Top New Orleans Eats: Our Favorite Spots to Dine in NOLA

With every street corner offering something bold, unexpected, or steeped in tradition, you quickly realize that dining here is its own kind of thrill. The city’s food scene is a flavorful collision of Creole classics, inventive twists, deep-rooted family recipes, and over-the-top creations that somehow work. The bar is high—really high—which makes every bite a bit more exciting.

During the couple of months we spent exploring New Orleans and nearby Metairie, we made it our mission to taste as much as possible. These are the standout spots that left an impression—whether it was love at first bite or just a memorable culinary curveball.

Heard Dat Kitchen

A small but mighty spot serving big plates of Creole soul food. Heard Dat Kitchen is known for dishes like the “Superdome”—a loaded seafood pasta that’s as indulgent as it sounds—and comforting classics like shrimp and grits. It’s takeout-heavy but packed with flavor, making it a hidden gem in Central City.

I had the fried chicken, which came out fresh and piping hot. The surface was beautifully crisp, with just the right amount of seasoning. We grabbed a table just outside the restaurant to eat, and the timing couldn’t have been better. As we dug into our plates and sipped on some super sweet punch, a group of locals strolled by, bumping old school Lil Wayne on a stereo. With the Superdome visible not far off, the entire scene just felt like New Orleans—laid-back, flavorful, and alive.

Drago’s Restaurant

Multiple Locations – Original in Metairie, also at the Hilton Riverside downtown

When it comes to oysters in New Orleans, Drago’s doesn’t just compete—it sets the bar. Famous for inventing the charbroiled oyster, Drago’s delivers a smoky, buttery, garlicky masterpiece that completely redefines what an oyster can be. And after trying oysters all across the city, I can confidently say: these were my favorite. Period.

The moment they hit the table, still sizzling in the shell, you get hit with that rich aroma of garlic, butter, and a little crackle of flame. They’re perfectly broiled, with just enough parmesan to add depth without overpowering the briny freshness of the oyster itself. It’s indulgent, yes—but it’s also perfectly balanced. You’ll be mopping up every last drop of sauce with French bread, and thinking about ordering another round before you even finish the first.

Acme may get more of the tourist spotlight, but Drago’s is the heavyweight champion in my book. If you only try one oyster dish in New Orleans, make it this one.

While oysters are the star, the rest of the menu holds its own, with solid seafood plates and Cajun favorites. But honestly, once you’ve had those charbroiled oysters, everything else is just bonus.

Up&Adam Eatz

Gentilly

A newer face in the city’s food scene, Up&Adam Eatz brings a modern twist to classic Southern comfort food. Located in Gentilly, this spot is all about hearty breakfast plates, soulful lunch specials, and creative spins on dishes that feel both nostalgic and fresh. It’s quickly becoming a neighborhood favorite for its welcoming vibe and satisfying portions.

I ordered a chicken sandwich here, and while it was just okay for me—the chicken was a bit chunky—the rest of the table was thoroughly impressed. I sampled a few other dishes, and that’s where the place really shined. The sauces they used on the rice and eggs were incredible—rich, flavorful, and just the right balance of comforting and inventive. This was Brad’s favorite spot in all of New Orleans, and it’s definitely a place we’ll be coming back to.

Related: Beignets: History & Where to Enjoy Them in New Orleans

Domilise’s Po-Boys

Uptown

Operating out of a humble shotgun house since the 1920s, Domilise’s is a New Orleans institution in every sense. Started by the Domilise family nearly a century ago, the shop has stayed true to its roots—same building, same family-run charm, and the same commitment to serving some of the city’s best po’boys. The walls are plastered with family photos, old newspaper clippings, and snapshots of celebrity visitors who’ve made the pilgrimage for a bite of history on French bread.

This isn’t just a good spot for po’boys—it’s one of the iconic spots. If you’re looking for a flashy, modern experience, this isn’t it. Domilise’s is small, no-frills, and proudly so. The counter’s where you order, and the handful of tables are usually claimed by a steady stream of locals and tourists in the know. But what you get is pure authenticity.

I went with the fried shrimp po’boy, and it was easily one of my favorites in the city. The bread was perfectly crisp on the outside, the shrimp fried golden and piled high, with just enough sauce to pull everything together without overwhelming the ingredients. You can also go the roast beef debris route—which is messy in the best way, dripping with gravy and packed with slow-cooked flavor.

If you’re doing a po’boy tour of New Orleans (and you should), Domilise’s is absolutely a must. Come hungry, and don’t expect frills—just one of the most genuine, flavorful sandwiches in the city.

Turkey and the Wolf

Lower Garden District

A playful sandwich shop that became a national sensation, Turkey and the Wolf is the kind of place that shouldn’t work—but totally does. It’s weird in the best way: think plastic dinosaurs on the tables, matchbox race cars holding down the salt and pepper shakers, and a menu that feels like it was dreamt up by a sleep-deprived chef with a love of nostalgia and bold flavors.

I don’t know if I was just extra hungry that day or what, but the turkey sandwich I had here was honestly one of the most heavenly things I’ve ever eaten. It was perfectly layered, seasoned just right, and hit every craving I didn’t even know I had. It’s one of those meals that sticks with you—not just because it was good, but because it felt special.

The bologna sandwich is the celebrity here (and yeah, it lives up to the hype), but every sandwich we saw coming out of the kitchen looked like a work of chaotic genius. Somehow, this mismatched, quirky little shop has turned sandwiches into an art form.

You might hit a line, but we got lucky and didn’t have to wait. Either way—it’s worth it. Turkey and the Wolf is pure New Orleans charm wrapped in bread and served with a wink.

Yakamein House

7th Ward

Yakamein—affectionately known as “Old Sober”—is one of New Orleans’ best-kept culinary secrets. A mashup of beef stew and Asian noodle soup, it’s the kind of dish that defies categorization but makes total sense once you taste it. Yakamein House, located in the 7th Ward, is one of the only places in the city where you can reliably get this legendary dish without having to chase it down

Traditionally, you’d have to find the Yakamein Lady—a local icon who sells her version at second lines and special events. Catching her is half the fun, but also hit-or-miss. Yakamein House solves that problem by offering the dish on a regular menu, served hot and hearty with a rich beef broth, spaghetti noodles, green onions, soy sauce, hard-boiled egg, and chunks of tender meat. It’s as much a hangover cure as it is soul food—salty, savory, and satisfying in a way that only New Orleans food can be.

Aside from the bowl itself, the service here stands out. Friendly, fast, and full of local pride, it’s the kind of place where you feel welcomed the moment you step inside. Whether you’re recovering from a late night out or just craving something hearty and unique, Yakamein House delivers a true taste of NOLA comfort.

Jacques-Imo’s Cafe

Uptown, Oak Street

Jacques-Imo’s is the kind of place that captures the funky, offbeat charm of New Orleans in both its food and its vibe. Tucked away on Oak Street in Uptown, it’s loud, eclectic, and packed with locals and visitors alike—everyone’s there for the same reason: the bold, unapologetic flavors of real New Orleans cooking.

We tried one of their popular fish dishes—likely the Paneed Gulf Fish, which comes topped with a creamy shrimp and mushroom sauce. It was rich, flavorful, and beautifully cooked, served alongside classic Southern sides like smothered greens and mashed sweet potatoes. The entrées here definitely deliver.

But what really stole the show was something we didn’t even order: the alligator cheesecake. Don’t let the name fool you—this isn’t dessert. It’s a savory, quiche-like starter made with alligator sausage, cream cheese, and a buttery crust, and it’s absolutely phenomenal. The texture is creamy but firm, with just the right kick of spice and depth of flavor. Honestly, I could’ve skipped the main course and eaten an entire pie of that cheesecake. It’s that good—and the kind of unique dish you’d only find in New Orleans.

Jacques-Imo’s feels like a party, from the moment you walk through the front room (which is basically part of the kitchen) to your last bite. If you’re looking for something a little off the beaten path that still delivers serious flavor, this place is a must.

Parasol’s

Irish Channel

Tucked away in the Irish Channel, Parasol’s is the kind of divey, unassuming bar where you don’t expect to find one of the best po’boys or muffulettas in the city—but trust me, you do. It feels like a true hole-in-the-wall, the kind of spot you could easily walk past if you didn’t know better. But once you step inside, you’re hit with that unmistakable neighborhood vibe—locals at the bar, beer signs glowing, and the smell of something frying just right.

We ordered the fried shrimp po’boy, and it was perfection. The shrimp were hot and crispy, the French bread had that light crackle on the outside but stayed soft inside, and everything came together in that messy, New Orleans way that requires a stack of napkins and zero shame.

But the real surprise was the muffuletta—packed with layers of meat, melty cheese, and olive salad that was so flavorful we asked for extra “lotta sauce.” It was one of the best versions of the classic sandwich we had anywhere in the city, and it somehow hit even harder in this cozy bar setting with a cold drink in hand.

Parasol’s isn’t flashy, but it’s one of those places that delivers on taste, heart, and that special kind of New Orleans soul. Definitely worth the detour.

Antoine’s Restaurant

French Quarter

Walking into Antoine’s feels like stepping into a museum where the exhibits are still alive—and wearing tuxedos. Established in 1840, Antoine’s is the oldest family-run restaurant in the country and a true pillar of New Orleans dining.

Located in the French Quarter, the restaurant spans a maze of old-world dining rooms, each with its own ornate décor and stories tied to Mardi Gras krewes, politicians, presidents, and celebrities. Everyone from Franklin D. Roosevelt to Brad Pitt has passed through these doors, and with 180+ years of service, it’s easy to see why it remains a bucket-list spot.

Antoine’s is also the birthplace of Oysters Rockefeller, a dish created here in 1899 and named for its richness. Served piping hot in the shell, the oysters are smothered in a green, herb-heavy butter sauce and then baked until bubbling. The exact recipe is still a secret, but the flavor is unmistakable—earthy, intense, and very… green.

And here’s where I have to be honest: I didn’t care for it. Neither did Brad. The texture and boldness of the sauce just didn’t hit the right notes for us. It’s rich in a way that overwhelms the oyster itself, and while I wanted to like it—because, really, how often do you get to taste a dish invented in the same building you’re sitting in?—I couldn’t bring myself to take another bite.

Luckily, Antoine’s had a few other oysters on the menu that helped salvage the experience. Their baked and broiled variations were much more up our alley—simple, flavorful, and a bit more traditional. So while Oysters Rockefeller didn’t win us over, I’m still glad I tried it. Eating it felt like taking a bite of New Orleans culinary history—even if just for the story.

Acme Oyster House

If you’re looking for oysters in New Orleans, Acme is practically a rite of passage. Nestled in the heart of the French Quarter and serving seafood since 1910, this place draws lines out the door—and for good reason. It’s loud, it’s packed, and yes, it’s a bit touristy, but once you slide up to a table or the oyster bar, you’ll understand why it’s endured for over a century.

New Orleans has no shortage of places to get oysters—raw, grilled, baked, you name it—which makes it all the more impressive that Acme still manages to stand out. Served sizzling hot right in the shell, drenched in garlic butter and topped with parmesan, they’re smoky, salty, rich, and absolutely unforgettable. It’s not just food—it’s a whole experience.

If you’re still hungry, their Oyster Po’boy is another standout, and the seafood platters are generously piled high. But truly, if you’re in town and only have time for one oyster stop, this is the one I’d tell you not to miss.

Parkway Bakery & Tavern

Mid-City, near Bayou St. John

If there’s a Mount Rushmore of po’boy spots in New Orleans, Parkway is carved right into the center of it. Open since 1911, this Mid-City legend has survived floods, wars, and changing times, all while serving up some of the best—and most iconic—po’boys in the city. It’s the kind of place where generations of locals and food lovers from around the world come to pay homage to the humble sandwich that helped feed New Orleans through thick and thin.

Parkway’s roast beef po’boy is the undisputed headliner—slathered in gravy, stuffed into fresh Leidenheimer French bread, and guaranteed to require more napkins than you think. But their fried shrimp and catfish versions are no slouch either. Whether you’re a fan of surf or turf, they do it big, bold, and exactly how you want it.

It gets busy—really busy—especially on weekends or around lunchtime. But the line moves fast, the staff knows their stuff, and trust me, it’s worth the wait. We brought some friends along and snagged a spot to enjoy a long, overflowing po’boy (they’re huge) and a side of perfectly crispy fried pickles. The whole thing felt like a mini feast in the heart of a neighborhood that still beats with real New Orleans energy.

Don’t forget to grab one of Parkway’s signature hats—they’ve become a kind of photo-op tradition. Whether you’re rocking it for the ‘gram or as a badge of honor, it’s the perfect way to cap off a visit to one of the most beloved sandwich shops in the city.

Liuzza’s by the Track

Right by the Fair Grounds Race Course, Liuzza’s is a true local gem—especially known for its legendary BBQ shrimp po’boy. Served in a hollowed-out French bread loaf, it’s messy, indulgent, and absolutely worth it.

But a word of warning: if you’re from Texas or pretty much anywhere outside Louisiana, “barbecue shrimp” probably doesn’t mean what you think it means. There’s no smoky brisket-style BBQ here. Instead, imagine plump shrimp swimming in a buttery, peppery, garlicky sauce that clings to the bread like liquid gold.

It’s rich, spicy, and completely unlike anything you’d find outside New Orleans. It’s the kind of flavor you really have to taste to understand—deep, soulful, and impossible to explain without sounding dramatic.

We also ordered the fried green tomatoes, which were crisp and tangy, a solid starter. But the surprise star? The gumbo. We got it as a side, thinking it would just round out the meal, but it ended up being some of the best gumbo we tried during our stay—dark, flavorful roux, well-balanced spice, and that slow-simmered depth that tells you someone’s grandmother had a hand in the recipe.

This place is a popular stop before or after Jazz Fest or a day at the track, and for good reason. Cold beer, hearty Creole food, and an atmosphere that feels like old-school New Orleans at its best.

World Famous N’awlins Café & Spice Emporium

French Market, French Quarter

Tucked into the heart of the bustling French Market, World Famous N’awlins Café might look like just another tourist pit stop—but don’t let the crowds and souvenir spice racks fool you. This spot delivers some surprisingly legit Cajun and Creole fare, perfect for when you’re hungry and already deep into your French Quarter wandering.

At first glance, I was skeptical. The place was absolutely swarming with tourists, and it had that “let’s grab something fast and get back to Bourbon Street” vibe. But once we placed our order and grabbed a seat, things took a turn—in the best way. The crawfish étouffée was downright fantastic: rich, buttery, full of that signature New Orleans depth of flavor. We also had some oysters, which hit the spot and helped round out the meal.

If you’re hanging around the French Market and want a convenient, flavorful bite without venturing too far, this place will absolutely do the trick. And if you’re into recreating the flavors at home, their spice emporium lets you grab some seasoning blends and hot sauces to-go. It’s a little bit touristy, a little bit charming, and a solid stop for a casual bite in the Quarter.

Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop Bar

French Quarter
Rumored to be the oldest bar in the country—and housed in one of the oldest surviving buildings in New Orleans—Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop is part cocktail stop, part time machine. Built in the 1700s and tied to the pirate Jean Lafitte, the building looks like something out of a different world. From the outside, it almost gives off a Harry Potter vibe—dark, crooked, and mysterious, with flickering lights glowing behind heavy shutters.

Inside, it’s dimly lit with candles and no overhead lights, which makes everything feel just a little more ghostly (and a little harder to see your drink). Their infamous frozen purple “Voodoo” daiquiri is the go-to—sweet, strong, and slightly dangerous in the best way.

It’s a hotspot, especially late at night, so be ready to elbow your way to the bar or stake out a table early if you want to linger. Still, even if it’s crowded, Lafitte’s is an essential stop—a place where you can literally drink in the history and weird magic that makes New Orleans unlike anywhere else.