Where Y'at's Holiday Dining Guide

Holiday Dining Guide 2025

American

Anita's Grill

833 Howard Ave., (504) 354-8979, anitasgrillnola.com

1. Anita's Grill has been serving the same satisfying meals without any changes to the menu since 1922.

2. Anita's Grill was originally named "Jerry's" before being sold to Mrs. Anita's son, who changed the name and ran it for nearly 40 years.

3. Their original Tulane location and current Howard Avenue location served as popular Saints pre-game breakfast spots.

4. The restaurant is well loved for its many different breakfast dishes, such as French toast, pancakes, and omelets.

5. They offer traditional and unique po-boys, including liver and onions.

Bearcat Café

Multiple Locations, bearcatcafe.com

1. Bearcat Café offers a wide variety of vegan, vegetarian, paleo, and gluten free options.

2. Freshly made juices, sustainably sourced local coffee, and a diverse selection of specialty teas are what make Bearcat unique.

3. Bearcat offers two styles of dining—the "Good Cat" menu and the "Bad Cat" menu.

4. They have a full-scale bakery where they make all the bread and pastries for their stores.

5. They offer a wide selection of cocktails in both their CBD and Uptown locations.

Chicken Salad Chick

3005 Veterans Memorial Blvd., Metairie, (504) 350-2726, chickensaladchick.com

1. The new Chicken Salad Chick in Metairie offers a wide variety of chicken salad sandwiches, soups, and salads.
2. Not only do they serve classic chicken salad, they have unique flavors including lemon basil and BBQ.
3. If you're a vegetarian, Chicken Salad Chick also offers home-made pimento cheese and egg salad.
4. The restaurant also does catering for all events.
5. After opening in 2008, Chicken Salad Chick is now the nation's only fast-casual restaurant dedicated to chicken salad.

Crescent City Steaks

1001 N. Broad St., (504) 821-3271, crescentcitysteaks.com

1. Crescent City Steaks is Louisiana's oldest family-owned steakhouse.

2. Their menu includes a variety of fine cuts of beef, including a filet mignon wrapped in bacon.

3. Crescent City Steaks created the "New Orleans style" of cooking steaks by sizzling them in butter.

4. At the age of 26, John Vojkovich opened up Crescent City Steaks at the same location it stands today in 1934.

5. The restaurant is still owned and operated by the Vojkovich family.

Daisy Dukes Café

Multiple Locations, daisydukesrestaurant.com

1. Daisy Dukes Café takes pride in serving genuine Cajun and Southern cuisine in New Orleans.

2. The restaurant serves breakfast all day along.

3. Daisy Dukes Café has an award-winning Cajun Bloody Mary that is essential to order while there.

4. The menu features shrimp and grits, biscuits and gravy, classic New Orleans po-boys, fried green tomatoes, country fried steak, and so much more.

5. Daisy Dukes Café was recognized by Tripadvisor as a "Travelers Choice" in 2024.

Dat Dog

Multiple Locations, datdog.com

1. Dat Dog elevates the hot dog with options from crawfish and alligator sausages to vegan dogs.
2. The original 475 square feet hot dog stand quickly outgrew their space, opening up their first brick and mortar in 2011.
3. If you're into singing and guessing games, Dat Dog holds weekly events including karaoke and trivia.
4. By ordering the Devil on Dumaine dog, proceeds will be donated directly to Son of a Saint.
5. They also have a Datzilla Challenge for those brave enough.

Desi Vega's Steakhouse

Multiple Locations, desivegasteaks.com

1. USDA prime cut steaks and fresh seafood are what Desi Vega's Steakhouse is known for.

2. Desi Vega, the steakhouse's namesake, grew up in NOLA learning how to cook from his mother.

3. Desi Vega learned his culinary expertise from the great chefs of Brennan's, Ruth's Chris, and Commander's Palace.

4. The restaurant has an extensive wine menu and has even won Wine Spector's Award of Excellence three years in a row.

5. They have three unique dining rooms for private events.

Gattuso's Neighborhood Restaurant, Bar, & Catering

435 Huey P Long Ave., Gretna, (504) 368-1114, gattusos.net

1. Gattuso's has been serving American and Italian dishes since 2000.
2. Their outdoor patio is perfect for brunch with friends, dinner dates, or bringing your pup to lunch.
3. The owner, Brad Gattuso, is a Gretna local and takes pride in being a family operated business.
4. Gattuso's has long and even all-day happy hours on certain days.
5. Gourmet salads, Italian meatballs, and crawfish pasta are just some options off their catering menu for your next event.

Ike's Love & Sandwiches

1940 Dauphine St., (504) 581-8230, ikessandwich.com

1. Ike's is a nationwide sandwich shop known for their loaded hot sandwiches and house-made "dirty sauce."
2. Meat, vegetarian, vegan, gluten free, and halal options are available.
3. Ike's opened up in San Francisco 2007 before branching out across the country to multiple states.
4. Their location on Dauphine is their first and currently only location in Louisiana.
5. Ike's goal is to spread love so his rewards system for customers includes free sandwiches, discounts, and exclusive prizes.

Jack Rose

2031 St. Charles Ave., (504) 608-7112, jackroserestaurant.com

1. Jack Rose is an elegant restaurant located in the Pontchartrain Hotel.

2. The restaurant menu consists of a mix of New Orleans style Italian, French, and Spanish dishes.

3. Jack Rose was named "Best Hotel Restaurant in the United States" by USA Today.

4. The name Jack Rose was inspired by the play The Rose Tattoo by Tennessee Williams because of his connection to the Pontchartrain Hotel.

5. Head out for brunch and enjoy duck and andouille gumbo and fried catfish Benedict.

Jimmy J's Café

115 Chartres St., (504) 309-9360, jimmyjscafe.com

1. Jimmy J's Café is a funky breakfast restaurant in the French Quarter that also serves po-boys and burritos.

2. The mom-and-pop spot, popular for tourists and locals, opened back in 2011.

3. They serve a variety of unique breakfast options including Oreo pancakes, beignet sticks, and breakfast nachos.

4. The owners take pride in using fresh, home-made ingredients.

5. Jimmy J's also has a variety of alcoholic beverages including Bloody Marys, mimosas, and sangria.

Legacy Kitchen's Craft Tavern

700 Tchoupitoulas St. #3612, (504) 613-2350, legacykitchen.com

1. Legacy Kitchen's Craft Tavern focuses on American cuisine and craft beer in an industrial-chic ambiance.

2. The Craft Tavern opens at 7 a.m. every day and serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

3. If you're searching for beignets, they offer beignets all day.

4. Craft Tavern is included in the same Legacy Kitchen restaurant group as Tacklebox and Steak + Chop.

5. Some menu items at Legacy Kitchen's Craft Tavern include crawfish cornbread, steak frites, and pecan smoked chicken wings.

Legacy Kitchen's Steak + Chop

91 Westbank Expy. #51, Gretna, (504) 513-2606, legacykitchen.com

1. If you love prime cut meats, then Legacy Kitchen's Steak + Chop is a must visit on the Westbank.

2. Steak + Chop has a top-grade selection of center cut top sirloin, Delmonico ribeye, tomahawks, filets, and pork chops.

3. They offer happy hour and "Game Day Specials" during particular football games.

4. Creative craft cocktails, including the Saintsational, are available.

5. Even though they are meat forward, the restaurant does have seafood and vegetarian options to enjoy.

Luke

333 St. Charles Ave., (504) 378-2840, lukeneworleans.com

1. Luke is in the Hilton New Orleans Hotel and is a refined Creole-inspired brasserie.

2. Chef Corey Sharp's menu, which includes crispy pork schnitzel and moules et frites, pairs well with the restaurant's crafted cocktails and select wines.

3. Luke opened in 2007 as a tribute to French and German brasseries.

4. Luke has an amazing raw bar that can be enjoyed for lunch, brunch, and dinner.

5. Some menu items include blue crab omelet, honey glazed pork belly, and fresh Gulf oysters.

Moe's Original BBQ

1101 N. Causeway Blvd., (504) 407-3533, moesoriginalbbq.com

1. Moe's offers Alabama BBQ, Southern sides, and fresh seafood.

2. The BBQ spot opened in Colorado by three University of Alabama students with a love for smoking meat.

3. They offer a wide variety of customizable catering items.

4. Moe's Original BBQ has been named Top 10 BBQ Chains in America by USA Today and The Daily Meal.

5. The founders of Moe's created two signature sauces for their meats—a bold and tangy BBQ sauce and a creamy and zesty tartar sauce.

New Orleans Vampire Café

801 Royal St., (504) 581-0801, nolavampirecafe.com

1. Vampire Café takes dining to a new level with their dishes including "stake" and eggs and espresso crème brûlée.

2. Order one of their specialty cocktails by blood type such as the "Type O-," which is a blackberry mojito served in a blood bag.

3. They also have wines such as Trueblood and Dracula.

4. Get friends together for a leaf reading at their monthly afternoon high tea.

5. Vampire Café also has special chocolate bars shaped like bats.

NOLA Steak

4132 Peters Rd., Harvey, (855) 805-5596, boomtownneworleans.com

1. NOLA Steak is located in the Boomtown Casino in Harvey on the Westbank.

2. The restaurant is open for dinner Thursday to Saturday and features a jazz brunch buffet on Sundays.

3. The menu features not only a variety of steak selections but also Louisiana BBQ shrimp, crawfish bread, and fresh seasonal salads.

4. Join NOLA Steak for Ladies Night on Thursdays for a live DJ and $3 cocktails.

5. Creative cocktails such as the NOLA Tini and the Italian margarita are available.

Parasol's

2533 Constance St., (504) 354-9079, facebook.com/ParasolsNOLA

1. Parasol's is a neighborhood bar located in the Irish Channel that serves po-boys, fried seafood, and muffulettas.
2. Don't miss out on Parasol's locally-famous St. Patrick's Day block party each year.
3. The neighborhood bar and lunch spot opened in 1952 by Louis and Myrtle Passauer who converted their porch into a bar.
4. The name "Parasol's" came from the idea that people would not be able to pronounce Passauer.
5. Parasol's roast beef po-boy is Myrtle Passauer's original recipe from the 1950s.

Sala NOLA

124 Lake Marina Ave., (504) 513-2670, salanola.com

1. Located near Lake Pontchartrain, Sala NOLA specializes in shareable plates with specialty cocktails.

2. The owner of Sala NOLA, Joseph Riccobono, is a member of multiple community boards focusing on promoting small businesses in New Orleans.

3. Sala NOLA features breakfast, weekend brunch, dinner, steak night, and happy hour.

4. Some menu items include bacon Brussels spouts, herb truffle fries, and bang bang shrimp.

5. Sala NOLA is the sister restaurant to Café Navarré and Panola Street Café.

Spudly's Super Spuds

2609 Harvard Ave., Metairie, (504) 455-3250, spudlys.com

1. Spudly's is known for their loaded baked potatoes that are "a meal in a baked potato."

2. Spudly's opened in 1980 serving only baked potatoes before evolving to include soups, salads, and sandwiches.

3. Some of the unique fully loaded baked potatoes include a crabmeat and shrimp spud, pizza spud, and fajita spud.

4. The restaurant also serves spud skins for people who don't want a full potato.

5. Their super combo tray of chicken fingers, mozzarella sticks, and mushrooms is a great appetizer.

The Country Club

634 Louisa St., (504) 945-0742, thecountryclubneworleans.com

1. The Country Club New Orleans has been located in the Bywater for more than 40 years.

2. The neighborhood gem offers guests a relaxing getaway with their cabana lounge and pool, Creole restaurant and bar, and events.

3. Don't miss out on their award-winning drag brunch every Saturday and Sunday.

4. The Country Club does private buyouts for weddings, receptions, and other extravagant events.

5. Their dinner menu includes crab beignets, fried green tomatoes, and crispy Parmesan oysters.

Vacca Steakhouse

3524 Severn Ave., Metairie, (504) 318-3808, vaccasteakhouse.com

1. Vacca Steakhouse opened up in June 2024 as an old-school steakhouse with a modern flair.

2. The restaurant has weekly specials featuring martini Monday, Friday burgers & brews, and happy hour on select days.

3. Stop in for happy hour and enjoy a complimentary garlic steak bite.

4. Vacca hosts Sunday brunch with some menu items including grillades and grits, crab cake Benedict, and steak and eggs.

5. Vacca also specializes in private events including weddings, birthdays, business meetings, presentations, and more.

Vampire Apothecary

725 St. Peter St., (504) 766-8179, vampireapothecary.com

1. The Vampire Apothecary, or Boutique du Vampyre's Apothecary, opened its doors to the public in 2023.

2. The Vampire Apothecary offers tarot readings, as well as a full-service restaurant and bar.

3. On select dates, the apothecary hosts magic shows that feature illusions and tricks.

4. Learn how to read your own future with their high tea leaf reading, which includes finger sandwiches, scones, and learning how to read your leaves.

5. They also offer a customized fang making service.

Willie Mae's NOLA

898 Baronne St., (504) 354-8194, williemaesnola.com

1. Originally opening in 1957 as a bar in the Tremé neighborhood, Willie Mae's is a full-service restaurant serving some of the best fried chicken in the nation.

2. Ms. Willie Mae won the James Beard Award for "America's Classic Restaurant in the Southern Region."

3. Be sure to try Willie Mae's unique cocktails, including Uncle Yam's Old Fashioned.

4. The menu includes mixed seafood and meat gumbo, Creole Gulf fish, and more.

5. Willie Mae's also hosts brunch on Saturday and Sundays.

Asian

Asia

4132 Peters Rd., Harvey, (504) 364-8812, boomtownneworleans.com

1. Asia offers Vietnamese and Chinese dishes inside of Boomtown Casino & Hotel New Orleans.

2. They serve a variety of delicious dishes including Vietnamese noodle soup, fried rice, and lo mein noodles.

3. They also offer a blood orange sparkling sake by local brewery Wetlands Sake.

4. Make sure to also try a unique non-alcoholic drink including grass jelly and chrysanthemum tea.

5. Asia is one of many food spots inside Boomtown Casino, including NOLA Steak.

LUFU NOLA

Multiple Locations, lufunolafq.com

1. LUFU NOLA serves elevated regional Indian food at two locations in New Orleans.
2. The founders of LUFU started the business as a pop-up in 2001 before opening the brick-and-mortar in July 2023.
3. LUFU NOLA aims to serve different and unique Indian meals to New Orleanians compared to the typical Indian restaurants offered in the city.
4. Some menu items include puchka, aloo gobi, and goat korma.
5. The restaurant expanded to the French Quarter in 2025 featuring over 70 menu items.

Mantra Original Indian Cuisine

3116 S. I-10 Service Rd. W. E., Metairie, (504) 354-8349, mantraoriginalindiancuisine.com

1. Mantra Original Indian Cuisine brings the soulful flavors of the Punjabi region to Greater New Orleans.

2. The restaurant uses hand-blended spices and the freshest ingredients for its dishes.

3. Their menu contains a variety of tandoori specialties including sheekh kabob and lamb chops.

4. Mantra also has a selection of lamb and goat entrees for those willing to give them a try.

5. Save up room and experience truly unique Indian desserts such as carrot halwa, gulab jamun, ras malai, and kheer.

Mikimoto Restaurant

3301 S. Carrollton Ave., (504) 488-1881, mikimotosushi.com

1. Mikimoto opened on S. Carrollton in 1999 with a promise to serve the freshest quality ingredients with exceptional service.

2. Mikimoto is the only to-go sushi restaurant in New Orleans with a drive-thru window.

3. Not only do they offer dine-in and to-go, Mikimoto offers free catering delivery for orders over $100.

4. Some menu items include pork gyoza, vegetable tempura, and specialty sushi rolls.

5. The restaurant also has plenty of Japanese drinks to try including plum wine and many kinds of sake.

Thai'd Up

1839 Gentilly Blvd., (504) 644-5790, thaidup.co

1. Thai'd Up, serving their unique version of Isan Thai cuisine, came to the Gentilly neighborhood in 2022.

2. Thai'd Up won Where Yat's "Best of the Big Easy Best Thai Restaurant" in 2024 and 2025.

3. Their menu offerings include roti flatbread, Thai beef jerky, coconut shrimp, and more.

4. Thai'd Up is located near the Fair Grounds Race Course on Gentilly Boulevard.

5. Owner Chef Saowanit "Kate" Welch is a Thailand native with over 10 years of experience in the culinary world.

Bars with Great Food

JB's Fuel Dock

128 S. Roadway St., (504) 510-2260, jbsfueldock.com

1. JB's Fuel Dock is located along Lake Pontchartrain in beautiful West End Park.

2. Their menu includes pizzas, calzones, sandwiches, and a full bar.

3. Enjoy a day out on their outside patio, which faces the waterfront.

4. JB's location was built in the 1950s and has been a boat yard, convenience store, and a fueling station providing gas to boats.

5. The building was bought and converted into a restaurant and bar in 2018.

Le Bon Temps Roule

4801 Magazine St., (504) 897-3448, lbtrnola.com

1. Le Bon Temps Roule's building was constructed in 1890 as a dry goods store.
2. By 1979, musician Ned Hobgood purchased the building and opened Le Bon Temps Roule as a 24-hour neighborhood bar.
3. In addition to serving delicious food, it is also a live music venue that hosts talented musicians.
4. The bar has a full serviced kitchen that serves burgers, nachos, fries, and more.
5. The bar's name is based on the Louisiana French saying, "Let the good times roll."

Rivershack Tavern

3449 River Rd., Jefferson, (504) 834-4938, rivershacktavern.com

1. Rivershack Tavern opened in 1990 on River Road in Jefferson, LA as a bar and restaurant.
2. In previous years, the building had been a grocery store, a liquor store, and a pharmacy.
3. Bring in your most tacky ashtray and get a free drink chosen by Rivershack.
4. The bar is known for its hand-painted 1940s advertisements in mint condition that cover the walls.
5. The restaurant also hosts live local music on Fridays and Saturdays.

The Channel

2604 Magazine St., (504) 381-4680, thechannelneworleans.com

1. The Channel is located on Magazine Street and features seasonal crawfish, a full bar, and a kitchen.

2. Some food items include wings, burgers, and fried seafood.

3. The Channel is named after the neighborhood it resides in: the Irish Channel.

4. If you're a sports fan, make sure to get to The Channel early for the game because they have multiple TVs and usually get packed for local football games.

5. They also host birthdays, office functions, and other special events.

The Jimani

141 Chartres St., (504) 524-0493, thejimani.com

1. The Jimani's building is over 200 years old and sits right outside the French Quarter.
2. The bar offers lots of different beer, as well as Jello shots.
3. The menu includes sandwiches, burgers, po-boys, pizza, and more.
4. The historic building used to house a LGBTQ+ bar called UpStairs Lounge, which saw tragedy in 1973 when multiple people lost their lives due to an arson attack.
5. The Jimani also offers Chicago-style dogs with pickles, fries, and pepperoncini.

Cafés

Café Amelie

900 Royal St., (504) 412-8065, cafeamelie.com

1. Café Amelie sits in one of three connected townhouses that were built in 1836.

2. The restaurant is named after the mother of Princess Alice, the first American Princess of Monaco, who lived in the accompanying townhouse.

3. Café Amelie opened as a restaurant serving brunch and dinner in 2005.

4. Some menu items include gumbo, chicken and waffles, and Cajun poutine.

5. In addition to their indoor seating, Café Amelie has beautiful outdoor seating to enjoy while the weather is cool.

Kitchen Table Café

7005 St. Claude Ave., (504) 301-2285, facebook.com/kitchentablearabi

1. The Kitchen Table Café is a casual neighborhood cafe serving American cuisine through locally-sourced, fresh ingredients.

2. The café hosts a variety of events regularly.

3. Fresh and fruity brioche, crispy pesto chicken cutlet sandwich, and smoked duck gumbo are just some of the menu items.

4. This neighborhood favorite is located in Arabi.

5. They host live music as well, so check the Kitchen Table Café's Facebook page to see who will be performing.

The Vintage Restaurant

3121 Magazine St., (504) 608-1008, thevintagenola.com

1. The Vintage is a café, wine bar, and bakery serving beignets and small plates.

2. The restaurant opened in 2018 on Magazine, giving itself the name "The Vintage" for the history of New Orleans' architecture and culture.

3. If you're a coffee lover, The Vintage is a micro-roastery that imports the highest quality of green coffee.

4. Some featured small plates include a zoodle bowl, alligator poppers, and garlic herb bites.

5. They offer a list of Pre-Prohibition cocktails including Sazerac and Brandy Crusta.

Willa Jean

611 O'Keefe Ave., (504) 509-7334, willajean.com

1. Willa Jean is a beloved bakery, restaurant, and bar in the Warehouse District.

2. The restaurant offers a Southern menu featuring a fried chicken sandwich, shrimp Creole, and more.

3. The fried chicken and Tabasco honey biscuit is amazing and is a stand out for Chef Sarah LeBlanc.

4. Their cookies + milk dessert, which comes with cookie dough, evokes childhood memories.

5. Willa Jean also offers catering, and you can book your next event at the restaurant as well.

Caribbean

Jamaican Jerk House

Multiple Locations, jamaicanjerkhouse.com

1. Jamaican Jerk House is one of the most authentic Jamaican restaurants in Greater New Orleans.

2. You can find unique combos including oxtail tacos, jerk salmon pasta, and queso Brussels sprouts.

3. Owner Richard Rose is from Kingston and his wife Jackie Diaz is from New Orleans with a Cuban heritage, giving them a unique fusion to their restaurant.

4. Jamaican Jerk House is known for its family secret recipe jerk seasoning.

5. Try their original Bywater location or their brand-new Metairie spot.

French

Restaurant August

301 Tchoupitoulas St., (504) 299-9777, restaurantaugust.com

1. Restaurant August is located in the CBD in a 19th century French-Creole building.

2. Restaurant August was founded in 2001 as a homage to Creole culture by Chef John Besh and August "Duke" Robin.

3. Chef Corey Thomas creates elevated takes on Creole cuisine such as with the Snapper Pontchartrain.

4. The restaurant is known for its commitment to serving high end Creole dishes.

5. Restaurant August has won multiple awards includingsome from the "Guide to America's Best Restaurants" and "America's Top 50 Restaurants."

Italian

Domenica

123 Baronne St., (504) 336-6541, domenicarestaurant.com

1. Domenica's Executive Chef Phillip Mariano was part of the original opening team in 2009.

2. Domenica has a sister restaurant named Pizza Domenica for a more casual dining experience.

3. The menu includes salumi selections, pizza, pasta, and more takes on warm, rustic flavors.

4. The name of the restaurant, "Domenica," means "Sunday" in Italian and is a tribute to the traditional Sunday dinner in Italian cultures.

5. Chef Mariano's skills ensure all of Domenica's dishes come from the heart.

Mosca's Restaurant

4137 US-90 West, Westwego, (504) 436-8950, moscasrestaurant.com

1. Mosca's Restaurant has been opened in Westwego since 1946 by Italian immigrants Provino and Lisa Mosca.

2. The restaurant was restored in 2006 after Hurricane Katrina and is still owned and operated by fourth generations of the Mosca family.

3. Tradition stands strong at Mosca's with its unchanging menu and family recipes.

4. The menu includes Creole Italian classics oysters Mosca, chicken cacciatore, and more.

5. Their menu is family style, so get your family or close friends together and arrive hungry.

Paulie's Delicatessen

8201 Oak St., (504) 412-8326, pauliesneworleans.com

1. Paulie's Delicatessen started as Empire State Deli by Paul Tufaro in 2004.

2. Tufaro changed the name and expanded the menu of the restaurant after relocating his business in 2021 to Oak Street.

3. They serve fresh from NY bagels daily, coffee/espresso drinks, and have a full-service bar and TV for sports.

4. Their catering menu, with sandwich platters, fruit and salad trays, and family sized potato salad, is perfect for business lunches.

5. They also host events including karaoke and trivia.

Pizza Domenica

Multiple Locations, pizzadomenica.com

1. Pizza Domenica, with locations in Uptown and Lakeview, offers a relaxed yet vibrant energy.

2. Chef Philip Mariano's menu includes a variety of pizza options including a classic margherita and a creative fungi pizze with oyster mushrooms, egg, truffle salami, and smoked mozzarella.

3. Their custom-made wood-fire ovens were shipped from Italy.

4. Their open kitchens give guests a connection to the meal being made for them.

5. Pizza Domenica's happy hour specials and welcoming atmosphere makes it perfect for get-togethers.

Pulcinella!

1300 St. Bernard Ave., (504) 221-1560, dirtydimeproductions.com

1. Enjoy modern takes on family recipes by Executive Chef Matty Hayes at Pulcinella! in the Seventh Ward.

2. Pulcinella! is a tribute to home style Italian cuisine and the classic Italian character known for being a trickster.

3. Live shows happen weekly at the upstairs speakeasy called the Original Nite Cap.

4. Some menu items include oyster artichoke soup, seafood cannelloni, and eggplant parmesan.

5. Pulcinella! offers craft cocktails and beer, as well as mocktails and non-alcoholic beer.

U Pizza

1513 St. Charles Ave., (504) 381-4232, upizzanola.com

1. U Pizza opened in 2022 on St. Charles Avenue where the old Slice Pizzeria stood for 18 years.

2. The pizza spot opens 10:30 a.m. and closes at midnight on Sunday to Thursday and 2 a.m. on Fridays and Saturdays.

3. The menu includes classic options including gourmet pizzas and mozzarella sticks.

4. From Monday to Thursday, U Pizza offers a slice of pizza and draft beer deal for $5.

5. They have a robust lunch crowd and also offer delivery.

Venezia

Multiple Locations, venezianeworleans.com

1. Venezia opened in 1957 on N. Carrollton Avenue as one of the first pizza restaurants in New Orleans.

2. The owner, Anthony Carole, ran the restaurant for 30 years.

3. Venezia made its way to Gretna with a second location in August 2024.

4. Host your private party at one of the Venezia locations, which includes a set menu and bar service.

5. The traditional Italian menu includes chicken marsala, baked meatballs, seafood stuffed mushrooms, and so much more.

Latin

34 Restaurant & Bar

714 Baronne St., (504) 498-3434, 34restaurantandbar.com

1. Emeril Lagasse and his son E.J. opened up 34 Restaurant & Bar as a tribute to their Portuguese heritage.

2. The restaurant features a Sunday brunch menu, dinner menu, and happy hour menu on select days.

3. Some dinner items include Portuguese blood sausage, seafood paella, and a Portuguese steak sandwich.

4. Chef De Cuisine Chris dos Reis is a Portuguese American chef who spent time in Portugal working at multiple pop-up concepts.

5. Dos Reis also worked in Michelin Star kitchens across Europe.

Alma Café

301 N. Carrollton Ave., (504) 872-9975, eatalmanola.com

1. Alma Café is a Honduran restaurant opened by Melissa Araujo to showcase her Honduran heritage.
2. The name of the restaurant, "alma," means "soul" in Spanish.
3. The menu celebrates Honduran cuisine with traditional Honduran baleadas, pupusas, and pollo chuco.
4. Chef Araujo is a 2024 James Beard semifinalist for Best Chef of the South.
5. Chef Araujo moved to New Orleans at 16 and began gaining culinary training that eventually led her to working in kitchens in Italy and Mexico.

El Gato Negro

Multiple Locations, elgatonegronola.com

1. El Gato Negro is an authentic Mexican restaurant that is inspired by the cuisine of Michoacan, Mexico.

2. Not only does El Gato Negro serve fresh high-quality meals, they have an extensive tequila list.

3. The restaurant has three locations spread across New Orleans and Gretna.

4. Juan Contreras dedicated the restaurant to his mother and father who migrated to America with nothing but a dream.

5. Some menu items include lobster claw tacos, table-side ceviche, and carrot and lime margaritas.

Empanola

Multiple Locations, empanolaempanadas.com

1. Empanola started in 2017 as a vendor at the St. Roch Market by combining traditional empanadas with New Orleans inspired fillings.

2. Their twist on the traditional empanadas includes menu items such as crawfish etouffee and gumbo empanadas.

3. Empanola is also a franchise that gives others the chance to provide curated meals to the community.

4. The unique concept has branched out from New Orleans to a new location in Ocean Springs, MS.

5. Empanola also serves salads and vegetarian empanadas.

Felipe's Mexican Taqueria

Multiple Locations, felipestaqueria.com

1. Felipe's is a very popular Mexican restaurant with locations throughout Greater New Orleans, as well as Florida and Massachusetts.

2. In addition to specific dishes, the restaurant allows customers to customize their entrees to fit their tastes.

3. Their margaritas, both on the rocks and frozen, and sangria are made with fresh squeezed juice.

4. Felipe's won both Best Traditional Tacos and Best Traditional Margaritas during Top Taco 2022 and 2023.

5. The restaurant also hosts special events for celebrations and specific holidays.

Taquerias Carnalito

930 Poydras St. Ste. 100, (504) 381-5470, taqueriascarnalito.com

1. Taquerias Carnalito is an authentic Mexican restaurant that is inspired by the taquerias found in Mexico's traditional markets.
2. Each dish is perfected with family recipes dating back to Mexico, 1928.
3. The family of Taqueria Carnalito works to perfect the art of cooking lamb, pork, beef, and other specialty meats.
4. Taquerias Carnalito's menu celebrates the street food and flavors of Mexico City.
5. Horchata, Mexican Coke, and house-made margaritas are also available.

Middle Eastern

Lebanon's Cafe

1500 S. Carrollton Ave., (504) 862-6200, lebanonscafe.com

1. Lebanon's Cafe has been proudly serving authentic cuisine in the Carrollton neighborhood for over 22 years.

2. In addition to the menu, the decor and ambiance is a celebration of the rich culture of the Middle East.

3. The classic menu features hummus, baba ganoush, and gyro plates.

4. Make sure to bring your own alcohol if you're looking for wine because Lebanon's does not have a bar but does allow outside beverages.

5. Baklava, burma, and Jordan almonds are available for dessert.

Mona's Cafe

3901 Banks St., (504) 482-7743, monas-cafe.foodjoyy.com

1. Mona's Cafe is a hidden gem in New Orleans' Mid-City neighborhood.

2. The Middle Eastern café originated in 1990 on Banks Street as an extension of the Daily Pita Bakery next door.

3. The menu is filled to the brim with delicious Middle Eastern cuisine.

4. Traditional Mediterranean dishes such as falafel and fried halloumi cheese, as well as unique dishes including safeiha, are available.

5. Nammura, which is semolina, almond, rosewater, and honey, is available.

Shaya

4213 Magazine St., (504) 943-7231, shayarestaurant.com

1. Shaya focuses on combining cuisine from North Africa, Eastern Europe, Greece, Turkey, and the Middle East together with Southern flair.

2. Chef Fariz Choumali is from Beirut and has created a contemporary Levantine menu.

3. Vegans and vegetarians luck out at Shaya due to a good amount of the menu not containing any meat.

4. Shaya serves all their menu items with wood-fire roasted, fresh pita bread.

5. Creamy hummus, smoky baba ganoush, and crispy halloumi are just some of the menu features.

Tal's Hummus

4800 Magazine St., (504) 267-7357, talshummus.com

1. Tal Sharon, an Israeli native that grew up in New York, opened Tal's Hummus in April 2016 after moving to New Orleans.
2. Chef Sharon has worked in restaurants in Tel Aviv, Costa Rica, and New Orleans.
3. Most items at Tal's are vegetarian, while the menu also features beef and chicken options.
4. Tal's offers a quick service with take-out or dining options available.
5. Tabouleh quinoa, fried eggplant, falafel, and pita sandwiches are just some of the menu items.

New Orleans Cuisine

3rd Block Depot

316 Chartres St., (504) 552-4095, 3rdblockdepot.com

1. 3rd Block Depot is a Cajun and Creole restaurant located in the Hotel de la Poste.

2. The creative menu features mushroom hushpuppies, Bananas Fosters French toast, crawfish omelet, and more.

3. The historic Warehouse District building used to be a warehouse where molasses and rum was stored.

4. Executive Chef Stuart McLaughlin previously worked as the executive chef for the Omni Riverfront Hotel.

5. Their drink menu contains Louisiana inspired, creative cocktails and mocktails.

Annunciation Restaurant

1016 Annunciation St., (504) 568-0245, annunciationrestaurant.com

1. Annunciation Restaurant, located in the heart of the Warehouse District, offers a great selection of classic and contemporary Creole and Cajun food.

2. The restaurant was recognized in OpenTable's Diners' Choice awards for 2023 and 2025.

3. They offer special twists on traditional cocktails such as the Cajun Mule and the Ole' Pecan.

4. In addition to traditional dishes, expect to see creative takes on classics such as the paneed oysters and softshell crab Monica.

5. Annunciation can even host your next private party.

Chef Ron's Gumbo Stop

2309 N. Causeway Blvd., Metairie, (504) 835-2022, gumbostop.com

1. This cozy spot is nestled in the heart of Metairie's Galleria and is only just a few minutes away from New Orleans.

2. Chef Ron Iafrate only uses local ingredients in his home-made gumbo.

3. The Gumbo Stop is known for their award-winning gumbos including the stuffed gumbo topped with fried catfish.

4. Chef Iafrate earned his culinary degree from Johnson and Wales University.

5. Chef Iafrate was named Chef of the Year in 2010 by the American Culinary Federation.

Crescent City Brewhouse

527 Decatur St., (504) 522-0571, crescentcitybrewhouse.com

1. Crescent City Brewhouse is the French Quarter's first and only microbrewery.

2. Enjoy live music daily featuring classic New Orleans jazz in their open dining room.

3. All their dishes, including crabmeat hush puppies, fried alligator, and ribs, are made from scratch.

4. Crescent City Brewhouse is the oldest brewpub in Louisiana and brews Old World style beer with modern technology.

5. The historic building that Crescent City Brewhouse resides in dates all the way back to 1722.

Desire Oyster Bar

300 Bourbon St., (504) 553-2281, sonesta.com/royal-sonesta/la/new-orleans

1. Located in the Royal Sonesta Hotel, Desire Oyster Bar serves Louisiana-style cuisine with a focus on Gulf oysters.

2. The building the hotel and restaurant are located in has been standing since 1721.

3. Sit at the oyster bar and watch the chefs shuck fresh Gulf oysters.

4. Desire Oyster Bar serves more than just oysters including Creole jambalaya and fried catfish.

5. Order their Compromise po-boy, which is half fried shrimp and half fried oyster.

Headquarters by Nice Guys NOLA

445 S. Rampart St., (504) 217-6851, headquartersnola.com

1. Nice Guys NOLA opened their sister restaurant Headquarters in the Warehouse District, offering a relaxed ambiance with a unique fusion style menu.

2. Don't miss their Taco Tuesday deals that include $3 tacos, $5 cocktails, and $20 hookah set up.

3. The fusion menu consists of crawfish beignets, Buffalo wings, and a crabcake burger.

4. Headquarters by Nice Guys NOLA shares a space with the historic Little Gem Saloon.

5. The restaurant hosts weekly live events including Latin Night and Saints watch parties.

House of Blues New Orleans

225 Decatur St., (504) 310-4999, houseofblues.com/neworleans

1. The House of Blues New Orleans opened in the French Quarter in 1994 and is just one location of many across the country.

2. It aims to celebrate Southern and African American culture through music and live events.

3. Their food menu consists of American classics including fried green tomatoes, Cajun chicken pasta, and burgers.

4. House of Blues features many different event halls.

5. Sign up for the House of Blues' membership and get early access to shows, VIP treatment, and personalized service.

Lakeview Harbor

8550 Pontchartrain Blvd., (504) 486-4887, lakeviewharbor.us

1. Lakeview Harbor was founded in 1993 on Harrison Avenue before moving to their current location on Pontchartrain Boulevard.

2. This neighborhood spot is known for their thick cut burgers and Typhoon punch.

3. If you want to have a party right by Lake Pontchartrain, Lakeview Harbor hosts private parties and events.

4. They are known for their famous overstuffed baked potatoes that can accompany any dish.

5. Lakeview Harbor also offers catering and can provide boiled crawfish, mini muffulettas, and more.

Lil' Dizzy's Café

1500 Esplanade Ave., (504) 766-8687, lildizzyscafe.net

1. Wayne Baquet Sr. opened Lil' Dizzy's Café in 2004 and now operates with his wife Arkesha.

2. The Baquet family has over 70+ years of culinary history in NOLA.

3. The name "Lil' Dizzy's" was inspired by Wayne Baquet Sr.'s grandson who was nicknamed Lil' Dizzy because he played jazz similar to the musician Dizzy Gillespie.

4. They use recipes from over four generations of the Baquet family.

5. The menu contains old school Creole specials including stuffed bell peppers and smothered okra.

Loretta's Authentic Pralines

Multiple Locations, lorettaspralines.com

1. Loretta Harrison was the first African American woman to own a praline company in NOLA in 1983.

2. The late Harrison first gained recognition for her pralines as a vendor at the Jazz Fest.

3. Loretta's Authentic Pralines is set up in the French Market and at a brick and mortar on N. Rampart.

4. In addition to original pralines, Loretta's offers unique pralines made with chocolate, coconut, and rum.

5. They offer both traditional and savory beignets including their one-of-a-kind crabmeat stuffed beignet.

Lyons Corner

537 Gravier St., (504) 527-0006, lyonscornernola.com

1. Lyons Corner offers casual dining with a chic modern charm, offering New Orleans and American style contemporary cuisine.

2. The building where the restaurant stands today used to be an apothecary in the 1800s named Lyons Co.

3. This building is where the famous New Orleans nectar soda was formulated by Lyons Co.

4. The menu features muffuletta chopped salad, bang bang fried oysters, and Cajun prawns.

5. Lyons Corner also has an espresso bar that serves up fresh coffee and tea daily.

Mandina's Restaurant

3800 Canal St., (504) 482-9179, mandinasrestaurant.com

1. The iconic Mandina's Restaurant was originally a grocery store opened in 1898 by Sicilian immigrant Sebastian Mandina.

2. The business evolved into a pool hall that also served sandwiches in the 1900s.

3. Sebastian Mandina's sons opened up Mandina's Restaurant in 1932, leaving the wives to run the business while the brothers served in WW2.

4. Fast forward to today, fourth generation owner Cindy Mandina operates the business.

5. Mandina's Restaurant is known for their Creole and Italian cuisine including po-boys and pasta.

Melba's

Multiple Locations, melbas.com

1. The beloved Melba's opened up after Hurricane Katrina as a hub for the community to come get a meal and talk about the current battles the city was facing.

2. Melba's serves breakfast and a main menu that includes BBQ ribs, fried plates, and po-boys.

3. Melba's literacy program helps people in need of books.

4. Melba's is open 24 hours.

5. If you need to do laundry and grab a breakfast sandwich, Melba's also has an attached laundromat at the Elysian Fields location.

Meril

424 Girod St., (504) 526-3745, bemeril.com

1. Meril was opened by Chef Emeril Lagasse and named the restaurant after his daughter.

2. The American contemporary restaurant has an open kitchen where you can see the cooks make your meal.

3. The menu has international influences from Chef Lagasse's favorite places to eat all over the world.

4. Meril focuses on a more casual dining experience in comparison to some of the other restaurants owned by Emeril Lagasse.

5. Meril hosts brunch on Saturdays and Sundays with bottomless mimosas.

Mother's Restaurant

401 Poydras St., (504) 523-9656, mothersrestaurant.net

1. Mother's Restaurant opened in 1938 by Simon and Mary "Mother" Landry.

2. The restaurant became very popular during and after WW2 serving as a local hangout spot for the U.S. Marine Corps.

3. Mother's still serves veterans, locals, and tourists alike their po-boys, world famous baked ham, and more.

4. The restaurant also has plenty of seafood including catfish, Gulf shrimp, and fried oysters.

5. In addition to its NOLA classics, Mother's offers breakfast all day, every day.

New Orleans Creole Cookery

510 Toulouse St., (504) 524-9632, neworleanscreolecookery.com

1. New Orleans Creole Cookery is a traditional Creole restaurant with a beautiful outdoor patio.

2. The historic building has a haunting past with people claiming they've seen ghosts.

3. The Tusa family launched New Orleans Creole Cookery and have a long history of restaurant and catering businesses in New Orleans.

4. The restaurant received OpenTable's Diners Choice recognition in 2023.

5. The menu contains plenty of oysters, boiled and fried seafood, and many other New Orleans favorites.

Neyow's Creole Café

3332 Bienville St., (504) 827-5474, neyows.com

1. Timothy and Tanya Dubuclet opened Neyow's Creole Café in Mid-City in 2009.

2. Tanya originally had the idea of opening a restaurant after making "to-go plates" to family and friends after Hurricane Katrina.

3. The café serves Creole classics including stuffed crab, BBQ shrimp, chargrilled oysters, and gumbo.

4. "Neyow's" came from the nickname for the family's favorite dog breed: Neapolitan mastiff.

5. Neyow's has a huge catering menu that includes oyster patties, sweet potato pound cake, and so much more.

Neyow's XL

3336 Bienville St., (504) 503-1081, xl.neyows.com

1. Neyow's XL is a fine-dining steakhouse that is run by the same owners who own Neyow's Creole Café.

2. Neyow's XL serves premium steaks, seafood, and has a large wine list.

3. The restaurant offers special XL cocktails including XL Blue Bayou, XL Hurricane, and XL French.

4. The interior of the restaurant is perfectly designed for special occasions and private parties.

5. The restaurant is conveniently located right next to the original Neyow's Creole Café.

Nice Guys NOLA

7910 Earhart Blvd., (504) 302-2404, niceguysnola.com

1. Nice Guys NOLA opened during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic and became a local success.
2. The restaurant is known for its NOLA with a twist menu featuring oyster bread, crawfish and hot sausage quesadilla, and more.
3. Nice Guys expanded to the CBD with Headquarters and to the French Quarter with Brunch Box.
4. Head out for their weekly NOLA Fridays for oysters, drink specials, and live music.
5. Their catering menu includes breakfast party trays, vegan dishes, and more.

Orleans Grapevine Wine Bar and Bistro

720 Orleans Ave., (504) 523-1930, orleansgrapevine.com

1. Pam Fortner and Earl Bernhardt opened Orleans Grapevine in the French Quarter in 2002.

2. The historic building that contains the wine bar and bistro was built in 1809 and served as a restaurant even back then.

3. Fortner and Bernhardt are the same owners of Tropical Isle, the iconic home of the Hand Grenade.

4. Orleans Grapevine has an extensive wine list with wines from all over the world.

5. They also feature a full menu with scallops, roasted duck breast, and more.

Parkway Bakery & Tavern

538 Hagan Ave., (504) 482-3047, parkwaypoorboys.com

1. Parkway Bakery & Tavern was first established in Bayou St. John in 1911.

2. The owners originally sold sweet rolls and donuts before the creation of the po-boy in 1929.

3. After shutting down in the 1990s, local resident Jay Nix purchased the building and reopened Parkway in 2005.

4. Parkway is known for their many different po-boys including fried Gulf shrimp and their famous slow-cooked roast beef.

5. Parkway has Jay's Place, a tavern where customers can get the same menu items.

Please-U-Restaurant

1751 St. Charles Ave., (504) 525-9131, pleaseunola.com

1. Please-U is a family-owned diner that has been open since 1946.

2. The classic menu features all day breakfast and lunch with generous portions at great prices.

3. The restaurant is owned by local Greek entrepreneurs "Mr. Nick and Mrs. Helen."

4. Please-U is located right by the St. Charles streetcar line.

5. Their menu has some unique items including a fried oyster omelet, cotto salami po-boy, hot dog and chili po-boy, and liver with two eggs.

Short Stop Poboys

119 Transcontinental Dr., Metairie, (504) 885-4572, shortstoppoboysno.com

1. The original Short Stop was a grocery and meat market called Short Stop Superette.

2. The business has been family run since its inception and it is currently run by Russell Hendrick.

3. Hendrick began selling po-boys in 1970 when he realized how many customers came into the grocery buying deli meat for sandwiches.

4. Short Stop Poboys is known for their classic roast beef po-boy covered in house-made gravy.

5. They also have softshell crab, oyster, and shrimp po-boys.

Seafood

Briquette

701 S. Peters St., (504) 547-6330, briquette-nola.com

1. Briquette is a contemporary seafood restaurant located in the Warehouse District.

2. The restaurant is owned by A.J. and Anna Tusa, who also own New Orleans Creole Cookery.

3. The building that houses Briquette is where the former Rodd Brothers Molasses Refinery was located in the 1800s.

4. The restaurant has a culinary focus on fresh Louisiana and Gulf Coast seafood.

5. The name of the restaurant refers to the cooking method of cooking fresh fish using red-hot briquettes.

Delacroix Restaurant

1 Poydras St. Spec. 1005, (504) 655-9002, delacroixrestaurant.com

1. Delacroix Restaurant is a brand-new restaurant on the New Orleans riverfront in Spanish Plaza.

2. The restaurant pays tribute to the food, people, and culture in the village of Delacroix in the St. Bernard Parish.

3. Chef Wiley Lewis offers a refined take on classic fishing and hunting camps.

4. Some menu items include turtle sauce piquante and fried catfish, as well as wild boar cavatelli.

5. Delacroix Restaurant's raw bar contains off-bottom Gulf oysters, Louisiana stone crab claws, and other decadent seafood.

Drago's Seafood Restaurant

Multiple Locations, dragosrestaurant.com

1. Drago's Seafood is named after founder Drago Cvitanovich, who was originally from Croatia.

2. Drago's is perhaps best known for originating the famous and beloved chargrilled oysters dish that can now be found throughout Greater New Orleans.

3. The restaurant is run by Drago's son, Tommy Cvitanovich.

4. The menu also features Maine lobsters, filet mignon, and seafood pasta.

5. Drago's is a local favorite and has grown in popularity by expanding out to Mississippi.

Felix's Restaurant and Oyster Bar

Multiple Locations, felixs.com

1. Felix's Restaurant and Oyster Bar put the New Orleans oyster bar on the map in the 1940s.

2. Felix's is famously known for their fresh, Louisiana oysters that are shucked right in front of you.

3. The iconic restaurant has a location on the Lakefront and expanded in 2017 to Mississippi.

4. The menu also includes gumbo ya-ya, red beans and rice, and various seafood plates.

5. The famous neon "Felix's" sign has become a landmark of the French Quarter.

Legacy Kitchen's Tacklebox

817 Common St., (504) 827-1651, legacykitchen.com

1. Legacy Kitchen's Tacklebox, one of several "Legacy Kitchen" concepts, focuses on quality seafood.

2. The menu features fried seafood platters, beignets, and Southern comfort plates.

3. The Tacklebox is open at 7 a.m. every day and has a brunch menu until 2 p.m.

4. The brunch menu includes a breakfast burger, Bananas Foster waffle, and a NOLA-style grits bowl.

5. Some of their standout seafood dishes include a softshell crab BLT, lobster rangoon, and crawfish bread.

Middendorf's Restaurant

Multiple Locations, middendorfsrestaurant.com

1. Middendorf's is known for their iconic locations and thin fried catfish.
2. The original location is in the tiny fishing village of Manchac, while a second location is in Slidell.
3. The restaurant had originally opened in 1934 by Louis and Josie Middendorf before their son sold it in 2007.
4. Horst Pfeifer, the new owner, kept the traditional atmosphere and traditional recipes.
5. In addition to seafood plates, Middendorf's does seasonal Oktoberfest and Fettuccine menus.

The Blue Crab Restaurant & Bar

7900 Lakeshore Dr., (504) 284-2898, thebluecrabnola.com

1. The Blue Crab opened in 2013 in Lakeview as a tribute to all the old restaurants that had populated West End.

2. The seafood restaurant features a beautiful outside area that looks over Lake Pontchartrain.

3. The menu includes chargrilled oysters, crab claws, and a blue crab platter.

4. The Blue Crab features $1 oysters for happy hour from Tuesday to Thursday.

5. The restaurant also features boiled shrimp, crabs, and crawfish when they are in season.

The Galley Seafood

2535 Metairie Rd., Metairie, (504) 832-0955

1. The Galley founders Dennis and Vicky Patania gained popularity in 1976 for their fried soft-shell po-boy.

2. The family-owned restaurant was originally a food vendor at the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival.

3. The Galley Seafood grew in popularity and opened a brick-and-mortar in 1991.

4. The menu includes fried artichoke hearts, softshell crab, and crawfish Moncia with fried catfish.

5. The business remains in the same family and maintains the same recipes used at the 1976 Jazz Fest.