The humble looking gumbo is perhaps the best representation of the state of Louisiana in terms culinary and cultural identify. The stew is a combination of French, African, Spanish, and Native American ingredients and cooking styles. It is a staple in both local Cajun and Creole cuisines (although each will argue which one makes it better). So in honor of National Gumbo Day on October 12, here are five local spots to get a great bowl of gumbo.
Chef Ron's Gumbo Stop
With it being in the name, you know you're gonna get some great gumbo at Chef Ron's Gumbo Stop. They have a number of different types of seafood gumbo for you to enjoy. How about going for the Mumbo Gumbo? This tasty dish is filé gumbo with chicken, shrimp, crabmeat, crawfish, sausage, okra, and tomato. 2309 N. Causeway Blvd., Metairie, 504-835-2022, gumbostop.com
House of Blues New
Orleans
The House of Blues is perfect place to enjoy some traditional Southern food while jamming to some live music. For National Gumbo Day, make sure to order the Seafood Gumbo appetizer. It comes with shrimp, crawfish, andouille sausage, and the "holy trinity" (aka celery, onion, and bell peppers). Grab a beer with some friends and enjoy a fun night out! 225 Decatur St., 504-310-4999, houseofblues.com
Manning's Sports Bar
& Grill
With all kinds of flat screen TVs, two 13-foot mega-screens, and all kinds of sports memorabilia, Manning's Sports Bar & Grill is just the place to watch the next Saints or LSU game. While cheering on your favorite team, order a cup or a bowl of the Chicken Andouille Gumbo. Manning's gumbo comes with jasmine rice, which adds a slightly different flavor to their gumbo. Make sure to grab one of Manning's delicious craft cocktails. 519 Fulton St., 504-593-8118, caesars.com
Mother's Restaurant
Do you want to taste some home cooking without having to make your mom cook for you? Then head on over to Mother's Restaurant on Poydras Street. Their menu filled with all kinds of Louisiana classics, including gumbo. Try ordering the Mae's Filé Gumbo, which is chicken and sausage with filé powder and medium spice. 401 Poydras St., 504-523-9656, mothersrestaurant.net
Short Stop Poboys
Since the
1960s, Short Stop Poboys has been Metairie's favorite spot for all kinds of
delicious po-boys. While po-boys are their bread and butter, you can't miss out
on Short Stop's gumbo, especially on Gumbo Day. Get the Chicken, Sausage, and
Andouille Gumbo, which comes with five different kinds of meat. Short Stop's
gumbo is made with love and fresh, local ingredients. 119 Transcontinental
Dr., Metairie, 504-885-4572, shortstoppoboysno.com
