EAT! New Orleans Food
Let’s dive straight into the heart of New Orleans with the foods, y’all – and what an appetizing, vibrant heart it is! Let’s talk about the rich journey your taste buds are about to embark on.
Dragos
Love seafood? Looking for a place to get a whole lot of quality seafood without leaving the quarter? Look no further than Dragos. Dragos is tucked away inside the Hilton Riverside and is known for their famous chargrilled oysters, barbeque shrimp, seafood ravioli, seafood pasta, even lobster! The choices are endless here. My personal favorite? The chargrilled oysters.
Acme Oyster House
Typically, we go to the Acme Oyster House in Metairie, BUT, if you are looking for raw oysters in the French Quarter then the French Quarter Acme Oyster House is where it is at. Raw oysters are an acquired taste. My husband cannot get enough of them. He says the best way to eat them is with a saltine cracker, fresh horseradish sauce, cocktail sauce and a dash of Crystal hot sauce. Needless to say, he goes through all the crackers on the table.
One of my favorite things from Acme is their 10-napkin roast beef debris poboy. You will certainly go through more than 10-napkins!
Dixie Chicken and Ribs
First up, imagine sinking your teeth into some crispy, golden fried chicken from Dixie Chicken and Ribs. It’s not just chicken; it’s a crispy bite of heaven. Each crunch encapsulates the soulful vibe of New Orleans. Each piece is like a crunchy symphony of flavors you wish would never end. The sides are the lagniappe that nobody can refuse! This is our coveted, favorite fried chicken place in the world.
And let’s not forget about the classic comfort dish that warms your soul – red beans and rice. It’s simple, it’s hearty, and it’s utterly divine. Want to know how to bring this magic into your kitchen? Check out our food blog, Swanky Recipes, for a post to guide you through creating the perfect pot of Authentic Red Beans and Rice. It’s not just food; it’s a hug in a bowl, a taste of New Orleans’ rich culinary heritage that you can enjoy from the comfort of your home.
Then, picture this: a massive, steaming pile of home-cooked crawfish on a newspaper-covered table. It’s Easter, but this feels like Christmas. Peeling, eating, and chatting away under the warm Louisiana sky – it’s not just a meal; it’s an experience, a celebration of life and togetherness that’s as colorful and lively as New Orleans.
Bevi Seafood Co
If you are not fortunate enough to know any New Orleanians fear not! There are places where you can have this experience. One of my favorite places to eat fresh boil seafood is a place called Bevi Seafood Co. They have several locations around the city. Our favorite location is in Mid City.
They offer more than just crawfish too! Oysters, Shrimp, Crabs, gumbo, poboys… They got it all!
Verti Marte
Nestled near the end of the French Quarter or Royal Street is the definition of a ‘hole in the wall’ called Verti Marte. This little quick mart style grocery store is home to some of the best poboys you can find 24/7 in the French Quarter
My absolute favorite from here? The shrimp poboy – dressed. One warning about this place, there is no place to just sit and eat. This is more of a grab and go place. It is not a far walk to the Mississippi River where you can sit, eat, and enjoy the view of the river. It’s a great spot to enjoy your poboy!
Parkway Bakery
Our number one, favorite place to enjoy New Orleans poboys is Parkway Bakery. Located in Mid City New Orleans it is definitely off the beaten path and away from the tourist areas. Home to roast beef debris, oyster, shrimp and oyster, hot sausage, veal, turkey, the list is endless. One of our favorites from here comes during Thanksgiving. The Thanksgiving poboy is sliced turkey, stuffing, and cranberry dressing. It is making me drool just typing about it. People line up for blocks down the street for the Thanksgiving poboy.
Looking for upscale dining recommendations in the city?
- The Rib Room – The best prime rib
- Pascal’s Manale – Home of the original barbeque shrimp
- Tableau – One of the best white tablecloth experiences of my life
- Brennan’s – The best steaks
- Ralph’s on the Park – Fine dining right near city park
- Antoines – Ask about the Baked Alaskan
I could literally spend months writing about all the different places and food in New Orleans. The cuisine is unlike anything in the world.
Celebrating Mardi Gras
Sliding into our #2 spot with all the pomp, pageantry, and purple, green, and gold you can handle is the legendary Mardi Gras! It’s not just a parade; it’s a full-blown, all-out, no-holds-barred celebration of everything that makes New Orleans the magical place it is. Mardi Gras is the epitome of NOLA spirit, with its wild energy, vibrant costumes, and an atmosphere so electric, you can feel it buzzing in your bones.
Now, to truly navigate this sea of festivity, you’re going to want to download any of the parade tracker apps. These digital lifesavers will be your guide through the labyrinth of joy, ensuring you don’t miss out on your favorite parades. Speaking of favorites, let’s talk about Endymion. This isn’t just any parade; it’s one of the largest and most spectacular in the Mardi Gras lineup. Imagine floats so elaborate and dazzling, they seem to have sprung straight from a dream. And guess what? My family rides in Endymion, making it an extra special part of the celebration for me. It’s a unique blend of personal pride and communal jubilation.
Looking for different krewes?
- Krewe of Zulu
- Krewe of Baccus
- Krewe of Endymion
- Krewe of Rex
- Funky Uptown Krewe
- Knights of Babylon
- Knights of Chaos
- Knights of Sparta
- Krewe d’Etat
- Krewe du Vieux
- Krewe of Barkus
- Krewe of Chewbacchus
- Krewe of Cleopatra
- Krewe of Druids
- Krewe of Iris
- Krewe of Joan of Arc
- Krewe of Morpheus
- Krewe of Muses
- Krewe of Nyx
- Krewe of Orpheus
- Krewe of Proteus
- Krewe of Pygmalion
- Krewe of Thoth
- Krewe of Tucks
So, whether you’re cheering from the sidelines of Endymion, diving for beads, or simply soaking in the unparalleled atmosphere of Mardi Gras, this is an experience that embodies the soul of New Orleans. It’s a celebration not just of the city, but of life itself, brimming with joy, music, and a sense of community that stays with you long after the last float has passed.
King cake; not just any cake!
King Cake is a huge part of Mardi Gras tradition, and it’s as fun as it is tasty. This colorful cake is usually made in a circle or oval shape to symbolize unity. It’s covered with sweet icing and sprinkled with sugar in the traditional Mardi Gras colors: purple for justice, green for faith, and gold for power. Want to make your own Mardi Gras King Cake? check out our recipe!
Want to take part in the celebration of Mardi Gras from home, but do not want to make your own King Cake? Well great news for you! You can order them from a bunch of different famously known bakeries. One of our favorites to order from is Haydel’s. Below is a picture of what they send you. It is a little expensive, but it is authentic New Orleans delivered to your door!
Not in town for Mardi Gras but still want to celebrate and learn more? We recommend taking a tour at Mardi Gras World – Museum and Tour. Without spoiling the tour you will learn about the history of Mardi Gras, how much work goes into it (it’s a lot of work), and an appreciation for the sheer magic of it.
One last thing about Mardi Gras, it is NOT people flashing their private parts for beads. All of these parade krewes mentioned are enjoyed by people of all ages. Do not knock it till you try it!
“Les le bon temps rouler!”
City Park is a hidden gem. Do not miss out!
You really do not have to venture far away from the city to see nature. This is one of the many beautiful live oak trees that are scattered throughout the city. The shade they provide during a hot and humid summer afternoon is welcoming.
Live Oak Trees
City park is home to some the oldest live oak trees in the world. Some of the trees are rumored to be as old as 800 years. Live oak trees cover a large area around themselves. Many of these older trees have branches that extend way out; further than the tree is tall. They also have beautiful moss that is so pretty in the sunshine.
New Orleans City Park Art
The park is home to the New Orleans Art Museum, which is totally worth exploring. However, if exploring an art museum is not something for you there is all different kinds of artistic experiences throughout the park. There is also a sculpture garden you can walk around for free!
Botanical Gardens
This is a place to unwind and practice mindfulness. It is a place where you can escape the fast pace of the city, while continuing to enjoy what New Orleans has to offer. Afterall; New Orleans is the big easy! Home to approximately 2000 different plants the New Orleans City Park Botanical Gardens is a park within a park.
New Orleans City Park Extras
Some other perks of the park that I did not get to writing about but should be mentioned are:
- Cafe Du Monde – yes, beignets in the park.
- Dog park circuit – my husband and I love this.
- Mini golf or put put
- Carousel at the Amusement Park
- Storyland – for the kids
- Celebration in the Oaks – the park lights up for Christmas.
Credit: City Park Conservancy.
Definitely do not miss out on this lovely and overlooked attraction of New Orleans.
Drink. The many different cocktails and bars!
Along with food I could spend months writing about our favorite watering holes. The city offers so many that it seems like you are never stopping long enough to enjoy, rather you are just continually hopping from one bar to another. Not only does this mean you are going to get your steps in but New Orleans is one of the few cities where they allow you to drink while you walk!
Pat O’Brien’s – The Hurricane
You have not done New Orleans right until you get yourself a Hurricane from Pat O’Briens. Or as some of the locals call it Pat O’s. This hurricane is crisp and refreshing, but don’t let it fool you because she is packed with a serious amount of sugar and alcohol. You do not want to overindulge in these hurricanes because they will leave you with a wicked hangover the next day. Trust me; I have been there.
Jean Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop
This tavern is one the city’s most historic landmarks. It was said to be used by the pirate Jean Lafitte as a front for his smuggling operations dated back to the early 19th century. The building itself is dated back to the 1720’s and is the oldest structure used as a bar in the United States. Jean Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop is a must-visit for anyone seeking pirate treasure, ghost stories, or simply just a refill!
Tujaque’s – The Sazerac
Tujaque’s, one of the oldest restaurants in New Orleans, is famous not just for its Creole cuisine but also for its classic cocktails, especially the Sazerac. As the second-oldest dining establishment in the city, established in 1856, Tujaque’s brings a rich history and a masterful blend of tradition and flavor to their drinks.
The Sazerac at Tujaque’s is a must-try. It’s a potent mix of rye whiskey (though originally made with cognac), a sugar cube, and Peychaud’s Bitters, served in a glass coated with absinthe, which gives it a subtle licorice kick. This cocktail is stirred, not shaken, to maintain its clarity and strong, smooth taste.
Finished with a lemon peel for a dash of citrus aroma, the Sazerac isn’t just a drink—it’s an experience. Sipping it where generations have sat before adds to the ambiance. You’re not just tasting a mix of ingredients; you’re imbibing a piece of New Orleans’ spirited history. Enjoying a Sazerac at Tujaque’s bar, with its old-world charm and polished wood, is like stepping back in time. It’s a perfect homage to the city’s storied past and vibrant present.
Old Absinthe House – New Orleans
A famous Bourbon Street bar, which is a monument to the city’s vibrant and colorful history. Home to the legendary cocktail named the Absinthe House Frappe. The Old Absinthe House was one of the first in America to serve absinthe, a spirit that was said to spur creativity and madness among writers and artists.
Mark Twain, Oscar Wilde, Jean Lafitte, and other famous figures in americana have been known to visit this iconic establishment. For over 200 years the Old Absinthe House has been a fixture of New Orleans’ cultural and social life.
Diving around the French Quarter
For those of you looking to get off the craziness of Bourbon and looking for cheap rail drinks and tasty cold beers, these next to locations are for you!
Aunt Tiki’s is a 24hr escape into an eclectic, dimly lit, moody Halloween-inspired decor that can be enjoyed year-round. Here you will find a diverse crowd that are looking to get away from tourist heavy areas.
This next dive bar is located just down Decatur Street from Aunt Tiki’s and is known as the “local’s bar that welcomes everyone”, also known as, The Abbey.
The Abbey was opened in 1973 and has been a haven for night owls and service industry works. It is a 24/7 dive bar known for its strong and inexpensive drinks. If you are looking for a quintessential dive bar experience The Abbey needs to be on your list.
As I have mentioned before, I could spend months writing about different bars, and maybe I will even add to this list as the time goes on.
Beignets – They are not just donuts!
Known for their light, puffy, powdered sugar coating, and quintessential New Orleans, beignets are a major part of New Orleans’ French heritage and culinary scene. Beignets are a sweet pillowy pastry treat that pairs well with a cup of cafe au lait, which is a strong coffee mixed with chicory and milk.
Morning Call; our favorite place!
At the end of Lakeview where the street car line stops, is our favorite place to have beignets. For those looking for a more local experience, this is where the locals get their beignets. Something that makes this place different than the others is that they give you carte blanche over the powdered sugar. Meaning, you can dump powdered sugar all over until your heart is content! Morning Call is known for made to order, fresh and delicious beignets.
Cafe Du Monde – historic and famous French Quarter Beignets
Whatever the time of day, the Cafe Du Monde is serving up beignets to tourists and locals in the French Quarter. This iconic coffee stand was made world famous before well before Instagram; all the way back to 1862! This historic location has survived countless hurricanes, floods, and social history. If the walls at this place could talk, I bet it would share all types of rich stories with us.
The National World War II Museum; do not skip this!
The National WWII Museum is a memorial to the past. It is a chance to experience how life was in such a dangerous time that was not so long ago. The attention to detail and seer size of this museum can keep one captive for a whole day. In fact, I recommend reserving a whole day for this experience.
My husband and I were fortunate enough to know a WWII veteran named Mac. One of Mac’s favorite things to do was to get dressed in his uniform and take people through the museum. This was not only a lesson in history, but the ability to image what Mac experienced. It also gave us the opportunity to ask questions and to receive a more candid viewpoint.
This is an ongoing post
This post will continue to grow and change overtime. Like many cities, New Orleans is filled with charm. So much charm that you could write several encyclopedia volumes about it. For the time we hope you found this post enjoyable. New Orleans is a sacred place that is near and dear to us and we are happy to be able to share her with yall.
