New Orleans is a city rich in history, and its culinary scene is no exception. Many of its oldest restaurants have been serving up authentic flavors for over a century, providing a taste of the city’s vibrant culture. These legendary spots don’t just offer food; they’re part of the New Orleans story. Each restaurant has unique charm, a long-standing tradition, and a loyal following.
Antoine’s Restaurant
Antoine’s, established in 1840, is the oldest family-run restaurant in New Orleans. Located in the heart of the French Quarter, this iconic spot is a symbol of the city’s deep culinary heritage. Famous for its classic Creole dishes, Antoine’s offers a unique dining experience in multiple elegantly decorated rooms. The restaurant is known for its Oysters Rockefeller, which it created and popularized. Each visit feels like stepping back in time, with its historic photos and antique furnishings. Antoine’s continues to be a cornerstone of New Orleans dining and remains open to this day, attracting visitors worldwide.
Tujague’s Restaurant
Tujague’s, founded in 1856, is New Orleans’ second-oldest restaurant and a local favorite. Nestled in the French Quarter, this establishment combines rich history with authentic Creole flavors. Originally a meeting place for butchers, Tujague’s is known for its famous boiled beef brisket. The space itself reflects the city’s past, with its classic wooden bar and vintage tile floors. Tujague’s has survived challenges and changes in the city but maintains its traditional charm. Today, it remains open, offering locals and tourists alike a true taste of New Orleans history.
Café du Monde
Café du Monde, established in 1862, is world-renowned for its beignets and coffee. Located in the bustling French Market, it serves a simple menu that has stayed consistent for generations. The open-air café invites patrons to enjoy freshly made beignets coated in powdered sugar alongside chicory coffee. Café du Monde is an essential stop for anyone visiting New Orleans, offering a taste of the city’s sweet and unique flavors. This historic spot has become a landmark, attracting visitors day and night. It remains open, continuing its longstanding tradition in the heart of New Orleans.
Commander’s Palace
Commander’s Palace, established in 1893, is a vibrant spot in the Garden District known for its upscale Creole cuisine. This elegant, turquoise-colored restaurant has a storied reputation and is famous for training world-class chefs like Emeril Lagasse. Known for dishes like Turtle Soup and Creole bread pudding soufflé, it delivers a true taste of New Orleans refinement. The interior exudes charm with a mix of classic and modern décor, creating a unique dining experience. Commander’s Palace is still open and is a favorite among locals and travelers seeking an unforgettable meal.
Galatoire’s
Galatoire’s, founded in 1905, sits prominently on Bourbon Street in the French Quarter. Known for its traditional Creole menu, Galatoire’s holds a special place in New Orleans culture and has won numerous culinary awards. The restaurant’s ambiance is lively, with an old-world charm accentuated by chandeliers and mirrored walls. Signature dishes include shrimp remoulade and crabmeat Yvonne, served with the same attention to detail as they were over a century ago. Galatoire’s continues to thrive and is open today, beloved by generations of New Orleans residents and visitors alike.
Arnaud’s Restaurant
Arnaud’s Restaurant, opened in 1918, is one of New Orleans’ classic dining destinations with a touch of glamour. Situated in the French Quarter, it’s celebrated for its traditional Creole cuisine and inviting jazz-filled atmosphere. Arnaud’s specialty dishes, like shrimp Arnaud and soufflé potatoes, have delighted patrons for over a century. The restaurant’s interior is grand, featuring sparkling chandeliers and an elegant, old-world charm. Arnaud’s remains open, preserving its historical roots while serving both locals and tourists with a memorable experience.
Napoleon House
Napoleon House, established in 1914, is a charming spot with an intriguing history in the French Quarter. Originally built as a residence for Napoleon Bonaparte, it’s known today for its unique ambiance and famous Pimm’s Cup cocktail. Napoleon House serves a casual menu featuring local favorites like muffulettas and red beans and rice. The building itself exudes historic charm, with its faded walls, antique decor, and cozy setting. Napoleon House remains open and is beloved by locals and visitors who appreciate its blend of history and classic New Orleans flavors.
Mandina’s Restaurant
Mandina’s Restaurant, opened in 1932, is a beloved neighborhood spot in Mid-City New Orleans. Known for its comforting Creole-Italian menu, Mandina’s serves dishes like seafood gumbo and veal parmesan. The restaurant exudes a casual, welcoming vibe, attracting locals and visitors alike. Its classic pink exterior is instantly recognizable, and the interior is filled with family photos and memorabilia. Mandina’s has weathered many storms, including Hurricane Katrina, and emerged as a symbol of resilience. It remains open, cherished by generations of New Orleanians for its hearty, familiar flavors.
Pascal’s Manale
Pascal’s Manale, founded in 1913, is a historic New Orleans restaurant known for creating the city’s iconic BBQ shrimp. Located in Uptown, it’s famous for its warm, nostalgic setting and classic Italian-Creole dishes. Pascal’s Manale boasts a long-standing oyster bar where guests enjoy fresh Gulf oysters shucked to order. The restaurant’s interior reflects its age, with wood-paneled walls and vintage photos. Pascal’s Manale has been family-run for over a century and remains a favorite for those seeking authentic New Orleans flavors. It is still open and continues to serve locals and tourists alike.
Casamento’s Restaurant
Casamento’s, established in 1919, is a small but iconic restaurant on Magazine Street, famous for its oysters and seafood. Known for its tiled walls and floors, Casamento’s has a unique interior that adds to its charm. It’s best known for its oyster loaf, a classic New Orleans sandwich featuring fried oysters on thick, toasted bread. The restaurant closes during the summer, honoring its original tradition of serving only fresh, in-season seafood. Casamento’s remains open and is beloved for its straightforward, high-quality offerings and historic ambiance.
Dooky Chase’s Restaurant
Dooky Chase’s, founded in 1941, is a cultural and culinary landmark in Treme, celebrated for its role in the Civil Rights Movement and its Creole dishes. The restaurant was led by the late Leah Chase, known as the “Queen of Creole Cuisine,” who created beloved dishes like gumbo and fried chicken. Dooky Chase’s interior is vibrant, with colorful art celebrating African American culture and history. The restaurant became a gathering place for activists, artists, and politicians during a pivotal time in history. It is still open, drawing patrons for both its food and its legacy.
Brennan’s Restaurant
Brennan’s, opened in 1946, is a classic New Orleans restaurant located on Royal Street in the French Quarter. Famous for inventing Bananas Foster, Brennan’s serves an elegant menu with a focus on Creole flavors and Southern hospitality. The restaurant’s pink facade and lush courtyard make it a memorable spot for brunch or a special dinner. Inside, Brennan’s is filled with vintage charm, including chandeliers and vibrant dining rooms. The restaurant remains open, carrying on its tradition of excellence and culinary creativity for new generations.
Willie Mae’s Scotch House
Willie Mae’s Scotch House, established in 1957, is a small restaurant in Treme known for its legendary fried chicken. Originally opened as a bar, it later transformed into a restaurant serving home-cooked Southern dishes. The restaurant is unassuming, with a modest exterior, but its food has won numerous awards and accolades. Willie Mae’s fried chicken has been recognized as some of the best in America, drawing locals and visitors from far and wide. It remains open, continuing its legacy of soul food and Southern comfort in New Orleans.
Mother’s Restaurant
Mother’s Restaurant, opened in 1938, is a down-to-earth eatery in the Central Business District known for its hearty, no-frills Southern fare. Known for its famous “debris” po’ boys and red beans and rice, Mother’s serves up comfort food with a side of New Orleans history. The restaurant’s interior is simple, with communal tables and photos lining the walls. Popular among locals and tourists, it’s a must-visit spot for classic New Orleans dishes. Mother’s remains open, continuing to serve as a go-to spot for those craving traditional comfort food.
Domilise’s Po-Boy & Bar
Domilise’s, founded in 1918, is a family-owned spot in Uptown New Orleans specializing in po’ boys. Known for its authentic, fresh-made po’ boys, it’s a beloved institution where locals line up for favorites like shrimp and roast beef sandwiches. The restaurant has a humble, homey interior, with a small bar and simple seating. Domilise’s keeps its tradition alive by using the same recipes and methods passed down through generations. It is still open, attracting visitors who seek a true taste of New Orleans po’ boys in a welcoming, casual atmosphere.
Port of Call
Port of Call, founded in 1963, is a cozy spot on Esplanade Avenue known for its hearty burgers and strong cocktails. This casual, dimly lit restaurant has become a favorite among locals and tourists alike. It’s famous for its iconic burgers, which are large and flavorful, served with a side of baked potatoes instead of fries. The laid-back interior, featuring nautical-themed decor, adds to its unique charm. Port of Call is especially popular for its Monsoon cocktail, a potent, rum-based drink. The restaurant is still open, serving up its classic menu in the heart of New Orleans.
The Court of Two Sisters
The Court of Two Sisters, established in 1963, is an enchanting restaurant located in the French Quarter, celebrated for its lush courtyard and jazz brunch. The building has a rich history, but the restaurant’s fame grew with its lavish buffet, showcasing traditional Creole dishes. Guests dine in a charming courtyard shaded by wisteria vines, creating a memorable, New Orleans-style dining experience. The jazz brunch includes everything from eggs Benedict to crawfish étouffée, making it a favorite for weekend gatherings. The Court of Two Sisters remains open, inviting guests to experience its historical ambiance and vibrant flavors.
The Camellia Grill
The Camellia Grill, opened in 1946, is a classic New Orleans diner located on Carrollton Avenue. Known for its lively counter service, friendly waitstaff, and casual vibe, it’s a local institution for comfort food. Popular menu items include omelets, pecan pie, and signature cheeseburgers, served with a side of New Orleans warmth. The interior is retro, with vintage countertops and bar stools that create a timeless feel. The Camellia Grill has a loyal following and continues to be a beloved spot for breakfast and late-night eats. It is still open, keeping its classic diner charm alive for new generations.
This article originally appeared on Rarest.org.
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