13 Best Cajun Food in New Orleans | 2024 (Top Eats!)
Welcome to our exciting journey through the best Cajun food in New Orleans! Cajun cuisine is all about bold flavors and hearty dishes, and it is the perfect place to experience this unique culinary style.
Our list will guide you to the top restaurants and most famous places to eat Cajun food in the city. From the best cajun restaurants in the city to local favorites, we’ve got it all covered.
Whether you’re looking for authentic Creole dishes, the perfect gumbo, or the spiciest jambalaya, these spots will not disappoint. Get ready to explore the great restaurants New Orleans has to offer, where every meal is a celebration of flavor and tradition!
The Best Cajun Food in New Orleans near me!
1. Original Pierre Maspero’s
Why It’s a Must-Visit
Nestled in one of the French Quarter’s most ancient buildings, dating back to 1788, Original Pierre Maspero’s offers a journey back in time.
It’s not just a restaurant close to me; it’s a piece of the city’s history. Known for its cozy and authentic ambiance, this eatery is a treasure among the best Cajun restaurants in New Orleans.
Opening bright and early at 8 a.m., it’s perfect for breakfast lovers and continues to delight with its lunch and dinner menus. The combination of historical charm and delicious food makes it a popular and top restaurant in the city.
Chef’s Choice
Original Pierre Maspero is famed for its mouth-watering Cajun and Creole cuisine. From classic eggs Benedict and omelets for breakfast to local favorites like oysters, fried catfish, shrimp po-boys, and fried green tomatoes for lunch and dinner, the menu is a celebration of local flavors.
Accompanied by a full bar serving iconic New Orleans cocktails like bloody marys and hurricanes, it’s one of the must-eat places and great restaurants in the city, offering an affordable yet fancy dining experience.
Location and Contact
- 440 Chartres St, New Orleans, LA 70130-2102
- Website
- Phone:- +1 504-524-8990
- Email:- pierremasperos@creolecuisine.com
2. Mulate’s | The Original Cajun Restaurant
Why It’s a Must-Visit
Mulate holds the title of the original Cajun restaurant, a beacon of south Louisiana’s rich food, music, and culture. Its roots stretch from the bayous to the bustling streets of the city, making it a famous restaurant with a story to tell.
The owner’s journey from Cajun Country to the heart of the city infuses the place with a deep, authentic cultural experience. This famous and local favorite is a must on any list of best restaurants in New Orleans, offering a genuine taste of Cajun life.
Chef’s Choice
Mulate’s menu is a tribute to Cajun culinary traditions, offering a range of dishes that celebrate the unique flavors of south Louisiana. It’s a place where food and culture intertwine, creating an unforgettable dining experience.
Known as one of the top restaurants and cool places to eat in New Orleans, Mulate’s provides an authentic, affordable, and good culinary journey, making it one of the best cajun restaurants in New Orleans and a top-rated destination for both locals and visitors.
Location and Contact
- 201 Julia St, New Orleans, LA 70130-1622
- Phone:- +1 504-522-1492
- Email:- monique@mulates.com
3. Creole House Restaurant & Oyster Bar
Why It’s a Must-Visit
Situated in the oldest building on Canal Street, the Creole House Restaurant & Oyster Bar is a jewel in the French Quarter of the city. It’s a popular destination for its authentic Cajun and Creole cuisine, making it one of the best Cajun restaurants in New Orleans.
Just a stone’s throw from local hotels and attractions, it’s the perfect restaurant close to me for tourists and locals alike. The restaurant’s historic setting combined with its exquisite menu options makes it a top and famous restaurant in the city.
Chef’s Choice
The breakfast menu at the Creole House Restaurant & Oyster Bar is a delightful start to the day with unique waffles, toast, and omelet recipes. The main menu dazzles with an array of seafood appetizers, platters, po-boys, soups, salads, and oyster dishes.
Their shucked-to-order oysters, available in both grilled and raw options, are a must-try, setting this place apart as one of the must-eat places and great restaurants in the city. It’s an affordable yet fancy option for those seeking fine dining in the city.
Location and Contact
- 509 Canal St, New Orleans, LA 70130-2305
- Website
- Phone:- +1 504-323-2109
4. Liuzza’s by the Track
Why It’s a Must-Visit
Liuzza’s By The Track is a quintessential neighborhood joint, embodying the spirit of the city. Family-owned since 1996 and housed in a historical landmark from the 1930s, this restaurant is a local and authentic favorite.
Its proximity to the city Fairgrounds makes it the unofficial pre-JazzFest headquarters, attracting festival-goers from around the world. It’s one of the top-rated and cool places to eat in New Orleans, known for its lively atmosphere and good food.
Chef’s Choice
Liuzza’s By The Track is famous for its Bloody Marys and signature BBQ Shrimp Po-Boy, making it one of the best restaurants in New Orleans for a casual dining experience.
The Gumbo and the array of drinks it offers are perfect for those looking for places to eat in the city that capture the city’s festive spirit. It’s an affordable and popular spot for both locals and tourists, serving up some of the best flavors in the city.
Location and Contact
- 1518 N Lopez St, New Orleans, LA 70119-3029
- Website
- Phone:- +1 504-218-7888
- Email:- info@LiuzzasNOLA.com
5. Toups Meatery
Why It’s a Must-Visit
Toups Meatery in Mid-City is a modern haven for meat lovers, offering a unique take on Cajun cuisine. Known for its focus on high-quality meats, including foie gras and wagyu steaks, this restaurant is a standout among the top restaurants in the city.
The atmosphere is perfect for those seeking a fancy, yet authentic dining experience, making it a popular spot in the city. Toups Meatery is an ideal choice for both small groups and large gatherings, known for its great restaurant vibe.
Chef’s Choice
The Meatery Board, a variety of house-made fresh and cured meats, is a highlight at Toups Meatery, along with local favorites like boudin balls and Gulf seafood.
Their cocktail pitchers are a great way to start a group meal. For those who need help to make it to the original location, Toups South offers delicious options like fried chicken and goat tamales.
This variety and quality make Toups Meatery one of the best cajun restaurants in the city, perfect for those looking for places to eat that offer something uniquely delicious.
Location and Contact
- 845 N Carrollton Ave, New Orleans, LA 70119-3703
- Website
- Phone:- +1 504-252-4999
- Email:- larry@toupsmeatery.com
6. Oceana Grill
Why It’s a Must-Visit
Nestled at the vibrant corner of Bourbon and Conti Streets, Oceana Grill stands as a culinary icon in the French Quarter of the city. This restaurant is celebrated for its exceptional Creole and Louisiana cuisine, making it one of the best restaurants in the French Quarter.
Surrounded by the city’s famous music venues and bustling nightlife, it offers an atmosphere that’s both lively and authentic, perfect for both locals and tourists seeking a true city dining experience.
Chef’s Choice
Oceana Grill takes pride in serving what many consider the best crab cakes and gumbo in the French Quarter. Their menu also includes specialty po’boys, a variety of seafood, and Creole-inspired pastas, showcasing the rich flavors of Louisiana.
This culinary haven is a must-visit for anyone looking for the top and most famous restaurants in the city, offering an unforgettable taste of the city’s renowned Creole cuisine.
Location and Contact
- 739 Conti St., New Orleans, LA 70130-2204
- Website
- Phone:- +1 504-525-6002
- Email:- contactus@oceanagrill.com
7. Felix’s Restaurant & Oyster Bar
Why It’s a Must-Visit
Felix’s Restaurant & Oyster Bar is a cornerstone of the city’s culinary history, known for introducing many locals to their first oysters. Since the 1940s, Felix’s has been an institution, putting the oyster bar scene on the map.
With its longstanding tradition and a devoted following of local, national, and international guests, Felix’s has become synonymous with the best oyster experiences in the city.
Chef’s Choice
Felix’s is not just a restaurant; it’s an oyster lover’s paradise. Here, guests can ‘belly up to the bar’ and watch as the freshest oysters are shucked right before their eyes.
The restaurant’s devotion to serving high-quality oysters has made it a famous and popular destination, drawing in generations of oyster enthusiasts. For an authentic experience, Felix’s is a must-eat place and one of the great restaurants in the city.
Location and Contact
- 739 Iberville St, New Orleans, LA 70130-2323
- Website
- Phone:- +1 504-522-4440
- Email:- info@felixs.com
8. Evangeline
Why It’s a Must-Visit
Evangeline specializes in fresh, seasonal cuisine, with a strong commitment to sourcing ingredients directly from local markets and fishermen.
This commitment to local sourcing and the celebration of southern Louisiana’s flavors make it one of the best cajun restaurants in the city. Its cozy and inviting atmosphere is perfect for both travelers and locals looking for an authentic dining experience in the city.
Chef’s Choice
Evangeline’s house specialty, the catfish, is a standout dish, whether served alone, in jambalaya, or on a poor boy. The menu also features local Gulf shrimp, Louisiana blue crab, and Acadian sausage, highlighting the best of regional cuisine.
Additionally, Evangeline boasts a full menu of Louisiana microbrews, ranging from light wheat ales made with Louisiana sugar cane to dark stouts crafted with Louisiana sweet potatoes.
This diverse and flavorful offering makes Evangeline a top-rated and cool place to eat, providing a unique culinary journey through southern Louisiana’s gastronomy.
Location and Contact
- 329 Decatur St, New Orleans, LA 70130-1023
- Website
- Phone:- +1 504-373-4852
- Email:- rmillerx1@gmail.com
9. Le Bayou Restaurant & Oyster Bar
Why It’s a Must-Visit
Le Bayou Restaurant & Oyster Bar brings the spirit of the Big Easy to life! Situated on the liveliest block of Bourbon Street, this spot is all about traditional Louisiana vibes.
Enjoy the sights of the Vieux Carré from the largest balcony on Bourbon, making it a popular destination for both food and scenery.
Known for its lively atmosphere and authentic Cajun and Creole dishes, Le Bayou is one of the best restaurants in the city for those wanting to experience the heart of the city.
Chef’s Choice
Le Bayou serves up a feast of local favorites. Their menu features chargrilled oysters, blackened redfish, and fried seafood po’ boys, paired perfectly with locally brewed beers.
It’s a top-rated spot for anyone craving the city’s famous cuisine, and with its array of drinks, it stands out as one of the cool places to eat and enjoy the city’s vibrant atmosphere.
Location and Contact
- 503 Bourbon Street, New Orleans, LA 70130-2205
- Website
- Phone:- +1 504-529-4256
- Email:- lebayou@creolecuisine.com
10. Zesty Creole
Why It’s a Must-Visit
Welcome to Zesty Creole, where the rich flavors of the city are served on every plate. This restaurant is more than just a Southern breakfast spot; it offers a full dining experience from lunch to late night.
The menu is a delightful journey through traditional cuisine, making it one of the top restaurants for those looking to savor the city’s culinary treasures.
Chef’s Choice
Zesty Creole’s menu is filled with dishes that embody the spirit of the city. From hearty breakfasts to satisfying dinners, each dish is prepared with care and flavor.
This restaurant is a must-eat place for those seeking an authentic and memorable dining experience, making it one of the great restaurants in New Orleans for a taste of the city’s rich culinary history.
Location and Contact
- 827 Canal St, New Orleans, LA 70112, United States
- Website
- Phone:- +1 504-766-6368
- Email:- zestycreole@gmail.com
11. Mambo’s
Why It’s a Must-Visit
Mambo’s is a vibrant oasis in the heart of the French Quarter, offering an escape from the bustling streets below. As the only rooftop bar on Bourbon Street, it provides a unique view and atmosphere, making it one of the nicest and most popular places to eat in the city.
The three-story building, with its inviting French doors, draws locals and visitors alike, offering an authentic New Orleans dining experience.
Chef’s Choice
Mambo’s specializes in authentic New Orleans cuisine, with a focus on comfort and flavor. The welcoming ambiance and diverse menu make it a standout among top-rated and famous restaurants in the city.
Whether you’re a local or a visitor, Mambo’s is a must-visit for anyone looking for an authentic and good meal in the heart of the French Quarter.
Location and Contact
- 411 Bourbon St, New Orleans, LA 70130, United States
- Website
- Phone:- +1 504-407-3717
- Email:- contactus@mambosnola.com
12. Beaucoup Eats
Why It’s a Must-Visit
Beaucoup Eats in Mid-City New Orleans is a neighborhood eatery that brings a modern twist to Creole comfort cuisine. This eatery stands out for its commitment to community support and sourcing ingredients locally and seasonally.
It’s a place where traditional city flavors meet health-conscious preparations, making it one of the best restaurants in New Orleans for those who enjoy authentic flavors in a modern rendition.
Chef’s Choice
At Beaucoup Eats, the menu is filled with local favorites like Top Notch Po-boys and Fan Favorite Wings. Their addictive catfish and the Vegan Stuffed Pepper are must-try dishes, showcasing the eatery’s ability to cater to diverse dietary preferences.
This focus on sourcing responsibly and minimizing waste, while maintaining traditional flavors, makes Beaucoup Eats a standout in the list of great restaurants in New Orleans, perfect for those seeking authentic and good food.
Location and Contact
- 2323 Canal St, New Orleans, LA 70119-6503
- Website
- Phone:- +1 504-598-5777
- Email:- catering@beaucoupeats.com
13. Royal House
Why It’s a Must-Visit
Royal House, located just a block away from Bourbon Street, is a prime destination for Cajun-style dishes and fresh oysters. This restaurant, with its proximity to the Gulf of Mexico, is known for offering some of the freshest oysters in the city, making it a popular spot for seafood lovers.
The oyster bar’s versatile offerings, from fried to grilled to raw oysters, cater to all preferences, placing it among the top restaurants in New Orleans.
Chef’s Choice
Royal House’s lunch and dinner menu is a celebration of Cajun cuisine, featuring an array of fried seafood platters, po-boys, sandwiches, and more.
The variety of dishes, including soups, salads, and boiled seafood, ensures that there’s something for everyone, making it a must-eat place in New Orleans.
Whether you’re a local or a visitor, Royal House offers an authentic and delightful dining experience, solidifying its place as one of the best restaurants in New Orleans.
Location and Contact
- 441 Royal St Corner of Royal & St. Louis Streets, New Orleans, LA 70130-2103
- Website
- Phone:- +1 504-528-2601
- Email:- royalhouse@creolecuisine.com
Conclusion
We hope you enjoyed exploring the rich and flavorful world of Cajun cuisine in the city. From iconic gumbo to spicy jambalaya, our list has introduced you to some of the best cajun restaurants in New Orleans.
These eateries are not just about food; they’re about experiencing the vibrant culture and tradition of Louisiana. Whether you dined in a fancy establishment or a cheap, local joint, each place offered something special.
Remember, Cajun cuisine in New Orleans is more than just eating; it’s a culinary adventure. So next time you’re in the city and wondering where to eat, think back to these amazing spots for an unforgettable taste of Cajun cooking!
