New Orleans Foodie Guide: Complete Culinary Experience
Explore the best restaurants, food tours, local cuisine, street food, and culinary experiences in New Orleans. Your complete guide to dining in New Orleans.
Welcome to the ultimate foodie guide for New Orleans! Whether you're a local food enthusiast or a visiting gourmand, this comprehensive guide will help you discover the very best culinary experiences that New Orleans has to offer. From Michelin-starred restaurants to hidden street food gems, authentic local specialties to innovative fusion cuisine, we've curated the essential dining experiences that showcase New Orleans's vibrant food scene. Our carefully selected recommendations include insider tips, must-try dishes, and everything you need to eat your way through New Orleans like a true food lover.
Key Takeaways
- New Orleans offers diverse culinary experiences from fine dining to street food
- Local specialties and regional dishes are must-tries for authentic flavors
- Food tours and cooking classes provide immersive culinary experiences
- Reservations recommended for popular restaurants, especially on weekends
- Markets and food halls offer great variety and local atmosphere
Must-Try Restaurants
From hidden gems to acclaimed establishments, these restaurants showcase the best of local and international cuisine in New Orleans.
Napoleon House
Highly rated Restaurant in New Orleans with 4.6 stars from 6978 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 500 Chartres St, New Orleans, LA 70130, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Cochon Restaurant
Highly rated American in New Orleans with 4.6 stars from 10056 reviews.
📍 930 Tchoupitoulas St Ste A, New Orleans, LA 70130, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Authentic American cuisine
Brennan's
Highly rated Restaurant in New Orleans with 4.5 stars from 5786 reviews.
📍 417 Royal St, New Orleans, LA 70130, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Upscale dining experience
Cochon Butcher
Highly rated American in New Orleans with 4.8 stars from 2275 reviews.
📍 930 Tchoupitoulas St, New Orleans, LA 70130, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Authentic American cuisine
GW Fins
Highly rated Seafood in New Orleans with 4.8 stars from 5124 reviews.
📍 808 Bienville St, New Orleans, LA 70112, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Upscale dining experience
- 🍽️Authentic Seafood cuisine
Olde Nola Cookery
Highly rated Restaurant in New Orleans with 4.4 stars from 6675 reviews.
📍 205 Bourbon St, New Orleans, LA 70130, USA
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Muriel's Jackson Square
Highly rated American in New Orleans with 4.6 stars from 5035 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 801 Chartres St, New Orleans, LA 70116, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Upscale dining experience
- 🍽️Authentic American cuisine
Commander's Palace
Highly rated American in New Orleans with 4.6 stars from 8089 reviews.
📍 1403 Washington Ave, New Orleans, LA 70130, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Upscale dining experience
- 🍽️Authentic American cuisine
Creole House Restaurant & Oyster Bar
Highly rated Restaurant in New Orleans with 4.2 stars from 9237 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 509 Canal St, New Orleans, LA 70130, USA
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Oceana Grill
Highly rated Seafood in New Orleans with 4.4 stars from 18822 reviews.
📍 739 Conti St, New Orleans, LA 70130, USA
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Authentic Seafood cuisine
Bourbon House
Highly rated Seafood in New Orleans with 4.3 stars from 5666 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 144 Bourbon St, New Orleans, LA 70130, USA
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Upscale dining experience
- 🍽️Authentic Seafood cuisine
Atchafalaya
Highly rated American in New Orleans with 4.7 stars from 3069 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 901 Louisiana Ave, New Orleans, LA 70115, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Upscale dining experience
- 🍽️Authentic American cuisine
Street Food & Food Markets
Authentic street food vendors, bustling food markets, and local favorites where you'll find the most flavorful and affordable bites in New Orleans.
St. Roch Market
Highly rated Cafe in New Orleans with 4.6 stars from 3693 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
📍 2381 St Claude Ave, New Orleans, LA 70117, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine
French Market - Shops of the Colonnade
Highly rated International in New Orleans with 4.5 stars from 14735 reviews.
📍 1008 N Peters St, New Orleans, LA 70116, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Farmers Market | French Market
Highly rated International in New Orleans with 4.5 stars from 2690 reviews.
📍 2-48 French Market Pl, New Orleans, LA 70116, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Rouses Market
Highly rated International in New Orleans with 4.5 stars from 4808 reviews.
📍 701 Baronne St, New Orleans, LA 70113, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Cafe Du Monde
Highly rated Cafe in New Orleans with 4.5 stars from 44389 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
📍 800 Decatur St, New Orleans, LA 70116, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Budget-friendly prices
- 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine
French Market
Highly rated International in New Orleans with 4.4 stars from 1384 reviews.
📍 1008 N Peters St, New Orleans, LA 70116, USA
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
The Fresh Market
Highly rated Bakery in New Orleans with 4.5 stars from 1164 reviews. Fresh baked goods and pastries daily.
📍 3338 St Charles Ave, New Orleans, LA 70115, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Upscale dining experience
- 🍽️Authentic Bakery cuisine
Rouses Market
Highly rated International in New Orleans with 4.3 stars from 2807 reviews.
📍 400 N Carrollton Ave, New Orleans, LA 70119, USA
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Food Tours & Culinary Experiences
Guided food tours, cooking classes, wine tastings, and immersive culinary experiences led by local experts in New Orleans.
Sidewalk Food Tours of New Orleans
Highly rated International in New Orleans with 5 stars from 242 reviews.
- •Book in advance, especially during peak season
- •Arrive 10-15 minutes early
- •Wear comfortable walking shoes
- •Bring a camera for memorable moments
- •Ask your guide for local recommendations
Destination Kitchen | Best History, Cocktail, and Food Tours of New Orleans
Highly rated International in New Orleans with 4.9 stars from 1057 reviews.
- •Book in advance, especially during peak season
- •Arrive 10-15 minutes early
- •Wear comfortable walking shoes
- •Bring a camera for memorable moments
- •Ask your guide for local recommendations
Tastebud Tours, The French Quarter's Signature Food & Cocktail Experiences in New Orleans
Highly rated International in New Orleans with 5 stars from 3657 reviews.
- •Book in advance, especially during peak season
- •Arrive 10-15 minutes early
- •Wear comfortable walking shoes
- •Bring a camera for memorable moments
- •Ask your guide for local recommendations
The Premier New Orleans Food Tour
Highly rated International in New Orleans with 5 stars from 312 reviews.
- •Book in advance, especially during peak season
- •Arrive 10-15 minutes early
- •Wear comfortable walking shoes
- •Bring a camera for memorable moments
- •Ask your guide for local recommendations
Tastebud Tours Food Tours
Highly rated International in New Orleans with 4.7 stars from 44 reviews.
- •Book in advance, especially during peak season
- •Arrive 10-15 minutes early
- •Wear comfortable walking shoes
- •Bring a camera for memorable moments
- •Ask your guide for local recommendations
New Orleans Secrets Tours
Highly rated International in New Orleans with 4.9 stars from 594 reviews.
- •Book in advance, especially during peak season
- •Arrive 10-15 minutes early
- •Wear comfortable walking shoes
- •Bring a camera for memorable moments
- •Ask your guide for local recommendations
Cafes & Bakeries
Artisanal coffee shops, charming cafes, and bakeries serving fresh pastries, breads, and sweet treats in New Orleans.
Cafe Du Monde
Highly rated Cafe in New Orleans with 4.5 stars from 44389 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
📍 800 Decatur St, New Orleans, LA 70116, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Budget-friendly prices
- 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine
The Vintage
Highly rated Restaurant in New Orleans with 4.5 stars from 1277 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
📍 3121 Magazine St, New Orleans, LA 70115, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Fourth Wall
Highly rated Cafe in New Orleans with 4.7 stars from 709 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
📍 614 Gravier St, New Orleans, LA 70130, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine
Lux Cafe | Best Southern Cuisine
Highly rated Restaurant in New Orleans with 4.7 stars from 2248 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
📍 935 Gravier St First Floor, New Orleans, LA 70112, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Drip Affogato Bar NOLA
Highly rated Cafe in New Orleans with 4.6 stars from 1095 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
📍 336 Camp St Suite 100, New Orleans, LA 70130, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine
Café Fleur De Lis - French Quarter
Highly rated Cafe in New Orleans with 4.5 stars from 4864 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
📍 301 Chartres St, New Orleans, LA 70130, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine
Gospel Coffee and Boozy Treats
Highly rated Restaurant in New Orleans with 4.8 stars from 457 reviews.
📍 501 Tchoupitoulas St, New Orleans, LA 70130, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Pirate King Coffee
Highly rated Cafe in New Orleans with 4.8 stars from 318 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
📍 320 Exchange Pl, New Orleans, LA 70130, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine
Local Specialties & Signature Dishes
Regional dishes, local delicacies, and signature foods you absolutely must try during your visit to New Orleans.
Signature Dish
A must-try New Orleans specialty that showcases the region's unique flavors and culinary traditions.
- •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- •Try it at multiple places to compare
- •Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Local Delicacy
This beloved New Orleans dish has been perfected over generations and remains a local favorite.
- •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- •Try it at multiple places to compare
- •Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Traditional Recipe
Experience the authentic taste of New Orleans with this traditional preparation that honors local ingredients.
- •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- •Try it at multiple places to compare
- •Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Street Food Favorite
Discover why this New Orleans specialty has earned its reputation as an essential culinary experience.
- •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- •Try it at multiple places to compare
- •Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Regional Specialty
This iconic New Orleans creation perfectly captures the essence of the local food culture.
- •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- •Try it at multiple places to compare
- •Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Seasonal Treat
A New Orleans classic that combines traditional techniques with fresh, quality ingredients.
- •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- •Try it at multiple places to compare
- •Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Classic Comfort Food
A must-try New Orleans specialty that showcases the region's unique flavors and culinary traditions.
- •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- •Try it at multiple places to compare
- •Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Modern Fusion
This beloved New Orleans dish has been perfected over generations and remains a local favorite.
- •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- •Try it at multiple places to compare
- •Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Artisanal Product
Experience the authentic taste of New Orleans with this traditional preparation that honors local ingredients.
- •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- •Try it at multiple places to compare
- •Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Heritage Recipe
Discover why this New Orleans specialty has earned its reputation as an essential culinary experience.
- •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- •Try it at multiple places to compare
- •Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Bars & Nightlife
Craft cocktail bars, wine bars, breweries, and unique drinking establishments with character and quality in New Orleans.
Napoleon House
Highly rated Restaurant in New Orleans with 4.6 stars from 6978 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 500 Chartres St, New Orleans, LA 70130, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Bar Tonique
Highly rated Bar in New Orleans with 4.7 stars from 1126 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 820 N Rampart St, New Orleans, LA 70116, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Authentic Bar cuisine
The Carousel Bar & Lounge
Highly rated Bar in New Orleans with 4.5 stars from 4831 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 214 Royal St, New Orleans, LA 70130, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Upscale dining experience
- 🍽️Authentic Bar cuisine
Old Absinthe House
Highly rated Bar in New Orleans with 4.4 stars from 2291 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 240 Bourbon St, New Orleans, LA 70112, USA
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Authentic Bar cuisine
Lafitte's Blacksmith Shop Bar
Highly rated Bar in New Orleans with 4.6 stars from 11439 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 941 Bourbon St, New Orleans, LA 70116, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Budget-friendly prices
- 🍽️Authentic Bar cuisine
Pat O'Brien's
Highly rated Bar in New Orleans with 4.5 stars from 10698 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 718 St Peter, New Orleans, LA 70116, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Authentic Bar cuisine
Essential Tips
- 🍽️Make reservations at popular restaurants well in advance
- 🍽️Try local specialties and regional dishes unique to the area
- 🍽️Ask locals and hotel staff for their favorite food spots
- 🍽️Visit food markets early in the morning for the freshest selection
- 🍽️Don't be afraid to try street food from busy, popular vendors
- 🍽️Take a food tour early in your visit to discover hidden gems
- 🍽️Check restaurant hours as they can vary by day and season
- 🍽️Bring cash for street food vendors and small local eateries
- 🍽️Pace yourself - save room to try multiple dishes and restaurants
- 🍽️Document your culinary journey with photos and notes
Practical Information
Best Time to Visit
New Orleans's food scene thrives year-round, though each season brings unique culinary experiences. Spring and fall offer pleasant weather for outdoor dining and food festivals. Summer features fresh seasonal produce and lively food markets. Winter brings comfort food specialties and cozy indoor dining. Check local food festival calendars for special events.
Average Price
Dining costs in New Orleans vary widely. Street food and casual eateries: $5-15 per person. Mid-range restaurants: $20-50 per person. Fine dining: $75-150+ per person. Food tours typically range from $50-150. Cooking classes: $75-200. Markets offer budget-friendly options for self-catering.
Frequently Asked Questions
New Orleans is known for its diverse culinary offerings. Be sure to try the local specialties and regional dishes that showcase the area's unique flavors and traditions. Ask locals for their recommendations, and don't miss the signature dishes at acclaimed restaurants.
For popular and fine dining restaurants, reservations are highly recommended, especially for dinner and weekends. Many sought-after spots book up weeks in advance. Casual eateries and street food vendors typically don't require reservations.
Consider taking a food tour early in your visit to get oriented and discover hidden gems. Visit local markets to see fresh ingredients and try samples. Mix fine dining with casual spots and street food for a complete experience. Don't be afraid to venture beyond tourist areas.
Most restaurants in New Orleans offer vegetarian options, and vegan choices are increasingly common. Many establishments can accommodate dietary restrictions with advance notice. Check menus online or call ahead to confirm options that meet your needs.
Tipping customs vary by location. In the US, 15-20% is standard for table service. In Europe, service is often included, but rounding up or leaving 5-10% is appreciated. In Asia, tipping is less common. Check local customs for New Orleans specifically.
Lunch is typically served 11:30am-2pm, dinner 6pm-10pm, though hours vary by establishment and culture. For popular restaurants, consider dining earlier (before 7pm) or later (after 9pm) to avoid peak crowds. Weekend brunch is popular at many spots.
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