New Orleans is a culinary haven, blending rich traditions of Creole, Cajun, and French influences into an unforgettable dining experience. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or you’re a seasoned traveler, the city offers something for everyone — from iconic Po’ Boys and gumbo to modern twists on classic dishes. This guide showcases the 15 best restaurants in New Orleans, including both time-honored institutions and newer, exciting options that you won’t want to miss. Let’s dive into the best places to eat in NOLA and what you should try while you’re there.
1. Johnny’s Po’ Boy
Best for: Classic New Orleans sandwiches
Johnny’s Po’ Boy, established in 1950, is one of the most famous spots for a traditional New Orleans Po’ Boy. The menu offers a variety of fillings, including fried shrimp, roast beef, and even alligator sausage for those seeking something a little adventurous. Don’t miss their classic fried shrimp Po’ Boy, which has been a crowd favorite for decades. Located in the French Quarter, it’s the perfect stop to grab a quick, delicious bite while exploring the area.
Must-Try Dish: Classic Fried Shrimp Po’ Boy.
2. Café Du Monde
Best for: Beignets and café au lait
No visit to New Orleans is complete without a stop at Café Du Monde. This iconic spot has been serving up beignets and café au lait since 1862. Its outdoor seating area in the French Quarter offers the quintessential New Orleans experience. With eight locations around the city, you’re never too far from these sweet, powdered delights.
Must-Try Dish: Beignets and Café Au Lait.
3. Central Grocery
Best for: Muffuletta Sandwich
Central Grocery is not just any grocery store; it’s the birthplace of the muffuletta, a towering sandwich stuffed with Italian cold cuts, olives, and mozzarella, all nestled between a round, sesame-crusted loaf of bread. The muffuletta has become a New Orleans classic, and this store, founded in 1906, is where it all began. If you’re looking to grab an authentic, hearty sandwich, this is the place to go.
Must-Try Dish: Muffuletta Sandwich.
4. Mother’s Restaurant
Best for: Comfort food with a New Orleans twist
For over 80 years, Mother’s Restaurant has been serving up hearty dishes like jambalaya, gumbo, and red beans and rice, all in a casual, no-frills setting. Whether you’re stopping by for breakfast (served all day) or enjoying a classic New Orleans lunch, the food is always comforting and filling. The red beans and rice are a must-try, and they pair perfectly with one of the restaurant’s signature po’boys.
Must-Try Dish: Red Beans and Rice with Fried Chicken.
5. Commander’s Palace
Best for: Fine dining and New Orleans classics
If you’re looking to indulge in a high-end dining experience, Commander’s Palace is the place to go. A New Orleans institution since 1880, this James Beard Award-winning restaurant offers a refined take on Creole cuisine. Don’t miss their daily-changing gumbo or the Ponchatoula strawberry salad. For something truly unique, order the turtle soup — it’s a New Orleans delicacy. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just treating yourself, Commander’s Palace provides an unforgettable culinary experience.
Must-Try Dish: Turtle Soup and Ponchatoula Strawberry Salad.
6. Jacques-Imo’s
Best for: Hearty New Orleans fare with character
Chef Jacques Leonardi’s quirky restaurant is known for its hearty portions of New Orleans comfort food served in a fun, eclectic environment. Known for its “warm beer, lousy food, and poor service” — a tongue-in-cheek sign posted at the door — Jacques-Imo’s offers the exact opposite. Try the fried chicken, jambalaya, or gumbo, and don’t forget the grits, which are a New Orleans staple.
Must-Try Dish: Fried Chicken and Shrimp & Grits.
7. Antoine’s
Best for: Celebrations and classic French Creole
For over 175 years, Antoine’s has been the go-to spot for special occasions in New Orleans. Famous for its Baked Alaska — a dessert that’s been served at the restaurant since 1868 — Antoine’s offers a blend of French and Creole influences in a grand setting. The restaurant is known for its luxurious atmosphere, making it ideal for birthdays, anniversaries, or an indulgent night out.
Must-Try Dish: Baked Alaska (for dessert).
8. Brennan’s
Best for: Tableside desserts and brunch
Brennan’s is synonymous with brunch in New Orleans, thanks to its iconic Bananas Foster. While the entire menu is a feast for the senses, nothing beats the dramatic tableside preparation of Bananas Foster, which involves flambéing rum over caramelized bananas and serving them over vanilla ice cream. It’s one of the most exciting and delicious desserts you’ll find in the city.
Must-Try Dish: Bananas Foster (prepared tableside).
9. Arnaud’s
Best for: Upscale dining and soufflé potatoes
Arnaud’s combines fine dining with New Orleans’ rich culinary history. Located in the French Quarter, this elegant restaurant offers classic French Creole cuisine with a modern twist. Don’t miss their famous soufflé potatoes, which are crispy and tender, and pair perfectly with a classic French 75 cocktail.
Must-Try Dish: Soufflé Potatoes and French 75 Cocktail.
10. Lucky Dog
Best for: Quick bites and street food
If you find yourself in the French Quarter and in need of a quick, satisfying snack, look no further than Lucky Dog. This hot dog stand is an essential part of the New Orleans street food scene. While it may not be gourmet, the hot dogs, served with all the classic toppings, are perfect after a few drinks or as a late-night snack.
Must-Try Dish: Lucky Dog (a New Orleans-style hot dog with all the fixings).
11. Ba Mien Family Restaurant
Best for: Vietnamese cuisine in New Orleans
Located in a strip mall on the east side of town, Ba Mien is a hidden gem serving delicious, fresh Vietnamese food. The menu includes dishes from all three major Vietnamese culinary regions, and everything is made with care and authenticity. The pho here is a standout, and the banh mi sandwiches are a local favorite.
Must-Try Dish: Pho and Banh Mi Sandwich.
12. Morning Call
Best for: 24-hour dining and classic waffles
If you’re in the mood for waffles at 4 AM, Morning Call is your answer. This 24-hour café, located in City Park, is the perfect place to grab a bite when the hunger strikes. The relaxed atmosphere and menu full of local favorites like beignets and crawfish étouffée make it a must-visit for early risers and night owls alike.
Must-Try Dish: Waffles and Beignets.
13. Café Degas
Best for: French-inspired bistro fare
A little off the beaten path, Café Degas offers a beautiful French-inspired bistro experience. It’s named after the famous artist Edgar Degas, who lived in New Orleans for a time. The ambiance here is lovely, and the food is both comforting and refined. Don’t miss their escargot and French onion soup.
Must-Try Dish: Escargot and French Onion Soup.
14. St. Roch Market
Best for: Diverse food hall experience
If you’re looking to sample a variety of flavors, St. Roch Market is the place to go. This food hall offers everything from fresh oysters to gourmet sandwiches, making it perfect for groups or anyone with diverse tastes. You can grab a bite, enjoy a drink, and even shop for local products while you’re at it.
Must-Try Dish: Oysters and Gourmet Sandwiches.
15. Willie Mae’s Scotch House
Best for: Soul food and fried chicken
Known for its legendary fried chicken, Willie Mae’s Scotch House is a New Orleans institution that has been serving soulful Southern comfort food for decades. The fried chicken here is crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and worth every calorie. Pair it with sides like mac and cheese, fried okra, or collard greens for a true taste of soul food.
Must-Try Dish: Fried Chicken and Mac & Cheese.
Final Thoughts
From historic institutions like Antoine’s to trendy spots like Ba Mien Family Restaurant, New Orleans offers an incredible variety of dining options. Whether you’re craving a classic Po’ Boy, a decadent Bananas Foster, or soul-satisfying fried chicken, there’s something for every taste and occasion in this vibrant city. Remember, New Orleans isn’t just about the food — it’s about the experience. So, savor every bite and soak in the unique atmosphere that makes dining here so special.