Anyone who has experienced a New Orleans summer knows how important it is to have a plan of action for when the heat rolls in. That dreadful transition when the nice sunny spring days of April and May slowly and deceptively turn into scorching hot agony. Whether it’s packing an extra shirt, wearing the shortest shorts possible, or an extra large cold brew, most New Orleanians know how to prepare themselves for the heat. Lucky for us, there are a ton of restaurants in the city that can be your mid-day oasis or afternoon cool down spot. I’ve listed a few of my favorites below, all of which serve light food and a refreshing atmosphere.
1,000 Figs
This hip Mid-City restaurant offers a Mediterranean-inspired menu featuring a variety of salads, sandwiches, and dips such as hummus and baba ganoush. Order a glass of the hibiscus iced tea or some sparkling wine and you’ve got yourself the perfect summertime lunch. If you go for dinner, bring a friend and get the falafel feast- you’ll enjoy an entire table crowded with falafel and all the fixings for just $32. 3141 Ponce De Leon St. #1, 1000figs.com
Sneaky Pickle
If you find yourself deep in the Bywater and need a bite to eat for cheap, check out Sneaky Pickle in the Bywater. This small restaurant feels like a home and has a constantly changing menu that focuses on local produce and meats. There are a ton of vegetarian and vegan options, big salads, and some experimental meat dishes (goat belly flatbread, anyone?). Grab one of their draught beers and enjoy the seasonal menu put together by chef and owner, Ben Tabor. 4017 St Claude Ave., yousneakypickle.com
Seed
As the name implies, Seed is a fully vegetarian restaurant with a ton of refreshing raw food options and juices to keep you cool. The menu even offers some vegan versions of New Orleans classics, such as their “Seed Gumbo”. Try out their raw Pad Thai for something light, or spring for an order of the vegan chicken nuggets if you want a not-so guilty pleasure. 1330 Prytania St., seedyourhealth.com
The Country Club
Break mom’s advice and eat a burger right before diving into the refreshing pool at the Country Club. Sunday brunch may be what the kitchen is best known for, but come by on a weekday for a relaxed poolside experience, complete with a drink from their outside cabana bar. 634 Louisa St., thecountryclubneworleans.com
Green Goddess
Tucked into quaint Exchange Alley in the French Quarter, Green Goddess is a convenient spot to stop for lunch or dinner after a hot day of checking out the many shops and sights in the Quarter. The menu features a huge selection of refreshing vegetarian and vegan options and a breezy outdoor patio to help you chill out. 307 Exchange Pl., greengoddessrestaurant.com
Satsuma
A local favorite for breakfast, lunch and fresh juices, Satsuma has a location Uptown near the universities and in the Bywater on Dauphine St. Try one of their signature sandwiches or salads, and wash it down with a green juice for some energy on a hot summer day. 3218 Dauphine St., satsumacafe.com
Bayou Wine Garden
Bayou Wine Garden is the quintessential spot on a hot New Orleans day. A huge outdoor patio, a rotating selection of 32 wines on tap, snacks such as cheese boards, charcuterie, and wine ice cream make this the perfect place to melt into a summer afternoon. If wine isn’t your thing, check out the sister bar, Bayou Beer Garden, for a similar atmosphere and a selection of 21 rotating beers on tap. 315 N Rendon St., bayouwinegarden.com
Alto at Ace Hotel
Perched on top of Ace Hotel in the CBD, Alto allows guests a panoramic view of the city while enjoying poolside cocktails, frozen drinks, and small plates in a rooftop garden setting. Start out your night here before making your way downstairs to Josephine Estelle, a full-service restaurant by culinary partners Andy Ticer and Michael Hudman. 600 Carondelet, acehotel.com/neworleans
