Explore New Orleans like a local with our food and drink guide.
The French Quarter in New Orleans is a gorgeous place that transports you to a French colony far from the United States. It is absolutely worth visiting and meandering down every street to admire the architecture. But there is so much more to New Orleans than the touristy French Quarter. Check out some of our favorite foodie spots on your next trip to NOLA and explore a taste of New Orleans like a local and off the beaten path.
Grab an excellent beer and pretzel at Crescent City Brewhouse, the only microbrewery in the French Quarter. It’s more than just a “microbrewery” though. They brew according to the Bavarian Purity Law of 1516.
A unique shop absolutely worth visiting if you like oddities is the Idea Factory.
A dive bar we enjoy in the French Quarter but far enough out of the centralized tourist zone is Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop. It’s definitely on a calmer section of Bourbon Street.
A brewery we LOVE: Parleaux Beer Lab in the Bywater neighborhood is brewing up some very imaginative and unexpected beers. Their beer garden is the perfect spot to relax and enjoy a flight (or two).
Our must-visit date night dinner spot: N7
The entrance is very hard to find if you don’t know that it is behind a door cut into the fence by the painted N7 sign. But, upon entering the lush garden, you’ll realize you made the right decision to dine there.
Excellent options for vegetarians: Carmo has something for everyone, and if you feel like you haven’t had a single vegetable while in NOLA, this is the place to enjoy lunch.
Dive bar: Vaughan’s in the Bywater neighborhood will give you a snapshot of where the locals drink.
Cheese and specialty shop: St James Cheese Company is a great place to pick up snacks or sit down for a meal.
Bottomless Bloody Mary: Daisy Mae’s Southern Fried Chicken and Breakfast will serve some great fried chicken AND bottomless bloodies. Yes, that garnish is edible!
Craft Cocktails: Revel Cafe & Bar by esteemed bar tender Chris McMillian should be on your list if you are a genuine connoisseur of cocktails.
French Quarter hidden gem: Sylvain is one place in the French Quarter we highly recommend visiting for drinks only or for a meal.
Coffee: Congregation Coffee is located on the other side of the Mighty Mississippi, a short ferry ride from the French Quarter. It’s the preeminent coffee roaster and regional hub for barista training and coffee education in the south.
