Part 3: Top 10 Places to Eat in New Orleans

Before we left on our trip to New Orleans, we eagerly reviewed and prepared a list of exactly what we wanted to eat and where we wanted to eat it. As a result, we were able to taste the finest New Orleans has to offer, all without a hiccup. That’s why we place New Orleans cuisine on the same level as the food we experienced in France and Italy. And why we consider it a premier foodie destination in the United States . . .

The French Quarter is the nexus of this peculiarly seasoned foodie paradise. The aromas and flavors you’ll experience here are one of a kind. I doubt you’ll experience them again anywhere else on the planet. So, dive in and enjoy our 2023 list of the Top 10 Places to Eat in New Orleans:

1. Commander’s Palace: A New Orleans institution, Commander’s Palace has been serving up classic Creole dishes since 1880. Known for its elegant decor and impeccable service, the restaurant is a favorite of locals and tourists alike. Must-try dishes include the turtle soup, pecan-crusted Gulf fish, and bread pudding soufflé.
2. Johnny’s Po-Boys: While not as fancy as most places on our 2023 list of the Top 10 Places to Eat in New Orleans, Johnny’s deserves the honor.We wandered in one morning to enjoy a po-boy for a late breakfast. It was great! They overstuff their po’boy sandwiches at Johnny’s, so wear some loose pants. The menu includes classic fillings such as fried shrimp, roast beef, and hot sausage. But they do offer breakfast items such as omelets and pancakes. We had a solid, traditional, and very filling breakfast here. Highly recommend.
3. Cafe Du Monde: No visit to the French Quarter is complete without a stop at Cafe Du Monde for its world-famous beignets and a cup of coffee with chicory. The cafe is open 24 hours a day, so you can satisfy your sweet tooth any time of day or night. Oh, and bring an old shirt. By the time you down one or more of the powder covered beignets, you’ll be glad you did. I didn’t . . . but it was still worth it! Definitely a key player in our 2023 list of the Top 10 Places to Eat in New Orleans – you don’t want to miss this one!
4. Antoine’s: Founded in 1840, Antoine’s is the oldest continuously operated restaurant in the United States. The menu features classic Creole dishes such as oysters Rockefeller (a must-try), pompano en papillote, and baked Alaska. The restaurant’s historic dining rooms are filled with memorabilia and artifacts from its long history.
5. Coop’s Place: A local favorite, Coop’s Place is known for its casual atmosphere and hearty pub fare. The menu includes classic New Orleans dishes such as gumbo, jambalaya, and red beans and rice. Be sure to try the restaurant’s famous fried chicken.
6. Brennan’s: Another iconic New Orleans restaurant, Brennan’s is known for its classic Creole dishes and elegant decor. The menu includes dishes such as eggs Sardou, and our favorite New Orleans dessert – bananas Foster, and turtle soup. The restaurant’s pink facade and lush courtyard make it a popular spot for brunch or a romantic dinner.
7. Galatoire’s: This classic Creole restaurant has been a fixture in the French Quarter since 1905. The menu features dishes such as shrimp remoulade, crabmeat Yvonne, and baked Alaska. The restaurant’s old-world charm and lively atmosphere make it a great spot for a celebratory dinner.
8. Arnaud’s: Founded in 1918, Arnaud’s is a family-owned restaurant that specializes in classic Creole cuisine. The menu includes dishes such as shrimp Arnaud, crawfish étouffée, and soufflé potatoes. The restaurant also features live jazz music in its bar and lounge.
9. Felix’s Restaurant and Oyster Bar: I ate a lot of red beans and rice growing up (though strangely, my family has no connection to Louisiana) and have to confess that Felix’s were the best I ever had. I loved them so much we ate there twice! And my wife felt the same about their Oysters Rockefeller – they even made the oyster sauce fresh at the bar in front of us. The menu features classic New Orleans dishes such as gumbo and jambalaya (which I also loved). Be sure to save room for their New Orleans Bread Pudding with whiskey sauce. Honestly, if I had just one chance to eat a quick meal in the French Quarter, this would be it. That’s why it is a solid pick for our 2023 list of the Top 10 Places to Eat in New Orleans.
10. The Gumbo Shop: Located on historic St. Peter Street, The Gumbo Shop is a great spot where we enjoyed some traditional New Orleans dishes such as gumbo and jambalaya. The restaurant also offers vegetarian and gluten-free options.

If you haven’t already, be sure to check out the first two parts of our three part series on New Orleans:

• Part 1: Mardi Gras: Is it Really the Best time to Visit New Orleans?
• Part 2: Top 10 Things to Do in New Orleans

And lastly . . .

“Always remember, you’re not a tourist on this planet. You’re a wanderer – one seeking the truth. And that’s what life and every little thing in it is all about. Truth.” -Kenneth R. Dodson, Wanderer