Gumbo, Gator Bites, and Gravy
New Orleans has all the key ingredients for a great trip: architectural beauty, cultural, fun things to do, and of course, some really great food. The city’s gastronomy scene showcases flavors from spices and cooking traditions rooted in Cajun, Creole, and African history.
No trip to NOLA is complete without a taste of regional dishes like gumbo, fried alligator, and beignets. Louisiana is the second largest seafood-producing state, so you should expect to find plenty of seafood on the menu. Everybody does their version of charbroiled oysters, but there are some places that just do it a little better than others. And Drago’s is one of those places. Order a dozen for the table (or to-go) but don’t skip on the other seafood dishes such as the Crawfish Fest, which includes crawfish tails served three ways. And the Lobster Marco, a whole lobster stuffed with mushrooms and sauteed shrimp over pasta. Afterwards, head over to the French Quarter and grab yourself a Hand Grenade at the Tropical Isle. There are several locations throughout Bourbon Street, and if you save your souvenir cup, you’ll receive a discount on your next green boozy refill.
In the morning, make your way over to a legendary restaurant in N’awlins that's been around for years. The Court of Two Sisters has indoor and outdoor courtyard seating, with live jazz, and a buffet that includes everything from turtle soup to jambalaya. This spot is perfect for sampling a variety of what New Orleans has to offer.
Another place worth checking out is Deanie’s Seafood. Picture walking into a diner-style restaurant where you have the option of sitting at a high top or in a booth. You’re greeted by friendly staff who give you a menu filled with several delicious options to choose from. Well, that’s exactly what can happen when you visit here. The Chicken Andouille Gumbo was amazing, period. Flavorful, seasoned, and hearty. Another honorable mention is the Soft Shell Crab. They even have a Happy Hour with both drink and food specials. Definitely worth a visit when in the French Quarter!
And before you end your trip, you must try having a beignet and coffee at Cafe Beignet. This place is just as good as the famous Cafe Du Monde, but has a few (less crowded) locations scattered throughout the French Quarter. The warm, fluffy beignets, generously dusted with powdered sugar, are a signature sweet treat that pairs perfectly with a hot cup of chicory coffee. Whether you enjoy them on the patio for breakfast, or in the evening for dessert, this delicious combo is a true taste of NOLA’s charm and history.