Our Favorite Foodie Neighborhoods in New Orleans

Photo credit: Amour Nola

Please note this is one of our most popular blog posts originally published in October 2019. It was updated on 6/1/20 with links to restaurants that have re-opened during Phase 1 of the city’s reopening plan! Enjoy.

New Orleanians are nothing if not opinionated about their preferred restaurants and go-to dishes. And we’re right there with them. But it can be difficult to keep up, between new eateries popping up all over town and the neighborhood haunts we like to frequent on a regular basis. Of course, that’s a good problem to have – because it means there’s always something delicious around the corner.

Here’s our take on a few New Orleans neighborhoods and some spots that stand out – whether new and notable, or an oldie but goodie.

Warehouse/CBD

The Warehouse and Central Business Districts offer bars, restaurants, galleries, free concerts, theater performances, and more – which means there’s plenty to do both after the workday ends and on the weekends. And because the area is home to the hottest new condos and apartments, the options for great food and good times have flourished.

Check out:

Willa Jean – a delightful bakery, brunch & cocktail spot; we love the warm chocolate chip cookies

Johnny Sanchez – tacos of all kinds; perfect for pre- or post-Saints games

Herbsaint – long-standing French-southern favorite that consistently delivers

Pêche – share the whole grilled fish with a friend – it’s a must

Auction House Market – a lovely food hall with something for everyone 

Garden District & LGD

Known for its historic mansions and incredible architecture featuring Victorian, Italianate and Classic Greek Revival styles, the Garden District and LGD (Lower Garden District) are also home to amazing shopping, dining and entertainment. Some of the city’s top cafés and restaurants are found all along Magazine Street.

Check out:

Joey K’s – a downhome place for fried seafood and more

Coquette – contemporary southern cuisine with a great atmosphere

Commander’s Palace – still the ultimate choice for a special occasion

Hivolt – yummy breakfast sandwiches, bowls, sandwiches and more

Juan’s Flying Burrito – a unique and popular New Orleans-style Mexican joint; try the Mardi Gras Indian tacos!

Uptown

Uptown New Orleans is a beautiful, tree-lined residential community with many homes, smaller restaurants, local shops, parks and green spaces. There are great eateries all the way down Magazine Street, as well as newer options along the Freret Street corridor, between Jefferson Ave. and Napoleon Ave.

Check out:

High Hat – casual spot serving fried catfish, Delta tamales and one of the best burgers in town

Patois – low-key yet upscale restaurant that’s tucked away from the crowds

Gracious Bakery – stellar, scratch-made pastries; we’re partial to the Prytania location

La Petite Grocery – always a fabulous meal when you get the crab beignets & ricotta dumplings

Domilise’s – not much to look at, but they’ve got some of the best po-boys around

Saba – fabulous, family-style Israeli dining

Mid-City & Bayou St. John

In the heart of New Orleans are the eclectic and interesting Mid-City and Bayou St. John neighborhoods, offering many long-standing, family-favorite restaurants, newer options, and plenty of things to do and see in City Park.

Check out:

Zasu – Chef Sue Zemanick’s new place that’s getting all kinds of accolades

Neyow’s Creole Café – friendly service and grilled oysters make it a go-to

Parkway Bakery & Tavern – amazing po-boys worth the wait

Blue Oak BBQ – Pit BBQ plates, sandwiches, catering and more

Crescent City Steakhouse – an unpretentious, landmark destination for steaks

Angelo Brocato – the beloved Italian ice cream parlor that’s over 100 years old

Café Degas – a consistently wonderful French bistro with mostly outdoor seating

Don’t miss the huge seafood platter at Katie’s. It’s delicious and will feed a small army.

See Rêve Realtors listings in all of these foodie neighborhoods and more.