The French Quarter in New Orleans is a culinary paradise, offering a diverse range of dining options to suit every taste and budget. From traditional Creole cuisine to modern twists on classic dishes, the French Quarter is a food lover’s dream come true. With its rich history and cultural heritage, the Quarter is home to some of the city’s most iconic restaurants, cafes, and eateries. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, knowing where to eat in the French Quarter is essential to experiencing the best of what this vibrant neighborhood has to offer.
A Taste of History: Classic French Quarter Eateries
The French Quarter is home to some of the oldest and most historic restaurants in the country. These iconic eateries have been serving up classic Creole cuisine for generations, and are a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the authentic flavors of New Orleans.
Cafe du Monde
This world-famous cafe is a must-visit for anyone looking to try beignets and coffee. Open 24/7, Cafe du Monde is a popular spot for both locals and tourists, and is a great place to people-watch and enjoy the lively atmosphere of the French Quarter.
| Address | 800 Decatur St, New Orleans, LA 70116 |
|---|---|
| Hours | 24/7 |
| Menu | Beignets, coffee, and other sweet treats |
Dooky Chase’s Restaurant
This legendary restaurant has been a staple of the French Quarter for over 70 years, serving up classic Creole cuisine like gumbo, jambalaya, and fried chicken. Dooky Chase’s is also famous for its role in the Civil Rights Movement, as it was a key meeting place for activists like Martin Luther King Jr.
| Address | 2301 Orleans Ave, New Orleans, LA 70119 |
|---|---|
| Hours | Monday – Thursday: 11am – 9pm, Friday – Saturday: 11am – 10pm, Sunday: 11am – 8pm |
| Menu | Creole cuisine, including gumbo, jambalaya, and fried chicken |
Antoine’s Restaurant
This historic restaurant has been serving up fine dining cuisine since 1840, making it one of the oldest continuously operating restaurants in the country. Antoine’s is known for its elegant atmosphere and classic Creole dishes like oysters Rockefeller and pompano en papillote.
| Address | 713 St Louis St, New Orleans, LA 70130 |
|---|---|
| Hours | Monday – Thursday: 11:30am – 2pm, 5:30pm – 9pm, Friday – Saturday: 11:30am – 2pm, 5:30pm – 10pm, Sunday: 10:30am – 2pm, 5:30pm – 9pm |
| Menu | Fine dining cuisine, including oysters Rockefeller and pompano en papillote |
Modern Twists: Contemporary French Quarter Eateries
While the French Quarter is known for its historic restaurants, it’s also home to a thriving food scene that’s constantly evolving. From modern twists on classic dishes to innovative fusion cuisine, there’s something for every palate in the Quarter.
Willie Mae’s Scotch House
This beloved restaurant has been a staple of the French Quarter for over 70 years, serving up classic Creole cuisine with a modern twist. Willie Mae’s is known for its fried chicken, gumbo, and shrimp and grits, and is a great place to experience the authentic flavors of New Orleans. (See Also: Where to Eat in Prospect Heights? Foodie Finds)
| Address | 2401 St Ann St, New Orleans, LA 70119 |
|---|---|
| Hours | Monday – Thursday: 11am – 9pm, Friday – Saturday: 11am – 10pm, Sunday: 11am – 8pm |
| Menu | Creole cuisine with a modern twist, including fried chicken, gumbo, and shrimp and grits |
Herbsaint
This modern American bistro is a favorite among locals and visitors alike, serving up creative dishes like roasted beet salad and grilled pork chops. Herbsaint is also known for its extensive wine list and cozy atmosphere.
| Address | 701 St Charles Ave, New Orleans, LA 70130 |
|---|---|
| Hours | Monday – Thursday: 11:30am – 2pm, 5:30pm – 9pm, Friday – Saturday: 11:30am – 2pm, 5:30pm – 10pm, Sunday: 10:30am – 2pm, 5:30pm – 9pm |
| Menu | Modern American cuisine, including roasted beet salad and grilled pork chops |
Brunch and Breakfast Spots
Brunch and breakfast are an integral part of the French Quarter’s culinary scene, with many restaurants offering creative and delicious options to start your day.
Atchafalaya
This popular brunch spot is known for its creative dishes like shrimp and grits and breakfast tacos. Atchafalaya is also a great place to enjoy a Bloody Mary or mimosa on their outdoor patio.
| Address | 901 Louisiana Ave, New Orleans, LA 70115 |
|---|---|
| Hours | Saturday and Sunday: 9am – 2pm |
| Menu | Brunch options like shrimp and grits and breakfast tacos |
La Petite Grocery
This charming breakfast spot is a favorite among locals, serving up classic dishes like eggs benedict and French toast. La Petite Grocery is also known for its cozy atmosphere and outdoor seating area.
| Address | 4231 Magazine St, New Orleans, LA 70115 |
|---|---|
| Hours | Monday – Friday: 8am – 11am, Saturday and Sunday: 8am – 12pm |
| Menu | Breakfast options like eggs benedict and French toast |
Snacks and Treats
Whether you’re looking for a sweet treat or a savory snack, the French Quarter has plenty of options to satisfy your cravings. (See Also: Where to Eat in the Keys? Top Picks Revealed)
Beignet Cafe
This popular cafe is known for its delicious beignets and coffee, and is a great place to grab a quick snack or meet with friends.
| Address | 334B Royal St, New Orleans, LA 70130 |
|---|---|
| Hours | Monday – Thursday: 9am – 6pm, Friday – Saturday: 9am – 7pm, Sunday: 9am – 6pm |
| Menu | Beignets, coffee, and other sweet treats |
Willie Mae’s Sweet Treats
This beloved bakery is known for its delicious pastries and cakes, and is a great place to grab a sweet treat or gift for a friend.
| Address | 2401 St Ann St, New Orleans, LA 70119 |
|---|---|
| Hours | Monday – Thursday: 8am – 6pm, Friday – Saturday: 8am – 7pm, Sunday: 8am – 6pm |
| Menu | Pastries, cakes, and other sweet treats |
Recap
The French Quarter is a culinary paradise, offering a diverse range of dining options to suit every taste and budget. From traditional Creole cuisine to modern twists on classic dishes, there’s something for every palate in the Quarter. Whether you’re looking for a classic breakfast spot, a modern American bistro, or a sweet treat, the French Quarter has plenty of options to satisfy your cravings. Be sure to check out some of the top restaurants and cafes listed above, and don’t forget to try some of the city’s famous beignets and coffee.
FAQs
What is the best way to get to the French Quarter?
The best way to get to the French Quarter is by taking a taxi or ride-sharing service from the airport or your hotel. You can also take the streetcar or bus, or walk or bike if you’re feeling adventurous.
What is the best time to visit the French Quarter?
The best time to visit the French Quarter is during the spring and fall, when the weather is mild and there are fewer tourists. Avoid visiting during peak tourist season (June-August) if you can, as the streets can be crowded and the prices can be high.
What is the best way to get around the French Quarter?
The best way to get around the French Quarter is on foot. The Quarter is a walkable neighborhood, and you can easily explore the streets and alleys on your own. You can also take a taxi or ride-sharing service if you need to get somewhere quickly. (See Also: Where to Eat in Natchez Ms? Southern Delights)
What are some of the best restaurants in the French Quarter?
Some of the best restaurants in the French Quarter include Cafe du Monde, Dooky Chase’s Restaurant, Antoine’s Restaurant, Willie Mae’s Scotch House, and Herbsaint. Be sure to check out some of the top restaurants and cafes listed above, and don’t forget to try some of the city’s famous beignets and coffee.
What are some of the best things to do in the French Quarter?
Some of the best things to do in the French Quarter include exploring the French Market, visiting the St. Louis Cathedral, taking a stroll along the Mississippi River, and visiting the National WWII Museum. You can also take a ghost tour or visit the famous Bourbon Street for some lively nightlife.