47 Best Restaurants and Places to Eat in New Orleans
Last updated December 23, 2025
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From an exquisite meal to a traditional one, the dining landscape in New Orleans reflects the variety of its vibrant cultural legacy.
Every restaurant here promises a distinct experience, merging tradition with creativity and turning each meal into a joyous celebration of tastes.
As I discovered New Orleans’ finest restaurants, I got enchanted by the blend of well-known spots and secret treasures in the city.
There are numerous delightful choices here, ensuring something tasty for everybody, whether you are a resident or a guest.
So take your cutlery and embark on this gastronomic journey with me through New Orleans City, where each bite narrates a tale and every dish is a moment to be enjoyed.
Here are the 47 best restaurants and places to eat in New Orleans!
1. Napoleon House
This is a significant restaurant housed in an eighteenth-century structure, providing a laid-back vibe and traditional Creole cuisine.
The menu here includes classic New Orleans dishes like Muffulettas, Po'Boy sandwiches, and the restaurant's signature muffuletta together with an Italian homemade olive salad.
This venue's European-inspired charm and shaded courtyard create an ideal atmosphere to delve into New Orleans's history while savoring famous Cup cocktails of Pimm's.
2. Antoine's Restaurant
An outstanding historic restaurant that began its journey in 1840, Antoine's Restaurant has preserved a great deal of its initial character and sophistication throughout the last two hundred years.
This legendary New Orleans dining spot offers the flavor of traditional Creole-French cuisine.
It is also celebrated as the well-known Oysters Rockefeller’s origin.
3. Stein's Market & Deli
This is a well-known New Orleans destination that is celebrated for its Italian-Jewish market which features specialty cheeses, meats, and a distinct range of brews.
Its deli features a vast sandwich menu having more than 40 choices, highlighting the renowned Sam and hot pastrami together with the Kelly and prosciutto.
Even with zoning regulations barring on-site drinking of beer, Stein's boasts an impressive craft beers selection for sale.
4. GW Fins
This is a trendy seafood restaurant situated in the New Orleans French Quarter.
Michael Nelson, the chef, designs a daily tasty menu here that highlights only the most sustainably sourced and freshest seafood.
The restaurant also provides a constantly evolving range of premium fish sourced globally, even local catches straight from the stunning Gulf.
Plates such as New Zealand's John Dory with crabmeat and cracklin-crusted chicken local drum highlight the chef's dedication to emphasizing seafood's inherent flavors.
5. Parkway Bakery and Tavern
This is a historical local spot that has offered traditional po'boys since the year 1911.
The secret to their tasty sandwiches is the daily, fresh baguettes from a well-known bakery, Leidenheimer, that has a long-standing tradition of supplying local restaurants with quality bread.
The ambiance within Parkway is embellished with retro artifacts, and outside, guests can dine at shared tables.
This legendary location has even captured national interest when the Obama family came for a visit.
6. Dakar NOLA
This is a distinctive 30-seat eatery situated in Magazine Street.
It features a pescatarian menu that emphasizes fresh produce and local seafood.
Serigne Mbaye, the chef, takes motivation from his Senegalese childhood to craft dishes here that celebrate the cultural ties linking New Orleans and Dakar.
Guests can also savor a close-knit family-style 7-course menu presented at shared tables from Thursday to Saturday.
7. Li'l Dizzy Cafe
This is a cherished Creole treasure in Treme within Esplanade Avenue, offering satisfying breakfasts and delicious soul food inside a warm atmosphere.
Operated by Baquet Wayne from the famous Baquet family, since 1947, the unpretentious establishment has been serving genuine Creole dishes.
8. LUVI Restaurant
This is a charming New Orleans location that provides a distinctive fusion of Japanese and Chinese dishes with a contemporary touch, accompanied by a variety of cocktails.
Even with its modest look, this cozy space has attracted praise and attention since it opened in 2018.
Hao Gong, the chef's experience from Sake Cafe is evident in the pan-Asian creative menu here, showcasing inspirations from Chinese and Japanese cooking tradition.
9. La Petite Grocery
This is a delightful restaurant situated in a corner century-old house in Uptown.
The structure boasts an extensive history, functioning as a butcher shop, floral studio, and grocery store prior to its transformation in 2004 into a restaurant.
Chef Devillier Justin's inventive approach to New Orleans staples has garnered him accolades from New Orleans Magazine and James Beard.
10. Costera
This is a lively treasure located in Uptown, where the coastal Spain spirit is brought to life.
This vibrant restaurant is renowned for its welcoming ambiance and communal small dishes that highlight Mediterranean-influenced fare.
Guests can enjoy a family-style delightful menu here during COOLinary which consists of a 4-course dish that lets diners choose from an assortment of delicious options such as Charred Romaine and Snapper Crudo.
11. Jacques-Imo's
This is a lively and well-liked restaurant located in the center of Oak Street in Uptown.
It provides a distinctive mix of Italian and French flavors combined with soul Creole cuisine.
Founded in the year 1996, this unique restaurant is recognized for its vibrant ambiance and mural-adorned walls.
Although there is a little wait because of the absence of reservations and the restaurant's popularity, visitors can appreciate live music inside nearby bars during their wait for a table.
12. SAFFRON NOLA
This is an elegant Indian restaurant situated within Magazine Street.
It is well-known for its refined regional Indian dishes which feature local ingredients.
The James Beard Foundation has even nominated the restaurant for 'best new restaurant’.
The menu here showcases skillfully crafted regional Indian dishes boosted by Louisiana tastes and ingredients.
You will find oyster bedroast with curry leaf and caramelized onions accompanied by naan, Gulf fish coated in Indian spices, and seafood curried gumbo.
13. MOPHO
This is a fashionable New Orleans location that provides a distinct blend of Creole and Vietnamese elements.
The menu of the restaurant offers a whimsical blend of Vietnamese options like banh mi and pho, infused with Latin American and Japanese influences.
Founded by Michael Gulotta, a chef, MoPho blends subtle tastes from two cultures, providing choices like po-boys, noodle and rice dishes, along with plant-based selections such as the Vegan BanhMi and Vegan Pho.
14. Turkey & the Wolf
This is a lively and eccentric sandwich restaurant situated in the lovely Irish Channel.
Turkey & the Wolf achieved national recognition for its creative sandwiches and whimsical cocktails offered in a vibrant setting.
The restaurant is acknowledged as part of the top new dining spots, and it has preserved its laid-back appeal and restricted hours to accommodate a standard work arrangement for its employees.
It offers a delicious wedge salad and exceptional sandwiches, crafting an enchanting experience for guests.
15. Cochon Restaurant
This is a renowned restaurant situated in New Orleans’ Warehouse District.
This restaurant, headed by Stephen Stryjewski, the co-owner chef, and partner Link Donald, honors traditional CajunBoucherie with an emphasis on pork meals and creative Cajun fare.
16. Toups Meatery
This is a charming restaurant situated within Mid-City, featuring a meat-lover's menu of large cocktail pitchers and Cajun cuisine.
Isaac Toups, the owner, combines his ten years of good dining kitchen expertise to craft a mix of traditional Cajun dishes like cracklins and boudin with sophisticated contemporary cuisine like lamb neck served with black-eye peas.
The meat-centric restaurant honors Louisiana tradition while presenting a fresh take on Cajun dishes.
17. Gabrielle Restaurant
This is a cherished family-operated bistro famous for its relaxed, upscale Cajun dishes in a warm and unassuming setting.
Following the destruction in the restaurant caused by Katrina, chefs Mary and Greg Sonnier achieved a triumphant comeback, maintaining their Creole and Cajun heritage.
The menu here includes classic dishes like slowly-roasted duck in sherry-orange sauce, smoked dark roux quail gumbo, BBQ shrimp pie, together with Gulf fish accompanied by a crab jumbo cake.
18. Liuzza's
This is a laid-back Creole restaurant situated close to New Orleans’ Jazz & Heritage Festival.
The restaurant usually attracts festival attendees who want to economize on drinks and meals.
Founded in the late 1930s, the mid-city treasure is recognized for its slowly cooked corned beef and iconic BBQ shrimp po'boys.
19. Addis NOLA
This is a delightful Ethiopian restaurant situated in the Treme in New Orleans.
This restaurant provides a warm and inviting ambiance where visitors can enjoy authentic Ethiopian dishes accompanied by injera bread.
Its menu includes substantial family-style servings with a variety of colorful dishes like mushroom tibs, Ethiopian salad, potato wot, shiro, red snapper, marinated shrimp, lamb tibs, and vegetables.
20. Dooky Chase Restaurant
In terms of beloved local dishes in central New Orleans, some establishments rival Dooky Chase.
This family-operated landmark has offered Southern classics since 1941. Its breathtaking art decor interior is truly a sight to see.
It is also renowned for its involvement during the civil right movement.
Numerous leaders who congregated in the restaurant during that tumultuous period continue to be frequent visitors now.
21. Saint-Germain
This is an enchanting bistro and wine bar in the Parisian style, situated in Bywater in New Orleans.
Nestled in a modest house on StClaude Avenue, the quaint venue features a comfortable dining area and a lovely bar boasting a great natural wines selection.
The bistro, which seats 16 and requires reservations, also offers an exquisite 10-course menu with innovative dishes using local, seasonal ingredients.
22. Atchafalaya
Atchafalaya, situated in New Orleans’ Irish Channel, is a delightful restaurant showcasing a mix of gourmet and comforting cuisine.
With a long history spanning nearly one century, the present owners of the restaurant have converted it into a refined space offering New Orleanian rustic dishes.
Open for dinner and brunch all week, Atchafalaya is particularly famous for its creative modern Creole cuisine at brunch.
23. Mister Mao
This is a lively and unique restaurant situated in Uptown.
Launched by Sophina Uong, a chef, and her associate William Greenwell, it presents a blend of Mexican, Southeast Asian, and Indian flavors.
Regardless of its name, this restaurant isn't Chinese but is instead titled after the pet cat of the couple.
24. Shaya
This is a lively and fashionable restaurant celebrated for its contemporary Israeli dishes, beer, and cocktails.
Even though Chef Shaya Alon has moved on from the restaurant, his impact remains noticeable in the restaurant's renowned offerings such as Lamb RaguHummus and Baba Ganoush.
The restaurant also provides a cozy dining atmosphere influenced by Alon's Israeli background, highlighting a blend of tastes from different areas.
25. MaMou
This restaurant has achieved notable acclaim, landing a spot on the New York Times and Bon Appétit’s Top Restaurants within the United States.
Even with its humble start during the COVID-19, it has garnered recognition from the media and the community.
Guests always praise the restaurant's amazing experiences, especially noting bartender Alex's skill and his imaginative cocktail offerings.
26. Pêche Seafood Grill
Located in the Warehouse District's center, this stands as a culinary treasure that honors the craft of seafood preparation with a distinctive flair.
This charming restaurant, decorated with aged wooden details, focuses on open-hearth cooking on hardwood coals. It's a method influenced by Ryan Prewitt, the chef's research in Uruguay Country.
27. Zasu
Zasu, tucked away in the lively Mid-City area, is a dining treasure created by Sue Zemanick, a skilled chef who is famous for her outstanding seafood dishes.
Following her recognition during her time at Gautreaus before a short break from the culinary world, she has made a comeback with this beautiful bistro that highlights her skills.
At Zasu, guests can anticipate creative dishes that emphasize fresh seafood and shellfish, showcasing surprising but complementary ingredient combinations.
28. Cochon Butcher
An excellent collaboration between chefs Donald Link and Stephen Stryjewski, Cochon Butcher honors the classic Cajun Boucherie with artisanal production of andouille, boudin, head cheese, and smoked bacon.
The menu here includes locally sourced seafood, pork, and fresh vegetables to provide Cajun country's genuine tastes.
29. Café Du Monde
This is an essential New Orleans stop that is famous for its scrumptious café lait and legendary beignets since the year 1862.
This delightful café attracts both residents and visitors who gather to enjoy its delectable pastries sprinkled with sugar.
Although some might choose the allure of casinos, numerous individuals favor Cafe Du Monde’s relaxed vibe.
Here, they can savor their delights amidst the lively spirit of New Orleans.
30. N7
This is a distinct French restaurant situated in New Orleans’ 9th Ward.
Even without a website or live music, this concealed treasure provides a memorable dining experience.
Hidden behind a St. Claude Av. wooden fence, N7 includes a delightful candlelit patio with a vintage Citroen and an array of retro-French tunes.
31. Café Reconcile
Situated inside New Orleans, Café Reconcile is a distinctive restaurant with a purpose.
Founded in the year 1996, it seeks to change at-risk youths’ lives aged 16 to 24 via workforce development initiatives.
The restaurant's kitchen is managed by these younger people who are receiving training in Southern cuisine while acquiring important life skills.
Their menu showcases New Orleans traditional soul food made by the young trainees.
32. Domilise's PoBoy & Bar
Founded in 1924, this is a cherished neighborhood hangout famous for its large po'boys and beer.
Located in a simple yellow structure, this legendary restaurant has been offering some of the most cherished po'boys in New Orleans for more than a hundred years.
The restaurant's dedication to tradition is evident in its family-friendly atmosphere and time-honored recipes.
33. August
This is a famous French restaurant situated in a lovely illuminated 19th-century structure.
August is really notable for its exceptional dining adventure.
The skilled chef John Besh offers exquisite meals like crab gnocchi with white truffle, alongside flawless home-smoked salmon.
Also, the eatery has recently broadened its offerings of craft beer under Robert Wailes' management, offering food-compatible beers from different areas.
34. Brigtsen's Restaurant
Founded in 1986, Brigtsen's Restaurant is a famous restaurant in Riverbend celebrated for its contemporary Creole dishes.
Frank Brigtsen, an excellent chef, recipient of James Beard, and Paul Prudhomme’s apprentice, presents a thoughtfully selected menu here, showcasing delicious seafood options like barbecue-drenched shrimp and fried catfish.
The restaurant's charming Victorian-cottage ambiance enhances the allure of the experience here.
35. Compère Lapin
Situated in New Orleans’ Warehouse Art District, Compère Lapin is a well-known restaurant operated by Nina Compton, a celebrated chef.
This modern restaurant presents a blend of Caribbean and Creole-inspired cuisine with tastes of New Orleans.
You will really enjoy the amazing drinks and cuisine here like pig’s ears, hush puppies, papaya salad, goat curry, fried chicken, and pork belly.
The restaurant's pork belly is among my favorite dishes, and their goat curry is also exceptionally unique and tasty.
Their dip featuring pig ears is distinctive and delicious, while their hush puppies with aioli are a crowd favorite.
36. Coquette
This is a fashionable and chic restaurant situated in New Orleans’ Garden District.
This two-level cottage from the 1880s provides a cozy atmosphere featuring a tin ceiling, a stylish wooden bar, and soft illumination.
Chefs Michael Stolzfus and Kristen Essig are proficient in crafting modern Southern dishes with ingredients sourced locally.
The menu here includes shareable small plates along with a 5-course tasting menu that pairs with wines.
37. Meril
This is an informal dining venue located in NewOrleans' Warehouse District, created by Emeril Lagasse, a renowned chef.
The eatery offers a varied selection of New American regionally sourced dishes, along with local brews and cocktails.
Its atmosphere radiates history with the ample seafood platters and brick walls.
The meals here such as Pineapple UpsideDown Cornbread accompanied by bacon marmalade and Cast IronBaked Cheese paired with ciabatta highlight strong and rich taste.
38. Herbsaint
This is a high-end restaurant that combines American and French dishes in an elegant and casual environment with St. Charles Avenue’s sights
Donald Link, a top chef recognized for his numerous other thriving restaurants, offers contemporary French cuisine here that is hearty and delicious.
The restaurant's kitchen, under the direction of chef Rebecca Wilcomb, offers creative small plates like Louisiana shrimp paired with chili grits that are roasted and housemade pasta such as spaghetti with a farm fried-poached egg and guanciale.
39. Willa Jean
This is a stylish restaurant and café with a retro vibe situated in the city center.
The operation here is led by Pastry Chefs Lisa White and Kelly Fields, both recognized for their skills in Southern cuisine and pastries.
This restaurant also provides an extensive selection of delightful goodies including banana buttered bread and sticky pecan buns which are exclusively served on Sunday.
40. Bayona
This is a famous New Orleans restaurant, situated in a delightful vintage cottage featuring a vibrant courtyard.
Susan Spicer, the chef here, has been at the forefront of local sourcing and slow food for up to 27 years, impacting chefs and food enthusiasts from her Award-winning James Beard kitchen.
Bayona Restaurant presents creative meals that combine American and Mediterranean Southern tastes, which are highlighted in Crescent City Cooking, Spicer's celebrated cookbook.
41. Casamento's Restaurant
Since 1919, Casamento's Restaurant has been providing fresh oysters and seafood in a charming mosaic-tiled setting.
This family-owned eatery on Magazine St was established by Joe Casamento, an Italian immigrant, and remains managed by his generations up till now.
The menu here showcases regional seafood cooked with fresh, tasty ingredients and classic recipes handed down over generations.
42. Galatoire's
This is a high-end restaurant with a century-long history located in the historical New Orleans French Quarter.
It is famous for its elegant atmosphere and high-end Creole cuisine, necessitating jackets for admission.
Its menu showcases traditional seafood-focused meals, highlighting seasonal shellfish and fish cooked using skilled methods.
43. Domenica
This is a high-end Italian eatery situated in the lovely Central Business District.
The spacious and inviting atmosphere here, featuring chandeliers, provides a distinctive dining experience.
Domenica has become a local favorite with its diverse antipasto plates, including roasted cauliflower sprinkled with some sea salt, creamy polenta served with meatballs, and smoked beets paired with ricotta.
44. Brennan's
This is a famous New Orleans upscale restaurant, known for its opulent breakfast selections and Creole dishes.
The restaurant features a wide-ranging wine collection curated by Tidwell Braithe, showcasing a diverse Burgundy wines selection and choices from international producers.
Brennan's, with its lovely pink facade and a turtle-filled patio for kids' amusement, is not only perfect for special events but also welcomes families for tasty dishes.
45. BABs
BABs is a well-known American cocktail bar and restaurant situated in an expansive brick structure.
The venue takes pride in utilizing seasonal and locally sourced ingredients to craft dishes influenced by Southern, Creole, Caribbean, and Cajun cuisine.
46. Commander's Palace
This is an essential dining treasure located in the scenic Garden District of New Orleans.
Established in 1893, the sophisticated venue has become synonymous with exquisite Creole fare and features a captivating atmosphere enriched with chandeliers.
With skilled chefs such as Meg Bickford at the helm, who respect traditional tastes while experimenting with local elements, guests can easily enjoy time-honored meals.
Dishes here include turtle soup and gumbo alongside inventive selections like Gulf fish La Ceiba.
47. Emeril's
This is a famous New Orleans restaurant that was established by Emeril Lagasse, a celebrity chef.
Housed in a chic, modern venue within a revamped pharmacy warehouse inside the New Orleans Warehouse District, Emeril's has remained a notable player in contemporary New Orleans dining since its inception in 1990.
This restaurant has garnered significant acclaim and multiple awards throughout the years, such as being recognized as a Wine Spectator Grand Award in a remarkable 14 years in a row.
