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“Kids eat free” meals are a great way to not only spend time with your children, but save some serious money for your food budget.
The way it usually works is a child csn eat for free or for a discount when their parent pays full price for a meal. Sometimes an adult entree will need to be bought and at other times, that’s not the case.
Where Do Kids Eat Free in New Orleans?
In the New Orleans area, there are plenty of restaurants that offer kids eat free deals.
- IHOP
- Smash burger
- TGI Fridays
- Golden Corral
- Skyline Chilis
- Free Birds World Burrito
- Pizza Delight
- Piccadilly
- Buffalo Wild Wings
- Frickers
- Fuddruckers
- Ruckers
- Hub City Diner
- Sweet Tomatoes
- Ruby Tuesday
- Firehouse Subs
- Johnny Rockets
- Sombreros Mexican Restaurant
- Bob Evans
How To Eat For Cheap
Now let’s explore some ways we can eat at a restaurant without it costing a lot of money.
Drink Water Instead
To save money, skip the soda, tea and coffe and opt for water instead. Not only will you save some cash, but not exposing your body to the sugar rush will be a good thing.
If you down a 16-ounce glass of water, that’s better for you anyway.
Go for a Salad
The most healthy thing you can eat in a restaurant is a salad. The added benefit is also that it will be relatively cheap when compared to another entree.
Go During Lunchtime
Another way to save at a restaurant is to eat there during lunchtime so you can capitalize on those lunchtime prices.
The portions during lunch hours may be a bit smaller as well, which your waistline will think you for.
Final Word
New Orleans has one of the best restaurant scenes in the Southeast, and with state of Southern cooking and an emphasis on the culinary arts at an all-time high, that’s saying something.
When New Orleans’ food is mentioned on a national level, it somehow always reverts back to gumbo, which is the best around, although the city’s eateries certainly represent those dishes well, there’s so much more.
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South Louisiana restaurant prices are getting out of hand, and that’s saying a lot when you consider the food haven that is the Pelican state.
In this article, we’re going to show you how to eat out and save money. This tips will cover ways you can keep more of your money from what you order on the menu as well as how you tip.
How To Save Money When Eating Out In Restaurants
Lets get into some ways you can save while eat9ng at restaurants.
1. Order The Special
Don’t roam across the menu for the exotic dishes you’ve never had. Stick with the daily special. That’s how you save money.
Most restaurants will have a dish or two that they’re offering for a lower cost. Keep it simple and save.
2. Tip Before The Food Comes
Contrary to popular belief, tipping can save you money. If you want to motivate your server and get more food (and drink) than you pay for, try giving your help a tip before they bring you your food.
If you tip beforehand, it can signal to your waiter or waitress that you’re serious about taking care of them. The early money will also inspire them to go the extra mile for you, including throwing in some extras.
3. Skip The Alcohol
Another way you can save is to forgo the wine and spirits while eating out. Restaurants make most of their margin on alcohol, especially if you order multiple drinks.
Do your wallet a favor and skip the hard drinks for soda…
4. Order Water
To save even more money, why don’t you just order water with your meal. Water is one of the most healthy drinks you can have.
Not only is water good for you, but it’s good for your wallet.
5. Skip The Dessert
One of the ways restaurants pad your food bill is to offer you a decadent dessert that is hard to resist. They know you’re probably full, so that’s why they rely on the server to physically show you the dessert so that your eyes can entice you to order it.
Skip the dessert so that you can keep the bill down. Your waist line will be glad you did.
Final Word
Restaurants are experts at getting you to spend more money than you intended. After all, the food is so food!
New Orleans is one of those cities that you can get lost in once you take the time to explore it. As the former capital of Louisiana, New Orleans is one of the most eclectic and eccentric cities in the world.
One of the things that makes the place special is the people, which are eager to show you a good time via parties and authentic New Orleans cuisine.
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If you’ve been out to eat in New Orleans, Louisiana over the past couple of years, you know that the menus have gotten pricier while the portions and food quality has either stayed the same or gotten worse.
A new report from Givex, a cloud-based customer and business insights platform, offering a detailed look into evolving consumer behaviors as food prices at restaurants across the nation continue to push upward.
More Restaurant Guests Say Eating Out a Challenge
The Givex 2024 Restaurant and Dining Trends Survey draws from responses of over 1,000 Americans, examining the impact of inflation on American dining preferences and habits.
Some key findings:
- A notable 78% of Americans agree that higher menu prices have made dining out more challenging over the past year.
- According to the survey, 86% of Americans cite promotions as a major incentive to dine out, closely followed by coupons and discounts at 81%.
- Additionally, 65% of respondents find value in loyalty programs, and nearly half (47%) are attracted to Happy Hour deals.
So what does all this mean for the modern restaurant consumer? It means that 41% of respondents are dining out less frequently, while 45% have reduced their food delivery orders compared to last year. Meanwhile, 60% report cooking more at home.
How To Save Money When You Eat Out
Here’s how you can save some money when eating out at a restaurant:
Use Coupons
If you receive mailers to your house or apartment with coupons in them, use them. Many restaurants offer BOGO deals or Kids Eat Free deals in coupons sent to your place of residence.
Join Loyalty Programs
Sign up and save by joining a restaurant loyalty program. Nearly half of all Americans prioritize grocery loyalty programs, with 49% rating them as most important, according to the survey. Overall, 87% of Americans participate in at least one loyalty program.
Opt for Leftovers
Many times at a restaurant, you’ll be served portion sizes that are way more food than you actually need or want. Why not treat the surplus as an additional meal that you can have later on? Creating leftovers from your restaurant meal is a great way to get more value out of dining out.
Final Taste
Eating out doesn’t have to be a drain on your wallet. Check out these steps to saving money on food to keep your budget in check.
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Chef Edgar Caro and partner Antonio Mata have unveiled their latest project, Brasa South American Steakhouse, in downtown New Orleans.
Taking over the former Morton’s Steakhouse location inside One Canal Place, this new restaurant is set to become a hot spot in the bustling intersection, especially with the upcoming Caesars New Orleans development across the street.
This downtown location is the second location of Brasa, but it will now serve as the brand’s flagship establishment, according to a press release.
Paying homage to the asado culture of Colombia, Brazil, and Argentina, Brasa showcases the open-fire traditions from Caro’s upbringing.
What’s On the Menu At Brasa?
The menu features a mix of extravagant dishes such as a 30-day aged 36 oz. Wagyu tomahawk steak and a lobster cocktail, as well as South American classics like boquerones and empanadas.
Final Word
If you plan on visiting the city for New Orleans, you should know that the area you’re staying in is safe.
Expect to indulge in many foods that New Orleans is known For, including Gumbo, Beignets and more.
Read about things to see and do in New Orleans.
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Dining / lifestyle / Where To Eat4 Min Read
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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Thai food in New Orleans has been known as that “other” spicy dish served in Louisiana’s food capital, but a new restaurant hopes to change that.
Good Catch | Thai Urban Bistro from veteran restaurateurs Aom Srisuk and Frankie Weinberg recently opened its doors in New Orleans.
The restaurant is open Monday to Saturday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. and 4:30 to 9:30 p.m. There is also a Happy Hour from 4:30 to 6:00 p.m. daily through the week.
What’s On The Menu At Good Catch?

Some of the menu items you’ll love at Good Catch | Thai Urban Bistro are:
- CRISPY OYSTER PANCAKE: Oyster, egg, bean sprouts, green onion
- JUMBO LUMP CRAB KAREE: Gulf shrimp, bacon, ginger, glass noodle, green onion
- STIR FRY: Stir-fry with jumbo lump crab, yellow onion, chinese celery, sweet pepper
Where Is Good Catch Located?
Good Catch | Thai Urban Bistro is located at 828 Gravier Street New Orleans, LA 70112. Here’s a map to help you find it.
https://maps.app.goo.gl/8CdShNcdSURNsdkh7?g_st=icFinal Word
Good Catch | Thai Urban Bistro is a great place to chow in the city.
When New Orleans’ food is mentioned on a national level, it somehow always reverts back to gumbo, which is the best around, although the city’s eateries certainly represent those dishes well, there’s so much more.
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Serving seafood both raw and cooked, Porgy’s Seafood Market recently opened its doors in New Orleans.
The fresh fish is straight off the boat and the staff all know about the seafood being served, so if you’re in the mood for some delicious food from the sea, Porgy’s is best.
Porgy’s Seafood Market Opens Its Doors
Porgy’s specializes in wild seafood, which you can get cooked to order or raw directly from the sea. Customers can order an assortment of:
- Fish sandwiches
- po-boys (oyster, shrimp, catfish)
- soups and salads
- raw bar (swordfish ceviche, clam ceviche)
Here’s what one customer said about Porgy’s Seafood Market. “Amazing produce and really great cooking. Everything is local and cooked very well. We had a blackened pampano (highly recommended), fried fish collars and fresh oysters (huge!), out of this world! So down to earth and well worth a drive to visit.”
Where Is Porgy’s Seafood Market Located?
Porgy’s is located at 235 Corrollton Ave., New Orleans, La. 70119. Here’s a map to help you find it.
Final Word
New Orleans has one of the best restaurant scenes in the Southeast, and with state of Southern cooking and an emphasis on the culinary arts at an all-time high, that’s saying something.
When New Orleans’ food is mentioned on a national level, it somehow always reverts back to gumbo, which is the best around, although the city’s eateries certainly represent those dishes well, there’s so much more.
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On February 1st, a new Smalls Sliders location at 4580 Veterans Memorial Boulevard in Metairie will hold its grand opening. This quick-service cheeseburger restaurant housed in shipping containers is co-owned by former New Orleans Saints quarterback Drew Brees, Jason Loezel, and Ben Smith.
Smalls Sliders, founded by Brandon Landry, debuted its first location in 2019 and has since expanded to encompass 160 operational or forthcoming restaurants.
Brees-Backed Smalls Sliders Opening In Metairie
“We’ve seen the excitement surrounding the Smalls brand, and it has only heightened around our grand opening,” Melissa Kernaghan, director of operations at Boilermaker Ventures and local operator of the Smalls Sliders in Metairie, told Biz New Orleans. “Smalls has become a staple within Louisiana communities, and people truly feel connected to the brand.”
Smalls Sliders has ambitious expansion plans this year with plans to open about 40 locations across the Southeast, according to the publication.
Brees, a savvy entrepreneur even during his playing days, is a key investor in the franchise.
“Drew has been an integral part of Smalls Sliders since its inception, and we are thrilled to celebrate his first can opening,” said Maria Rivera, CEO of Smalls Sliders. “His passion and commitment to our vision and values have been a driving force of our growth and brand culture, and we are proud to partner with him in Metairie and beyond.”
What’s On the Menu at Smalls Sliders?
The menu at Smalls Sliders has several delightful items you’re sure to like, including:
- Sliders with Beef Pattie, Toasted Buttered Bun, Melted Cheese, Pickle and Sauce
- Fries: Large Russet Potatoes with Special Seasoning
- Biggie Smalls: Double Meat, Double Cheese per slider and more

Where is the Smalls Sliders On Veterans Memorial Boulevard?
The Smalls Sliders eatery is located at 4580 Veterans Memorial Boulevard. Here is a map to help you find it.
Final Word
New Orleans has one of the best restaurant scenes in the Southeast, and with state of Southern cooking and an emphasis on the culinary arts at an all-time high, that’s saying something.
When New Orleans’ food is mentioned on a national level, it somehow always reverts back to gumbo, which is the best around, although the city’s eateries certainly represent those dishes well, there’s so much more.
More From NolaFi.com:
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Have you heard that New Orleans is for lovers? The city’s exquisite restaurant scene is perfect for a couple looking for love and food in the same place and on the same plate.
We’re going to show you some of the best places in New Orleans to eat for Valentines Day this year. All of these eateries specialize in fine dining, with great executive chefs and top-notch beverage programs. You won’t be sorry.
Where To Eat For Valentines Day In New Orleans
Many of the city’s restaurants have designed special meals for the special day, but why not try some eateries that have proven to be a hit on any given day? If you’re spontaneous -(and she loves that about you) here are some of the best places to eat.
Mother’s Restaurant
401 Poydras St, New Orleans, LA 70130 | (504) 523-9656

Here’s what one customer says about Mother’s: “Best jambalaya ever! I came here four years ago and texted my husband that I just ate the world’s best jambalaya. This time we came together for a friend’s wedding.”
Arnaud’s
813 Beinville, New Orleans, LA 70112 | (504) 523-5433

Here’s what one customer says about Arnaud’s: “We went to the bar for drinks and had an amazing experience. The drinks were fun, well balanced, and unique. We had several different cocktails and all of them were delicious. The architecture and design of the bar provides the perfect laid back atmosphere to relax in the juxtaposition of Bourbon st. This is a classy place with upscale food and drinks.”
Batture Bistro and Bar
111 Iberville St, New Orleans, LA 70130 | (504) 699-8021

Here’s what a diner says about Batture Bistro: “WOW! Best meal I’ve eaten in New Orleans yet. Went for brunch– what a delightful menu! And the chef himself went out of his way to welcome us in, and even made my daughter anything she asked for. Very friendly, wonderful service, and AMAZING food, beautifully presented. Beautiful restaurant/lounge with a gorgeous patio that has a small pool and fountain. Highly recommend you eat here. It was the best decision we’ve made while downtown.”
Coterie Restaurant & Oyster Bar

Here’s what one patron says about Coterie Restaurant & Oyster Bar: “I cannot say enough great things about this location. From the minute we walked in we were greeted warmly and seated immediately. Our server was incredible, she was so friendly and helpful. Our drinks were on point, the oysters were the best I’ve had. “
Mr. John’s Steakhouse
2111 St Charles Ave, New Orleans, LA 70130 | (504) 679-7697

Here’s what one diner says about Mr. John’s Steakhouse. “My husband and I celebrated our ten-year wedding anniversary and my birthday at this establishment last night. He had the Braised Pork Belly (appetizer) and Ribeye (entree). I had the Turtle Soup (appetizer, first time eating) and the Two Lobster Tails (entree). Our meals were cooked to perfection. The wait staff was cheery, friendly, and attentive. Ambience was so nice. I wanted to cry because everything went to so well. Tip: get your car parked by the valet. I would come back to eat here again. I highly recommend this restaurant.”
Chophouse New Orleans
322 Magazine St, New Orleans, LA 70130 | (504) 522-7902

Here’s what one reviewer says about Chophouse New Orleans. “My husband made reservations for my birthday. The manager chose a bottle of champagne at my husband’s request and had a card from the staff waiting on us. The food was amazing. We had the crab cocktail appetizer, steak, fries, and the onions and mushrooms. It was all fabulous. Roshaun and Brandon were amazing at meeting all our needs.”
Wille Mae’s Scotch House
2401 St Ann St, New Orleans, LA 70119 | (504) 822-9503

Here’s what one customer says about Willie Mae’s Scotch House: “By far some of the best Fried Chicken I’ve ever had (and I’ve had my fair share). In fact all the food was amazing. The Macaroni and Cheese presents itself as simple enough on first bite, but leaves a cheesy aftertaste that will warm your heart. The oven fresh cornbread muffins are not to be missed, and even the fries were cooked to perfection.”
L’il Dizzy’s Cafe
1500 Esplanade Ave, New Orleans, LA 70116 | (504) 766-8687

Here’s what one patron says about L’il Dizzy’s Cafe: “Lil Dizzy’s serves up some of the best soul food New Orleans has to offer. In addition to classics like po’boys and fried chicken, you can choose from daily specials like fried Catfish and grits or smothered pork chops.”
Final Word
There’s no better time than Valentine’s Day to check out a new restaurant or indulge in affectionate activities — or going out to eat — with your significant other. New Orleans, Louisiana, has several nice restaurants that you’ll love for Valentine’s Day.
Valentine’s Day is special for many reasons, but it’s not the only day to enjoy a nice restaurant.
When New Orleans’ food is mentioned on a national level, it somehow always reverts back to gumbo, which is the best around, although the city’s eateries certainly represent those dishes well, there’s so much more.
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Some of the top restaurants in New Orleans also have the best desserts, believe or not. Who doesn’t like dessert after some delicious seafood?
In this article, we’re going to go over some of the best desserts you can find in the city.
The 5 Best Desserts In New Orleans
Many cities have dishes that have become their signatures. Some cities in the South are known for their pecan pie or sweet tea. Here are five desserts that New Orleans is known for.
Bananas Foster

Bananas Foster is one of those sweet deserts that goes good after a nice bowl of gumbo. The dessert is primarly made up of bananas and vanilla ice cream. What makes it work is the rich sauce poured across it.
The sauce can be made of butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, dark rum, and banana liqueur. In New Orleans lore, the dish was created by Paul Blangé at Brennan’s restaurant in New Orleans.
You can find bananas foster on these New Orleans menus:
Beignets

There’s nothing like some coffee and beignets in the morning or even after an evening meal. Beignets are square-shaped dumplings deep-fried dumplings coverd with powered sugar.
Some eateries around New Orleans with cover the beignet head to toe in sugar while others will lightly sprinkle the white stuff over the top. It depends how you like it.
Where to find beignets in New Orleans:
Bread Pudding

Bread pudding is one of the most popular desserts in south Louisiana. It is comprised of bread, milk, eggs, and sugar overlaid with a caramel sauce or something similar.
Where to find some awesome bread pudding in New Orleans
Doberge Cake

Doberge cake is not as well known as some of the other dishes on our list, but in New Orleans, it’s reputation is long and undisputed as a go-to treat.
To make this cake, you’ll need a lot of custard with icing on the exterior. Doberge cake is basically a layer cake, so it’s common to make one half of it in chocolate or lemon and the other half in a totally different flavor.
Hubig’s Pies

Hubig’s pies have been rocking in New Orleans for decades and as a family-run business, it has become a matter of pride to patronize the place by indulging in its tasty treats.
Hubig’s pies are glazed turnovers with fruit fillings like apple and peach and blueberry. Although the factory burned in a fire in 2012, proprietor Andrew Ramsey says production is set to resume “in a matter of months.”
Final Word
What’s your favorite dessert? In New Orleans, that question can be difficult.
There you have it: From beignets to bananas foster and finally Hubig’s pies, we’ve shown you what makes New Orleans so sweet and addicting.
Everybody has a sweet tooth in New Orleans. That’s one of the reasons why after every meal, you’ll find a pie or pastry to top it off. But what are the city’s go-to desserts?
What about you? What are some of the best desserts and treats you can find in New Orleans. Let us know in the comments below!
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