A Foodie’s Guide to New Orleans Itinerary: Top Eats and Tips

New Orleans, a vibrant metropolis brimming with cultural influences, stands as a true haven for food enthusiasts. This city’s cuisine is a harmonious blend of French, Spanish, African, and Southern traditions, offering an unparalleled gastronomic adventure.

TL;DR

• New Orleans boasts a diverse culinary landscape shaped by a melting pot of cultures.
• Iconic dishes like gumbo, jambalaya, po’boys, and beignets are must-tries.
• The French Quarter and Garden District are renowned for exceptional dining options.

Historical Influence on New Orleans Cuisine

The culinary heritage of New Orleans is deeply rooted in Creole and Cajun traditions. Creole cuisine, born from the fusion of French, Spanish, African, and Native American influences, features iconic dishes like gumbo, étouffée, and red beans and rice. Cajun cuisine, on the other hand, originated from the French-speaking Acadians who settled in Louisiana and is known for its bold flavors and use of local ingredients like crawfish and andouille sausage.

Throughout history, immigrant communities have played a pivotal role in shaping the city’s food scene. The French introduced classic techniques and dishes like bouillabaisse, while the Spanish contributed paella and jambalaya. African influences can be seen in the use of okra and the popularity of deep-fried foods.

Must-Visit Restaurants in New Orleans

Commander’s Palace

This iconic restaurant, situated in the Garden District, has been serving classic Creole dishes since 1893. Known for its jazz brunch and signature dishes like turtle soup and pecan-crusted fish, Commander’s Palace is a must-visit for any food enthusiast.

Address: 1403 Washington Ave, New Orleans, LA 70130

Hours: Mon-Fri 11:30am-2pm, 5:30pm-9pm; Sat 11:30am-1pm, 5:30pm-9pm; Sun 10:30am-1:30pm, 5:30pm-9pm

Contact: (504) 899-8221

Dooky Chase’s Restaurant

Founded by the late Chef Leah Chase, known as the “Queen of Creole Cuisine,” Dooky Chase’s has been a staple in the Tremé neighborhood since 1941. The restaurant is famous for its fried chicken, gumbo, and shrimp Clemenceau.

Address: 2301 Orleans Ave, New Orleans, LA 70119

Hours: Tue-Fri 11am-3pm; Fri 5pm-9pm

Contact: (504) 821-0600

Galatoire’s

This French Quarter institution, founded in 1905, is known for its classic Creole dishes and old-world charm. Signature dishes include shrimp remoulade, crabmeat Yvonne, and oysters en brochette.

Address: 209 Bourbon St, New Orleans, LA 70130

Hours: Tue-Sat 11:30am-10pm; Sun noon-10pm

Contact: (504) 525-2021

Street Food and Casual Eats

New Orleans’ food culture extends beyond its fine dining establishments, with street food playing a significant role in the city’s culinary landscape. Po’boys, the iconic Louisiana sandwich, can be found at numerous shops and corner stores throughout the city. Some of the best spots for po’boys include Parkway Bakery & Tavern, Domilise’s Po-Boy & Bar, and Killer PoBoys.

Muffulettas, another New Orleans staple, are best enjoyed at Central Grocery & Deli, home of the original muffuletta sandwich. This Italian-influenced creation features layers of cured meats, cheese, and olive salad on a round sesame bread.

For a taste of New Orleans’ seafood, head to one of the many casual eateries offering fresh catch from the Gulf. Acme Oyster House and Felix’s Restaurant & Oyster Bar are popular spots for raw oysters, while Deanie’s Seafood and Frankie & Johnny’s serve up fried seafood platters and gumbo.

Upscale Dining and Fine Restaurants

New Orleans is home to numerous James Beard Award-winning chefs and restaurants, offering a luxurious dining experience for those seeking a more refined culinary adventure. Some notable upscale restaurants include:

Restaurant August

Chef John Besh’s flagship restaurant, located in a historic 19th-century building, offers contemporary French-Creole cuisine with dishes like the “Foie Gras Three Ways” and the “Breaux Bridge Crawfish Agnolotti”.

Address: 301 Tchoupitoulas St, New Orleans, LA 70130

Hours: Mon-Sat 5pm-10pm

Contact: (504) 299-9777

Brennan’s

This French Quarter landmark, known for its lavish breakfast and brunch offerings, is the birthplace of the famous Bananas Foster dessert. Other signature dishes include the Eggs Hussarde and the Turtle Soup.

Address: 417 Royal St, New Orleans, LA 70130

Hours: Thu-Sun 9am-2pm, 6pm-9pm

Contact: (504) 525-9711

Herbsaint

Chef Donald Link’s contemporary bistro offers a menu inspired by French and Italian influences, with a focus on local, seasonal ingredients. Must-try dishes include the “Gumbo of the Day” and the “Muscovy Duck Leg Confit”.

Address: 701 St Charles Ave, New Orleans, LA 70130

Hours: Mon-Sat 5:30pm-10pm

Contact: (504) 524-4114

Seasonal and Festival Foods

New Orleans is known for its vibrant festivals and celebrations, many of which feature unique culinary offerings. During Mardi Gras, indulge in traditional treats like king cake, a sweet pastry decorated in the festival’s colors of purple, green, and gold. For a savory option, try a Mardi Gras Muffuletta, a twist on the classic sandwich featuring Mardi Gras-colored olive salad.

Jazz Fest, held annually in late April and early May, is another opportunity to sample New Orleans’ festival fare. Food booths at the festival offer a wide array of local specialties, including crawfish monica, cochon de lait po’boys, and Natchitoches meat pies.

Local Ingredients and Where to Find Them

Louisiana’s unique geography and climate contribute to the distinct flavors found in New Orleans cuisine. Local ingredients like crawfish, Gulf shrimp, and Creole tomatoes are essential components of many traditional dishes.

To experience these ingredients at their freshest, visit one of the city’s farmers markets, such as the Crescent City Farmers Market or the French Market. These markets offer a wide selection of locally sourced produce, seafood, and artisanal products.

For those looking to bring a taste of New Orleans home, specialty food stores like Rouses Market and Langenstein’s carry a variety of local ingredients, including Camellia red beans, Zatarain’s spices, and Tabasco sauce.

Culinary Tours and Cooking Classes

To immerse yourself deeper into New Orleans’ culinary scene, consider joining a guided food tour or enrolling in a cooking class. Companies like Doctor Gumbo Tours and Destination Kitchen offer walking tours that explore the city’s diverse culinary landscape, with stops at iconic restaurants and hidden gems.

For a hands-on experience, attend a cooking class at one of New Orleans’ renowned cooking schools. The New Orleans School of Cooking and the Crescent City Cooks offer classes on classic Creole and Cajun dishes, taught by experienced local chefs.

Tips for Foodies Traveling to New Orleans

• The best times to visit New Orleans for food-related events are during the fall and spring, when the weather is mild and festivals like Mardi Gras and Jazz Fest take place.
• Many restaurants in New Orleans offer vegetarian and gluten-free options, but it’s always best to check with the restaurant in advance if you have specific dietary restrictions.
• When dining out, be prepared for a leisurely pace, as meals in New Orleans are often seen as a social occasion. Reservations are recommended for popular restaurants, especially during peak tourist seasons.
• To navigate the city’s culinary scene, consider using public transportation or ride-sharing services, as parking can be limited in popular dining districts like the French Quarter.

By following this guide and immersing yourself in the rich flavors and traditions of New Orleans, you’ll experience a culinary journey unlike any other. Bon appétit!