Top Local Dishes & Where to Try Them in New Orleans, United States
1. Gumbo
A hearty stew made with okra, seafood or meat, and a dark roux. Originates from West Africa, but New Orleans' gumbo is unique due to the Creole influence.
- Cultural Fusion: Blend of African, French, and Choctaw culinary traditions
- Seafood Delight: Features local seafood such as shrimp, crawfish, and oysters.
- Spice Up Your Life: Flavored with spices like file powder, bell peppers, and celery.
2. Jambalaya
A rice dish cooked with meat (usually andouille sausage) and vegetables like bell peppers, onions, and celery. Often served with seafood.
- One-Pot Wonder: Traditionally cooked in one pot for a rich flavor
- Creole or Cajun Distinction: Differentiated by the type of rice (long-grain or short-grain) and choice of meat or seafood.
- A Matter of Taste: Spiced to suit the cook's preference, making each jambalaya unique.
3. Po-boy Sandwich
A classic New Orleans sandwich made with French bread, dressed with lettuce, tomatoes, and mayonnaise. Popular fillings include roast beef, shrimp, or oysters.
- Bread Story: Uses locally baked French bread called 'po-boy loaf'
- Historical Significance: Originally served to streetcar conductors (po-boys) during labor strikes.
- Filling Flexibility: Variety of fillings catering to every taste preference.
4. Beignets
Deep-fried square dough pastries covered in powdered sugar. Traditionally enjoyed at Café du Monde.
- Dessert Delight: A sweet treat enjoyed for breakfast or anytime of the day.
- Café du Monde Connection: Inextricably linked with Café du Monde, a historic coffee shop in the French Quarter.
- Powdered Perfection: Covered in powdered sugar that melts on your tongue.
5. Muffuletta
A traditional New Orleans sandwich made with a round loaf of Italian bread, layered with various cold cuts, cheeses, and an olive salad.
- Central Grocery Legend: Originates from Central Grocery & Delicatessen in the French Quarter.
- Olive Salad Magic: A key ingredient made with olives, capers, and herbs.
- Sandwich of Substance: Filling enough to be a meal on its own.
6. Crawfish Étouffée
A Creole dish made with crawfish, cooked in a rich sauce flavored with okra, green bell peppers, and onions.
- Seafood Specialty: Showcases the freshness and flavor of local crawfish.
- Slow-Cooked Delight: Simmered for hours to allow flavors to meld and intensify.
- Rice Base: Served over rice, soaking up the delicious sauce.
7. Boudin Balls
A ball-shaped fritter made from a link of cooked boudin (a type of Louisiana sausage) that is breaded and deep-fried.
- Local Sausage Love: Made with the famous Cajun boudin sausage.
- Handheld Portion: Perfect for on-the-go snacking.
- Crispy Exterior, Soft Interior: A contrasting exterior crunch and soft, savory interior.
8. Red Beans and Rice
A classic New Orleans dish made with red kidney beans slow-cooked in a rich, smoky sauce with ham hocks or smoked sausage.
- Comfort Food Favorite: A meal that brings warmth and nostalgia.
- Slow-Cooked Flavor: The beans are cooked slowly, allowing flavors to meld together.
- Soul Food Essence: A dish that embodies the soul of New Orleans cuisine.
9. Shrimp Remoulade
Cold shrimp served with a tangy, creamy remoulade sauce, often garnished with pickles.
- Seafood Celebration: A refreshing dish that highlights fresh local shrimp.
- Creamy Tanginess: The remoulade sauce combines a variety of spices, herbs, and mustard for a complex flavor.
- Versatile Appetizer: Can be found in various settings, from casual bars to upscale restaurants.
10. Turtle Soup
A rich soup made with turtle meat, sherry, and a variety of spices, often served over rice.
- Historical Significance: Traditionally considered a luxury dish in New Orleans.
- Gamey Flavor: A strong, earthy flavor that sets it apart from other soups.
- Sherry's Sparkle: The addition of sherry gives the soup a unique and complex taste.
11. Sazerac
A classic New Orleans cocktail made with rye whiskey, absinthe, Peychaud's bitters, and a lemon twist.
- Spirit of the City: Symbolizes the history and culture of New Orleans.
- Absinthe Allure: The absinthe rinse gives the cocktail its distinct flavor and appearance.
- Storied Origins: Invented at the Sazerac Coffee House in the mid-19th century.
12. Brunch at Commander's Palace
Enjoy a traditional Southern brunch at this historic restaurant, featuring dishes like shrimp and grits, egg dishes, and a renowned carving station.
- Dining with History: One of the city's oldest and most famous restaurants.
- Southern Comfort Food: Offers a taste of classic Southern cuisine.
- White Jacket Service: Known for its elegant and attentive service in a charming setting.
13. Dinner at Galatoire's
Experience traditional Creole cuisine in an elegant setting at this historic restaurant, offering dishes like turtle soup, gumbo z'herbes, and pompano en papillote.
- Elegant Dining Experience: Known for its upscale atmosphere and impeccable service.
- Creole Heritage: Offers a taste of the rich Creole culinary tradition.
- Timeless Charm: A restaurant that has remained unchanged for generations.
14. Café du Monde Beignets and Coffee
Start your day with a cup of chicory coffee and a plate of warm beignets at this historic coffee shop in the French Quarter.
- Iconic Landmark: A must-visit attraction in New Orleans.
- Coffee with a Twist: The chicory coffee adds a unique flavor to your morning brew.
- Breakfast Bliss: A classic breakfast combination loved by locals and tourists alike.
15. French Quarter Bar Crawl
Explore the vibrant nightlife of New Orleans by bar-hopping through the French Quarter, tasting a variety of cocktails and local brews.
- Cultural Immersion: Gets you into the heart of New Orleans' nightlife.
- Cocktail Culture: Discover the city's famous cocktails and unique bars.
- Late-Night Fun: Offers an exciting night out in one of America's most spirited cities.