“Food in New Orleans is as delicious as the less criminal forms of sin.”

– Mark Twain

Behind jazz, New Orleans is perhaps best known for its incredible food offerings.   Some would suggest it’s the number one attraction for this great City.   We say it’s debatable.    What makes the food scene even more interesting is the many one-of-a-kind restaurants discreetly tucked into neighborhoods.   Be sure to look for unique cafes, bars and restaurants close to where you are staying.  Likely, you will discover a great find that is within a short walking distance and you will experience the City like a true local.

There is literally something for everyone in NOLA — from classic creole to unique and unforgettable sandwich shops and bakeries.    Below we have compiled a listing of favorites.    We have also included a few recommended articles with links that provide offerings by neighborhood and price point — along with the ability to make one-click reservations for your convenience.

Be sure to explore all types of great food options on your visit.   You can be rest-assured that the food tastings at the wedding events will be inspired by NOLA’s well-known staples, plus some unexpected flavors.    Don’t miss a bite along the way!

 

Arnaud’s  $$$$

European dining in the French Quarter since 1918.   The Shrimp Arnaud with the house remoulade is a natural starter.   Move onto the Oysters Bienville, topped with shrimp, mushrooms, green onions, herbs and seasonings, in a white wine sauce.

Breads on Oak $$

Considered NOLA’s best vegan bakery and cafe.  100% Plant-based.  Two locations — one on historic Oak Street and a second location a few blocks off Bourbon Street.

Cafe’ Reconcile  $$

Operated as a non-profit workforce training program, Cafe’ Reconcile prepares ambitious young adults for careers in NOLA’s renowned hospitality industry.   Considered one of the best soul food lunches in the city (Central City neighborhood). The unforgettable Fried Green Tomato Sandwich comes on jalapeño corn bread toast with bacon and a spring mix.   Leave room for the Bananas Foster Bread Pudding.

Camellia Grill  $

A grand white house on St. Charles avenue — a great authentic diner since 1946.  Worth a wait for classic diner offerings.  Try the Patty Melt.

Casamento’s  $$

This third-generation oyster bar has some of the freshest oysters in town, delicious raw, fried or cooked.   French fries are fresh cut and the seafood is cooked to order.  Magazine Street since 1919.

The Chloe  $$$

An uptown boutique hotel where you can grab a bite and a cocktail before heading off to other destinations.   You can also enjoy breakfast or lunch here.

Clancy’s Restaurant $$$$

Old-school New Orleans with elegant Creole classics, martinis and a long wine list.   Considered the best menu in Uptown.  Try the Fried Oysters with Brie and Crabmeat Salad.

The Columns  $$ – $$$

In addition to cocktails you can also enjoy food on the front porch of this St. Charles Street manor.

Commander’s Palace  $$$$

With a 130-year history, you can’t go wrong here — with its seven James Beard Awards,   exceptional Cajun and Creole classics.

Couvant   $$$

Located in the Eliza Jane hotel on Magazine Street, the menu is a modern take on a French bistro — opened breakfast through dinner.

Croissant d’Or Patisserie  $

This French Quarter bakery has a European feel and a quaint courtyard.   The spinach or Lorraine quiche are superstars.   If you are on-the-go, order the fresh ham and cheese or almond croissants.

Domilise’s Po-Boys and Bar  $

Located between the Garden District and Uptown, this local institution is famous for its massive Po’ Boys and beer in a no-nonsense counter-serve space since 1924.

Frankie and Johnny’s $

This old-school Cajun-Creole bistro is known for its sharable crawfish platters.   Sit outside at the picnic tables and grab a roll of paper towels.

Galatoire’s $$$$

Fine-dining, century old institution serving French-Creole fare in an upscale space (jackets required — they have one at the door if you forget).  Just ask for what’s fresh.

Gumbo Shop $

Authentic, locals-approved gumbo served on rice with French Quarter courtyard dining.  For two decades running, they’ve proudly earned the title of “Best Place to Eat Gumbo” in New Orleans.

Hot Stuff $ – $$

Stepping inside Hot Stuff is like visiting an old-style cafeteria-style restaurant in the South.  Be prepared for an inspired NOLA twist on “meat and three” selections.  Located at 7507 Maple Street in Uptown University area.

Irene’s $$$$

Close to Jackson Square, upscale Italian classics in a homey, yet elegant dining room with a piano bar.

Joey K’s  $

Conveniently located on Magazine Street (3000 block) — here you will find homestyle Creole eats and Po’ Boys plus 18-ounce beers in huge frosted mugs.

Justine  $$$ – $$$$

A hip Brasserie in the French Quarter, headed up by a James Beard Award winner.   They serve traditional Parisian fare until 2 am — as well as a DJ and Burlesque Show (just so you know!).

Katie’s  $$ – $$$

This family-operated mid-city, neighborhood restaurant is lively and stays busy.   Try their daily fresh seafood specials, including oysters.   The redfish is a staple.  Known for its Southern dishes in a cozy environment.  A Calkins’ family favorite.

Lebanon’s Cafe $

Located off St. Charles Avenue in the Carrollton neighborhood, this casual spot serves generous and delicious portions of Middle Eastern items.  BYOB

Le’s Baguette $

In a small, nondescript cottage Uptown, Le’s Baguette puts out some of the city’s best Vietnamese food. Don’t miss the Lemongrass Grilled Pork Banh Mi Sandwich.

La Boulangerie  $$

Ideal for breakfast or lunch — or a day of shopping on Magazine Street. The La Parisian sandwich is their best seller.  It’s butcher ham, salted butter, Comte cheese and cornichons, with mayo on a baguette.

Lilette   $$$ – $$$$

This corner building in the Garden District was originally an apothecary.   There’s a divine Steak Frites and great wine list.   Don’t miss the cheese cake — smooth as a mousse, made with Greek yogurt and cream cheese, whipped to a pillowy texture.

MaMou. $$$ – $$$$

Modern French in the Lower French Quarter.  Small and intimate with an elevated, yet approachable menu and a focus on hospitality.   Consider the Chef’s Special — you won’t regret it!  Truly a neighborhood gem!   mamounola.com

Mister Mao $$ – $$$

A tropical roadhouse in an Uptown Cottage.   Serving Latin-inspired cuisine with robust flavors.

Mr. B’s Bistro. $$$ – $$$$

In the heart of the French Quarter and run by Cindy Brennan of the famed restaurant family.   Try the Barbecued Shrimp or Gumbo Ya Ya.   Nice stop for an after-five cocktail following shopping on Royal Street.

N7  $$$ – $$$$

This Bywater location has a true feel of Tuscany or rural France.  Dining al fresco is the way to go — join wedding party friends for sharing steamed mussels and salty pomp frites.

Napoleon House   $$

Known for their famous Pimm’s Cup cocktail but don’t miss the Muffuletta.  It’s the size of a frisbee, and between crunchy slides of sesame bread is a towering pile of ham and salami, olive spread, and provolone.  Definitely shareable.

La Petite Grocery. $$$ – $$$$

Louisiana fare in a quaint cottage off Magazine Street that once housed a 1880’s grocery store.

Saba  $$$ – $$$$

On the corner of Magazine and the Garden District, this highly rated Middle Eastern restaurant is visually stunning — whether you dine in the main room, on the side-lounge sofas or on the sidewalk patio.   The Lamb Kofta with whipped tahini, blistered peppers and toasted pine nuts is a favorite.  (5757 Magazine Street)

Saffron $$$ – $$$$

Sophisticated Indian fare plus craft cocktails on Magazine Street.  A James Beard nominee for Best New Restaurant in 2018.   Great food and atmosphere.

St. James Cheese Company $

Go here for the Ploughman’s Lunch or the best sandwich in Uptown.    Second location in the Warehouse District

The Bulldog $ – $$

With several locations throughout Louisiana, The Bulldog is known for some of the best bar food in New Orleans.  Their beer tap is constantly changing.  We like their location on Magazine Street (3000 block) for a nice break from shopping.  Sit on the patio terrace for people watching.

Turkey & the Wolf  $$

Located in the Lower Garden District, this innovative sandwich shop offers counter service featuring local ingredients and has received international acclaim via Bon Appetit Magazine.   The Collard Green Melt is a favorite, with double-decker braised vinegary greens topped with tart coleslaw and a lava-sized flow of Swiss cheese.  Expect a line but efficient service with eat-in, outdoor and take-away options.   The owners recently opened a sister offering called “Hot Stuff” in Uptown;  see above.

Vincent’s Italian Cuisine  $$ – $$$

Southern Italian in the Carrollton neighborhood, family owned and operated.  Known for red-sauce pastas, crab bisque and other classic fare in an old-world space.

Ye Olde College Inn   $$ – $$$

Old-school casual restaurant with Creole-Southern comfort fare, a funky vibe and lively bar scene.   Serving dinner and cocktails since 1933.   If dining on a Thursday night, hop next door for live Zydeco music at the Rock ’n Roll Bowl.

Helpful Resources:

Google “The 43 Best Restaurants in New Orleans for Every Price Point”; Southern Living