From centuries-old Creole classics to beloved local favorites, New Orleans' culinary scene offers an unmatched array of iconic dishes. Whether you're dining in the historic French Quarter, exploring the charming restaurants of Uptown, or discovering the innovative eateries in the CBD/Warehouse District, here are 20 essential dishes that showcase the city's rich food heritage and where to find them.
20 Essential New Orleans Dishes
1. Gumbo | Chef Ron's Gumbo Stop
2309 N Causeway Blvd., (504) 835-2022
gumbostop.com

Chef Ron Iafrate brings his diverse culinary background to this beloved gumbo spot, where he serves up multiple award-winning variations of New Orleans' signature dish. His classic seafood gumbo is packed with fresh local crawfish, shrimp, and crabmeat, while the famous "Mumbo Gumbo" adds chicken and sausage to create a hearty filé-based masterpiece. Each batch is made with carefully sourced local ingredients and perfectly seasoned with okra, tomatoes, and Chef Ron's secret spice blend. Don't miss the "Yumbo Mumbo" version topped with golden fried shrimp for an extra-special treat.
2. Red Beans & Rice | Lil' Dizzy's Café
1500 Esplanade Ave., (504) 766-8687
lildizzyscafe.net

A cherished Creole-Soul institution now run by Wayne Baquet Jr. and his wife Arkesha, carrying on the legacy of Wayne Sr. and the legendary Baquet restaurant family. Their red beans and rice, served piping hot with smoked sausage and cornbread, perfectly captures the essence of this Monday tradition. The beans are slow-simmered to creamy perfection with rich seasonings and smoky ham hocks, creating that authentic New Orleans flavor that keeps locals coming back week after week.
3. Fried Chicken | Willie Mae's
898 Baronne St., (504) 354-8194
williemaesnola.com

A true New Orleans treasure, Willie Mae's Scotch House has earned its reputation as a must-visit destination for what many consider the city's finest fried chicken. This James Beard Award-winning establishment has been serving up their legendary recipe since 1957. Their signature wet-batter technique creates a uniquely crispy, perfectly seasoned crust that locks in the chicken's natural juices, delivering that unmistakable Willie Mae's flavor in every bite. Don't forget to pair your chicken with their classic sides for the complete Willie Mae's experience.
4. Crawfish | The Galley
2535 Metairie Rd., Metairie, (504) 832-0955

The Galley, nestled along charming Metairie Road, has earned its reputation as one of the area's premier destinations for authentic Louisiana seafood. During crawfish season, this local favorite transforms into a bustling hub where seafood enthusiasts gather to enjoy perfectly seasoned mudbugs in their cozy dining room or on their inviting patio. The Galley's expert boiling technique ensures each batch of crawfish comes out packed with traditional Cajun flavors that keep both locals and visitors coming back for more.
5. Charbroiled Oysters | Drago's
Multiple Locations
dragosrestaurant.com

A true New Orleans culinary institution, Drago's has been serving seafood excellence since 1969. But it was in 1993 when owner Tommy Cvitanovich created what would become their signature dish: the legendary charbroiled oysters. These Gulf beauties are lovingly prepared with a heavenly combination of garlic, butter, and herbs, then topped with a perfect blend of Parmesan and Romano cheese before being grilled until golden and bubbling. Each oyster delivers an unforgettable combination of smoky, briny, and rich flavors that have locals and visitors alike coming back for more. While Drago's menu features many outstanding dishes, these charbroiled oysters remain their crown jewel and a must-try New Orleans dining experience.
6. Raw Oysters | New Orleans Creole Cookery
508 Toulouse St., (504) 524-9632
neworleanscreolecookery.com

Nestled in the heart of the French Quarter, New Orleans Creole Cookery offers one of the city's most authentic raw oyster experiences. Part of the renowned Tusa restaurant family legacy, this elegant establishment features a charming courtyard and an inviting oyster bar where skilled shuckers serve up plump, briny Gulf oysters on the half shell. Each dozen comes with traditional accompaniments including horseradish, cocktail sauce, and fresh lemon wedges, though locals know to ask for their house-made mignonette sauce. The restaurant's commitment to serving only the freshest seafood makes it a standout destination for both oyster aficionados and curious first-timers looking to experience a true New Orleans tradition.
7. Oysters Rockefeller | Antoine's Restaurant
713 St Louis St., (504) 581-4422
antoines.com

A cornerstone of New Orleans culinary history, Antoine's Restaurant stands as the birthplace of the legendary Oysters Rockefeller. Created in 1899 by Jules Alciatore, this iconic dish remains one of the most sought-after menu items, prepared using a closely guarded family recipe that's been passed down through five generations. The rich, herbaceous sauce that tops these perfectly broiled Gulf oysters earned its name from John D. Rockefeller because it was said to be as rich as he was. While many restaurants have attempted to recreate this New Orleans classic, the original recipe remains a treasured secret of Antoine's kitchen, making this French Quarter landmark a must-visit destination for food enthusiasts seeking an authentic taste of New Orleans history.
8. BBQ Shrimp | Neyow's Creole Café
3332 Bienville St., (504) 827-5474
neworleans.neyows.com

A beloved Mid-City institution, Neyow's Creole Café has earned its reputation as one of New Orleans' premier destinations for authentic BBQ shrimp. Their signature rendition of this classic NOLA dish features plump Gulf shrimp swimming in a rich, buttery sauce infused with bold Creole seasonings and fresh herbs. Each order comes with plenty of crusty French bread perfect for soaking up every last drop of the flavorful sauce. While the BBQ shrimp holds center stage, Neyow's warm, welcoming atmosphere and attentive service make it a true neighborhood gem that keeps both locals and visitors coming back for more.
9. Shrimp Po-Boy | Parkway Bakery & Tavern
538 Hagan Ave., (504) 482-3047
parkwaypoorboys.com

A New Orleans institution since 1929, Parkway Bakery & Tavern has earned its reputation as one of the city's premier destinations for authentic po-boys. One of their signature shrimp po-boy features perfectly seasoned, golden-fried Gulf shrimp piled high on fresh, locally-baked French bread with a crispy crust and pillowy interior. Whether dressed traditionally with lettuce, tomatoes, pickles, and mayo, or customized to your liking, each sandwich delivers that quintessential New Orleans po-boy experience. The historic Mid-City location's warm atmosphere and friendly service make it a beloved spot for both locals and visitors seeking the city's best po-boys.
10. Roast Beef Po-Boy | Short Stop Po-Boys
119 Transcontinental Dr., (504) 885-4572
shortstoppoboysno.com

A cherished Metairie institution since 1981, Short Stop Po-Boys has earned its reputation for serving some of the most satisfying roast beef po-boys in New Orleans. Their signature sandwich features tender, slow-cooked roast beef that's simmered in rich gravy until it reaches that perfect, melt-in-your-mouth consistency. Served on fresh, locally-baked French bread and dressed to your liking, it's the kind of authentic New Orleans po-boy that locals drive across town for. While their menu features other classic po-boy varieties, it's their roast beef that keeps regulars coming back again and again.
11. Muffuletta | Central Grocery & Deli
923 Decatur St., (504) 523-1620
centralgrocery.com

A historic French Quarter institution since 1906, Central Grocery & Deli is the birthplace of New Orleans' iconic muffuletta sandwich. Created by Sicilian immigrant Salvatore Lupo, this legendary sandwich features layers of Italian meats, cheeses, and their famous olive salad served on specially-made Sicilian sesame bread. Still family-owned and operated by the third generation Tusa family, the shop maintains its old-world charm with shelves of imported Italian goods and the unmistakable aroma of cured meats and aged cheeses. While other places offer their take on the muffuletta, food enthusiasts agree that nothing compares to enjoying the original at Central's vintage counter, where the sandwich was first invented over a century ago.
12. Jambalaya | Mother's Restaurant
401 Poydras St., (504) 523-9656
mothersrestaurant.net

A cornerstone of Downtown dining since 1938, Mother's Restaurant serves up some of New Orleans' most authentic Cajun and Creole cuisine. While this bustling Poydras Street institution is famous for numerous dishes, their jambalaya stands as a shining example of traditional New Orleans cooking. Each batch combines perfectly seasoned rice with a hearty mix of smoked sausage and tender meat, creating that signature rich, smoky flavor that keeps both locals and visitors lined up out the door.
13. Yakamein | Yakamein House
2000 St Claude Ave., (504) 301-0510

Yakamein House has become a beloved destination for this uniquely New Orleans fusion dish. Their signature yakamein combines rich beef broth with tender meats (choose from beef, chicken, shrimp, or the legendary oxtail), perfectly cooked noodles, and a perfectly boiled egg, all garnished with fresh green onions and spices. While the dish's origins blend Chinese and African American influences, this St. Claude Avenue spot has mastered the art of this comforting bowl of goodness. Recently, they've expanded their menu to include birria tacos, but it's their namesake dish that continues to draw crowds, especially during late nights and festival seasons.
14. Turtle Soup | Mandina's Restaurant
3800 Canal St., (504) 482-9179
mandinasrestaurant.com

A Mid-City institution since 1937, Mandina's Restaurant has mastered the art of New Orleans' beloved turtle soup. Their rendition of this classic Creole delicacy features a rich, complex broth carefully simmered with tender turtle meat and enhanced with traditional seasonings. The soup arrives with a side of sherry, allowing diners to customize the depth of flavor to their liking. While this family-owned establishment offers many traditional New Orleans favorites, their turtle soup remains a standout dish that draws both locals and visitors to their historic Canal Street location.
15. Soufflé Potatoes | Galatoire's
209 Bourbon St., (504) 525-2021
galatoires.com

A New Orleans dining icon since 1905, Galatoire's has mastered the art of their signature soufflé potatoes, a dish that exemplifies French Creole refinement. These ethereal potato puffs are a testament to culinary precision—sliced whisper-thin and fried until they magically balloon into golden, hollow crisps. Served with a velvety béarnaise sauce that adds just the right touch of tarragon-infused richness, these delicate potato clouds have become a must-order starter at this Bourbon Street institution.
16. Bread Pudding Soufflé | Commander's Palace
1403 Washington Ave., (504) 899-8221
commanderspalace.com

In the heart of the Garden District, Commander's Palace has elevated the humble bread pudding into an ethereal experience that captures both New Orleans' reverence for tradition and its flair for innovation. Their signature bread pudding soufflé stands as a masterpiece of culinary artistry, transforming a classic comfort dessert into an airy, sophisticated finale that's worth saving room for. Make a reservation at Commander's and try it out for yourself!
17. Bananas Foster | Brennan's
417 Royal St., (504) 525-9711
brennansneworleans.com

When it comes to iconic New Orleans desserts, Brennan's signature Bananas Foster offers the perfect blend of theatrical presentation and decadent flavors. Located in the heart of the French Quarter at 417 Royal St., this renowned establishment continues to dazzle diners with their most famous creation. Watch in awe as skilled servers perform the time-honored ritual tableside, expertly caramelizing fresh bananas in a dramatic flambé. The intoxicating scents of warm rum and cinnamon waft through the air as the caramelized bananas are served atop creamy vanilla ice cream.
18. Shrimp Remoulade | Joey K's Restaurant
3001 Magazine St., (504) 891-0997
joeyksrestaurant.com

A Magazine Street institution, Joey K's Restaurant has mastered the art of Shrimp Remoulade, offering a refreshing take on this classic New Orleans appetizer. Their version features succulent Gulf shrimp dressed in a perfectly balanced remoulade sauce that hits all the right notes—creamy, tangy, and with just enough Creole spice to wake up your taste buds. Served atop crisp romaine with fresh tomatoes and cucumbers, it's an ideal starter that captures the essence of casual New Orleans dining.
19. Beignets | The Vintage
3121 Magazine St., (504) 608-1008
thevintagenola.com

The Vintage, nestled on Magazine Street, has established itself as a must-visit destination for one of New Orleans' most beloved treats: beignets. While many associate these powdered sugar-dusted delights exclusively with the French Quarter, this Uptown gem offers both traditional and innovative takes on the classic pastry. Their menu features several variations to satisfy any beignet craving, from classic powdered sugar-dusted traditional beignets to their creative "fancy" options. A highlight of their offerings is their celebrated king cake beignet, which brings a creative twist to this New Orleans staple.
20. Sno-Ball | Hansen's Sno-Bliz
4801 Tchoupitoulas St., (504) 891-9788
snobliz.square.site

Hansen's Sno-Bliz is a cherished destination that has been serving up some of the city's most beloved frozen treats since 1939. Located at 4801 Tchoupitoulas St., this family-run establishment has perfected the art of the New Orleans sno-ball. Using their signature shaved ice machine (invented by Ernest Hansen himself) and creating their own flavored syrups in-house, Hansen's delivers a uniquely smooth and fluffy texture that sets them apart from ordinary snow cones.
Enjoy a Taste of NOLA
From century-old establishments to modern interpretations of classic dishes, these restaurants represent the best of what the Crescent City has to offer. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a longtime resident, exploring these essential New Orleans dishes provides a delicious journey through the city's history, culture, and unparalleled flavors. Don't forget to make reservations where possible, as many of these beloved establishments are popular destinations for both locals and tourists alike.