If you ever find yourself hungry in New Orleans, you're doing something wrong. I will apologize in advance for anyone who made a New Year's resolution to follow a strict diet... I suggest strongly to seriously give yourself a break. Vacation calories don't count afterall, right? That's what I've been told anyway. Just go with it. You'll thank yourself, trust me. :)
There are entire books devoted to New Orleans cuisine, but I will try to narrow it down to a quick top 10 to give you an idea of what you have look forward to. A few of our favorites include:
1. Camelia Grill - Amazing old diner atmosphere with an incredibly fun staff. Don't be afraid to order the fries with your omelette, it may sound weird, but it works. Get there early if you want to avoid the line. Also open late for good munchie time.
*Hint: there is also a location in the French Quarter now and the food is just as good if you can't get Uptown*
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Camellia-Grill/104113072958918?rf=250301408353469
2. Cafe' Du Monde - Just 'cause you have to do it, right? Don't worry about getting powdered sugar all over the floor and yourself - it's part of the fun and tradition. Tips: don't wear black that day, enjoy the view of Jackson Square and live music nearby. Good place to take a break from walking in the French Quarter.
http://www.cafedumonde.com/
3. Elizabeth's - Two words: Praline Bacon. Don't question, just order it. You will only regret not having it sooner. Also a great venue for dinner.
http://www.elizabethsrestaurantnola.com/contact_us.html
4. The Ruby Slipper - If you haven't noticed a theme by now, my inner foodie loves breakfast... and this place has a great menu to choose from. 2 convenient locations.
https://www.therubyslippercafe.net/
5. Carmo - Vegans and vegetarians, don't worry we didn't forget about you! We chose this place as one of our caterers for a reason - delicious tropical menu, great artwork and lovely staff.
http://www.cafecarmo.com/
6. Mother's Restaurant - Homecooked meal away from home. Buffet style, large portions and affordable. If you see a line outside, you will know why.
http://www.mothersrestaurant.net/
7. SuhkiThai - Another great place if you're hunting for vegetarian options or southern food isn't your thing. We've eaten here more than I'd like to admit. Highly recommend the pad thai.
http://sukhothai-nola.com/
8. District: Donuts.Sliders.Brew - Daily specialty donuts. I'm not talking just any donuts here people, you may need to get out a knife. Sliders are incredible. Just thinking about the biscuits makes me want to move up my travel date... Coffee is also excellent.
http://districtdonuts.com/#locations
9. Parkway - If you haven't made a stop for a po'boy, you haven't officially been to New Orleans. If you want to go all out, go for the "debris fries" - no, it's not described on the menu that way, but if you order it you'll sound like a local ;) - think roast beef, gravy and cheese on top of fries eaten with a fork. They are sinful and well worth it. Also: a po'boy "dressed" means you want toppings on it - don't freak out when they ask you haha.
*Important tip to avoid the line: Order on the bar side, not the kitchen!* Then you can take your food and sit anywhere you like.
http://parkwaypoorboys.com/
10. Port of Call - Hands down the best burgers and some of the best drinks in the city. You will never want fries with your burger again...the baked potato is SO good!
http://portofcallnola.com/index.php
BON APPETIT!
Lagniappe:
The Creole Creamery http://www.creolecreamery.com/
Cafe Maspero http://www.cafemaspero.com/
Commander's Palace http://www.commanderspalace.com/
Atchafalaya http://www.atchafalayarestaurant.com/
Bayou Beer Garden http://bayoubeergarden.com/
Juan's Flying Burrito http://www.juansflyingburrito.com/
I'm starving!!!!
ReplyDeleteCannot wait to get to some of these places!
ReplyDelete