New Orleans is a food lover’s dream, offering everything from rich Creole dishes to Southern classics and elevated Mexican dining. Here are some of my must-visit spots to experience the flavors that make the city famous:

Turkey and the Wolf

Vibe: A quirky, modern deli offering fun twists on Southern comfort food.

Days Closed: Tuesday

Turkey and the Wolf has made a name for itself with its standout sandwiches, especially the fried bologna sandwich and the collard greens sandwich. Be prepared for a wait, as the line starts about 30 minutes before opening, and they don’t take reservations. You’ll be glad you did though…

Lil Dizzy’s Cafe 504

Vibe: A casual, local favorite with classic Creole comfort food.

Open Daily: 11:00 am to 3:00 pm

At Lil Dizzy’s, you can’t go wrong with checking out the specials board or ordering the fried fish with crawfish sauce. It’s the kind of spot where you feel right at home, with big portions and hearty flavors that’ll satisfy your cravings for soul food.

Acamaya

Vibe: Upscale, vibrant, and authentic Mexican cuisine with a refined atmosphere.

Days Closed: Tuesday & Wednesday

Acamaya brings an elevated approach to Mexican cuisine, and it’s definitely worth the visit. Standout dishes on my visit were the aguachile and chochoyotes, and their cocktails are as much of a highlight as the food itself.

Lagniappe Bakehouse

Vibe: Cozy and rustic, with delicious pastries and baked goods that sell out quickly.

Days Closed: Monday, Tuesday, & Wednesday

At Lagniappe Bakehouse, whatever they have left when you arrive is bound to be good. Their “Grain of Paradise” (kanelbullar) is a personal favorite, but come early—things tend to sell out fast (but don’t worry too much, they bake more throughout the day)!

Jewel of the South

Vibe: Elegant and inviting, with an elevated mix of Southern and British flavors.

Days Closed: Tuesday

Jewel of the South is great for an evening out with a friend or partner. Its elegant menu merges Southern classics with British influences. While the food is outstanding, it’s the cocktail program that really steals the show—creative, expertly crafted drinks are a must-try.

Atchafalaya

Vibe: A relaxed, neighborhood bistro with a creative Southern menu.

Days Closed: Tuesday & Wednesday

Atchafalaya is a go-to for incredible Southern food, from their gumbo to the smoked duck jambalaya. Don’t skip the Korean Chicken Sandwich—it’s a sleeper hit that has earned its place as a standout menu item.

Molly’s Rise and Shine

Vibe: A fun, retro-inspired breakfast spot and sister restaurant to Turkey and the Wolf.

Days Closed: Tuesday

As the sister spot to Turkey and the Wolf, Molly’s Rise and Shine brings the same creative flair to breakfast dishes (particularly the Grand Slam McMuffin). Whether you’re after something hearty or a bit different, this spot has a delicious menu that’s bound to kickstart your day.

Seaworthy

Vibe: Stylish, with a relaxed atmosphere and fresh seafood served up in a beautiful setting.

Open Daily

Seaworthy is the perfect stop for happy hour, offering half-price oysters and selected wines by the glass. Their fresh seafood selection is significant, making it a great choice for a laid-back meal or a drink in a chic setting.

Miss River

Vibe: Elegant with a view of the Mississippi River, serving up elevated Southern dishes.

Open Daily

Miss River’s Jazz Brunch is a lovely stop; be sure to try their flaming espresso martini made tableside. If you’re there for dinner, their unbelievable whole fried chicken is a must-try. Be sure to stop by the beautiful Chandelier Bar before or after your meal.

Ayu Bakehouse

Vibe: A charming, cozy spot with a focus on artisanal pastries and creative baked goods that blend traditional and contemporary flavors.

Open Daily

Ayu Bakehouse is a hidden gem in New Orleans that’s perfect for anyone who loves a good pastry. Known for its inventive takes on classic baked goods, their matcha croissants and flaky, buttery pastries are a must-try. Whether you’re grabbing a quick bite or lingering with a coffee, this place will quickly become one of your go-to stops for delicious, fresh-baked treats.

Cafe du Monde

Vibe: Iconic, casual, and always bustling with energy.

Open Daily

Cafe du Monde’s beignets are a New Orleans institution, with a texture a bit reminiscent of fried croissant dough and dusted generously with powdered sugar. Pair them with a café au lait for the quintessential NOLA experience. Make sure to bring cash, as they’re cash only.

Cafe Beignet

Vibe: Quieter and more intimate, with a great atmosphere for enjoying beignets.

Open Daily

Cafe Beignet’s take on beignets is a bit different from Cafe du Monde—these are more brioche donut-like in texture but just as good.

Loretta’s Pralines

Vibe: A classic New Orleans spot for authentic, hand-crafted pralines in the French Market.

Days Closed: Tuesday

While known for their delicious pralines, the beignets are the real star here. Fresh, powdered sugar, and maybe even filled with praline, these beignets are a must-try for anyone who loves fried doughy treats.

The Vintage NOLA

Vibe: Relaxed and wine-centric, offering small plates and a cozy vibe.

Open Daily

The Vintage NOLA is another beignet stop on Magazine Street. The menu also includes delicious small plates and a significant wine list.

New Orleans is a vibrant city where food takes center stage. With so many incredible spots to explore, you’re sure to find something new and delicious around every corner.

If you liked this guide, reach out to customize and book your next travel experience. Or just to chat about travel in general.