Acme Oyster House has been a mainstay in the NoLa dining scene since its inception in 1910. This iconic restaurant, with its vintage neon signboard, serves up a unique take on local flavors. Their signature raw oysters are a must have, followed by coastal specialties like Poopa, French bread canopy stuffed with sausage and shrimp gumbo.
A part of the Brennan family, Mr. B's Bistro features Creole cuisine served in an upscale ambiance. It has earned many accolades for its authentic menu and tantalizing flavors. Upon entering Mr. B's Bistro, you are transported to a refined yet relaxed setting. The restaurant's classic decor, featuring white tablecloths, dark wood accents, and soft lighting, creates an atmosphere of sophistication and charm where you can destress and lay back after a hectic day. From the iconic gumbo ya-ya, a rich and flavorful seafood and sausage gumbo, to the tender and juicy barbecue shrimp, each dish is prepared with meticulous attention to detail. And if you happen to be there, do give a try to the panko-crusted jumbo shrimp or the Gumbo Ya Ya, both of which are traditional favorites. To complement the culinary delights, the establishment boasts an extensive wine list featuring a curated selection of wines from around the world.
Arnaud's Restaurant, nestled in the iconic French Quarter of New Orleans, is a legendary establishment that has been delighting guests since 1918. With its timeless elegance, classic Creole cuisine, and impeccable service, Arnaud's offers an unforgettable dining experience. The beautiful dining rooms, adorned with chandeliers and antique furnishings, exude a sense of old-world charm. The menu features traditional Creole dishes like gumbo, étouffée, and turtle soup, prepared with the utmost attention to detail and using the finest local ingredients. The restaurant also boasts a renowned French 75 bar, where expert mixologists craft exceptional cocktails.
Built in 1834, Broussard's was once known as the Borello Mansion. In 1920, Joseph Broussard and his wife Rosalie Borello opened the lower level of this mansion to the public as a small restaurant. The subtle elegance and the imperial decor are reminiscent of Napoleonic days gone by. Broussard's Parisian culinary training, coupled with his demand for perfection, made this a five-star restaurant. Choose from such Creole classics as Pompano Evelyn or baked filet of redfish.
This building, which dates back to 1798, was acquired by the Brennan family in 1943 and transformed into a stunning restaurant with 12 elegantly decorated dining rooms called Brennan's. A beautiful courtyard of magnolia trees and picturesque fountains creates the perfect dining atmosphere. Begin breakfast with a brandy milk punch, followed by any one of the exquisite entrees, such as Eggs Hussarde, a Brennan's original. Dinner also offers a delightful assortment of delectable options. For dessert, try the famous Bananas Foster, another creation of Brennan's epicureans. Jackets are required for dinner, and reservations are recommended.
Situated in a quaint cottage, Bayona charms diners with its picturesque decor consisting of flower arrangements, murals, and photographs. Serving Louisiana cuisine with a bit of a twist, Chef Susan Spicer puts together an inviting meal. Sit in the courtyard amid the plants or enjoy the ambiance of the romantic indoor dining hall. The menu at Bayona showcases the talents of renowned chef Susan Spicer, who infuses her dishes with a creative twist while honoring Louisiana's culinary heritage. From the exquisite duck confit to the delectable smoked quail and Andouille sausage gumbo, each dish is a testament to the chef's skill and commitment to using fresh, locally sourced ingredients. And don’t miss out on trying the desserts, which are a must-try to finish off your meal.
From the heart of the French Quarter, Vacherie serves up Creole and Cajun flavors usually reserved for those who make their way to much more rural parts of Louisiana. This cozy and colorful restaurant serves breakfast, lunch, dinner and drinks from its location in the Hotel Suite Marie. Vacherie's main dining room also serves hearty portions of dishes, while the cafe serves lighter fare like salads and sandwiches.
Step into Muriel's for an authentic taste of New Orleans. Indulge in their flavorful offerings, including barbecued shrimp, gumbo, grilled drum fish, oysters, and a variety of appetizers, while your entrees are being prepared. Moreover, Muriel's is renowned for its Sunday jazz brunch, providing a delightful culinary experience. The tables are thoughtfully spaced apart to ensure private conversations, and Muriel's also hosts seasonal events such as dinner theaters. Muriel's charming ambiance, combined with its delectable cuisine and lively events, makes it a beloved destination for both locals and visitors.
With the growth of New Orleans, MRB Bar & Kitchen has become a cool spot and is frequented by people belonging to all walks of life. As with other bars in the neighborhood, friendliness and simple décor set the scene. Head here for drinks and bar snacks, and for some fun, you can choose from a wide array of games. The outdoor patio is a good setting to end your day with a cool glass of beer, while the locals cheer on their victory shuffling weights over the board.
Homemade ice cream and wonderfully hand-crafted sodas lure folks into The Soda Shop. This casual John Besh café in the World War II Museum takes visitors back to the days of the counter-service soda shop. Besh uses artisan ingredients to create sweet treats, like the Steen's Cane Syrup cupcake, house-made marshmallow cream pie and Very Very Local Berry Shakes. Need something with a little more substance? Order one of The Soda Shop's sandwiches, like the grilled pimento with roasted jalapeno country ham, or the Bad Mamma Jamma with pork gravy. Moreover, breakfast is served daily.
Headed by none other than the Queen of Creole Cuisine, Leah Chase herself, Dooky Chase's Restaurant is somewhat of a landmark in Mid-City. The rumor mill has it that the charming restaurant is more or less unchanged since its inception in 1941. Given the old-world charm and feel-good nostalgia that the restaurant exudes, the rumor doesn’t feel difficult to believe. Complementing the homely ambiance of the restaurant is the delectable range of Creole preparations, along with a selection of soul food. In addition to serving some of Louisiana's most-loved dishes like fried chicken, Veal Parmesan and Mac 'N' Cheese, Dooky Chase's is also famous for its incredible lunch buffets. For connoisseurs of Creole cuisine, Dooky Chase's Restaurant is almost like a pilgrimage, simply unmissable.
Willie Mae Seaton inspires and satisfies hungry customers with her famous fried chicken that she has been serving in her neighborhood restaurant for decades. With the assistance of her great-granddaughter, Kerry Seaton-Blackmon, Willie Mae's Scotch House continues to serve up homemade southern food like pork chops and red beans (alongside the restaurant's famous fried chicken) to customers looking for an award-winning lunch. Go to Willie Mae's Scotch House for a plate of unforgettable fried chicken, but don't expect to leave with the recipe — Willie Mae closely guards the famous formula that has kept customers coming back for years.