The best restaurants in New Orleans

“Chain eatery & bar serving a diverse menu of classic Italian fare in a family-friendly setting.”

“Whether you want a classic pie or something loaded, The Pizza Shoppe turns out pizzas with handmade dough plus Bronx Italian street food favorites, pastas, and desserts. It’s the kind of low-key Metairie spot Kenner folks keep in the rotation when they want reliable, legit comfort food.”

From the Kenner newsletter, September 10, 2026

“Southern Italian spot for red-sauce pastas, crab bisque & other classic fare in an old-world space.”

“Just down the road in Metairie, Sandro's Trattoria is a family-owned standby serving homemade family favorites since August 2004, made with fresh ingredients and authentic recipes. Warm Tuscan vibes, friendly staff, and plates that feel cooked with love make it an easy weeknight go-to.”

From the Kenner newsletter, September 9, 2026

“Contemporary-style chain spot for pizzas with specialty toppings, plus calzones & sandwiches.”

“Kid-friendly local hangout serving classic Italian dishes, including pizza and lasagna.”

“Casual, cozy eatery for calzones, pizza and pasta dishes, plus beer and wine.”

“Japanese fare, including sushi, ramen, and hibachi dishes, served in a laid-back space.”

“When you're not in the mood to debate dinner, Meaux Jeaux Pizza delivers crisp, chewy flatbread pies and fresh salads with just enough creative twists, plus easy catering and private party hosting if you're wrangling the whole krewe.”

From the Kenner newsletter, September 5, 2026

“Japanese restaurant with sushi, grilled eats, and noodles in a casual setting with a bar.”

“Easygoing restaurant dishing up Mexican dishes such as fajitas and enchiladas, plus live music.”

“Polished restaurant with a long sushi bar featuring inventive maki & Japanese kitchen entrees.”

“Casual Italian bistro dishing up homemade pasta, breads, and sauces, plus cocktails.”

“Japanese steakhouse serving sushi and other dishes in a casual, cozy atmosphere.”

“Sushi & sashimi plus creative maki rolls & cooked Japanese fare at a casual roadside eatery.”

“Counter-serve chain serving up a menu of specialty or custom pizzas for takeout or delivery.”

“Family-friendly chain eatery supplying specialty pizzas such as muffaletta, pasta & Italian subs.”

“Laid-back eatery featuring Tex-Mex dishes, such as tacos and fajitas, plus beer and cocktails.”

“Japanese option specializing in sushi and sashimi as well as hibachi meals.”

“Cozy Italian eatery serving classic steaks, pizzas, pastas, salads, lasagnas, and entrees, plus a Caesar for two.”

“Big portions of down-home Creole-Italian fare like mac 'n' cheese in a retro 1950s-styled space.”

“Pizza with gourmet toppings plus pasta, sandwiches & signature Caesar salad in a relaxed setting.”

“Contemporary-style chain spot for pizzas with specialty toppings, plus calzones & sandwiches.”

“Casual eatery specializing in traditional and inventive sushi rolls, as well as hibachi fare.”

“Pizza and pasta are offered by this casual Italian eatery with a halal menu.”

“Casual eatery offering up pizzas, pastas, salads and sandwiches, along with friendly service.”

“RUMBA Island Inspired Cuisine & Rum Bar serves bright Caribbean plates and serious rum cocktails that feel like a vacation without leaving Metairie. Think Dominican ribs, coconut shrimp, seared ahi, plus a Rum Punch Brunch and Mardi Gras catering built for parade routes… easy win for Kenner folks craving something fun.”

From the Kenner newsletter, September 6, 2026

“Italian chain offering an array of specialty pizzas, plus classic pastas & salads.”

“From the team behind Porter & Luke’s, Sophie's is a seafood and Italian spot in River Ridge focusing on the dishes New Orleans loves best. Perfect when your crew can't choose between marinara and remoulade, it feels like a family place made for weeknights, birthdays, and those "let's not cook" moments.”

From the Kenner newsletter, September 6, 2026

“Whether you’re feeling a classic pepperoni, a bright Margherita, or a build-your-own experiment, Royal's Woodfire Pizza turns out wood-fired pies built on classic recipes and creative combos with fresh, high-quality ingredients. Add a Caesar, a golden stromboli or calzone, and maybe a Lebanese Tea...”

From the New Orleans newsletter, August 6, 2026

“When you need a legit smashed burger situation, Smash House - Nola hits with kosher-friendly and halal options, the OG Classic or melty Smash Melt, a Veggie Smash that actually satisfies, plus unruly sides like Hot Tots and Bacon Cheddar Ranch Fries…and thick Oreo Cookies or Peanut Butter Reeses shakes.”

From the New Orleans newsletter, August 4, 2026

“Because sometimes you need brass with your brunch, Broussard's, a New Orleans classic since 1920, brings a Jazz Brunch that nails French-Creole flavors in a historic setting. Sip something crisp at the Empire Bar, linger in the courtyard, and remember why we live here for food and hospitality like this.”

From the New Orleans newsletter, August 3, 2026

“Bayona is that rare spot where New Orleans soul meets polished technique, turning the freshest local ingredients into balanced, quietly complex plates inside a historic Creole cottage. August brings their Julia Child Dinner Series and COOLinary menus... perfect excuse to plan a lingering catch-up that feels special.”

From the New Orleans newsletter, August 8, 2026

“Southern, Cajun, brunch eatery for waffles, pancakes and omelettes, plus burgers, grits and grits po' boys.”

“Clover Grill has been slinging world-famous burgers and breakfast since 1939, with pretty pink menus, a row of 50s-style stools, and pure Bourbon Street personality. It's the quirky, cozy spot to hit this week when you want fried goodness, a little nostalgia, and zero pretense.”

From the New Orleans newsletter, August 22, 2026

“Restaurant serving handmade pasta, wood-fired pizza & Italian cuisine amid informal surrounds.”

“Uptown on Freret, Mint Modern Vietnamese does the greatest hits plus clever riffs... think bun bo hue with real kick, a pressed Banh Mi Burger, pandan waffle with fried chicken, and a solid cocktail list. Quick service, veg-friendly options, and enough comfort to rescue any weeknight.”

From the New Orleans newsletter, September 5, 2026

“Casual Spanish restaurant serving tapas, paella, sangria, and other dishes in a laid-back setting.”

“Farm-to-table fine-dining restaurant for tasting menus, wine pairings and cocktails.”

“PhoTran nails the comforting stuff locals crave, from fragrant pho with legit depth to a grilled pork banh mi that crunches back. Vegan pals are covered too with tofu pho and lemongrass curry tofu, then finish strong with Vietnamese iced coffee or salty pickled lemonade.”

From the New Orleans newsletter, August 15, 2026

“St. James Cheese Company, in Uptown and the Warehouse District, is the neighborhood go-to for melty sandwiches, rotating cuts of Brie and blue, and charcuterie that turns a Tuesday into a tiny party, plus shelves of tinned fish and good olive oil to upgrade your snack drawer.”

“Upmarket Italian fare from unique pizzas to pastas served in a warm, airy space with chandeliers.”

“Bayou Belle Café brings Cajun breakfast and comfort food to life with po boys, seafood plates, and ultimate seafood grits stacked with shrimp, crawfish and fried fish, plus stuffed banana French toast if your sweet tooth is calling. When your week needs a little extra Louisiana, this is the move.”

From the New Orleans newsletter, August 21, 2026

“Casual eatery serving up popular breakfast dishes, sandwiches, soups, and po' boys.”

“Neighborhood restaurant offers shareable plates with international influences, cocktails, and wine.”

“Catfish, pimiento cheese & other Southern specialties plus cocktails in relaxed, modern cafe space.”

“Spanish tapas, paella & entrees plus housemade sangria in a quaint, lively space.”

“Compère Lapin is that rare spot that treats New Orleans flavors with Caribbean and European accents without getting fussy. Smart, satisfying plates and a quietly confident vibe make it an easy pick when you want dinner to feel special but still very local.”

“Diners can enjoy Senegalese fare at this intimate spot that offers tasting menus with wine pairings.”

“Verti Marte is that French Quarter corner-store deli locals swear by for Creole-leaning po’ boys, the legendary All That Jazz, and muffulettas that get delightfully messy. Expect big flavors, legit jambalaya and other hot plates, plus catering when you need to feed the krewe without overthinking it.”

From the New Orleans newsletter, September 20, 2026

“Chicken wings & loads of sauces star but there are also burgers, sides & more at this small spot.”

“Mona Lisa is that Lower French Quarter staple you hit when only a saucy classic or a garlicky spinach-feta pie will do. Think crowd-pleasing pies like the Carnivore or Mediterranean, shareable starters, and make-your-own combos, all in a quirky room lined with hundreds of Mona Lisas.”

From the New Orleans newsletter, August 10, 2026

“Charming, counter-serve cafe with a menu of beignets, Cajun & breakfast fare, plus patio seats.”

“Cheery restaurant serving rustic, wood-fired Italian fare with a Southern twist, plus wine and cocktails.”

“Chef Edgar Caro channels coastal Colombia into New Orleans at Baru Bistro & Tapas, turning Latin Caribbean traditions into vibrant, elegant small plates that beg to be shared. It’s the kind of place that keeps locals coming back for bold flavors, creative twists, and that Magazine Street energy.”

From the New Orleans newsletter, August 29, 2026

“Bésame turns Gulf seafood into Latin and Caribbean tapas worth sharing, think bright ceviches, guac, flaky empanadas, even paella. Chef Nanyo Dominguez keeps the flavors lively while the bar leans south, pouring pisco, mezcal, tequila and rum cocktails... a slick pre-show move if you’re Saenger-bound.”

From the New Orleans newsletter, August 31, 2026

“Relaxed eateries serving burgers, pasta and fried seafood, plus cocktails and beer at the bar.”

“Rustic-chic spot offering regional breakfast & brunch dishes with a modern twist & local craft beer.”

“Sometimes you just need crispy Louisiana bird and a daiquiri that tastes like actual fruit, not a snowball machine, and Voodoo Chicken & Daiquiris delivers with fried seafood, poboys, jambalaya, gumbo, plus free daiquiri flavor samples. They also cater and host parties when your crew gets hungry.”

“Mediterranean-influenced restaurant serving small plates of seafood and local produce in a casual, stylish setting.”

“Local chain serving seafood & Cajun-Southern comfort fare in a warm, relaxed atmosphere.”

“Cheery, casual eatery for breakfast, brunch, lunch and cocktails serving New Orleans-inspired eats.”

“Fine-dining landmark famed for Creole cuisine, posh breakfasts and bananas Foster for dessert.”

“Vietnamese standards like pho, banh mi & signature spring rolls all served in a small, basic space.”

“If your week needs a reliable slice with personality, One More Pie dials up pies that lean Cajun and creative. Think Kiss of Fire with shrimp and spicy remoulade, Cajun Persuasion, crawfish beignets and dips, plus vegan pies and cauliflower wings when your crew wants variety without drama.”

From the New Orleans newsletter, August 30, 2026

“Blue Oak BBQ keeps things unfussy and downright tasty with Southern barbecue, specialty sandwiches, and classic plates & sides that hit the spot on a Tuesday or after the game. Expect a down-home vibe, big flavors, and zero fuss that make it the kind of local standby you end up craving.”

From the New Orleans newsletter, September 19, 2026

“Chic Italian spot with wood-fired pizza and tasting menus.”

“Contemporary counter-serve joint offering beer & slices of classic & creative hand-tossed pizzas.”

“New French fare in a chandelier-lit restaurant inside a 19th-century building.”

“Fried chicken, jambalaya, po' boys, and seafood dishes are paired with cocktails at this casual restaurant.”

“Casual restaurant serving ramen, pho and dim sum, along with bubble teas.”

“Bearcat CBD keeps both the Good Cat and Bad Cat in your life happy, with lighter plates, heartier indulgences, and plenty in between. Expect sustainably sourced coffee, specialty teas, house-made bottled sips, and a full bar, plus legit options for vegetarian, vegan, paleo, and gluten-free folks.”

From the New Orleans newsletter, September 14, 2026

“Cane and Table channels a proto-tiki spirit with rum-forward cocktails lauded by Bon Appétit, while Chef Alfredo Nogueira turns out seasonally driven, coastally inspired plates that blend Cuban roots with New Orleans know-how. Old Havana vibes, bright pickles, and whole-animal flavors make it weeknight-worthy.”

From the New Orleans newsletter, September 4, 2026

“Cozy spot in the French Quarter offering comfort fare such as pulled pork, gumbo, and brisket tacos.”

“Easygoing, red-hued Japanese restaurant offering classic fare, hibachi rice & creative sushi rolls.”

“Cheery cafe serving signature omelets, Southern brunch fare & cocktails in a relaxed atmosphere.”

“Flour Moon Bagels is NOLA made, NYC inspired, rolling by hand and giving every bagel an 18-hour nap before a kettle bath and 500-degree bake for that crisp-chewy thing you crave. Hit classic breakfast sandwiches or tartines, snag a dozen with schmears and smoked fish, then cruise the Lafitte Greenway smiling.”

From the New Orleans newsletter, September 6, 2026

“Sushi by Us keeps things simple and reservation friendly, which is clutch when the group chat actually commits to dinner. Backed by Veho Hospitality Group, it’s a polished New Orleans option for satisfying a sushi fix with a plan instead of a gamble.”

From the New Orleans newsletter, September 7, 2026

“At the quiet edge of the French Quarter, The Italian Barrel delivers candlelit Northern Italian cooking that actually feels personal, with truffle ravioli, veal piccata, osso buco, and a tidy wine list that gets it. New ownership refreshed the space in 2025, so reserve and make it a real night.”

From the New Orleans newsletter, September 13, 2026

“Fresh catches from the coast of Grand Isle, Creole fare & drinks in an airy, laid-back space.”

“Whether you’re craving slow-smoked meats or a burger stacked just right, The Backyard nails that casual, get-together energy. Local craft brews, a curated premium whiskey lineup, and cocktails that overachieve meet locally sourced sides and sandwiches, so you can post up with friends and call it a good night.”

From the New Orleans newsletter, August 24, 2026

“Smash-burger spot nestled in the back of Marie's Bar & Kitchen, featuring a limited menu, crispy fries and beer.”

“Cochon Restaurant is where Chefs Donald Link and Stephen Stryjewski go deep on traditional Cajun Southern flavors with locally sourced pork, produce, and seafood. Rustic warehouse vibes, a bar and chef’s counter held for walk-ins, and a “Feed Me” menu that can even include a whole roasted suckling pig...”

From the New Orleans newsletter, September 11, 2026

“Casual eatery with classic American and Cajun eats, cocktails, and regular live music events.”

“Relaxed sausage-making shop and eatery for burgers, pulled pork dishes and mac 'n' cheese.”

“Whether your week calls for a spicy Bloody Mary or a refined dinner, Atchafalaya Restaurant serves contemporary Creole plates, crafted cocktails, and a curated wine list in a cozy Irish Channel cottage. Brunch brings live music and inventive pours like the green Bywater Bloody Mary and absinthe-spiked Bloody Fairy.”

From the New Orleans newsletter, August 17, 2026

“Low-key counter serve specializing in Texas-style barbecue such as brisket and ribs, plus a food truck.”

“Cheery cafe serving signature omelets, Southern brunch fare & cocktails in a relaxed atmosphere.”

“Local chain serving seafood & Cajun-Southern comfort fare in a warm, relaxed atmosphere.”

“Sushi Takumi is that low-key neighborhood spot for fresh Japanese sushi plus noodles, soups, salads, and solid vegetarian options. Order online for takeout or dine in for the chill, zen vibe, and a menu that isn’t afraid to create and experiment, without getting fussy.”

From the New Orleans newsletter, September 21, 2026

“Pizzeria with loaded pies, sides & a couple salads in a bare-bones space with late-night delivery.”

“Casual pizzeria featuring thin-crust pies, plus Italian and white pizzas.”

“Specialty pizzas loaded with toppings, plus calzones, wraps & more to eat in or take to go.”

“Hefty burgers, loaded baked potatoes, cocktails & a jukebox draw lines at this 50-year-old dive.”

“Slow-smoked barbecue & hearty side dishes in a quirky, cypress-paneled space with a full bar.”

“Laid-back eatery serving specialty rolls and other Japanese dishes, plus beer, wine, and sake.”

“Japanese restaurant offering traditional handrolls and other fare in a casual setting.”

“Casual, narrow cafe featuring quick, counter-serve breakfasts & lunches with ample portions.”

“Colorful, no-frills counter serve selling 20+ flavors of chicken wings as well as watermelon punch.”

“Walker's BBQ keeps the legendary Jazz Fest cochon de lait po' boy rolling all year, with smoky pork that basically melts on contact. Bourdain stopped by for a reason, so treat yourself to a messy, glorious sandwich and classic barbecue that tastes like New Orleans comfort.”

From the New Orleans newsletter, August 14, 2026

“Popular for breakfast, this casual eatery offers comfort food, beignets, and a full bar.”

“Ernst Cafe is a true Warehouse District institution where you can post up for the game with wings, burgers, loaded fries, and cold beers. Unbeatable beer specials, friendly vibes, and po'boys that hit the spot make it an easy weeknight hang or a reliable pre-show meetup.”

From the New Orleans newsletter, September 12, 2026

“Relaxed, island-tinged bar with seafood-heavy Cal-Mex eats plus an outdoor courtyard & late hours.”

“Local & imported talent helm the kitchen at this sleek spot serving pizzas, pastas & seasonal sides.”

“Traditional BBQ sandwiches, sides & plates served in a spacious dining room with cool, modern decor.”