From crispy beignets to soul-warming gumbo, New Orleans is a culinary treasure. But not everything with a fleur-de-lis is worth your appetite. Here’s a locals-backed, review-supported list of what to eat—and what to skip—when you’re in the Big Easy.
Gumbo at Dooky Chase’s or Liuzza’s by the Track
Nothing embodies New Orleans like a bowl of gumbo. Choose the Creole-style gumbo at Dooky Chase’s—a historic venue where civil rights icons once gathered—or indulge in the seafood-rich version at Liuzza’s by the Track. Revered by both locals and tourists, these gumbos encapsulate the city’s rich cultural tapestry through their spices and fresh ingredients. One TripAdvisor user praised it as “One of the most authentic gumbos I’ve ever had!”, highlighting the dish’s authenticity. Experience a taste of history with every savory spoonful.
Beignets from Café du Monde
Beignets, synonymous with New Orleans, are a must-try, especially from Café du Monde. Though touristy, their crispy, powdered sugar-drenched pastries paired with a café au lait are unrivaled. Seeking less hustle? Head to Morning Call in City Park for a laid-back experience. Their charm lies not only in flavor but in tradition; a Yelp reviewer noted, “Still my favorite stop every time I’m in town.” These treats offer more than just taste—they’re a sweet slice of local history.
Shrimp Po’boy at Parkway Bakery and Tavern
The shrimp po’boy from Parkway Bakery is legendary. Order it “fully dressed” with lettuce, tomato, pickles, and mayo on crusty French bread, embodying the quintessential New Orleans sandwich experience. This sandwich transcends mere food; it’s an embodiment of local culture and flavor. An Eater NOLA review declared, “I don’t even like shrimp but this changed my mind.” Such is the magic of Parkway’s craft, making believers out of skeptics with every bite.
Charbroiled Oysters at Drago’s
Charbroiled oysters are an irresistible New Orleans specialty, and Drago’s is the go-to destination. Their oysters, flame-grilled with a garlicky, buttery sauce, offer a savory spectacle and taste sensation. Locals frequently rave about this iconic dish; one Google review enthused, “They were so good we ordered a second dozen.” These oysters provide a taste of the Gulf’s bounty, capturing the essence of New Orleans’ vibrant seafood scene.
Jambalaya at Coop’s Place
Jambalaya, a staple of New Orleans cuisine, finds its smoky, spicy perfection at Coop’s Place. This rustic Decatur Street joint serves a version often featuring rabbit and sausage, attracting both locals and adventurous tourists. Known for its divey atmosphere and hearty portions, it was described as “absolute fire on the plate” by a Reddit traveler. Each bite transports diners to the heart of Louisiana tradition, with its soul-warming flavors and generous spirit.
Fried Chicken at Willie Mae’s Scotch House
Willie Mae’s Scotch House serves what many call “America’s Best Fried Chicken,” as voted by Food Network. Each piece promises juicy tenderness beneath a golden, crispy crust. A favorite of food critics and locals alike, Action Bronson at NOLA Eats Fest deemed it “Crispy, soulful, and worth the wait.” Beyond mere nourishment, this fried chicken is a testament to Southern culinary artistry, capturing the essence of comfort food in every bite.
Boudin & Cracklins at Gas Station Stops
In New Orleans, some of the best boudin and cracklins are found at unlikely spots: gas stations. T-Rey’s Boudin & Specialty Meats and similar roadside stops offer this spicy, rice-filled sausage, beloved by locals for its bold flavors and simplicity. A Google Maps reviewer exclaimed, “Best $4 I ever spent on food.” These hidden gems deliver a genuine taste of Cajun culture, providing affordable, flavorful bites that capture the spirit of Louisiana roadside dining.
Crawfish Bread at Festivals or Crawfish Étouffée at Dat Dog
Crawfish delights in New Orleans extend beyond the boil. Try crawfish bread at Jazz Fest for a seasonal treat, or head to Dat Dog for a quirky twist with crawfish étouffée-laced hot dogs. Celebrated by locals for these inventive takes, one reviewer on This Here Town stated, “Wild combo, but absolutely works!” These dishes encapsulate the playful creativity of New Orleans’ culinary scene, offering both tradition and innovation in every bite.
Overpriced Muffulettas in the French Quarter
The muffuletta, when made right, is delightful. Unfortunately, many French Quarter spots serve overpriced, bland versions, leaving diners unsatisfied. With too much bread and insufficient olive salad, these offerings can disappoint, as noted by Tasting Table, “Way too much bread, not enough olive salad, and $15?” Skip the subpar renditions and seek out the original at Central Grocery for a true taste experience, avoiding tourist traps that dilute this iconic sandwich’s legacy.
Pat O’Brien’s for Food (Stick to the Drinks)
While Pat O’s is celebrated for its raucous piano bar and iconic hurricanes, the food often misses the mark. Described as underwhelming and overpriced, it’s better to savor the signature drinks rather than the meals. As New Orleans Hood Cleaning advised, “Go for the piano bar and drinks, not the gumbo.” Save your appetite for venues more renowned for their culinary offerings, allowing Pat O’s to remain a hub of lively entertainment and spirited beverages.
