A GUIDE TO WHERE TO DINE AND WHAT TO EAT IN NEW ORLEANS
New Orleans is a hub for delicious food, with a mix of French, African, Caribbean, Spanish, Italian, and Creole cultures influencing its cuisine. New Orleans is a paradise for foodies looking to try famous dishes and vibrant dining scenes.
Cajun and Creole Cuisine
Cajun and Creole cuisines are two of the most famous culinary traditions in New Orleans, and the two are often mistaken for one another. Cajun cuisine originates from the rural areas of southern Louisiana and has bold and spicy flavors. Creole cuisine blends French and African influences and features seafood and rich sauces. Notable restaurants that serve Cajun and Creole cuisines include Commander Palace, K-Paul’s Louisiana Kitchen, and Dooky Chase.
Seafood
New Orleans sits alongside the Gulf of Mexico, and seafood is essential to the
city’s culinary culture. Visitors can find various seafood dishes, including raw oysters, seafood gumbo, and seafood po’boys. Famous New Orleans seafood restaurants are Galatoire’s, Acme Oyster House, and Pascal’s Manale.
Po’boys
Po’boys are the quintessential New Orleans sandwich consisting of French bread, meat, seafood, and vegetables. Popular po’boy fillings are roast beef, fried shrimp, fried oysters, and fried catfish. Visitors can find po’boys at many casual restaurants throughout the city, including Domilise’s Po’boys, Liuzza’s By The Track, Johnny’s Po’boys, and Parkway Bakery and Tavern.
Bakery
New Orleans is just as famous for its sweet treats, particularly its beignets. Beignets are a type of fried dough pastry that is traditionally served with powdered sugar. Visitors can find beignets at Cafe du Monde, Morning Call, and Cafe Beignet. Visitors can also enjoy other sweet treats like King Cake, Pralines, and Bread Pudding.
Fine Dining
New Orleans has an array of fine dining choices for visitors looking for a more upscale experience, including French, Italian, and Asian cuisine. Fine dining restaurants include August, Herbsaint, and Brennan’s.
Bars and Pubs
The nightlife in New Orleans is vibrant, and visitors can find various bars and pubs offering live music and signature cocktails like the Sazerac and the Hurricane. Notable bars and pubs include The Carousel Bar, The Old Absinthe House, and The Napoleon House.
Street Food
New Orleans is also home to various street vendors that offer inventive food at great prices, including fried seafood, sandwiches, and sweet treats. Street vendors can be found throughout the city, particularly in the French Quarter.
Stay at Hotel Mazarin
One of the best ways to experience fine dining in New Orleans is by staying at a hotel in the middle of it all. Hotel Mazarin is ideally situated in the heart of the French Quarter. Make a reservation at Hotel Mazarin today.