Must-Try Restaurants in New Orleans You Simply Can’t Miss

New Orleans is a culinary treasure trove, brimming with flavors that tell stories of its rich history and cultural fusion. From traditional Creole and Cajun dishes to innovative modern cuisine, this city offers a dining experience unlike any other. Here’s a curated list of must-try restaurants in New Orleans that capture the city’s legendary culinary spirit—from classic Creole institutions to buzzing neighborhood gems. Whether you’re after a po’ boy, fresh Gulf oysters, or a fine-dining experience steeped in history, these are the places locals and travelers alike rave about.

1. Commander’s Palace – Garden District

Step into the grandeur of Commander’s Palace, a New Orleans icon nestled in the Garden District. This fine-dining establishment is renowned for its Creole classics, offering a culinary journey through dishes like turtle soup and pecan-crusted Gulf fish.

Don’t miss their famous 25¢ martinis during weekday lunches, a delightful nod to old-world charm. The atmosphere, with its vibrant décor and attentive service, envelops you in a warm embrace.

Here, tradition meets innovation, making every meal a celebration of flavors. A visit to Commander’s Palace is more than dining; it’s an experience to savor.

2. Café du Monde – French Quarter

Touristy, yes, but Café du Monde is an essential stop in New Orleans. Nestled in the heart of the French Quarter, this legendary café serves up the city’s iconic beignets and café au lait.

Imagine biting into a warm, fluffy pastry, with powdered sugar cascading like snowflakes onto your lap. The bustling atmosphere is alive with the sounds of jazz and chatter, adding to the experience.

Whether for breakfast or a late-night snack, Café du Monde offers a sweet slice of New Orleans history, drawing visitors and locals alike to its sugary delights.

3. Dooky Chase’s Restaurant – Treme

Dooky Chase’s Restaurant is more than just a place to eat; it’s a cornerstone of Creole culture and history. Located in the Treme neighborhood, this legendary Black-owned establishment played a pivotal role in the civil rights movement.

Inside, you’ll find walls adorned with art and a menu rich with soul, featuring dishes like gumbo and fried chicken that resonate with tradition.

Every visit feels like stepping into a warm family gathering. With each bite, you taste the passion and heritage infused in every dish, making Dooky Chase’s a must-visit culinary pilgrimage.

4. Willie Mae’s Scotch House – Treme

Home to what many claim is the best fried chicken in America, Willie Mae’s Scotch House is a culinary legend. Nestled in the Treme neighborhood, this humble eatery offers crispy, juicy chicken that bursts with deep, savory flavors.

The unassuming exterior belies the gastronomic delight that awaits inside. Each piece of chicken is a testament to time-honored recipes and culinary passion.

A meal here is not just satisfying; it’s an experience steeped in local tradition. Willie Mae’s invites you to taste the flavors of New Orleans, one crispy bite at a time.

5. Cochon – Warehouse District

Cochon is where Cajun heritage meets culinary creativity, offering a down-to-earth dining experience in the Warehouse District. This lively restaurant, with its rustic charm, is a tribute to Southern ingredients and flavors.

From wood-fired oysters to pork and black-eyed pea gumbo, each dish is a symphony of tastes that celebrate the region’s rich food culture. The open kitchen and welcoming ambiance invite you to witness culinary artistry firsthand.

Cochon is more than a meal; it’s an invitation to explore the depths of Cajun cuisine, leaving every diner inspired and satisfied.

6. Brigtsen’s – Uptown

Tucked away in a cozy Uptown setting, Brigtsen’s offers a heartfelt dining experience that feels like home. Chef Frank Brigtsen crafts refined Creole dishes that tell a story, from seafood gumbo to his signature duck creations.

The intimate atmosphere, with its inviting charm, makes guests feel like treasured friends. Each meal is a reflection of passion and dedication, served with genuine warmth.

Dining at Brigtsen’s is not just about the food; it’s a celebration of community and the love for Creole cuisine. Every visit leaves you with a taste of New Orleans’ soul.

7. Casamento’s Restaurant – Uptown

Since 1919, Casamento’s has been a cherished seafood haven in Uptown New Orleans. Known for its unique oyster loaf—a po’ boy served on pan bread—and sumptuous fried seafood platters, this spot is a true local gem.

The vintage tile floors and classic oyster bar evoke nostalgia and tradition. Seasonal openings mean every visit is a special occasion.

As you savor each bite, the flavors transport you to the Gulf’s bountiful shores. Casamento’s is more than a restaurant; it’s a timeless piece of New Orleans’ culinary tapestry, capturing the essence of its seafood heritage.

8. Herbsaint – Central Business District

Herbsaint is a beacon of contemporary dining in New Orleans, blending Southern charm with French sophistication. Situated in the Central Business District, this modern bistro delights with innovative takes on classic dishes.

The house-made pastas and rich gumbo are must-orders, each offering a dance of flavors that linger delightfully on the palate. The chic setting and vibrant atmosphere make every visit memorable.

At Herbsaint, culinary artistry meets comfort, inviting you to savor each dish with appreciation. It’s a place where New Orleans’ spirit and French elegance beautifully collide.

9. Domilise’s Po-Boys – Uptown

For a true taste of New Orleans, Domilise’s Po-Boys is a must. This beloved neighborhood shop in Uptown has been serving up legendary po’ boys for decades, with fried shrimp and roast beef sandwiches among the most popular.

The charming, no-frills atmosphere is filled with the aroma of freshly cooked fare and the buzz of happy diners. Each bite is a delightful explosion of flavors and textures.

Visiting Domilise’s is like stepping back in time, where tradition and taste come together. A po’ boy here is a rite of passage for anyone exploring the city’s culinary landscape.

10. Drago’s Seafood Restaurant – Metairie & Riverside

Drago’s Seafood Restaurant is famed for its charbroiled oysters, a dish that has captured the hearts of locals and visitors alike. Located in both Metairie and Riverside, this lively seafood haven offers a taste of New Orleans that’s hard to forget.

The sizzling oysters, drenched in garlic butter and topped with Parmesan, are a sensory delight. The robust flavors and vibrant setting make every meal an experience to remember.

At Drago’s, the spirit of New Orleans is alive in every dish. Whether you’re a first-timer or a regular, the oysters are a must-try, promising to leave you craving more.