Dining

Ultimate Guide To New Orleans Food: What The Locals Eat

If you’re visiting New Orleans and looking for a place to eat, it’s hard to stay away from the tourist areas, which are pretty much scattered around downtown. But you may be wondering what do the locals eat?

New Orleans folk go to some of the same eateries that the tourists do, but not as frequent and not during the busy times. With that said, there are also some spots in the city that visitors will simply never know about — and that’s a good thing.

This article will show you some of the best places that local residents love to eat at in New Orleans.

Bennachin

1212 Royal St, New Orleans, LA 70116 | (504) 522-1230

Here’s what one customer says about Bennachin: “Amazing West African food. We got the Akara black eyed pea fritters to start, and also got the iced hibiscus tea. Then we split the Kone Ni Makondo, which is black-eyed peas in tomato and onion stew served with fried plantains and coconut rice; and Bennachin, which is Jollof rice with spinach. Everything we ate was absolutely incredibly delicious. The restaurant also had a really cool atmosphere and our server was super nice. All in all a perfect experience.”

Cafe Maspero

601 Decatur St, New Orleans, LA 70130 | (504) 523-6250

Here’s what one patron says about Cafe Maspero: “We planned to walk to Central Grocery for a late lunch of a muffaletta but came across Café Maspero and decided to try it. I’m so glad we did! We ordered drinks (Hurricane for hubby and a bourbon/sprite for me) and the muffaletta, which comes with fries, to share. Our server was very attentive and answered questions. Food came out quickly, was very hot, and oh so delicious! There was plenty to share for lunch, and we hope to come back and try more options from menu before we leave town. Highly recommend!”

Déjà Vu Restaurant & Bar

400 Dauphine St, New Orleans, LA 70112 | (504) 523-1931

Here’s what one patron says about Déjà Vu Restaurant & Bar: “Chill environment, fun and witty staff, food was great. Actually had some gumbo there that was better than others I tried in the area. And the 24/7hours are the best part!!!

Patios

6078 Laurel St, New Orleans, LA 70118 | (504) 895-9441

Here’s what one customer says about Patios: “The service was decent though a bit lacking for the cost. Great venue and overall great experience.”

M&J Soul Food Restaurant

9301 Lake Forest Blvd #107, New Orleans, LA 70127 | (504) 304-2703

Here’s what one reviewer says about M&J Soul Food. “Best chitterlings, clean and plenty. Well worth the price.”

Sneaky Pickle & Bar Brine

3200 Burgundy St, New Orleans, LA 70117 | (504) 218-5651

Here’s what one customer says about the Sneaky Pickle & Bar Brine. “One of the best vegan-friendly restaurants in the city, now in a big beautiful space! While the menu items are all great, it’s the specials that have me coming back all the time.”

Li’l Dizzy’s Cafe

1500 Esplanade Ave, New Orleans, LA 70116 | (504) 766-8687

Here’s what one customer says about Li’l Dizzy’s Cafe: “The owner himself greeted us at the door and seated us. A welcoming, friendly gentleman informed us of their brunch buffet, which consisted of fried chicken, smothered chops, traditional red beans n rice and many more of the foods specific to New Orleans menus.
But we were in the mood for breakfast and Kelsey, our server, was one of the nicest people I’ve met during my time here. She helped make our dining experience one of the most memorable moments in New Orleans.”

Saint John

1117 Decatur St, New Orleans, LA 70116 | (504) 581-8120

Here’s what one customer says about Saint John: “Mind blowing and mouth watering brunch experience. Pic of Oyster Sardou. I’m honored to have been the first to try this dish on there first opening for brunch. Thank you Chef.”

Final Word

New Orleans is one of those cities that have very special eateries in just about every area. It really does depend on what you have a taste for.

New Orleans continues to be under COVID restrictions, but you can still dine inside the restaurants, if that is your desire.

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James Johnson

James Johnson is a writer originally from New York City. She has lived in the South for the last 15 years and enjoys Creole cooking and shrimp and grits.