10 Places to Eat Authentic in New Orleans

A world away from California, New York, Florida and other tourist hotspots, you’ll find a place that flies under the radar. A true melting pot of so many different cultural influences, New Orleans is brimming with heart and soul...and so many tasty delights! Whether you're coming for a bit of revelry, to explore the iconic food and drinks, or you're looking to dig into the culture of the Crescent City, this New Orleans authentic food guide is the perfect way to get a taste for what NOLA has to offer.

Arnaud's, McHardy's Chicken & Fixin', Dooky Chase Restaurant, Brennan's, Li'l Dizzy's Cafe, Barrow's Seafood, Domilise's Po-Boy & Bar, Seaworthy, Saffron nola, Brigtsen's Restaurant

• Arnaud's in New Orleans, United States

  
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  If you want that old-school, turn of the century New Orleans vibe, look no further. It's award-winning, over the top, and known for its soufflé potatoes and flaming café brûlot. Oh, and be sure to check out their Mardi Gras museum!

• McHardy's Chicken & Fixin' in New Orleans, United States

  
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  If you're looking for some real southern fried chicken, this is your place! This place is family-owned, quick, cheap and full of flavor.

• Dooky Chase Restaurant in New Orleans, United States

  
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  Famous for their soul food, lunch buffet, and private collection of African American art, Dooky Chase is now run by the founder (who was called the Queen of Creole cuisine), Leah Chase’s, grandson.

• Brennan's in New Orleans, United States

  
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  This place is definitely a tourist hot-spot but locals still flock for their seasonally-inspired menu of classic Creole fare. And you can’t miss the Bananas Foster, because it was invented here!

• Li'l Dizzy's Cafe in New Orleans, United States

  
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  This local, family-owned spot serves Creole soul food for breakfast and lunch — try the grilled catfish and grits, gumbo, and fried chicken!

• Barrow's Seafood in New Orleans, United States

  
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  Over a decade after Hurricane Katrina, this iconic, family-owned catfish restaurant made a comeback — it is a MUST for an authentic New Orleans style meal (and large portions!).

• Domilise's Po-Boy & Bar in New Orleans, United States

  
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  This low-key shop serves some of the best po’ boys in New Orleans — be sure to try the especially the melty roast beef and fried shrimp.

• Seaworthy in New Orleans, United States

  
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  Located in the Warehouse District, they’re serving sustainably sourced Gulf seafood and local game in a beautiful Creole cottage from 1832. Show up for Happy Hour and try oysters from the East, West, and Gulf coasts!

• Saffron nola in New Orleans, United States

  
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  I was blown away by this place’s Indian and Louisiana fusion menu! Be sure to try the oysters with ginger, the Paneer Pudha and the curried seafood gumbo.

• Brigtsen's Restaurant in New Orleans, United States

  
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  This riverside, Victorian cottage is home to an authentic, modern Cajun-Creole menu — the seafood platter is a must!