10 Amazing Places to Eat in New Orleans for Foodies (Tried and Loved!)

According to Travel + Leisure, New Orleans ranks among the top cities in the U.S. for its incredible food scene, and I couldn’t agree more. On my last visit, just before boarding our Norwegian Getaway cruise, I finally made it to two classic spots that had been on my list for years: Brennan’s for its iconic Bananas Foster and Coop’s Place for its famous fried chicken and jambalaya. Both lived up to the hype.

While I haven’t tasted everything New Orleans has to offer, this list of 10 amazing places to eat highlights some of my favorite meals so far. Most are in or near the French Quarter, and each one captures a different side of the city’s food scene.

Note: The original location of Willi Mae temporarily closed in April of 2023 due to a fire. They are currently operating at a new location.

Willie Mae’s was on my New Orleans must-visit list for years, and it truly lived up to its reputation for the best fried chicken in America. Not just a local favorite, it’s celebrated nationwide, with accolades including a James Beard award and endorsements from notables like President Obama and Phil Rosenthal of Somebody Feed Phil.

Despite the buzz, Willie Mae’s delivers. My first bite—crispy skin yielding to succulent, perfectly spiced chicken—confirmed its stellar reputation. Located in the historic Treme neighborhood, the restaurant complements its exceptional food with outstanding service. The staff’s passion is evident as they guide diners through the menu, ensuring a delightful culinary experience.

Alongside our chicken plates—white for me, dark for my husband—we enjoyed sides like freshly served mac ‘n’ cheese and green beans with rice that nearly had us licking the plate, not to forget the essential cornbread.

I was thoroughly impressed, even as someone who’s not typically a fried chicken fan. This visit confirmed Willie Mae’s as the best fried chicken I’ve ever had.

A tip for those staying in the French Quarter: a short ride to Willie Mae’s is well worth it. Consider walking off your meal on the way back to soak in more of New Orleans’ charm.

Let’s be clear: I am not a fan of raw oysters. My one attempt ended quickly, and I swore off anything but fried oysters after that. However, everyone insisted that if I were in New Orleans, I had to try charbroiled oysters at either Acme or Felix’s. Fresh from a satisfying meal at Willie Mae’s, I skeptically headed to Acme Oyster House for dinner, determined to give charbroiled oysters a shot.

Despite feeling full, curiosity won the day. We queued briefly, and once we were seated, I debated how many to order. A neighboring diner, visiting New Orleans for the third time that year just for these oysters, convinced me to try one of hers, proclaiming, “You’ll want at least three dozen—they’re that good!” Grateful but cautious, I opted for a more manageable dozen, with some hush puppies on the side.

She was right. The oysters, smothered in butter, garlic, various seasonings, and cheese, then finished on the charbroil for that unmistakable smoky flavor, were unlike anything I’d ever tasted. The crispy, charred cheese on the shell’s edges was a revelation. Dipping the accompanying bread into the heavenly sauce, I understood her enthusiasm; it was addictive. I would have indulged in more if not for my earlier meal.

A word of caution: not all charbroiled oysters are created equal. I learned that the hard way at a different restaurant.

Acme’s “10 Napkin Roast Beef” sandwich is a phenomenal alternative for those traveling with non-oyster fans. Packed with tender roast beef and dripping with gravy, it’s just as worthy of a visit.

Seeking a special spot in New Orleans for an anniversary dinner or a memorable birthday brunch? Look no further than Muriel’s in Jackson Square.

We’ve enjoyed ourselves at Muriel’s on multiple occasions—a friend’s wedding reception and then brunch just for us. Each visit confirmed why Muriel’s stands out: the food was outstanding, surpassing typical wedding fare.

At the wedding, we enjoyed crab cakes as an appetizer, which were so delicious that even my fish-averse husband still talks about them. The entrée choices included filet mignon, so tender it could be cut with a butter knife, and shrimp and grits with a rich smoked tomato butter sauce and garlic—both dishes left our table buzzing with praise.

Conveniently located near our hotel at Place de Armes, we also experienced Muriel’s brunch. We managed to get a table amidst the crowd and indulged in Bananas Foster Pain Perdu and Eggs Veney, which were sinfully satisfying. It was easily one of the best brunches we’ve enjoyed.

Reservations are recommended to secure a spot at this culinary gem in the heart of the French Quarter.

NOLA Poboys was a great find on our first night in New Orleans. Starving and pressed for time before a night cemetery tour, we turned to Yelp and found NOLA Poboys just a short distance away, highly rated, and promising quick service.

We dashed in, placed our orders, and hoped for the best. Our food arrived swiftly, and the Big Easy po’boy—loaded with roast beef and ham—and the boudin balls were so delicious that we quickly polished them off. It was a feast we wished we could have savored a bit more.

Po’boys, a beloved New Orleans staple since 1923, traditionally consist of a protein like shrimp or roast beef served on French bread with lettuce, tomatoes, mayo, and mustard. The fried shrimp po’boy is a local favorite. While you can find po’boys nearly anywhere in the city, NOLA Poboys stands out for its authentic flavors and quick, friendly service.

Oh, Loretta’s—you had me at beignets.

While Loretta’s pralines are a treat, their beignets steal the show. The best I’ve found in the French Quarter, these beignets are light, airy, yet satisfyingly crispy. It’s impossible to stop at just one.

Nestled in the French Market, we couldn’t resist trying the praline-stuffed beignets. Despite just coming from brunch at Muriel’s and thinking I’d only have one, I ended up enjoying two—they were that irresistible.

And there’s more on my list for next time. A local recommended the crab-stuffed beignets, and I can’t wait to try them on my next visit.

Have you ever tried a savory beignet? If so, what kind? Loretta’s offers a variety that’s sure to intrigue any palate, from crab beignets to burger beignets, alongside their sweet selections.

Make sure to add Loretta’s to your New Orleans itinerary. You can even skip the usual Cafe du Monde visit and head straight to Loretta’s for a unique treat. We visited their charming spot in the French Market, but their original location at 2101 North Rampart is also worth checking out.

Read more: Try These Beignet Spots in New Orleans

Coop’s Place has that no-frills local energy that instantly tells you the food’s going to be good. After a late landing in the Crescent City, we headed here for a late dinner and grabbed a table among both tourists and locals. We both ordered cups of their house favorite rabbit-and-sausage jambalaya and fried chicken plates. Both dishes were hearty, flavorful, and exactly what you want from New Orleans comfort food.

The service can be a bit brusque, but that’s part of the charm—it’s all about keeping things moving. And if you pull out your phone at the table, don’t be surprised if your waiter reminds you to put it away, talk to your tablemates, and enjoy your meal.

Note: Coop’s Place is 21 and over, so it’s not a spot for families with kids.

If you’re after something delicious and served without much fuss, Coop’s Place is the spot to go.

Brennan’s had been on my foodie bucket list ever since I learned it’s the birthplace of Bananas Foster, one of New Orleans’ most famous desserts. This historic restaurant has been serving Creole classics for decades, keeping the city’s culinary traditions alive in the heart of the French Quarter.

We snagged dinner reservations, though brunch is also a popular time to go. The dining rooms are elegant and timeless, with warm lighting, pink walls, and classic New Orleans charm. It strikes the right balance between upscale and relaxed—the kind of place where you can dress up a little but still feel at ease after a day of exploring.

We started with an heirloom tomato salad and a cup of seafood gumbo, both flavorful and beautifully presented. For our mains, the blackened redfish and bone-in ribeye were cooked perfectly—the fish had just the right amount of spice, and the steak was tender and full of flavor.

We couldn’t leave without ordering the Bananas Foster, prepared tableside with all the flair you’d expect. Part of the fun is the presentation—the flames, the aroma, and the quick retelling of how this signature dessert came to be right here at Brennan’s. It was the perfect ending to the night, and I highly recommend eating here at least once.

8. Alberto’s Cheese and Wine

We absolutely love Alberto’s in the French Market. During our first visit to New Orleans, a local guide on a walking tour of the French Quarter recommended their muffulettas, and ever since it’s been a must-visit for us.

A muffuletta is an Italian sandwich made with round sesame bread, layered with cold cuts and a flavorful olive tapenade. Alberto’s serves theirs warm and toasty, enhancing all the rich flavors. You can order a quarter of a sandwich to sample or a whole one to share, making it a versatile choice for a meal or a quick snack.

Alberto’s offers a casual dining experience—perfect for a leisurely lunch or an easy bite between exploring. Conveniently located next to Loretta’s, it’s an ideal spot to enjoy some of the best local flavors the French Market has to offer.

For a New Orleans brunch experience, Ruby Slipper Cafe is a must. This local favorite serves Southern-style comfort food all day, and there’s usually a wait—but it’s worth it.

The biscuits are the highlight. I tried a bite of my husband’s and immediately ordered one for myself. Their Eggs Benedict variations are also standout dishes, especially the Eggs Cochon with slow-cooked pork debris and the Chicken St. Charles topped with fried chicken and hollandaise. Every plate that passed our table looked tempting.

The space feels upbeat and welcoming, and the friendly staff keep things running smoothly even during the morning rush. It’s an easy place to linger over a hearty breakfast before heading out to explore.

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When in the French Quarter, stop by Toast for breakfast or brunch. This laid-back spot serves up French toast, waffles, crepes, and omelets, all made from scratch and full of flavor.

I ordered the stuffed King Cake French toast, complete with a side of eggs. It looked almost too pretty to eat and tasted even better—the edges were perfectly crisp, and the filling had just the right sweetness. My husband ordered the fried chicken and waffles, and while it’s no Willie Mae’s, the chicken was crispy and juicy, paired perfectly with the light, airy waffle.

It’s a cozy place to start your day before exploring the Quarter, and one we’ll definitely return to.

Local Recommended Spots to Try

• Triangle Deli: Southern-style food, serving the best mac n’ cheese in town.
• Brother’s Food Mart: Highly recommended for their fried chicken.
• Key Fuel: Don’t let the gas station setting fool you; they supposedly have some of the best po’boys around.

BEFORE YOU TRAVEL TO NEW ORLEANS, CHECK OUT THESE RELATED READS:

• What to Do in the French Quarter
• New Orleans in 3 Days Itinerary
• What’s it Like for Halloween in New Orleans