Where Locals Eat In New Orleans’ French Quarter

The French Quarter is the beating heart of New Orleans, famous for its jazz, architecture, and food. But amid the neon lights and crowds on Bourbon Street, it’s easy to stumble into overpriced tourist traps serving mediocre gumbo or frozen hurricanes.

Étouffée, particularly crawfish and shrimp, is a local favorite, especially in spring when crawfish are in season.

For an authentic dining experience, you might ask where do the locals go to eat in New Orleans, specifically the French Quarter. We’ve got a few spots that we enjoy. Shall we?

Café du Monde

800 Decatur St, New Orleans, LA 70116 | (504) 587-0833

Famous for its beignets and café au lait, this iconic spot is popular among locals and visitors alike for a classic New Orleans breakfast or snack.

Love these sweet treats? Read our Beignet Guide for New Orleans.

Central Grocery

923 Decatur St, New Orleans, LA 70116 | (504) 523-1620

Known for its Muffuletta sandwich, Central Grocery is a favorite among locals for a taste of this classic New Orleans dish.

Acme Oyster House

724 Iberville St, New Orleans, LA 70130 | (504) 522-5973

A popular spot for fresh seafood and oysters, Acme Oyster House is known for its lively atmosphere and delicious dishes.

Here’s what a visitor to Acme Oyster House says. “If Chargrilled oysters are your thing then this is the place for you! One of the best in town. I always overeat everytime we visit. Love the staff as well. Always so welcoming.”

Coop’s Place

1109 Decatur St, New Orleans, LA 70116 | (504) 525-9053

This casual eatery is popular with locals for its Cajun and Creole cuisine, including dishes like gumbo, jambalaya, and fried chicken.

Here’s what one customer says about Coop’s Place. “This place is incredible! The Rabbit and Sausage Jambalaya is so good I could probably eat a gallon of it. The Cajun Fried Chicken is perfectly seasoned, moist, and crispy. The Cole Slaw is like the cole slaw you expect at a southern family reunion and that’s a good thing. The Red Beans & Rice was perfect.”

Johnny’s Po-Boys

511 St Louis St, New Orleans, LA 70130 | (504) 524-8129

A classic New Orleans po-boy shop, Johnny’s is known for its wide variety of po-boy sandwiches, including both traditional and creative options.

Sylvain

 625 Chartres St, New Orleans, LA 70130 | (504) 265-8123

Known for its upscale yet relaxed atmosphere, Sylvain offers a menu of modern American cuisine with a Southern twist, making it a popular choice for a special night out.

Final Bite

Where the locals eat is where the good food is at for sure. As a top-tier convention city, New Orleans is known for its many festivals, parties and events. Is the city safe? Of course. That also means that Nola is also a top travel destination.

Want real-time tips on how to save when you’re on a trip? Read our Travel Savings Guide.