Where to Eat and Drink in New Orleans: Our 6 Favorite Spots
To be frank, everything in New Orleans is the main attraction — there’s no city quite like it. However, the cuisine and drink scene are on a whole other level. While it’s hard to go wrong (you can walk into just about anywhere, and find a reason to stay), these were the places I’ll return to — the standouts.
Oceana Grill
Oceana Grill has been a staple for my family when in New Orleans. It’s the first place we eat, and a great place to start — especially if you need an introduction to Louisiana food. It’s right off Bourbon Street, always a packed house, and you can order just about any classic cajun dish you desire. I typically go with the “Taste of New Orleans,” which is creole jambalaya, crawfish etouffée, red beans and rice with smoked sausage.
The Seance Lounge at Muriel's
Muriel’s Jackson Square
I came across Muriel’s while on a haunted tour of the French Quarter during my first visit to New Orleans. The story of their resident, friendly ghost — whom they set aside a table for, and serve each evening in order to prevent destruction to their restaurant — piqued my interest for many years. Upon visiting again, I decided to dine with them for brunch — and wow, have I been missing out. This will be a spot I return to during every future visit.
I cannot recommend their Sunday Jazz Brunch enough — they have a small band that plays in each room, and at each table — it’s so much fun, and the best of New Orleans culture.
Be sure to order a Gin Fizz (it’s this creamy, orange, fizzy breakfast cocktail — and one of the best drinks I’ve ever had), and don’t leave without exploring the upstairs and balcony — the balcony has an incredible view of Jackson Square, while the upstairs features ballrooms and the haunted seance room. The building’s history is what led me to Muriel’s, but the food and ambiance is why I’ll return. Don’t miss it.
Cherry Coffee Roasters
Cherry Coffee Roasters is a small, neighborhood coffee shop that just so happened to be within walking distance of the Airbnb we stayed at — which was more towards the Garden District, rather than the downtown area. It’s an awesome spot to grab coffee and pastries, and calmly start your day before heading out to some of the busier activities New Orleans has to offer.
The shop itself is super cute, the staff is very friendly — even the people, that are clearly regulars, were chatty and welcoming. We noticed the same people, kids, and various dogs stopping in daily, during our week visit; so, it’s very much a small town feel (and our favorite coffee we had while in town). If you too are staying in the area, check it out, stay awhile.
Superior Seafood & Oyster Bar
Located in Uptown along the streetcar line, you’ll find seafood that is truly of its namesake. Just about every Uber driver recommended this place, and it’s obvious why, as it was our best overall meal in New Orleans. The seafood is phenomenal, servers are friendly and knowledgeable, and the ambiance and price are on par. Try the charbroiled oysters and redfish — however, whatever you choose to order will likely exceed your expectations.
The Chloe
The Chloe is a boutique hotel on Saint Charles; we stopped in to grab a drink before dining down the block at Superior Seafood, but we could have stayed all night. As you can see, it’s the cutest possible place to grab a drink.
The ambiance is top notch, with tons of different nooks to lounge in, and the people that work there are the absolute nicest. One of the bartenders created a custom drink for those at our table that wanted something a little sweeter, and even came to the table to make sure we liked it (which is beyond kind) — so when you stop in, be sure to ask for ‘The Dan.’
Pat O’Brien’s Courtyard Restaurant
Ever wondered what the courtyards of the French Quarter are like? This is a great place to get a feel for it, while enjoying drinks and appetizers. The Hurricane is the signature drink — and while half the courtyard is technically a bar, there’s another entrance on Bourbon Street (the restaurant side) that allows guests under 21.
