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14 Incredible Restaurants in New Orleans You Need to Try

  • Updated 2025/02/07

New Orleans’ culinary heritage blends French, African, Spanish and Caribbean influences into a soulful symphony of flavors found nowhere else in America.

From century-old institutions serving perfect gumbo and oysters Rockefeller to vibrant neighborhood joints dishing out red beans and rice or po’boys dressed just right, every meal in the Crescent City tells a delicious story of cultural preservation.

Olive

Nestled in the heart of New Orleans’ Central Business District, Olive is a casual yet vibrant spot serving up authentic Middle Eastern flavors in a warm, inviting setting.

With 1,100+ 5-star reviews, Olive has earned its reputation as a go-to destination for shawarma, kebabs, and other Middle Eastern delights.

Signature dishes include the creamy hummus topped with tender lamb and beef, the flavorful shawarma platter, and the perfectly spiced falafels.

The ambiance is simple yet cozy, with a clean, well-organized dining area and a staff that’s as friendly as it is attentive.

Whether you’re craving a quick bite or a leisurely meal, Olive delivers fresh, flavorful dishes that keep locals and visitors coming back for more.

Address: 339 Carondelet St, New Orleans, LA 70130
Website: http://olivenola.com/

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Plates Restaurant & Bar

Tucked away in the Lower Garden District, Plates Restaurant & Bar offers an upscale yet approachable dining experience with a focus on creative, shareable plates.

Boasting 200+ 5-star reviews, this gem is celebrated for its innovative tasting menus and exceptional service.

Highlights include the perfectly cooked Gulf fish, the rich and flavorful lamb kofta, and the indulgent hand pie dessert.

The atmosphere is lively yet intimate, with a cozy vibe that’s perfect for date nights or special occasions. The staff, led by standout servers like Lee, ensures every visit feels memorable.

Address: 1051 Annunciation St, New Orleans, LA 70130
Website: https://www.platesnola.com/

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GW Fins

A French Quarter institution, GW Fins is a seafood lover’s paradise, offering a creative, ever-changing menu in a stylish, upscale setting.

With 3,900+ 5-star reviews, this acclaimed restaurant is renowned for its wood-fired Gulf fish, lobster dumplings, and complimentary biscuits that diners rave about.

The ambiance is elegant yet welcoming, with a bustling dining room and a team of servers who go above and beyond to make every meal special.

From the fresh catch of the day to the expertly crafted cocktails, GW Fins delivers a dining experience that’s as unforgettable as it is delicious.

Address: 808 Bienville St, New Orleans, LA 70112
Website: http://gwfins.com/

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Chapter IV

Located in the Central Business District, Chapter IV is a modern Creole eatery that combines bold flavors with a sleek, minimalist vibe.

With 190+ 5-star reviews, this spot is a favorite for its shrimp and grits, red fish, and crab and corn chowder.

The ambiance is warm and inviting, with a spacious dining area and a staff that’s both professional and personable.

Whether you’re stopping by for breakfast or lunch, Chapter IV offers a fresh take on Creole classics that’s sure to impress.

Address: 1301 Gravier St, New Orleans, LA 70112
Website: https://www.chapterivnola.com/

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Cochon Butcher

A carnivore’s dream in the Lower Garden District, Cochon Butcher is a bustling spot known for its artisanal sandwiches, charcuterie, and Southern-inspired fare.

With 1,600+ 5-star reviews, this casual eatery is a must-visit for its Le Pig Mac sandwich, Cajun fried ribs, and house-made sausages.

The vibe is lively and unpretentious, with a cozy interior and a staff that’s as passionate about food as they are about hospitality.

Whether you’re grabbing a quick bite or stocking up on meats for later, Cochon Butcher delivers flavor in every bite.

Address: 930 Tchoupitoulas St, New Orleans, LA 70130
Website: https://cochonbutcher.com/

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Red Dog Diner

A hip brunch spot in the 11th Ward, Red Dog Diner combines farmhouse charm with inventive comfort food and a lively indoor/outdoor bar.

With 1,000+ 5-star reviews, this diner is a local favorite for its brisket hash omelette, sweet potato pancakes, and crab and corn fritters.

The ambiance is relaxed and welcoming, with friendly staff and a vibe that’s perfect for weekend brunch or a casual lunch.

Address: 3122 Magazine St, New Orleans, LA 70115
Website: https://reddogdiner.com/

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Snapper’s Seafood Restaurant

Situated on bustling Canal Street, Snapper’s Seafood Restaurant is a go-to spot for fresh, flavorful Cajun seafood in a casual setting.

With 800+ 5-star reviews, this eatery is celebrated for its blackened alligator bites, seafood platters, and Louisiana-style gumbo.

The vibe is laid-back and friendly, with attentive service and a menu that highlights the best of Gulf Coast cuisine.

Address: 841 Canal St, New Orleans, LA 70112
Website: https://snappernola.com/

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Zesty Creole

A Central Business District gem, Zesty Creole offers a taste of New Orleans with its flavorful Creole dishes and welcoming atmosphere.

With 1,300+ 5-star reviews, this spot is a hit for its Taste of Nola platter, shrimp and grits, and banana foster cheesecake.

The ambiance is casual and inviting, with friendly staff and a menu that’s perfect for both locals and visitors.

Address: 827 Canal St, New Orleans, LA 70112
Website: http://zestycreole.com/

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Bub’s NOLA

A Mid-City favorite, Bub’s NOLA is a retro-inspired burger joint serving up juicy smash burgers and crispy fries in a fun, dive-bar atmosphere.

With 400+ 5-star reviews, this spot is a hit for its Rodeo burger, onion rings, and unique Bub’s sauce.

The vibe is casual and lively, with arcade games, pinball machines, and a staff that’s as friendly as it is efficient.

Address: 4413 Banks St, New Orleans, LA 70119
Website: https://www.bubsnola.com/

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MaMou

A French Quarter standout, MaMou offers refined French cuisine in an elegant, intimate setting.

With 200+ 5-star reviews, this restaurant is celebrated for its Gulf fish, artichoke hearts with beef tongue, and impeccable wine pairings.

The ambiance is sophisticated yet welcoming, with attentive service and a menu that highlights the best of French and Creole flavors.

Address: 942 N Rampart St, New Orleans, LA 70116
Website: https://www.mamounola.com/

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Heard Dat Kitchen

A Central City gem, Heard Dat Kitchen is a no-frills spot serving up soulful Southern comfort food in a warm, welcoming setting.

With 800+ 5-star reviews, this eatery is a hit for its fried chicken, red beans and rice, and seafood extravaganza.

The vibe is casual and homey, with friendly staff and a menu that’s packed with flavor and heart.

Address: 2520 Felicity St, New Orleans, LA 70113
Website: http://www.hearddatkitchen.com/

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August

A fine dining destination in the Central Business District, August offers contemporary Louisiana cuisine in a stunning, chandelier-lit space.

With 1,000+ 5-star reviews, this restaurant is renowned for its tasting menus, truffle appetizers, and impeccable service.

The ambiance is elegant and refined, making it the perfect spot for special occasions or a memorable night out.

Address: 301 Tchoupitoulas St, New Orleans, LA 70130
Website: http://www.restaurantaugust.com/

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Shaya

A Magazine Street favorite, Shaya offers modern Israeli cuisine in a stylish, bustling setting with a charming patio.

With 1,800+ 5-star reviews, this spot is a hit for its wood-fired pita, hummus, and crispy halloumi.

The vibe is warm and inviting, with a menu that’s perfect for sharing and a staff that’s as passionate as it is attentive.

Address: 4213 Magazine St, New Orleans, LA 70115
Website: http://www.shayarestaurant.com/

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Atchafalaya

An East Riverside standout, Atchafalaya offers creative Louisiana fare and a legendary Bloody Mary bar in a chic, high-ceilinged space.

With 2,200+ 5-star reviews, this restaurant is celebrated for its duck hash, shrimp and grits, and pistachio dark chocolate cheesecake.

The ambiance is lively and welcoming, with a staff that’s as friendly as it is efficient.

Address: 901 Louisiana Ave, New Orleans, LA 70115
Website: http://www.atchafalayarestaurant.com/

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Cochon Restaurant

A Lower Garden District icon, Cochon Restaurant is a meat-lover’s paradise, offering bold Cajun flavors in a rustic, bustling setting.

With 6,900+ 5-star reviews, this spot is famous for its fried alligator bites, wood-fired Gulf fish, and complimentary bread that’s so good, diners joke they’d pay for it.

The vibe is lively and welcoming, with a menu that’s packed with flavor and a staff that’s as attentive as it is passionate.

Address: 930 Tchoupitoulas St Ste A, New Orleans, LA 70130
Website: http://www.cochonrestaurant.com/

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Lilette

A Garden District gem, Lilette offers sophisticated French fare in a sunny, tiled space that attracts a stylish crowd.

With 400+ 5-star reviews, this restaurant is celebrated for its chilled sweet corn broth, Louisiana crab claws, and perfectly cooked duck.

The ambiance is elegant yet relaxed, making it the perfect spot for a leisurely lunch or a romantic dinner.

Address: 3637 Magazine St, New Orleans, LA 70115
Website: http://www.liletterestaurant.com/

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Gabrielle Restaurant

A Tremé favorite, Gabrielle Restaurant is a family-run bistro offering refined Cajun cuisine in a warm, unpretentious setting.

With 300+ 5-star reviews, this spot is a hit for its BBQ shrimp pie, double-cut pork chop, and white chocolate pound cake.

The vibe is cozy and welcoming, with a menu that’s packed with flavor and a staff that’s as friendly as it is attentive.

Address: 2441 Orleans Ave, New Orleans, LA 70119
Website: http://www.gabriellerestaurant.com/

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Sun Chong

A French Quarter standout, Sun Chong offers a modern twist on Asian cuisine in a stylish, vibrant setting.

With 1,100+ 5-star reviews, this spot is celebrated for its gumbo dumplings, lobster kimchi pasta, and crawfish fried rice.

The ambiance is chic and inviting, with a staff that’s as friendly as it is efficient.

Address: 240 Decatur St, New Orleans, LA 70130
Website: http://sunchongnola.com/

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Li’l Dizzy’s Cafe

A Tremé institution, Li’l Dizzy’s Cafe is a straightforward joint serving up soul-food breakfasts and lunches in a warm, welcoming setting.

With 2,200+ 5-star reviews, this spot is a hit for its seafood gumbo, fried chicken, and mac and cheese.

The vibe is casual and homey, with a staff that’s as friendly as it is efficient.

Address: 1500 Esplanade Ave, New Orleans, LA 70116
Website: http://lildizzyscafe.net/

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Herbsaint

A Warehouse District favorite, Herbsaint offers upscale French and American fare in an airy space with St. Charles Avenue views.

With 1,300+ 5-star reviews, this restaurant is celebrated for its duck confit, seasonal gazpacho, and hand pie dessert.

The ambiance is elegant yet relaxed, making it the perfect spot for a special occasion or a memorable meal.

Address: 701 St Charles Ave, New Orleans, LA 70130
Website: http://www.herbsaint.com/

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