The best places to eat in New Orleans, Louisiana
Looking for tips on where to eat in New Orleans? After five days of pure gastronomic indulgence in “The Crescent City”, we nearly slipped into a food coma – but luckily, we escaped! 😅 Now, I’m excited to share our favorite restaurants with you, along with a list of eateries we’re eager to visit in the future. By the way, I’m sure we will return to NOLA multiple times in our lives because it’s one of those places that you simply can’t get enough of!
It is important to keep in mind that as travelers and consumers, we have the opportunity to impact communities positively by supporting local businesses committed to sustainability. That’s why I’ve highlighted New Orleans restaurants that not only delight travelers with their flavors but also contribute positively to the environment and to the Black community, which plays an intrinsic role in this amazing destination.
Here are the best restaurants in New Orleans based on my experience, plus a few more spots on my list for future culinary adventures in the city!
Best breakfast places in New Orleans
For a robust start to your day, an afternoon coffee boost, or a taste of the classic beignets, these are the places to go:
Ayu Bakehouse Nola
If you want to start your day with a delicious breakfast in New Orleans, Ayu Bakehouse Nola is the best call. Known for its artisanal delights, the bakery offers options such as cinnamon rolls, cookies, various breads, savory pies, and pastries. My top pick was The Boudin Boy (US$5.50*), a savory bread stuffed with boudin sausage and roast egg, perfect for those who enjoy trying new things!
Photo: Elaine Villatoro
Sustainability practices🌱: this lovely establishment uses compostable packaging.
Opening hours: Monday and Tuesday, from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.; Wednesday to Sunday, from 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
Café Du Monde
We didn’t have enough time to try this one, but Café Du Monde is considered a must-stop for a good café au lait (small size costs US$3.80*) and the famous beignets (three for US$4.53*), a fried sweet pastry in a square shape with icing sugar on top. It is on our bucket-list.
Opening hours: each location has its own opening hours, check the website.
Top restaurants to have lunch in New Orleans
After a whole morning strolling through the city, there’s nothing better than a break to recharge. Check out our recommendations for lunch spots in New Orleans.
Also read our complete guide to what to do in New Orleans!
Chapter IV NOLA
If you’re looking for a tasty lunch accompanied by mouthwatering drinks, Chapter IV NOLA is a great choice. Here, the food wins you over with the first bite, especially the Fish & Grits (US$24*), which combines fish and sausage in a surprising way.
Photo: Elaine Villatoro
Black-owned business 🖤: as well as delicious food, this is a black-owned business, which adds even more identity and authenticity to the experience.
Opening hours: Monday to Friday, from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.; Saturday, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.; and Sunday, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Pêche
Pêche is considered one of the best places to eat in New Orleans, and now I understand why. The emphasis is on fresh ingredients and sustainable commitment, with dishes such as fresh oysters (Brightside US$3.45* each), which are the finest I’ve ever tasted, tuna crudo with ponzu (US$15*), and whole grilled fish (US$85*). Drinks like the Angry Pirate (US$13*) and Little Red Corvette (US$14*) are also noteworthy. The restaurant is a great option for dinner as well.
Photos: Elaine Villatoro
Sustainability practices🌱: their fish, vegetables, and herbs are locally sourced. The oyster shells consumed in the restaurant are recycled to reintegrate into the gulf and help build coral reefs. In addition, plastic cups and straws are made from recycled materials.
Opening hours: Monday to Sunday, from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Best dinner places in NOLA
For dinner, these restaurants in New Orleans are excellent choices:
BABs
In my opinion, this was the best restaurant we ate at in New Orleans (we go back and forth between this and Pêche). The vibe, staff, food, and drinks – all came together perfectly! The menu at BABs includes a delicious Ricotta Tart (US$19*), Blackened Octopus (US$17*), Gulf Fish (US$29*), and flavorsome drinks such as Between Piety and Desire and Judgement of Paris (from US$15*).
Photos: Elaine Villatoro
Black-owned business 🖤: Nina Compton, runner-up on season 11 of Top Chef, is the star here!
Opening hours: Wednesday to Sunday, from 5:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.
Antoine’s
Are you wondering where to eat dinner in New Orleans’ French Quarter? Opened in 1840, Antoine’s is not only the first restaurant in NOLA but also the very first family-run restaurant in the country. We recommend ordering Soufflé Potatoes (US$12*), Filet Marchand de Vin (US$52*), and Pecan Bread Pudding (US$12*)—a dessert traditional to the region. They also have a famous dessert called Baked Alaska, a combination of cake, vanilla ice cream, and meringue, which in my opinion, is a bit overrated.
We loved the Iconocast Cabernet wine (bottle from US$50*)—ideal to accompany a meal—and having the opportunity to try a couple of classic cocktails such as the French 75 (US$16*). Oh, and a big thanks to Force, our amazing waiter that went beyond and above to make our experience so unique.
Opening hours: open for brunch, lunch, and dinner. You can make a reservation here.
Other great restaurants in New Orleans
During this trip, I asked some chefs what their favorite places to eat in New Orleans were. Among the restaurants mentioned that were added to our bucket list are:
- Commander’s Palace: founded in 1880, this historic New Orleans restaurant is known for its refined cuisine and elegant atmosphere.
- N7: a modern restaurant in New Orleans, offering a unique fusion of French and Cajun flavors. A highlight is the Soy Sauce Crème Brûlée dessert.
Photo: Elaine Villatoro
The Hotel Peter & Paul, where we stayed for two nights, has a sophisticated restaurant with excellent service called The Elysian Bar. As our itinerary was already full, we only managed a quick stop for homemade focaccia and a few drinks. We loved our brief experience and can’t wait to be back for a complete one.
Where to get good cocktails in New Orleans
The locals love a good cocktail, and it’s no wonder that you’re allowed to drink on the streets of New Orleans as long as you are not carrying it in a glass container. Here are some of the amazing places and drinks you need to try!
Photo: Elaine Villatoro
- The Sazerac Bar at The Roosevelt Hotel:: this is the best place to order your Sazerac (US$22*) or Ramos Gin Fizz (US$26*). P.s.: The Ramos Gin Fizz can also be found at Empire Bar, Toujac’s, or Cane & Table.
- The Carrousel Bar at Hotel Monteleone: the birthplace of the famous Vieux Carré Cocktail (US$21*).
- Pat O’Brien’s: home of the Hurricane drink (US$13.50*).
For more bars and venues with live jazz (and cocktails, of course), check out or guide on top things to do in NOLA!
Other gastronomic experiences you can’t miss
Take a cooking class
To delve even deeper into the culture and traditions of New Orleans, I highly recommend enrolling in a cooking class with chef Raymond Signal at the Mardi Gras School of Cooking. In this hands-on experience, you will learn to prepare—and then taste—NOLA’s traditional food such as gumbo and étouffée. The class also offers invaluable tips and techniques on Creole and Cajun cooking, coupled with fascinating insights into the historical background of these dishes. Indeed, it was here that I had the pleasure of tasting the best gumbo in New Orleans! 😋
Price*: US$150 per person
Photos: Elaine Villatoro
Go on a food tour
Doctor Gumbo takes visitors on an immersion into the flavors of the city, exploring the history and cultural influence behind iconic dishes and famous local drinks. Our experience included tastings in traditional restaurants and bars like Napoleon House, Red Fish Grill, and Tableaux.
Price*: US$75 per person
Extra tips
1) Stay in a well-located hotel
We split our stay between the Windsor Court and the Hotel Peter and Paul and highly recommend both! Below you can find more hotels in New Orleans:
2) Don’t forget to take out travel insurance
I currently use SafetyWing’s travel insurance because of its competitive price and excellent cover, including for adventure sports and theft of electronic equipment.
See more information about the policy on the website.
The savvy fox alerts 🦊: Be sure to read the insurance policy thoroughly to prevent any surprises. Tailor your coverage to meet your individual needs for a worry-free journey.
3) Stay connected
Access to the internet is crucial for navigating maps and ordering transportation through apps. With an Airalo eSIM, you can connect to the internet as soon as you arrive in New Orleans.
Not familiar with eSIM technology? In this article, we explain what an eSIM is and how it works.
4) Get a personalized itinerary
Looking for assistance in crafting the perfect itinerary? New Orleans is among the select destinations where I, Elaine, offer a personalized itinerary service. If you’re interested, please reach out via email at [email protected] to request a quote.
In your email, kindly include:
- Your name
- WhatsApp contact number
- Expected travel date
- Number of travelers
- A brief summary of your desired experiences and attractions in New Orleans
This information will help me tailor a memorable and unique itinerary just for you.
I hope this list helps you choose where to eat in New Orleans!
Do you have any other restaurant suggestions that aren’t here? Let us know in the comments.
🦊 Sincere fox informs:
* All values reported in this article were collected in March 2025 and may be subject to additional taxes and changes at any time.
** Our trip took place in July 2024 at the invitation of New Orleans & Company, the organization responsible for promoting the destination. Rest assured, our reports and recommendations are always genuine.
*** This post contains affiliate links, meaning that when you purchase a product or service after clicking on our links, LMTM earns a commission. This helps us maintain free content for all the traveling foxes in the world ✌🏽🦊.
FAQ – Where to eat in New Orleans
Each place offers a unique and authentic gastronomic experience of the city, but we highlight two of the best restaurants in New Orleans: Pêche, known for its fresh oysters and grilled fish, and BABs, with a great combination of good service, an incredible location and delicious food.
Typical New Orleans foods include gumbo, jambalaya and étouffé. For dessert, don’t miss the pralines or the beignets, and for classic drinks, try the Sazerac and the French 75.
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