Best restaurants in New Orleans

64 people recommend, 1 warns against itvia r/NewOrleans, r/AskNOLA

GW Fins is a seafood restaurant that many diners recommend for an upscale meal. The dry-aged tuna, lobster dumplings and scallibut draw specific praise, and commenters describe strong food and service. One visitor calls it their best New Orleans meal in years. Dissent remains: one diner reports overcooked seafood and poor service, while another likes the restaurant but would not choose it specifically for Cajun or Creole cooking.

52 people recommendvia r/AskNOLA, r/NewOrleans, X

Brigtsen's in Riverbend draws repeated recommendations for traditional New Orleans cooking. Diners single out the duck and barbecue shrimp, and one calls it the best restaurant of its type in the state. One commenter advises calling ahead for reservations.

Riverbend

45 people recommend, 6 warn against itvia r/AskNOLA, r/NewOrleans

Pêche draws many recommendations for seafood, including oysters and whole grilled fish. Individual diners also single out steak tartare, smoked tuna dip and a ribeye for two. The bar comes up as an option for solo dining. Views are not unanimous: some find it pricey or loud, one reports an underwhelming visit, and another likes the food but finds portions small.

44 people recommend, 1 warns against itvia r/NewOrleans, r/AskNOLA

Paladar 511 is recommended as a modern Italian spot, described as semi-fancy and hip with a bistro-style setting. Diners single out dishes including arancini, pappardelle, squid ink spaghetti and a beef carpaccio with fried oysters, and a few call the food consistently delicious. One visitor had a subpar meal with undercooked, underseasoned dishes and indifferent service, so opinions are not unanimous.

42 people recommendvia r/NewOrleans, r/AskNOLA

Clancy's is a frequent pick for dinner in New Orleans, described as an upscale, old-school spot with a loyal following. Diners single out the lemon icebox pie, the fried oyster and Brie appetizer, the lobster risotto, and the filet with Stilton. One visitor had an excellent lunch with great service, while another found the food only okay despite the lovely ambiance and great service, and one diner felt walk-ins without a regular's standing get less attention.

38 people recommendvia r/NewOrleans, r/AskNOLA

Irene's is a French Quarter destination for Creole-Italian fine dining, with many people recommending it for a romantic evening and praising the atmosphere and service. One diner would pick it for the food alone, and another calls it the only answer for New Orleans Italian. A visitor names it their go-to for birthday dinners.

French Quarter

38 people recommend, 3 warn against itvia r/NewOrleans, r/AskNOLA

Tia Maria's Kitchen on Tulane Avenue draws strong support for Honduran food and value. Diners single out pupusas, baleadas and fried pork chop, with other recommendations for plantains and chicken soup. The praise is not unanimous: some diners found the food disappointing, including one who disliked the pupusas and baleadas.

Tulane

34 people recommend, 3 warn against itvia r/AskNOLA, r/NewOrleans

Bayona draws repeated recommendations for French Quarter dining. Diners single out sweetbreads, garlic soup and rabbit fricassee, and several praise their meals and the service. Opinions are not unanimous: one visitor was disappointed by a small scallop portion, while others describe declining quality or say they would no longer recommend it.

French Quarter

33 people recommend, 1 warns against itvia r/NewOrleans, r/AskNOLA

Mandina's is a longstanding neighborhood restaurant on Canal Street that people recommend for classic New Orleans cooking in generous portions. Diners single out the turtle soup, gumbo, onion rings, fried oysters and softshell crabs, and the meatball sandwich draws particular praise, though one visitor calls the sandwich the best thing on a menu that has otherwise been uneven. One commenter praises the Italian dishes, and another describes the seafood as consistent, while one dissenting commenter feels the place has become pricey and no longer worth it.

Canal and Cortez

33 people recommend, 3 warn against itvia r/NewOrleans, r/AskNOLA

N7 in the Bywater draws repeated dining recommendations. A visitor describes enjoying the garden and service despite finding the food underwhelming, and another notes a shift toward Japanese dishes. Opinions about the cooking are mixed: one diner finds it good rather than great, while another reports inconsistency.

Bywater

33 people recommend, 6 warn against itvia r/AskNOLA, r/NewOrleans

Commander's Palace is a classic Garden District fine-dining destination that many diners recommend for Creole cooking, a sense of occasion and a memorable jazz brunch. One diner praises the garden room for food and service, and another calls it a great setting for a milestone celebration. Some visitors say it is more about the experience than the food, and a few report inconsistency in recent years. One commenter finds it cheesy and past its prime.

Garden District

32 people recommendvia r/NewOrleans, r/AskNOLA

Toups is a Cajun meat-focused spot that many diners recommend for hearty dishes like the double pork chop, turkey necks and boudin. People praise the food, with one visitor noting the giant pork chop stretches to two meals. It is pricey, and one diner finds it too expensive for lunch, while another calls it a great value for the quality.

32 people recommendvia r/NewOrleans, r/AskNOLA

Napoleon House draws repeated recommendations for its warm muffuletta. One diner calls it excellent for lunch, and another feels the warm style is done particularly well. Diners also mention generous portions and value, while an individual commenter recommends pairing appetizers with a Pimm's Cup.

French Quarter

31 people recommend, 5 warn against itvia r/AskNOLA, r/NewOrleans, X

Galatoire's draws repeated recommendations as a classic French Quarter dining experience. Diners single out trout amandine, oysters Rockefeller, seafood gumbo and crab dishes. Views on value and food quality split: several describe mediocre or uneven meals for the price, and one felt regulars received more attention than walk-ins. The setting and sense of tradition are part of its appeal, not a guarantee that every diner will love the food.

French Quarter

29 people recommend, 1 warns against itvia r/NewOrleans, r/AskNOLA

Liuzza's by the Track draws steady praise for its BBQ shrimp po'boy, which several diners name as a favorite, along with soft shell po'boys, turtle soup and gumbo. One visitor calls the BBQ shrimp a classic, unpretentious and rich dish, and another says the food is affordable and worth the trip outside the touristy areas. Views are not unanimous: one diner found the gumbo weak and peppery and the po'boy sauce off, another called the food awful and the service terrible, and a third was not impressed with the food. People suggest it for lunch, note it takes no reservations and closes early, and one diner says the service was not as good as the food.

28 people recommendvia r/AskNOLA, r/NewOrleans

Cochon Butcher is a casual sandwich spot that many diners recommend, with a bar that's easy for eating alone. People single out the muffuletta, the Le Pig Mac and the porchetta as standouts, and one diner calls the cheeseburger the best anywhere. One commenter notes it can be a bit pricey, and one visitor found the muffuletta good but not as impressive as other local versions.

28 people recommendvia r/NewOrleans, r/AskNOLA

Doris Metropolitan is a steakhouse that many diners recommend, and one calls it the most amazing steakhouse in the city. One diner says the steak is the best they have had, another calls it the best overall steak in town, and a third, not usually a steak person, dreams about it. The grilled artichokes, a tomato salad with an Old Fashioned, and a chef steak tasting are each singled out, though one diner finds the side dishes disappointing. It is a pricey pick, and one diner suggests it for steak lovers who do not mind spending.

French Quarter

28 people recommend, 1 warns against itvia r/NewOrleans, r/AskNOLA

Restaurant R'evolution is a fine-dining pick that many diners name among New Orleans' top restaurants, with individual recommendations for the lobster onion bisque, crab beignets and Death By Gumbo. Visitors describe excellent food, service and a strong bar program in a lovely setting. One diner found it all style and no substance.

28 people recommend, 2 warn against itvia r/AskNOLA, r/NewOrleans

Parkway is repeatedly recommended for po'boys, especially fried shrimp, roast beef and the James Brown. A diner also praises the meatball sub. Views are not unanimous: one reports disappointing recent visits, another found a surf-and-turf po'boy underseasoned and mushy, and a third would choose other places on a short itinerary.

27 people recommendvia r/AskNOLA, r/NewOrleans

Mr. B's is a long-standing New Orleans restaurant that many diners recommend for traditional local dishes. Diners single out the barbecue shrimp, gumbo and the bistro burger, and one person calls the burger the best they have ever eaten. One diner loves the barbecue shrimp when it is made right but says the shrimp are often overcooked. A couple of people suggest eating at the bar, and one diner who ate there alone found it comfortable and delicious.

27 people recommend, 1 warns against itvia r/NewOrleans, r/AskNOLA

Zee's is a pizza spot that many diners name as a favorite in the city, with the Bye Felicia pie and the Monday square slices drawing particular praise. Two diners praise its consistency, and the dipping sauces receive specific recommendations, including a chili emulsion and ranch. A few caveats: one diner finds it good but not amazing, another calls the dough flavorless.

26 people recommendvia r/NewOrleans, r/AskNOLA

Frady's is a Bywater corner spot people recommend for budget-friendly plates and po'boys, with the shrimp, oyster, roast beef, turkey and meatball versions all getting a nod. Diners describe it as an old-school, low-key place with a daily plate with several choices. One visitor had an off day with the oyster po'boy, and another notes it is cash only.

Bywater

26 people recommend, 1 warns against itvia r/NewOrleans, r/AskNOLA

Budsi's draws recommendations for Thai food and value. Individual diners single out mushroom larb, the papaya salad set, khao soi and tofu pumpkin curry. One compares the papaya salad and khao soi favorably with versions eaten in Thailand. A diner calls it budget-friendly compared with other Thai spots, while another feels it was better when it first opened.

25 people recommend, 7 warn against itvia r/AskNOLA, r/NewOrleans, r/Louisiana

Coop's Place draws recommendations for Cajun food and value in the French Quarter. Diners describe a dive-bar setting and single out rabbit jambalaya, fried chicken, duck quesadilla and marinated crab claws. Others find it touristy or feel the chicken falls short of the city's best. A commenter warns of possible weekend dinner lines.

French Quarter

24 people recommendcounted across its outletsvia r/NewOrleans, r/AskNOLA

Juan's Flying Burrito draws recommendations across its New Orleans outlets; the location shown is the CBD branch, which a source names on Baronne Street. Brand-wide praise includes breakfast burritos, street tacos and vegetarian options. One diner specifically loves the Mid-City pork tacos, while another reports fuller taco portions at CBD and Oak Street than at other outlets. Views on value vary: some call it affordable, but others find the menu less cheap than expected or the burrito smaller and pricier.

24 people recommendvia r/NewOrleans, r/AskNOLA

High Hat Cafe on Freret draws consistent praise for its burgers, with a few diners calling them the best in the city or underappreciated. The gumbo also gets strong mentions, including from people who like to sit at the bar for a cup. Other dishes singled out include the pimento mac and cheese, collards, fries, softshell crab, half chicken, catfish, and a Cuban sandwich.

Freret

23 people recommendvia r/NewOrleans, r/AskNOLA

Pizza Delicious is a pizza spot that many diners name among their favorites in New Orleans, with recommendations for the grandma pie and a Detroit-inspired pie. One diner also praises the pasta as surprisingly good, and another lists it among places with great vegetable dishes. A commenter notes the Wednesday pie is close to Detroit style rather than strictly that style.

23 people recommend, 3 warn against itvia r/NewOrleans, r/AskNOLA

Mamou is a French Quarter restaurant that many diners recommend, and one person calls the food and drink a standout experience. The bread service and a grouper dish get singled out, and one diner praises the service as spectacular. Others are less convinced: one found the food well presented but lacking flavor, another was thoroughly unimpressed on a single visit, and a third says the menu used to be better though it is still usually solid.

23 people recommend, 6 warn against itvia r/AskNOLA, r/NewOrleans

Dooky Chase's is a classic Creole soul food spot that many people recommend as a must-visit for its history and atmosphere as much as the food. The fried chicken is singled out repeatedly, along with gumbo and peach cobbler, and several diners find it budget-friendly by local standards. Caveats are real: a few diners found the food merely regular or mediocre, one called it overpriced, and others describe long waits and fried chicken that arrived not hot. Some say it is worth it for the history but not for fine dining or top-tier food and service.

22 people recommendvia r/NewOrleans, r/AskNOLA

Verti Marte is a deli and corner store that people recommend for sandwiches, especially the muffuletta, which a few diners rank alongside or above Central Grocery's. The All That Jazz sandwich, poboys, shrimp Philly and café au lait also get singled out, and one diner suggests taking food to the levee to eat. One visitor notes it was cash only, while another says that is no longer the case; both call it worth it.

22 people recommend, 1 warns against itvia r/NewOrleans, r/AskNOLA

Vincent's on St Charles draws repeated recommendations for classic Italian cooking with Creole influences. The corn and crab bisque in a bread bowl is a recurring favorite; individual diners also praise the pork chop, lasagna and filet. Not everyone agrees: one found the bisque too sweet, another said their table barely ate it, and one thought the pasta and sauce were only okay.

St Charles

22 people recommend, 1 warns against itvia r/NewOrleans, r/AskNOLA

Zasu draws steady praise as a food-focused spot, with one diner calling it a favorite and another describing it as upscale and special without being fussy. One diner singles out the fish and gnocchi as insanely good, and another raves about a tomato soup. A few caveats surface: one diner found the food great but the space uncomfortable and the service basic, and another warns it can be very loud.

22 people recommend, 2 warn against itvia r/AskNOLA, r/NewOrleans

Arnaud's is repeatedly recommended for classic French Quarter Creole dining. Individual diners single out turtle soup, a chicken dish and souffle potatoes, and a visitor enjoyed live jazz during a meal. Others would skip it for a major fine-dining night or feel the atmosphere is a stronger draw than the food.

22 people recommend, 4 warn against itvia r/NewOrleans, r/AskNOLA

Turkey and the Wolf is a sandwich spot people recommend for lunch, with the heirloom tomato sandwich singled out when tomatoes are in season and the collard green melt praised as a standout vegetarian option. The fried bologna sandwich and head cheese tacos also have fans, and one visitor counts the bologna among the country's best sandwiches. Not everyone is won over: one diner found it overrated despite the buzz, another was let down, one objects to the price of a bologna sandwich, one says the sandwich is very greasy, and another calls the food mediocre and fatty without much flavor.

Uptown

22 people recommend, 4 warn against itvia r/NewOrleans, r/AskNOLA

Stein's is a deli-style sandwich shop that diners recommend for Italian hoagies, hot sandwiches and breakfast sandwiches. The Caprese hoagie with prosciutto and the Rachel on ciabatta are singled out, and one commenter rates it the city's top sandwich spot. Not everyone agrees: one diner would skip the Italian here, and another feels the menu offers nothing you could not find in New York.

21 people recommendvia r/AskNOLA, r/NewOrleans

August is a fine-dining restaurant in the CBD near the Quarter that many diners recommend, with several calling it a top choice for a special dinner. The tasting menu draws particular praise, and the blue crab gnocchi is singled out as a standout dish. Views are mostly positive, though one diner rates it as merely mediocre and another suggests locals may have cooled on it.

21 people recommendvia r/AskNOLA, r/NewOrleans

Cochon draws steady praise, with one commenter describing it as a little upscale and another calling it really great and casual. Diners single out the meats, the wood fired oysters, the fried gator, the mac and cheese and the dinner rolls. One commenter feels it went artsy and high end and no longer resembles home cooking, though they still call it good.

21 people recommendvia r/AskNOLA, r/NewOrleans

Palm & Pine draws repeated dinner recommendations. One commenter describes seasonal, regionally sourced cooking and a changing menu, and individual diners single out corn babies and the P&P salad. Two praise the food and cocktails. A visitor calls it a favorite meal of a trip, while another likes it but slightly prefers Cane and Table.

21 people recommendvia r/NewOrleans, r/AskNOLA

Sneaky Pickle is a restaurant people recommend for its vegetarian and vegan cooking, with the mac and cheese singled out most often. Diners also praise the buffalo cauliflower, veggie burger, tempeh reuben and pickles, and one person calls the food very good overall. A visitor who went to dinner service twice found it fantastic and describes the new location as pleasant.

21 people recommendvia r/NewOrleans, r/AskNOLA

Sylvain is a French Quarter restaurant that one diner suggests for a nicer evening out, and several commenters describe it as cozy, with one noting it is especially pleasant midweek or in the courtyard. Diners single out the burger, and one visitor praised the cocktails and liked the look of the dinner menu. A commenter calls the food elevated southern, and another says the menu offers something different from the usual French Quarter fare.

French Quarter

21 people recommend, 1 warns against itvia r/NewOrleans, r/AskNOLA

Katie's in Mid-City draws recommendations for brunch and a broad menu spanning po'boys, seafood and pizza. Diners single out the crawfish beignet, veggie muffuletta, Scottie po'boy and chargrilled oysters. One longtime neighbor finds the food mediocre and overpriced, while another reports good food and service but wonders whether repeatedly ordering the same dishes hides inconsistency.

Mid City

21 people recommend, 2 warn against itvia r/NewOrleans, r/AskNOLA

La Petite Grocery is a semi-fancy spot that many diners list among their New Orleans favorites, with the burger singled out as a standout and the crab beignets also called a must-try. One diner says it suits an old-school, upscale crowd, and another has celebrated birthdays there happily. Caveats exist: one visitor found the service cold and another was disappointed overall.

21 people recommend, 4 warn against itvia r/NewOrleans, r/AskNOLA, X

Cafe Degas draws repeated dining recommendations. Diners single out French onion soup, steak frites and brunch hanger steak with eggs. Views are not unanimous: one reports declining food quality, and another finds it pricey. A separate commenter recommends its weekday deals and specials.

20 people recommendvia r/NewOrleans, r/AskNOLA

Mona Lisa is a cozy, unfancy Italian spot in the French Quarter recommended for casual dinners, with one diner suggesting it for romance. One diner singles out the chicken picatta, and another calls it their go-to for home-style Italian. It is described as fun and budget-friendly, with one commenter suggesting arriving before six to avoid a wait.

French Quarter

20 people recommendvia r/AskNOLA, r/NewOrleans

Atchafalaya is recommended repeatedly as a brunch spot, with one diner calling the brunch fantastic, another saying it is killer, and a third saying they love it. One diner names the shrimp and grits their favorite, and another praises the burgers. A first-hand visitor says the food, drinks and service were incredible, and the restaurant appears on lists for solo dining and for the Lower Garden District.

20 people recommend, 1 warns against itvia r/AskNOLA, r/NewOrleans

Jacques-Imo's is a New Orleans restaurant that many diners recommend, with the alligator cheesecake singled out most often and fried green tomatoes in crawfish cream sauce also praised. One visitor says the physical setting is a draw but warns it can get very loud when packed. Another describes it as an experience worth having even if the food is not the best you will ever eat, and one diner calls the meal delicious with wonderful service and varied appetizers.

Oak Street

20 people recommend, 1 warns against itvia r/AskNOLA, r/NewOrleans

Emeril's draws praise for its tasting menus, with one diner calling the Classics tasting menu one of the best meals they have had in the city and another describing every course as impressive. Two people single out dishes, naming the double cut pork chop and BBQ shrimp. One diner notes the wine bar is a good option for those not doing the full tasting menu, and another suggests it for a big night out if the budget allows. It is a pricey, special-occasion kind of place.

20 people recommend, 2 warn against itvia r/AskNOLA, r/NewOrleans

Herbsaint is a New Orleans restaurant that diners recommend, with one calling a meal there among the best they have had. One diner singles out the spaghetti with guanciale and a poached egg, and another points to the fried oysters. One diner finds it good but not at the top of their list, and a couple of commenters note it can get loud and feel less intimate than expected.

19 people recommendvia r/NewOrleans, r/AskNOLA

Lilette is a French restaurant in Uptown that draws repeated dining recommendations, including for upscale meals and steak. Individual diners single out chilled corn soup with crab, fries and banana trifle. One returning visitor says they go every time they are in town, while another describes an excellent lunch in the back garden.

19 people recommendvia r/AskNOLA, r/NewOrleans

Gabrielle is a Mid-City restaurant that diners recommend for dinner, with one calling it their favorite restaurant in the city and another naming it a lesser-known pick. Several people single out its gumbo, including a duck version praised for a dark roux and a smoked Guinea hen and andouille gumbo described as divine.

Mid City

19 people recommend, 1 warns against itvia r/NewOrleans, r/AskNOLA

La Boca is an Argentinian steakhouse that several diners name as their pick, and one commenter singles out the provoleta and the outside skirt steak as standouts. The sweetbreads and the tasting menu also draw praise, with one commenter calling the tasting menu an incredible value while noting it is not cheap. A price warning notes it is not inexpensive, and one diner had a middling experience years ago but wants to give it another try.

19 people recommend, 3 warn against itvia r/AskNOLA, r/NewOrleans

Casamento's draws recommendations for oysters, especially fried oysters and the dressed oyster loaf. Individual diners also praise chargrilled oysters, oyster soup and gumbo, and one describes a time-capsule atmosphere. Other visitors report disappointing food or service, including a diner who found the cooking bland.

18 people recommendvia r/NewOrleans, r/AskNOLA

Beachcorner is a casual spot people recommend for burgers, and one diner rates its burger as their clear favorite in the city. A commenter describes thick patties and good beef, and another singles out the boudin egg rolls alongside a great burger. One visitor notes the burger's doneness can be inconsistent no matter how it's ordered, and another mentions a long wait for takeout burgers.

18 people recommendvia r/NewOrleans, r/AskNOLA

Eat Well is a convenience store on Canal at Broad with a small kitchen serving Vietnamese food, and people recommend it as a cheap, quick, no-frills stop. Diners single out the banh mi, pho, breakfast buns and bao, and yakamein. One commenter describes it as a hole-in-the-wall where the food is the whole point, and another mentions a pho-rito as an enjoyable novelty if it is still available.

Canal and Broad

18 people recommend, 1 warns against itvia r/NewOrleans, r/AskNOLA

Saint Germain is a fine-dining spot that many diners recommend for its food, and one visitor singles out the tasting menu as original and very tasty. One diner ranks a meal there above high-end restaurants in several major cities, while another calls it a memorable choice in the area. The honest caveats are cost and portions: one visitor found the small tasting portions and the price the biggest drawback, and another found the meal underwhelming, with an overpriced pasta course.

17 people recommendvia r/NewOrleans, r/AskNOLA

Mister Mao draws enthusiastic recommendations, with people calling the food incredible and singling out dishes like pani puri, hot chicken and scallops in crab fat. One diner describes it as a blast but also possibly the most eclectic restaurant in town, and another suggests sitting near the cocktail bar early because it gets louder later. Two diners note caveats: one felt surprised by a chef's counter fee, and another found the food solid but the service lacking on every visit.

17 people recommendvia r/NewOrleans, r/AskNOLA

Dian Xin is a Chinese restaurant in the French Quarter that many diners recommend, and the soup dumplings are singled out as a highlight. One regular visitor says friends from Los Angeles and New York confirmed the dumplings are better than what those friends had eaten. Another diner calls the food a step above standard fare. One commenter rates it highly but notes the bill can climb if you over-order, while another found the dumplings fine but the noodles mushy and the sauce one-note.

French Quarter

17 people recommendvia r/NewOrleans

1000 Figs draws recommendations for its falafel platter, falafel sandwich and Falafel Feast. Several diners describe it as a budget-friendly choice. Two suggest pairing a meal with a nearby wine bar for a date night.

17 people recommendvia r/AskNOLA, r/NewOrleans

Lil Dizzy's draws recommendations for lunch and homecooked-style local dishes, with gumbo and collards singled out. One commenter calls the fried chicken excellent, and another describes simple food executed well in a family-run setting. Two visitors warn of a line; confirm current opening days directly.

17 people recommend, 1 warns against itvia r/AskNOLA, r/NewOrleans

Mosquito Supper Club draws praise for Cajun cooking, with one diner describing it as the real thing rather than a spice level and noting that bar seating allows ordering a la carte when reservations are unavailable. Several commenters call it excellent and memorable, and one diner appreciates the family-style seating as a way to meet fellow diners. It is generally treated as a pricey splurge, though one diner found it average for the price.

17 people recommend, 4 warn against itvia r/NewOrleans, r/AskNOLA

Osteria Lupo is an Italian restaurant that many diners name among their favorites in New Orleans, and steaks and pastas draw particular praise. One person calls the rigatoni alla vodka a favorite, another singles out the hanger steak, and a third says the ribeye is insanely delicious, while one steak-averse diner calls the steak perfection. Some visitors warn that the main dining room can be very loud, and a few describe uneven experiences with drinks, apps, service or pricing.

17 people recommend, 5 warn against itvia r/NewOrleans, r/AskNOLA

Francolini's draws repeated recommendations for Italian-style cold sandwiches. One diner compares them favorably with the sandwiches they grew up eating in New Jersey. The Gaga and The Flea receive specific praise. Views on value split: several find the sandwiches expensive, one calls them overrated, and another found the food bland.

16 people recommendvia r/NewOrleans, r/AskNOLA

Bistro Daisy is a cozy Uptown spot that draws repeated dining recommendations. One commenter suggests it for date night, and another describes enjoying celebratory meals with mixed age groups. Individual diners praise the filet, including a version with foie gras butter. A returning diner describes consistently excellent experiences.

16 people recommendvia r/NewOrleans, r/AskNOLA

El Pavo Real draws consistent praise for its Mexican cooking, with diners singling out the queso, carnitas, chicken enchiladas, fish tacos and a hot-skillet cheese and corn dip. Breakfast and brunch get attention too, from the breakfast sandwich to steak and eggs on Sundays. Several people note it is budget-friendly, with tamales, beans and rice, and platanos called out as inexpensive, and one diner rates its happy hour the best in the city.

15 people recommendvia r/AskNOLA, r/NewOrleans

Jewel of the South draws recommendations for fine dining. One diner calls it the best meal of a trip, another describes three phenomenal visits, and a third particularly recommends a meal there. A dissenting diner found the dishes lackluster or bland but liked the cocktails and service.

15 people recommend, 1 warns against itvia r/AskNOLA, r/NewOrleans

Brennan's draws repeated recommendations for traditional Creole dining, especially breakfast and brunch. Diners praise the food, setting and wine selection. Views are not unanimous: one calls it their worst meal, while another feels the restaurant group no longer meets its former standards.

15 people recommend, 1 warns against itvia r/NewOrleans, r/AskNOLA

La Crepe Nanou draws repeated recommendations for French bistro dining, including romantic and budget-conscious dinners. A regular visitor likes it for special occasions but describes the room as crowded and boisterous rather than quiet. Individual diners single out fondue, seafood gratin and filet with bearnaise sauce. One dissenting diner strongly dislikes the food.

15 people recommend, 1 warns against itvia r/NewOrleans, r/AskNOLA

Saffron draws repeated recommendations for upscale contemporary Indian cooking on Magazine Street. Diners praise the food and cocktails, with one particularly recommending vegetarian dishes including daal and Royal Saag. Another singles out the chargrilled oysters. One visitor reports a disappointing meal they considered an off night.

15 people recommend, 2 warn against itvia r/NewOrleans

The rotisserie restaurant on Constance Street draws repeated recommendations for its chicken. One visitor particularly enjoyed a chicken-and-rice bowl and dumplings, while another says its meals became a household staple. Opinions are not unanimous: one diner dislikes the change to rotisserie chicken, and another finds a whole-chicken dinner pricey.

15 people recommend, 4 warn against itvia r/AskNOLA, r/NewOrleans

Pascal's Manale is an old-school Uptown spot with an oyster bar that people describe as a classic neighborhood destination, and its barbecue shrimp is singled out by several diners as a must-try. One visitor calls the lunch budget-friendly. Views on consistency are mixed: one diner reports a strong meal followed by a mediocre one. One commenter suggests going only for the oyster happy hour.

14 people recommend, 1 warns against itvia r/NewOrleans, r/AskNOLA

Miss Shirley's is a Chinese restaurant on Magazine Street that many diners recommend, with the crab udon noodles, salt and pepper wings, hot and sour soup and paper shrimp singled out as favorites. One diner rates the hot and sour soup above any other, and another says everything was delicious. A few caveats: one person finds the menu a bit boring, another calls the food good but pricey, and one diner feels it is charming yet heavily Americanized with little heat.

14 people recommend, 2 warn against itvia r/NewOrleans, r/AskNOLA

Domilise's is a po-boy spot that many diners name among New Orleans classics, with shrimp and dressed oyster po-boys singled out. One visitor found the food delicious but called it pricey, while another felt the roast beef fell short of better options elsewhere. One commenter describes it as budget-friendly and really great, so views on value and quality are mixed.

14 people recommend, 3 warn against itvia r/NewOrleans, r/AskNOLA

Venezia draws recommendations for Italian food and steak in Mid-City. One commenter lists it among old-school local spots. Several diners particularly recommend the steak, and one finds it good value at lunch. Views on other dishes split: visitors describe inconsistent or mediocre non-steak meals, and one finds the restaurant expensive and disappointing. A diner also reports uneven service.

13 people recommendvia r/NewOrleans

Arabella is an Italian place where pasta is made in house, described as delicious and served in a casual, bar-like setting with small plates. One diner lists it among non-vegetarian restaurants that still do great vegetable dishes, and another names the Yoko Ono as a favorite. The main caveat is ambience: one commenter says it suits a family hangout better than a romantic date, and another finds the food not the best but the happy hour deal genuinely good.

13 people recommendvia r/AskNOLA, r/NewOrleans

Clover Grill is recommended for burgers, breakfast and late-night meals. One diner particularly likes its late-night burger and the way the cheese is melted beneath a hubcap. Individual recommendations include the chili omelette and chicken fried steak, and a visitor fondly remembers eating breakfast late at night.

13 people recommendvia r/AskNOLA, r/NewOrleans

Dakar is a Senegalese tasting-menu restaurant that one visitor describes as elegant and another praises for its originality, and one visitor calls it one of the best meals of their life. A commenter notes the seating is casual and family-style rather than fussy fine dining, and another says a shorter tasting menu at an early reservation was still plenty of food. It sits at the pricey end, and one commenter feels it is more of a dining experience than quintessentially local fare.

13 people recommendvia r/NewOrleans

Mr. John's draws repeated recommendations for steak. One visitor praises the atmosphere, food and service, while another reports consistently good meals. A commenter describes it as a classic.

13 people recommendvia r/NewOrleans, r/AskNOLA

One commenter calls Saba a go-to for a nice meal that isn't New Orleans-style cuisine, and another is a big fan who says the dips are always delicious. The shakshuka, lamb hummus and falafel are also singled out, and one diner says it is very good for vegetarians. A commenter says Saba can fit a budget if you order carefully, and another says portions don't look substantial but always leave them full and happy.

13 people recommendvia r/NewOrleans

Jamila's on Maple Street draws recommendations for Tunisian food and a cozy setting. One diner singles out the lamb tajine, and another praises the food and atmosphere. A commenter recommends it for a romantic dinner, and a returning diner describes making it an annual anniversary choice.

Maple

13 people recommendvia r/NewOrleans, r/AskNOLA

Margot's is a pizza place that several diners list among their favorites in New Orleans. One visitor who ate there found it wonderful and worth the trip, and another fan likes everything on the menu. One diner counts it as a go-to for fancy pizza and likes it best among the spots they named, and another says it is still amazing though pricey.

13 people recommend, 1 warns against itvia r/NewOrleans, r/AskNOLA

Pomelo on Magazine Street draws recommendations for Thai dishes including khao soi, lobster red curry pasta and vegetarian curry. One diner particularly praises the vegetarian curry, and another describes the small BYOB restaurant as a fun visit. One visitor reports a disappointing experience.

Magazine

12 people recommendvia r/NewOrleans, r/AskNOLA

Guy's Po-Boys is recommended for its shrimp po-boy, with one diner saying it always hits and another naming it a last-meal pick. One commenter describes it as a hole-in-the-wall spot where the food is the whole point, and it comes up as a lunch stop and a place to take someone for New Orleans food. On price, one commenter says it runs a little more than average but is really good, while another places it below the city's priciest po-boy shops.

12 people recommendvia r/NewOrleans

Pagoda Cafe is a cafe people recommend for breakfast, especially its breakfast tacos, which receive repeated praise, with one diner finding them filling. The sausage roll and scones also draw praise, and one diner calls the patio cute and peaceful. One commenter notes the service can be slow even when ordering ahead, though they still love the poblano sour cream.

12 people recommendvia r/AskNOLA, r/NewOrleans

Killer PoBoys draws recommendations for po'boys; the Dauphine Street location shown is explicitly named and described as having sit-down tables and unusual ingredients. Favorites mentioned for the business include a tofu po'boy and whiskey grilled cheese, though comments do not always specify an outlet. One diner finds it reliably good, while another likes it without considering it a culinary standout.

12 people recommendvia r/NewOrleans

NOLA Brewing is a brewery that a few commenters also recommend for its pizza, calling the food good. A lunch deal with pizza, salad and a drink draws repeated praise as a solid value, and one diner highlights a happy hour with cheap pints and slices. Another commenter says the place is underrated and mentions pinball.

12 people recommendvia r/NewOrleans, r/AskNOLA

Thaihey is a Thai restaurant on the edge of the French Quarter that people recommend for its food, including a boat noodle soup and a fried eggplant take on a bloomin' onion. Two diners single out the fried okra, and the menu is noted for having plenty of vegan options and strong vegetable dishes. One commenter calls it some of the best food they have ever had, and another says it is worth the trip to the Quarter.

12 people recommendvia r/AskNOLA, r/NewOrleans

Muriel's draws steady praise as a French Quarter pick, with one diner calling it the best meal they have had in the Quarter. The goat cheese crepes are singled out by a few people as a must-try. It also comes up as a choice for solo diners at the bar and for visitors looking for a dining recommendation.

12 people recommendvia r/NewOrleans, r/AskNOLA, r/Louisiana

Joey K's draws repeated dining recommendations. Several diners particularly recommend its chicken fried steak, including one who considers it the city's best. Another singles out a beef brisket plate. Commenters note that it does not serve late, and one describes the chicken fried steak as a pork cutlet.

12 people recommendvia r/AskNOLA, r/NewOrleans

Felix's draws recommendations for oysters and fried seafood; the location shown is its French Quarter restaurant. Individual diners praise chargrilled oysters and a fried seafood platter, while another notes quick service for raw oysters. Some compare it with nearby Acme, but comments do not always specify an outlet.

12 people recommendvia r/NewOrleans

Bub's draws city-wide recommendations for burgers; the location shown is the Banks Street restaurant mentioned in Mid-City dining discussions. A diner calls the smash burgers top tier, and another names them a go-to. Cheese fries and Brussels sprouts also receive a recommendation. The recommendations cover the business across its city outlets, not just Banks Street.

12 people recommend, 1 warns against itcounted across its outletsvia r/NewOrleans, r/AskNOLA

Barracuda draws recommendations across its New Orleans outlets; the location shown is the explicitly mentioned Uptown stand on Tchoupitoulas. Brand-wide favorites include steak tacos, breakfast tacos and queso, though the queso also has a detractor. A diner suggests taking the ferry and eating tacos on the levee as a date idea, without naming the outlet. Two praise the lunch combo's value, while another warns that drinks and dips raise the bill.

12 people recommend, 2 warn against itvia r/NewOrleans

Slap Burger is a casual burger spot in the back of Marie's Bar in the Marigny, and several diners recommend it for a good, juicy burger in a dive-bar setting. One visitor praises the veggie burger as a delicious casual option, and another says the fries are budget-friendly and plentiful. Three commenters warn that a burger and fries together may not feel like a bargain, and one diner describes the burgers as standard smash burgers rather than thick patties with interesting toppings.

Back of Marie S Bar

12 people recommend, 4 warn against itvia r/AskNOLA, r/NewOrleans

Antoine's is a classic old-line Creole restaurant that many people recommend for its sense of history and tradition. One diner calls it an unforgettable experience and suggests ordering the baked Alaska ahead and taking the tour. One commenter notes you can get several classic baked oyster styles there, and one family describes lovely celebrations in the private dining rooms with great food and service. Views are mixed: one diner found it good but not as good as hoped, and a few others would skip it in favor of other fine dining spots.

11 people recommendvia r/AskNOLA, r/NewOrleans

Chophouse is a steakhouse that many diners name among their favorite spots in New Orleans, with several calling it great or fantastic. Two diners single out specific dishes, including a fried lobster tail and a seafood platter with thick-cut bacon. One diner notes a platter is pricey but large enough to share.

11 people recommendvia r/NewOrleans, r/AskNOLA

G's Pizza is recommended for specific pies, including The Narcissist, the OG and a Cajun Shrimp pizza. One commenter says the burger is good, and another mentions good lunch specials. A commenter calls it quality, and one person who has eaten there since it opened says the more recent pizzas have been very good.

11 people recommendvia r/NewOrleans

Hunan Wok is a casual, Americanized Chinese spot that diners praise for generous portions and quick, satisfying meals. One diner calls it delicious and says the servings are so large they can never finish, while another highlights the lo mein and a third recommends the tofu. Two commenters describe it as a good, no-frills option for a fast craving rather than anything fancy.

11 people recommendvia r/NewOrleans

La Patrona on Carrollton draws recommendations for Mexican food and value. Individual diners praise the margaritas, tortillas and cochinita pibil; one says the beans and rice taste homemade. One describes solid food, others recommend it as an affordable option, and a visitor reports an enjoyable family meal.

Carrollton

11 people recommendvia r/NewOrleans, r/AskNOLA

Addis NOLA draws recommendations for Ethiopian cooking, especially vegetarian and vegan platters. Diners also single out lamb tibs and a sweet potato dish. One suggests asking about a vegetable combination beyond the listed options; that is a diner's suggestion, not a promise of an available off-menu dish.

11 people recommendvia X, r/NewOrleans, r/AskNOLA

Patois draws repeated dining recommendations. Diners single out deviled eggs, eggplant parmesan and gumbo, with one particularly recommending the gumbo's dark roux. One visitor describes the food as consistently good, and another calls it generally solid.

11 people recommendvia r/AskNOLA, r/NewOrleans

The Italian Barrel is an Italian restaurant on the edge of the French Quarter that receives recommendations, including one describing it as an easy choice, and one diner calls it their go-to for high-end Italian. A commenter describes good food, a warm atmosphere, friendly service and reasonably priced wine, and one diner singles out the pumpkin ravioli as a great vegetarian meal. Another commenter places it among non-vegetarian restaurants that still do vegetable dishes well. One commenter calls it good but not elevated compared with other Italian restaurants in the city.