New Orleans Louisiana, USA Travel Guide
Creole cuisine developed within New Orleans. It is often refined. It incorporates European (French, Spanish) and African techniques, using local ingredients. Tomatoes, butter, and cream are common. This cuisine represents the city's cosmopolitan history.
Cajun cuisine developed in rural Louisiana by Acadians. It is rustic and often spicier. It frequently features a "holy trinity" of onion, celery, and bell pepper. Cajun dishes are less reliant on tomatoes. This cuisine reflects the resourceful nature of its origins.
Dining in New Orleans is a leisurely experience. Meals are savored. Do not expect rushed service.
Tipping is customary and expected. 15-20% is customary for good service.
Recommended for popular or fine dining. Dress codes vary from casual to smart casual for upscale places.
Thick, savory stew, often with a dark roux. Features seafood, chicken, andouille sausage, and vegetables. Served over rice. A cornerstone of Creole and Cajun cuisine.
Find at: Galatoire's, Commander's Palace, Gumbo Shop.
Flavorful rice dish with meat and/or seafood, vegetables, and spices. A hearty, one-pot meal. Distinctly Cajun/Creole.
Find at: Cochon Butcher, Coop's Place, K-Paul's Louisiana Kitchen.
Traditional sandwich on crusty New Orleans French bread. Fillings like fried seafood or roast beef with gravy. "Dressed" means with lettuce, tomato, pickles, mayo.
Find at: Parkway Bakery & Tavern, Domilise's Po-Boy & Bar, Johnny's Po-Boys.
Sazerac (official cocktail), Hurricane (rum punch), Ramos Gin Fizz (frothy gin cocktail). Café au Lait (coffee with chicory) for non-alcoholic.
Pralines (creamy pecans), Bread Pudding (whiskey sauce), Bananas Foster (flambéed bananas over ice cream). Also, street food like meat pies and snowballs.
For a special experience, New Orleans has world-renowned fine dining.
These establishments offer excellent food with a more relaxed atmosphere.
Enjoy delicious food without spending a lot.
French Market (historic open-air market), St. Roch Market (modern food hall), Auction House Market (upscale food hall in CBD).
Variety of food stalls and vendors.
Vietnamese (especially in New Orleans East), Italian, Mexican, Thai, and Indian cuisines are well-represented. City's multicultural population is visible.
Diversity beyond local cuisine.
Growing options available. Seed (fully vegan), Bearcat Cafe, Green Goddess. Use HappyCow app.
Many restaurants accommodate gluten-free/dairy-free. Always inform your server.
Dedicated restaurants are limited. Research in advance for specialized markets.
Apps like HappyCow or calling restaurants in advance are useful.
A New Orleans tradition. It combines brunch with live jazz music. Famous places Commander's Palace and Court of Two Sisters.
A perfect weekend experience.
Some smaller, often cash-only, restaurants welcome your own alcohol. A small corkage fee may apply.
A way to save on drink costs.
Formal farm visits from the city are limited. Some tours may visit local markets or artisanal food producers.
Many restaurants feature charming outdoor courtyards. These beautiful settings make for a delightful meal.
New Orleans cuisine is a world-renowned experience. It continually evolves. Chefs draw from historic roots while innovating. This keeps the food landscape dynamic and exciting.
