Favorite Foods to Order in NOLA
📍 French Quarter, New Orleans
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There are so many reasons why I unabashedly love New Orleans. While the history and the music embedded throughout the city are high on that list, I would be remiss not to take a deeper dive into the culinary marvels that have put New Orleans on the map. When visiting, my top pieces of advice are to come hungry and always follow your student. Daydream about lunch as you’re eating breakfast, and don’t be afraid to snack heavily along the way. This is not the city to count calories and stress about adhering to a particular diet. Even though the list of amazing foods that call New Orleans home is seemingly endless, I want to take a quick moment to round up some of my favorites and where to find them. Bon appetite!
Gumbo
Gumbo has been a part of New Orleans history practically since the city’s inception. In fact, it’s also the official state dish of Louisiana. This stew typically includes seafood or chicken, the “holy trinity,” and a mouthful of flavor. No trip to New Orleans is complete without trying this city staple. Several restaurants are said to have the best gumbo in the city. My personal favorite is probably from Herbsaint. Thanks to their James Beard Award chef, Donald Link, I view this spot in the Warehouse District as a must-visit. This dish is so good that you’ll be tempted to wipe your bowl clean!
Oysters
So many seafood dishes can find their roots in New Orleans. All deserve a place in your heart, from the Oysters Rockefeller at Antoine’s to the BBQ Shrimp at Pascal’s Manale. After several years of daydreaming and coveting their menu, I finally had dinner at Seaworthy in the Warehouse District. Their menu leans more toward a raw bar style, but each seafood dish is incredibly fresh and delicious. The Taste of the Coast Platter allows you to try oysters from the East, West, and Gulf coasts. Yes, I promise you that each coast has a unique flavor profile. I recommend trusting the chef’s judgment to have a wide variety of options.
Po-Boys
You may know this dish as a hog, sub, or hero, but the New Orleans po-boy sandwich some how stands apart. The bread will always be a French baguette, but the filing is completely up to you. Personally, my first destination for a po-boy will always be Napolean House. I thought their Shrimp Po-Boy was my go-to, but I recently tried the Pastrami and… WOW! I’m sorry New York, but this may be the best pastrami sandwich I’ve ever had. Wash it down with a Pimm’s Cup and you’ve found my bliss.
Beignets
And now, we’re on to the desserts! Another New Orleans staple will always be beignets, specifically from Cafe du Monde. First opened in 1862, it is open 24/7 and has only been closed a handful of times, including immediately after Hurricane Katrina and 2020. This French Quarter spot attracts quite a crowd, so I recommend going first thing in the morning (before 8 am) or very late at night (after midnight). The only food available is sweet beignets, a deep-fried pastry positively doused in powdered sugar. They pair perfectly with the signature Cafe au Lait, but I prefer the chicory-infused black coffee without the milk.
Sno Balls and Ice Cream
New Orleans certainly has a love affair with sweet treats. While Sno Balls (think large mound of flavored shaved ice) are a favorite amongst locals, I had the pleasure of visiting Sundae Best for the first time. This traditionally-inspired ice cream parlor is found in the Marigny. The handmade ice cream is locally sourced and created with homegrown ingredients. Each taste of the mint chocolate chip cone was filled with so much flavor and an equal dose of whimsy. I highly recommend this spot as a reprieve from the warm New Orleans weather.
Bananas Foster
This final pick may be the most decadent! Also located in the French Quarter, Brennan’s is a favorite for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. It’s hard to miss. Just look for the large pink building on Royal Street. Inside is nearly 80 years’ worth of history and incredible food. While I could write an entire blog post dedicated entirely to this restaurant, I’m focusing on their signature dessert, the bananas foster. A delicious combination of brown sugar, butter, and banana, ordering this dessert also counts as taking in a show. The first two ingredients are cooked down with rum and banana liquor, flambeed, and served over vanilla ice cream. It’s the perfect way to end your day of exploring the Crescent City.
Welcome to New Orleans. Dine in and eat up! Taking in the food of this beautiful city is to take in the history and culture. Appreciate it for all that’s worth and enjoy the experience. By having a meal in this city once, you’ll instantly understand why I’m drawn to this city over and over again.
Love from New Orleans,
Katie
As always, thanks for stopping by! To keep up with all things about the Sunshine State, be sure to visit my exclusive Florida page, here.