Where Y'at Magazine's 2025 Fall Restaurant Guide

Best Restaurants in New Orleans

Arabi

Kitchen Table Café is a casual neighborhood spot serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner Tuesday through Saturday. The menu includes steak salad, duck pastrami grilled cheese, Cajun fish and shrimp grits, and much more to enjoy. There's also indoor seating, a backyard patio with live music, and a full bar with local beer, wine, and more to experience. 7005 St. Claude Ave., (504) 301-2285, facebook.com/kitchentablearabi

CBD/Warehouse

34 Restaurant & Bar, operated by Chef Emeril Lagasse and his son E.J., brings Portuguese flavors to the Warehouse District. Inspired by trips to Portugal and Emeril's mother, the menu features signature dishes including the prego, which is a steak sandwich with chorizo, filet mignon, and honey. The lively, green tiled space includes a jamon bar, and curated music. 714 Baronne St., (504) 498‑3434, 34restaurantandbar.com

Anita's Grill has returned to NOLA and is serving its delicious breakfast menu and more to hungry locals. The business originally opened in 1922 as Jerry's before becoming Anita's Grill in 1959. The restaurant has a large variety of comfort food to choose from including po-boys, entrees, and many different breakfast items such as French toast, pancakes, omelets, and more. 833 Howard Ave., (504) 354-8979, anitasgrillnola.com

Briquette is a contemporary seafood restaurant that showcases fresh Gulf fish on an icy display before it's prepared to order. With seating for up to 240 guests, the restaurant also hosts private events with a customizable menu. The Louisiana redfish on the half shell, with charred lemon butter, Belle River crawfish relish, and heirloom potatoes, is a signature dish. 701 S. Peters St., (504) 547‑6330, briquette-nola.com

Delacroix is Chef John Besh's brand-new restaurant, located in Spanish Plaza, and serves a refined take on classic fish camps and bars. Expect high-quality seafood prepared with thoughtfulness and elegance, such as the crispy snapper collars with spicy Creole tomato butter. The restaurant is inspired by Delacroix, LA, and provides sophisticated coastal dining to the people of NOLA. 1 Poydras St. Spc 1005, (504) 655-9002, delacroixrestaurant.com

Desi Vega's Steakhouse, located in New Orleans' Central Business District, is known for its USDA Prime steaks, seafood dishes, and classic sides, making a great date night spot. The menu includes filet mignon, bone-in ribeye, Gulf fish, and lobster tails. The restaurant features a refined dining room, a full bar with wine and cocktails, and private event spaces. 628 St. Charles Ave., (504) 523-7600, desivegasteaks.com

Domenica is a downtown New Orleans restaurant located inside of the Roosevelt Hotel, offering wood-fired pizzas, handmade pastas, seasonal Italian dishes, and craft cocktails. The kitchen highlights Gulf seafood, house-cured meats, and local produce. Known for its daily happy hour with half-price pizzas and drinks, the restaurant pairs casual dining with an upscale hotel setting. 123 Baronne St., (504) 648-6020, domenicarestaurant.com

Headquarters by Nice Guys NOLA is a restaurant and bar that serves Creole and American dishes including oxtails, lamb chops, and more. Their blackened salmon dish is out of this world. The venue offers dine-in, takeout, delivery, craft cocktails, and hosts brunch and DJ events. It features a two-floor layout with bar seating, dining areas, and space for private events. 445 S. Rampart St., (504) 217-6851, headquartersnola.com

Legacy Kitchen Craft Tavern serves brunch, lunch, dinner, and happy hour daily. Its menu includes a delicious seared tuna salad, as well as shrimp and grits, crawfish beignet bites, and roast beef po-boys, alongside many other craft cocktails and Southern-style small plates. Craft Tavern opens at 7 a.m. every day of the week. 700 Tchoupitoulas St. #3612, (504) 613-2350, legacykitchen.com

Legacy Kitchen's Tacklebox serves breakfast, brunch, lunch, and dinner with a focus on Gulf seafood, fried platters, and Southern comfort dishes. Its menu features raw and charbroiled oysters, shrimp and grits, and beignet-style bites. With an oyster bar, happy hour specials, and options such as the redfish St. Charles, the Tacklebox pairs their casual vibe with regional flavors. 817 Common St., (504) 827-1651, legacykitchen.com

Luke is a brasserie-style restaurant in downtown New Orleans that is operated by BRG Hospitality. The menu blends French, German, and Creole influences, offering house-made sausages, schnitzel, and Gulf seafood, alongside an oyster bar. Known for its daily happy hour with discounted raw oysters and drink specials, Luke serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner that reflect the creative spirit of NOLA. 333 St. Charles Ave., 504 378-2840, lukeneworleans.com

Lyons Corner combines a coffee shop, restaurant, and cocktail bar in a historic building attached to Hotel Theo, once home to a root beer empire. Chef Joshua Wetshtein offers creative takes on New Orleans dishes, from jambalaya topped with eggs to the flounder Pontchartrain. The bar highlights coffee, playful cocktails, and more in a mid-century apothecary setting. 537 Gravier St., (504) 576-9721, lyonscornernola.com

Meril is a casual contemporary restaurant that first marked Chef Emeril Lagasse's return to New Orleans dining after nearly 20 years. The restaurant serves creative small plates in an industrial-chic space. Their menu blends global influences with local ingredients, offering dishes such as housemade meatballs, barbecued shrimp, seafood linguini, banana cream pie, and so much more. 424 Girod St., (504) 526-3745, bemeril.com

Mother's Restaurant has served iconic po-boys, baked ham, and debris dishes since 1938. Known for feeding longshoremen, Marines, and locals alike, this no-nonsense location is the perfect spot to get a true taste of old New Orleans. Their seafood platter extra extra combines shrimp, oysters, catfish, étouffée, and jambalaya with two side dishes. 401 Poydras St., (504) 523-9656, mothersrestaurant.net

Restaurant August is a fine-dining restaurant that is helmed by Executive Chef Corey Thomas. The menu, which includes the incredible snapper Pontchartrain, focuses on contemporary French cuisine with Southern ingredients, featuring Gulf seafood, seasonal produce, and other wonderful entrees. Its historic 19th-century building includes elegant dining rooms and a wine program emphasizing French and American labels. 301 Tchoupitoulas St., (504) 299-9777, restaurantaugust.com

Willie Mae's NOLA is known for its crispy, golden fried chicken and buttery, made from scratch cornbread. First opened in the 1950s, the restaurant still draws long lines daily for its fried chicken plates, multiple sides, and their Taste of New Orleans meal. Head out to Willie Mae's NOLA and experience some of the best fried chicken in the country. 898 Baronne St., (504) 354-8194, williemaesnola.com

French Quarter

3rd Block Depot specializes in modern Creole and Cajun food, serving up unique twists on classic dishes. Using seasonal ingredients from local markets, the chefs create regular specials such as their blackened redfish. 3rd Block Depot also offers private dining, hosts community events, and features a full bar serving cocktails, beer, and wine that can be enjoyed. 316 Chartres St., (504) 552‑4095, 3rdblockdepot.com

Café Amelie, located in a historic French Quarter carriage house and courtyard once home to Princess Alice of Monaco's mother, serves brunch and dinner Thursday through Sunday. The menu features Gulf shrimp and grits, roasted pork chops, and salads such as the Amelie Salad, alongside craft cocktails. Brunch runs from 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. 900 Royal St., (504) 412‑8065, cafeamelie.com

Crescent City Brewhouse, the French Quarter's first and only microbrewery, serves award-winning craft beers, alongside fresh oysters, seafood, and dishes such as the Decatur St. Burger. Guests can enjoy nightly jazz performances, rotating art exhibits, and courtyard or balcony dining in a historic Decatur street building that offers sweeping views of the bustling French Quarter. 527 Decatur St., (504) 522‑0571, crescentcitybrewhouse.com

Desire Oyster Bar stands out with its Broadway-style marquee and bustling raw bar at the corner of Bourbon and Bienvelle. Part of the Royal Sonesta since 1969, the restaurant is known for fried oysters with flash-fried spinach, fried green tomatoes, and a lively, open-window atmosphere that captures the spirit of Bourbon Street inside and out. 300 Bourbon St., (504) 553‑2281, sonesta.com

House of Blues New Orleans blends tasty Southern food, live music, and cultural history into one French Quarter landmark. It embraces the mantra "Unity in Diversity" while celebrating African American blues, folk art, and delicious food such as the Voodoo shrimp. Make sure to visit the House of Blues New Orleans' website for upcoming live musical performances. 225 Decatur St., (504) 310‑4999, houseofblues.com/neworleans

Jimmy J's Cafe delivers standout breakfast and brunch classics with friendly service in a cozy and homey space. Popular picks include the shrimp and crawfish omelets, the Cajun Cuban sandwich, and a 3 Little Pigs sandwich with chicken, bacon, and ham. Known for fast service and generous portions, this small café draws in lines for good reason. 115 Chartres St., (504) 309‑9360, jimmyjscafe.com

New Orleans Creole Cookery brings old-school Creole dishes to the heart of the French Quarter in a beautiful space. Opened by A.J. and Anna Tusa, it's known for shrimp Creole, smoky chargrilled oysters, and more. Make sure to order from their crown jewels of the sea, which is your choice of boiled seafood with boiled potatoes, Cajun sausage, and corn. 510 Toulouse St., (504) 524-9632, neworleanscreolecookery.com

New Orleans Vampire Café welcomes mortals and vampires alike to its darkly lit and elegant lair on Royal Street. Open daily until midnight, the café serves dishes including the Vampire Burger, pan seared salmon, and creamy garlic mussels, along with "blood bag" cocktails and Vampire wines. They provide gold utensils to protect nocturnal guests, completing the immersive, otherworldly dining experience. 801 Royal St., (504) 581-0801, nolavampirecafe.com

Orleans Grapevine Wine Bar and Bistro is a wine-focused bistro just off Bourbon Street with a tucked-away courtyard, romantic lighting, and a deep bottle list. Its menu, featuring double-cut pork chops, is served in a quiet, friendly space. Originally built in 1809, the building was once the Restaurant d'Orleans, a staple for French Quarter fine dining in the 19th century. 720 Orleans Ave., (504) 523-1930, orleansgrapevine.com

The Jimani, a family-run bar that's been running since 1971, stays open daily until 4 a.m. and serves food until closing. Housed in an 1848 building, it also honors the former UpStairs Lounge. With over 100 beers, a copper bar, and TVs for every game, the Jimani's menu favorites include crawfish balls, crab-stuffed jalapeño po-boys, and the "hang ova" burger. 141 Chartres St., (504) 524-0493, thejimani.com

Vampire Apothecary serves cocktails, tea, and New American dishes in a gothic-inspired space just off Jackson Square. Menu highlights include baked salmon, duck pastrami paninis, and seafood nachos. The bar stays open until 2 a.m. with tarot readings, private parties, and a shaded back patio. Fresh Gulf oysters on the half shell, either a dozen or half-dozen, are available. 725 St. Peter St., (504) 766-8179, vampireapothecary.com

Garden District

Jack Rose, located inside the Pontchartrain Hotel, showcases the diverse blend of cultures that have made what New Orleans is today. The menu incorporates a mix of French, Spanish, Italian, and Southern dishes such as duck and andouille gumbo, fried chicken parmesan, and much more. Jack Rose also has a huge selection of beer, wine, spirits, and craft cocktails. 2031 St. Charles Ave., (504) 608-7112, jackroserestaurant.com

Please U Restaurant has served diner-style comfort food on St. Charles Avenue since 1946. Breakfast is offered all day, including omelets, pancakes, chicken and waffles, and liver and onions with eggs. Hot plate lunches range from red beans and sausage to veal cutlet and gumbo, with fried shrimp platters, pasta, and po-boys rounding out the menu. 1751 St. Charles Ave., (504) 525-9131, pleaseunola.com

Parasol's is a corner bar and po-boy shop in the Irish Channel known for roast beef and firecracker shrimp po-boys, as well as its annual, rowdy St. Patrick's Day block party. Opened in 1952, it closed briefly in 2019 before new owners restored the space and menu. Parasol's remains a fixture for its po-boys, block parties, and everyday regulars. 2533 Constance St., (504) 354-9079, facebook.com/ParasolsNOLA

The Channel sits on the corner of Magazine and Third, serving lemon pepper wings, different sandwiches, and even the Channel catfish. With TVs, daiquiris to go, and space for private parties, it blends together a sports bar vibe with neighborhood ease. It also doubles as a party venue, hosting everything from birthday bashes to crawfish boils. 2604 Magazine St., (504) 381-4680, thechannelneworleans.com

Gentilly

Thai'd Up is a small Gentilly restaurant serving up bold Thai dishes including tom yum, shrimp pad Thai, and kai yang grilled chicken. With just a few tables and a tight kitchen, the space fills quickly thanks to its well-spiced curries, fresh rolls, and specialty beignets. Their chef draws on a decade of experience to deliver balanced plates. 1839 Gentilly Blvd., (504) 644-5790, thaidup.co

Jefferson

Rivershack Tavern on River Road has been a Jefferson staple for more than 20 years. The menu includes burgers, po-boys, alligator sausage, and much more. Open seven days a week from 11 a.m. to midnight, the tavern also offers a long happy hour from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. and live music Friday and Saturday nights. 3449 River Rd., (504) 834-4938, rivershacktavern.com

Lakeview

The Blue Crab Restaurant & Bar sits on the Lake Pontchartrain lakefront, as well as in Slidell, with indoor dining and deck seating overlooking the water. The menu features delicious New Orleans cuisine, including BBQ shrimp and grits, gumbo, chargrilled oysters, and fried seafood platters. A full bar offers cocktails and cold beer, and the restaurant also has live music on weekends. 7900 Lakeshore Dr., (504) 284-2898, thebluecrabnola.com

Lakeview Harbor, a Lakeview neighborhood staple, is known for its classic burgers, baked potatoes, and casual neighborhood feel. Longtime patrons appreciate their famous grilled pork chops, shareable appetizers, daily specials, cold and refreshing cocktails, and its welcoming atmosphere. Be sure to also try out Lakeview Harbor's delicious sandwiches, which all come with a baked potato. 8550 Pontchartrain Blvd., (504) 486‑4887, lakeviewharbor.us

Sala NOLA is a modern bar and bistro by the Riccobono family on Lake Marina Drive. Known for its grilled salmon and creative plates such as crab cakes Benedict and bang bang shrimp, it's a local favorite for seafood lovers. With a sweeping bar and comfortable setting, it's a laid-back space for sharing drinks and dishes while in Lakeview. 124 Lake Marina Ave., (504) 513-2670, salanola.com

JB's Fuel Dock is a casual seafood spot near West End Park overlooking the lakefront. The menu features pizzas, calzones, salads, and different appetizers served alongside burgers and many different drinks. With indoor and outdoor seating, the restaurant also offers a full bar, daiquiris, and live music on select evenings. Save some room for their beignet bites. 128 S. Roadway St., (504) 510-2260, jbsfueldock.com

Marigny/Bywater

Ike's Love & Sandwiches has redefined the classic sandwich shop with its signature Dutch crunch bread, "dirty sauce," and inventive combinations named after athletes, musicians, and media figures. Founded by Ike Shehadeh, Ike's stands out for its playful menu with creations such as the Ikes-uletta, large portions, and options to suit meat lovers, vegetarians, vegans, and more. 1940 Dauphine St., (504) 581‑8230, ikessandwich.com

The Country Club serves Italian, French, and Creole-Southern cooking. The menu spans everything from Gulf seafood, pastas, delicious entree plates including the duck ragù, and brunch favorites, paired with an award-winning fine wine list and seasonal cocktails. They hold weekend drag brunches, and their pool and cabana service make it a unique New Orleans retreat. 634 Louisa St., (504) 945-0742, thecountryclubneworleans.com

Metairie

Chef Ron's Gumbo Stop is a cozy Cajun and Creole spot known for its award-winning gumbo and welcoming atmosphere. Chef Ron Iafrate, named Chef of the Year in 2010, serves signature dishes including catfish Jefferson, Mumbo Gumbo, crab cakes, red beans and rice, and more. The half po-boy and gumbo combo lets diners sample the best of this hidden gem. 2309 N. Causeway Blvd., (504) 835‑2022, gumbostop.com

Chicken Salad Chick brings its made-from-scratch, Southern-style chicken salads to the city with its first-ever New Orleans-area location, part of a four-store expansion. Founded by Stacy Brown in 2008, the chain offers over a dozen rotating menu varieties including the Classic Carol and the Southwest Senorita, as well as sandwiches, soups, and signature sides made fresh daily. 3005 Veterans Memorial Blvd., (504) 350-2726, chickensaladchick.com

Moe's Original BBQ serves Alabama-style BBQ in a lively, wood-paneled space with picnic tables and sports on TV. Slow-smoked pulled pork, smoked turkey, fried catfish, and many other different platters anchor the menu, alongside Southern sides including potato salad and cornbread. They also offer catering for parties and special events, so consider them for your next football party. 1101 N. Causeway Blvd., (504) 407-3533, moesoriginalbbq.com

Short Stop Poboys has been serving overstuffed po-boys since 1966. Known for its roast beef with gravy, the family-run shop also offers more than 30 po-boy variations to choose from, including shrimp, catfish, hot sausage, and oyster. The menu also features gumbo, jambalaya, and house-baked desserts. The setup is simple, and the focus is firmly on the food. 119 Transcontinental Dr., (504) 885-4572, shortstoppoboysno.com

Spudly's Super Spuds has been serving oversized baked potatoes and comfort food in Metairie since 1980. The restaurant is owned by Laurie Aicklen and run by a tight-knit team of friends and family. Alongside classic spuds topped with seafood, cheese sauce, and BBQ, the menu includes the Super Duper Spud—loaded with crabmeat, shrimp, and crawfish, then smothered in cheese. 2609 Harvard Ave., (504) 455-3250, spudlys.com

The Galley Seafood is a seafood-heavy neighborhood restaurant that serves soft-shell crab po-boys, gumbo, boiled seafood, and much more. Known for its crab cakes and catfish almondine, the restaurant also offers a full bar, takeout, and delivery. It's an old-school spot that delivers classic seafood dishes, and it is a good spot to watch all of the football action. 2535 Metairie Rd., (504) 832-0955

Vacca Steakhouse serves prime cuts of steak, seafood entrées, and upscale comfort sides including Lyonnaise potatoes and peas au gratin. The dark, lounge-style interior and specialty cocktails make it ideal for date nights or celebrations. Highlights include the porterhouse steak, Chilean sea bass, veal chop with a mushroom demi glaze, fried oysters with bacon, and so much more. 3524 Severn Ave., (504) 318-3808, vaccasteakhouse.com

Mid-City

Alma Café is a Mid-City restaurant specializing in Honduran cooking, with a menu built around baleadas and other breakfast plates. One dish to try while at Alma is the pollo chuco, which is fried chicken and guineo with cabbage and red Hounduran sauce. Alongside food, it serves coffee, fresh juices, and cocktails in a casual, open space. 301 N. Carrollton Ave., (504) 872-9975, eatalmanola.com

Crescent City Steaks, Mid-City's oldest family-owned steakhouse, has served prime aged beef "sizzling in butter" since 1934. This Broad Street landmark pairs timeless service with classic filet mignon, broiled lobster tails, and an old-school and warm atmosphere. Beloved by locals for generations, it remains a destination for authentic New Orleans flavor and memorable meals in an intimate, historic setting. 1001 N. Broad St, (504) 821‑3271, crescentcitysteaks.com

Mandina's Restaurant has been a Canal Street landmark for generations, serving Creole Italian classics in its iconic pink corner building since 1932. The family-run spot began as a Sicilian grocery before evolving into a full-service restaurant known for dishes such as fried seafood, turtle soup, and BBQ shrimp po-boys. Still rooted in tradition, it remains a neighborhood gathering spot. 3800 Canal St., (504) 482-9179, mandinasrestaurant.com

Mikimoto Restaurant brings contemporary Japanese cuisine to a bright and minimalist dining room with sleek tables and soft lantern lighting. Known for its fresh sushi, creative rolls, and delicious entree dishes, the kitchen also crafts specials such as the sashimi platter. Regulars rave about the quality and presentation, making it a go-to spot for sushi lovers. 3301 S. Carrollton Ave., (504) 488-1881, mikimotosushi.com

Neyow's Creole Cafe is a bustling Mid-City restaurant that brings its soulful homestyle cooking to the Big Easy. They serve rich delicious New Orleans and seafood dishes, including a seafood combination plate, in a lively dining room. Chef Tanya Dubuclet keeps crowds coming with happy hours from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m., "pasta on the bayou," and more. 3332 Bienville St., (504) 827‑5474, neyows.com

Neyow's XL is a sleek, upscale extension of Neyow's Creole Cafe, offering prime steaks, seafood, and rich Creole sides in a dark, sophisticated dining room. Expect extravagant and delicious dishes such as crawfish mac and cheese, whole red snapper, and buttery ribeye with polished service and white tablecloths. Make sure to order the restaurant's incredible seared salmon, as well. 3336 Bienville St., (504) 503‑1081, xl.neyows.com

Nice Guys NOLA is a casual restaurant and bar on Earhart Boulevard that serves modern take on local comfort food. Popular items include oysters Rockefeller, filé gumbo, seafood bread, the loaded "Earhart Attack" fries, and the Louisiana seafood potato. Founded by Glenn and Allison Charles in 2020, Nice Guys NOLA is well worth a visit. 7910 Earhart Blvd., (504) 302-2404, niceguysnola.com

Parkway Bakery and Tavern has helped cement the po-boy's place in New Orleans' food culture. Opened in 1911, they serve a variety of poor boys on Leidenheimer bread. The restaurant runs a takeout window, an indoor dining area, and separate area called Jay's Place. Order a half and half shrimp and oyster poor boy, and enjoy. 538 Hagan Ave., (504) 482-3047, parkwaypoorboys.com

Multiple Locations

Bearcat Cafe is a New Orleans brunch favorite, known for its split-personality menu with something for every appetite. The "Good Cat" menu offers lighter, health-conscious options, while the "Bad Cat" menu features rich, indulgent dishes. Head out to Bearcat Cafe and order their scallop and grits, while also pairing it with coffee, teas, and house-made drinks. Multiple Locations, bearcatcafe.com

Daisy Dukes Restaurant combines authentic cuisine, friendly service, and a laid-back vibe throughout NOLA. Famous for its all-day breakfast, Southern comfort classics such as their chicken and waffles, and signature Cajun Bloody Mary, it's a reliable go-to for hearty, affordable meals. With several convenient locations, Daisy Dukes keeps it simple with "nuttin' fancy, just great Southern eatin'," every time. Multiple Locations, daisydukesrestaurant.com

Dat Dog puts a playful twist on hot dogs with creative toppings, sausages, and a distinctly local vibe. Known for its colorful atmosphere and laid-back feeling, the menu features everything from crawfish and alligator sausages to classic beef dogs. Their bacon werewolf features smoked bratwurst with bacon, sauerkraut, dill relish, grilled onions, tomatoes, and Creole mustard. Multiple Locations, datdog.com

Drago's Seafood Restaurant, founded in 1969, is home to the original charbroiled oysters, which have been buttery, garlicky, and flame-grilled to perfection since 1993. This family-run favorite serves thousands of oysters daily, alongside seafood platters, stuffed lobsters, Louisiana classics, and the bayou carbonara, a creamy pasta with shrimp or crawfish. Get a front-row seat to the sizzling grill and enjoy. Multiple Locations, dragosrestaurant.com

El Gato Negro brings authentic Michoacan-inspired Mexican cuisine to the Big Easy and the Westbank, with recipes rooted in a family story of immigration and grit. Known for hand-crafted margaritas, tableside guacamole, and a tequila selection unmatched in the city, it also features standout entrées such as their tender, seasoned rack of lamb, served in a colorful and inviting space. Multiple Locations, elgatonegronola.com

Empanola is the go-to spot for high-quality empanadas while in New Orleans. Their traditional South American empanadas, such as the Beef Argentina and the Chicken Peruvian, are great picks, while the NOLA-inspired flavors of the gumbo, muffaletta, and crawfish etouffee are unique and absolutely delicious. Empanola also offers salads, desserts, coffee, alcohol, and more to enjoy. Multiple Locations, empanolaempanadas.com

Felix's Restaurant and Oyster Bar has served Creole and Cajun cuisine and seafood for more than 70 years, with locations in the French Quarter, Lakeview, and Gulfport. Its signature stuffed redfish is served grilled or blackened with your choice of two sides. The menu also includes oysters shucked to order, gumbo, étouffée, po-boys, seafood platters, pasta, and more. Multiple Locations, felixs.com

Jamaican Jerk House delivers Caribbean flavors in a colorful setting in the Bywater, as well as a new spot in Metairie. The menu features jerk chicken, a jerk burger, and more. A standout dish is the tender and flavorful grilled oxtail served with rice, peas, and two sides. Jamaican Jerk House is a welcoming spot for hearty Jamaican comfort food and drinks. Multiple Locations, jamaicanjerkhouse.com

Loretta's Authentic Pralines became a New Orleans institution under founder Loretta Harrison, the first Black woman to own a praline company in the city. Known for its classic pecan pralines, festival-famous stuffed beignets, and Creole specialties including calas and praline beignets, Loretta's has served as a beloved fixture at both Jazz Fest and within New Orleans proper. Multiple Locations, lorettaspralines.com

LUFU NOLA brings authentic Indian regional cuisine to the French Quarter and the CBD, offering bold dishes that are rarely seen in typical American restaurants. Start off with a plate of dahi ke kabob, which is made up of hung curd, kunafa sev, fried onions, and nuts. Make sure to also try LUFU's tandoori plates, entrees, and even their special Indochinese fusion dishes. Multiple Locations, lufunolafq.com

Melba's serves po-boys, rib plates, frozen daiquiris, and so much more around the clock for the citizens of New Orleans. Through its Eat and Read program, the restaurant hosts author events and also distributes free books, making it one of the only restaurants in the country to combine food service with a built-in literacy initiative. Multiple Locations, melbas.com

Middendorf's has served its signature thin‑fried catfish since opening on the Manchac waterfront in 1934, with a second location also open in Slidell. The paper‑thin fillets, fried crisp to order, anchor a seafood menu that includes bayou pastas, oysters, and frog legs. Guests can dine in rustic, wood‑lined rooms or on a covered deck overlooking the water. Multiple Locations, middendorfsrestaurant.com

Pizza Domenica is a pizzeria with an Italian oven that cooks thin-crust pies at 800 degrees. The menu features garlic knots, fungi pizza, and meatballs with polenta, plus a beer list with 12 rotating taps and over 30 cans and bottles. Happy hour runs Monday through Friday with half-off pizzas, wine, beer, and cocktails from 3 to 5 p.m. Multiple Locations, pizzadomenica.com

Venezia has served homestyle Italian food in New Orleans since 1957, including lasagna, veal parmigiana, chicken parmesan, filet mignon, and house-made cannolis. Known for its red sauce, stuffed mushrooms, and much more, the restaurant also offers steak nights. The Gretna location brings the same menu with piano music and a signature Caesar salad prepared tableside. Multiple Locations, venezianeworleans.com

Tremé

Lil' Dizzy's Cafe, in the historic Tremé neighborhood, is a family-run restaurant that serves Creole soul food. The menu includes fried chicken, gumbo, red beans and rice, seafood platters, crab cakes, and so much more to enjoy. Known for its community roots, Lil' Dizzy's Cafe continues a long, local tradition of New Orleans neighborhood dining. 1500 Esplanade Ave., (504) 766-8687, lildizzyscafe.net

Pulcinella! is a homestyle Italian spot, owned by Dirty Dime Productions, with a menu shaped by their Sicilian roots. Their seafood cannelloni, packed with shrimp, crab, and ricotta, is hand-rolled and served in a creamy, peppery sauce. Executive Chef Matty Hayes leads a small but ambitious team that serves classic entrees, while a great wine list offers great wine pairings. 1300 St. Bernard Ave., (504) 221-1560, dirtydimeproductions.com

Uptown

Le Bon Temps Roule has been an Uptown staple since 1979. This 24-hour bar is known for live music, billiards, strong drinks, and its delicious food, such as its cowboy burger. Famous for its Bloody Marys and for its regular performances by the Soul Rebels, it offers a lively and inviting escape in the Uptown neighborhood. 4801 Magazine St., (504) 897-3448, lbtrnola.com

Lebanon's Cafe has served authentic Middle Eastern cuisine in the Big Easy for over 20 years. Known for its rosemary lamb chops, chicken shawarma, fresh hummus, and more, it offers a cozy dining experience with large plates. Located on South Carrollton Avenue, the restaurant is open daily for lunch and dinner, with takeout also available. 1500 S. Carrollton Ave., (504) 862-6200, lebanonscafe.com

Paulie's Delicatessen is a New York-style deli serving cold cut sandwiches, espresso, and Italian comfort food. After closing his downtown New York-style deli, owner Paul Tufaro brought his menu Uptown with additions including pastas, cocktails, and a full-service bar. The corner space also hosts live music, specials such as the Bronx Bomber, and seasonal drinks. 8201 Oak St., (504) 412-8326, pauliesneworleans.com

Shaya is an Uptown New Orleans restaurant blending Israeli cuisine with Southern ingredients. The menu features wood-fired pita, hummus with many different delicious toppings, and vegetable-driven small plates. Opened in 2015 and currently operated by Executive Chef Fariz Choumali, the restaurant has earned national recognition for serving its modern Middle Eastern cooking in a casual setting. 4213 Magazine St., (504) 891-4213, shayarestaurant.com

U Pizza is a laid-back St. Charles Avenue restaurant known for its thin, crispy crust and heavily topped specialty pizzas, such as the Uptown, Greek, and Streetcar. The menu includes wraps, pastas, and salads, with gluten-free and vegan options available. Open late every night, it also offers outdoor seating, TV screens, and consistently fast delivery service. 1513 St. Charles Ave., (504) 381-4232, upizzanola.com

Tal's Hummus is a Magazine Street spot that is known for serving hummus bowls, falafel, shawarma, and kebabs. The restaurant opened in 2016 and is named for its founder, who prepares dishes the way he learned in Israel. Their pitas, such as the falafel pita, are baked in-house, and other plates include hummus, pickled vegetables, fresh salads, and more. 4800 Magazine St., (504) 267-7357, talshummus.com

The Vintage is a coffee shop and wine bar on Magazine Street offering traditional beignets, as well as fancy beignets. They also serve espresso drinks and cocktails. Open daily, it serves breakfast, lunch, and small dishes such as the apple brie flatbread. The space has both indoor and outdoor seating and even features late night bites on Friday and Saturday. 3121 Magazine St., (504) 608-1008, thevintagenola.com

Westbank

Asia, nestled inside of Boomtown Casino on the Westbank, offers gamblers a casual spot serving a variety of Asian favorites. Dishes include Vietnamese rice noodle soup, shaking beef, lo mein, fried rice, General Tso chicken or shrimp, and grilled pork. Asia is open from Thursday through Sunday for dine-in and to-go service, offering plenty of options to enjoy. 4132 Peters Rd., Harvey, (504) 364-8812, boomtownneworleans.com/dining

Gattuso's Neighborhood Restaurant, Bar & Catering has served American, New Orleans, and Italian comfort food in Gretna's Historic District since 2000. Known for its dog-friendly courtyard, daily specials, and community events, it offers po-boys, burgers, red beans and rice, grilled salmon, and more. The restaurant also provides takeout, delivery, and catering for on-site or off-site gatherings. 435 Huey P Long Ave., Gretna, (504) 368‑1114, gattusos.net

Legacy Kitchen Steak + Chop offers a full steakhouse menu with options such as a tomahawk, cowboy bone-in ribeye, seafood plates, and charbroiled oysters. Daily lunch, dinner, and happy hour are served, alongside weekly steak night specials. The restaurant features a central bar, outdoor seating, and a spacious dining room. 91 Westbank Expy., Gretna, (504) 608-6082, legacykitchen.com

Mosca's Restaurant has served Creole Italian classics in its garlic-scented, wood-paneled roadhouse since 1946. Famous for family-style dishes including chicken a la grande, shrimp Mosca, and spaghetti bordelaise, its recipes have been passed down through generations. This James Beard award-winning institution offers a timeless dining experience steeped in tradition and is worth a drive to Westwego. 4137 US-90, Westwego, (504) 436-8950, moscasrestaurant.com

NOLA Steak is Boomtown Casino's steakhouse, serving large cuts such as the 14 oz. NOLA strip, 16 oz. ribeye, and 18 oz. cowboy steak, all with a choice of delicious sides. It's a go-to spot for casino regulars and guests looking for a solid dinner. Open Thursday through Saturday evenings, be sure to order the tomahawk steak. 4132 Peters Rd., Harvey, (504) 366-7711, boomtownneworleans.com/dining