New Orleans is renowned for its one-of-a-kind culture, toe-tapping music, and diverse food scene. The coexistence of classic Creole dishes and contemporary new American cuisine is truly unmatched. It is a haven for gastronomists, offering a range of staples that are not only delicious but also steeped in tradition and history.
From the famous beignets and café au lait at Café du Monde to the spicy jambalaya and juicy crawfish at the Felix’s, these NOLA staples will surely leave a lasting impression on your taste buds. In this blog post, I will take you on a culinary journey through the Big Easy, highlighting some of the most popular dishes I indulged in during my weekend trip to New Orleans and where you can find them. So get ready to tantalize your taste buds with some delicious southern food. If you’re short on time, take this tasty tour to make the most of your visit!
A Weekend in New Orleans: Mardi Gras, Cajun Food and History!
New Orleans Food Guide: What & Where to Eat in New Orleans
Gumbo
A trip to Louisiana is incomplete without indulging in its official state cuisine. This classic dish is a perfect blend of cultural influences, including African, French, Spanish, and Native American Choctaw. It comes in two varieties: Creole and Cajun. The Creole gumbo is a seafood lover’s delight, made with shellfish and a dark roux, filé, or both. On the other hand, the Cajun gumbo is a meat lover’s dream, made with a dark roux and either shellfish or fowl. Whichever you pick, you are undoubtedly in for a treat. For the ultimate gumbo experience, head to the award-winning restaurant Gumbo Shop (our personal favorite) or Nonno’s Cajun Cuisine and Pastries.
Étouffée
If you are a gumbo lover, you will definitely love étouffée (pronounced eh-too-fey). The name comes from the French word “to smother,” which perfectly describes this rich and comforting dish. It has a similar flavor profile but a much thicker consistency and is served with shellfish over rice. One of the most popular forms of étouffée is Crawfish étouffée, a must-try for anyone visiting the city. To taste the best, head over to Olde Nola Cookery to leave a lasting impression on your taste buds.
Jambalaya
Jambalaya is a NOLA culinary staple with a history dating back to the Spanish settlers. These settlers attempted to recreate their native paella using local ingredients, giving birth to this delicious and hearty dish. Modern-day jambalaya is a mix of chicken, seafood, and sausage (or all three!), making it a filling and flavorful meal perfect for any time of day. If you are in New Orleans, head to Felix’s Restaurant & Oyster Bar to savor one of the best jambalayas in town.
Oysters
Oysters are a staple in New Orleans cuisine, and the wild-grown Gulf oyster reigns supreme. This type of oyster is the preferred ingredient for cooked oyster dishes and is the go-to choice for most oyster bars in the city. For an authentic and atmospheric oyster-eating experience, be sure to visit some of the city’s oldest and most beloved oyster bars, such as Casamento’s, Pascal’s Manale, Felix’s, and Acme Oyster House.
Po’boys
Po-boys, a classic sandwich from New Orleans, is a must-try for any gastronomist visiting the city. Made using a baguette stuffed with your choice of meat (such as roast beef, fried shrimp, or oysters), vegetables (lettuce, tomato, and pickles), and slathered with sauce or mayonnaise for added flavor. The name originated from its roots as a sandwich for poor boys, as it originally served to strike workers during the Great Depression in 1929. For the best po-boys in town, head to Parkway Bar and Tavern or Guy’s Po-Boys. Moreover, if you are up for a twist on the classic po-boy, try the Peacemaker, a sandwich that combines fried shrimp and fried oysters.
Beignets
Beignets are one of the most beloved dishes in New Orleans. They are a unique twist on traditional square-shaped doughnuts, made with a sweet, yeast-based dough, which is fried and coated with powdered sugar. This French-inspired dish has been a staple in Louisiana since the arrival of French settlers and is a favorite treat for its visitors. Therefore, we recommend visiting Cafe Du Monde – a historic cafe serving delicious beignets since 1862 to enjoy the best beignets in New Orleans.
King Cake
King cake, a must-have for Mardi Gras, is a traditional pastry decorated with festive colors purple, green, and gold. With a hidden plastic baby inside, the person who finds it in their slice is deemed the king or queen for a day and tasked with hosting the next Mardi Gras celebration. The cake symbolizes the gifts from the Three Wise Men to the Christ Child during the visit on Epiphany. To taste this cherished Mardi Gras tradition, visit Manny Randazzo King Cakes or Laura’s Candies.
Sno-balls and ice cream
Sno-balls are a delightful treat invented in Louisiana. It is made with finely shaved ice and flavored sugar syrup. Unlike snow cones with a coarse and crunchy texture, sno-balls boast a refined and fluffy melt-in-the-mouth consistency. The history dates back to the 1930s when George Ortolano and Ernest Hansen first invented ice-shaving machines and started serving the treat to New Orleanians. If you’re looking for a sweet escape, head to Williams Plum Street Snowballs.
Cocktails
In a city with a rich history, even the simplest of drinks can serve as a celebration of the past. New Orleans is famous for its traditional cocktails. From the refreshing brandy milk punch to the iconic Café Brûlot, making them more popular than ever. One of the city’s most famous cocktails is the Sazerac, America’s first mixed drink. Its origin is a bit of a mystery. Some give credit to Antoine Amédé Peychaud for creating it in his Royal Street pharmacy in the 1830s. While others attribute its creation to Thomas Handy, a saloon owner in the 1870s. Regardless of its origin, the Sazerac remains a beloved cocktail in New Orleans. To experience the best drinks the city has to offer, visit Marilou Bar.
Coffee
In Louisiana, coffee culture is all about the perfect balance of dark roast and the unique addition of chicory. The use of chicory in coffee is a hotly debated topic with a history rooted in European coffee culture. Historically, adding chicory to coffee extended the life of the expensive coffee beans, creating a delicious and affordable blend. Louisiana has a coffee option for every taste. Whether you prefer a rich dark roast or a mix that includes chicory. Cafe Du Monde is the best place to grab a classic cup of coffee with chicory. Alternatively, head to French Truck Coffee for a premium dark roast experience.
