neighborhood environment.
8. Alma Cafe
301 N. Carrollton Ave., eatalmanola.com
Alma Cafe is a modern, culturally rich Honduran restaurant located in the heart of Mid-City. Founded by James Beard semifinalist Chef Melissa Araujo, this woman-owned restaurant blends Honduran recipes with local Louisiana ingredients. You can enjoy everything from specialty Honduran coffee to baleadas and pollo chuco.
9. The Country Club
634 Louisa St., thecountryclubneworleans.com
Located in the magical Bywater neighborhood, The Country Club offers a locally-inspired menu in a beautiful restaurant. The menu features Italian, French, and Creole-Southern heritages. The Country Club hosts fun drag brunches every Saturday and Sunday. It also features a separate bohemian pool area and outdoor kitchen.
10. Who Dat Coffee Cafe
2401 Burgundy St., whodatcafe.com
Who Dat Coffee Cafe is a community-oriented neighborhood cafe. It features casual coffee drinks, light Cajun breakfast, and lunch options. Who Dat Coffee Cafe is the kind of place people go for a relaxed vibe.
