15 Classic Must Eats in New Orleans You Can’t Miss

What are the must-eats in New Orleans? The local food scene in the Big Easy should be a bucket list experience for any foodie. Don’t forget to grab the printable checklist below!

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Cajun vs. Creole: What’s the Difference?

Cajun and Creole cuisines share some ingredients, but they have a distinct differences.

Cajun food is often considered country or homestyle cooking. It’s rooted in the Acadian people and French descendants who settled in Louisiana after being expelled from Canada in the 18th century. It’s known for bold flavors and spices; tomatoes are not found in Cajun dishes.

Creole cuisine is more refined because of the French and Spanish settlers who brought their culinary traditions. Tomatoes, bell peppers, onions, celery, and herbs are key ingredients.

Though I rarely make the distinction when dining out, one thing’s for sure—New Orleans food is always delicious, and you’ll leave wanting to come back for more.

Must Eats in New Orleans

1. Beignets

Beignets are a must-have when visiting New Orleans. These fried dough pastries, dusted with powdered sugar, are often paired with chicory coffee or café au lait, which you should definitely try.

Not all beignets are created equal—some are doughy, while others have a lighter, airy texture. Café du Monde is the go-to spot for tourists in the French Quarter, and while it’s worth a visit, there are plenty of other places to enjoy this classic treat. Their café au lait is also among the best.

My favorite beignets come from Loretta’s Pralines at the French Market in the French Quarter.

Read more: Places to Eat Beignets in New Orleans

2. Gumbo

Gumbo is a classic Creole dish, a hearty stew made with a mix of meats, seafood, and vegetables, often served over rice. It’s one of the most iconic dishes in New Orleans.

There are many variations, but traditional gumbo typically includes seafood, chicken, sausage, and ham, along with the “Holy Trinity” of vegetables: celery, bell peppers, and onions. Some recipes also add okra for extra texture.

Gumbo is a comforting and flavorful meal, especially on a chilly day. Head to The Gumbo Shop in the French Quarter, where they’ve been serving authentic Creole gumbo since 1975, or feel inspired and try making your own gumbo at home.

3. Jambalaya

Jambalaya is a classic Creole dish made with rice, sausage, chicken, and shrimp. Its mix of rice and meat is somewhat similar to Spanish paella. Prepared with bold Creole seasonings, it’s hearty and filling and definitely one of the must-eats in New Orleans.

Often considered the national dish of Louisiana, jambalaya is one of the most iconic meals in Creole cuisine. It can be found at many restaurants across New Orleans, but I’ve heard Coop’s Place is a great spot to try it.

4. Red Beans and Rice

Red beans and rice is a classic Creole dish made with red kidney beans, rice, and sausage, seasoned with Creole spices. It’s one of the most well-known dishes and a staple in Louisiana homes.

Traditionally served on Mondays, the beans simmer all day using leftover ham from Sunday dinners. Now, you can find it at many restaurants throughout Louisiana. Check out Joey K’s Restaurant & Bar for a taste of this comforting dish.

5. Bananas Foster

Bananas Foster, created in the 1950s at Brennan’s Restaurant, is a dessert made with bananas, brown sugar, butter, cinnamon, and rum. The bananas are sautéed in the sugar-butter mixture, flambéed with rum, and served over vanilla ice cream.

This indulgent dessert is as entertaining as it is delicious, especially when prepared tableside. Be sure to find a spot that offers the full experience.

6. Po’ Boy

A must-eat in New Orleans is the Po’ Boy, a local sandwich made with French bread and filled with either seafood or meat, typically topped with lettuce, tomatoes, and mayonnaise. The real standout is the French bread and the main filling.

The Po’ Boy, originally known as the “Poor Boy,” was popularized by the Martin Brothers in 1929, when they fed striking streetcar drivers at their French Market coffee stand. Some historians trace the sandwich’s roots back to the late 1800s, when it was called an “oyster loaf,” served on a French bread loaf.

You’ll find Po’ Boys all over the city, with the fried shrimp Po’ Boy being the most popular. Other options include roast beef, ham and cheese, and even alligator.

We loved our Big Easy Po’ Boy—a roast beef and ham combo with gravy—from NOLA Poboys on Bourbon Street. Locals also suggested trying one from the Key Fuel gas station, so that’s on my list for next time!

7. Muffulettas

Muffulettas are a must-try New Orleans specialty. This hearty sandwich is made with Italian bread, olive salad, and a variety of Italian meats, making it perfect for a quick lunch or snack.

While Central Grocery in the French Quarter is a historic spot known for serving muffulettas since 1906, it’s not my personal favorite. I prefer the slightly warm, toasted version from Alberto’s at the French Market—or you can try one at Napoleon’s.

That said, every place has its own take on this classic, so don’t be afraid to try a few and find your favorite.

8. Boiled Crawfish

If you’re a fan of crawfish, no trip to New Orleans is complete without trying some of the city’s best-boiled crawfish. Crawfish season kicks off as early as January and runs through mid-summer.

For an authentic crawfish boil, head to Clesi’s Restaurant, a seafood boil house offering traditional Cajun-style crawfish with all the fixings—boiled potatoes, andouille sausage, and corn on the cob.

While I’m not the biggest crawfish fan, I’m often told the best part is in the head.

9. Shrimp and Grits

Shrimp and grits is a Southern staple, often eaten in the morning, but this Creole-inspired version is a must-try New Orleans specialty, found on menus across the city. The dish typically combines shrimp, andouille sausage, tomatoes, and Creole spices, served over creamy, buttery grits—a cornmeal porridge with a rich consistency.

We had the best shrimp and grits at Muriel’s during a wedding, but it’s also on their regular menu. Their jazz brunch is another highlight you don’t want to miss.

10. Oysters

New Orleans is famous for its oysters, and you’ll find them on menus all over the city. From raw and boiled to chargrilled and fried, there are plenty of options to satisfy any oyster lover.

Oyster farming has been a part of Louisiana culture since the 1700s when French settlers began harvesting them in the Gulf of Mexico. Today, oysters are a beloved staple of New Orleans cuisine.

If you’re a fan of raw oysters, there are plenty of spots in the French Quarter shucking them fresh. While raw oysters aren’t for me, I love fried and chargrilled oysters. For the best-chargrilled oysters, head to Acme Oyster House, where they’re topped with garlic, butter, and Parmesan cheese and then grilled to perfection.

11. Fried Chicken

Southern-style fried chicken is hard to beat, and New Orleans adds its own unique twist with Creole and Cajun seasonings, making it a must-try when visiting the city.

The best fried chicken I’ve ever had was at Willie Mae’s Scotch House. This iconic spot, around since 1957, has won numerous accolades, including a James Beard Award, for its perfectly crispy, tender, and juicy fried chicken with just the right amount of spice. I’m still thinking about it, and trust me, I’m usually not a fried chicken fan—it’s that good!

Try the fried chicken at Coop’s Place in the French Quarter for another option.

12. King Cake

King cake is a fun and tasty New Orleans tradition, especially during Mardi Gras. Dating back to the early 1800s, the cake was once reserved for royalty but has since become a beloved treat for everyone during the festivities.

This ring-shaped cake is filled with options like cream cheese, cinnamon, or fruit fillings such as apricot or raspberry, then topped with colorful icing or sprinkles in the signature Mardi Gras colors—gold (power), purple (justice), and green (faith). Each king cake also contains a small baby figurine, symbolizing luck and prosperity for whoever finds it.

Today, king cakes are a staple in bakeries throughout the city during Mardi Gras season.

13. Praline

If you have a sweet tooth, you’ve got to try pralines in New Orleans. These confections, made from sugar, butter, and pecans, come in two styles—crunchy like hardened caramel or soft and creamy, melting in your mouth. Be warned: they’re sweet but incredibly delicious.

Pralines were brought to New Orleans by French settlers in the early 1800s. Originally made with almonds, pecans eventually became the nut of choice.

You’ll find pralines in candy shops and bakeries across the city, often with free samples—take advantage of them! On my last visit to the French Quarter, I picked up some at Leah’s Pralines, including their unique bacon pralines, which were out of this world.

14. Alligator

Yes, alligator is a unique New Orleans food worth trying. It’s been part of the city’s cuisine for centuries and can be found in many restaurants today, prepared in various ways—fried, grilled, or blackened.

I first tried alligator in andouille sausage inside a gumbo, which is a common preparation here. For alligator tail bites, check out Ocean Grill, where they serve them as a tasty appetizer.

15. Turtle Soup

Though surprising to some, turtle soup has been part of New Orleans Cajun cuisine for over 300 years and is still enjoyed today. This traditional dish is made with turtle meat, vegetables, and herbs, typically using American snapping turtles from Louisiana swamps or farms.

For authentic turtle soup, head to Commander’s Palace in the Garden District, where it’s a featured menu item.

BEFORE YOU TRAVEL TO NEW ORLEANS, CHECK OUT THESE RELATED READS:

• Things to Experience in the French Quarter
• 3 Days in New Orleans: A Practical Itinerary
• Halloween in New Orleans: What to Expect