Discover the Best Places to Eat in French Market New Orleans

The French Market in New Orleans is a haven for food lovers, offering a wide range of delicious dishes. From traditional Creole delicacies to international cuisine, there’s something for everyone in this historic market. Whether you’re a local or a tourist, exploring the best places to eat in French Market is an unforgettable experience. In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through the French Market of New Orleans and show you some of the best places to satisfy your cravings.

🍴 Best Creole Cuisine in French Market New Orleans

The French Market is known for its vibrant Creole cuisine, which blends French, African, and Spanish influences. Here are some of the top places to enjoy traditional Creole dishes:

1. Cafe Du Monde

Cafe Du Monde is a New Orleans institution, famous for its beignets and cafe au lait. This historic coffee shop has been serving customers since 1862 and has become a must-visit spot for anyone visiting the French Market. Enjoy a plate of steaming hot beignets dusted with powdered sugar while sipping on a cup of coffee.

2. Central Grocery

If you’re in the mood for a classic muffuletta sandwich, head to Central Grocery. This old-school deli has been serving up the signature sandwich since 1906. The muffuletta is made with layers of meat, cheese, and olive salad, all piled high on a round sesame seed bun.

3. Gumbo Shop

Gumbo Shop is a local favorite for its hearty bowls of gumbo, jambalaya, and red beans and rice. Nestled in the heart of the French Quarter, this restaurant has been serving up Creole classics since 1948. The atmosphere is cozy and inviting, with exposed brick walls and warm lighting.

🍤 Best Seafood in French Market New Orleans

The Gulf of Mexico is just a stone’s throw away from the French Market, which means fresh seafood is always on the menu. Here are some of the top seafood restaurants in the market:

4. The Original French Market Restaurant and Bar

The Original French Market Restaurant and Bar has been serving up fresh seafood since 1803. This historic restaurant is a great spot to enjoy a bowl of seafood gumbo or a plate of fried oysters. The atmosphere is lively and fun, with live music most nights of the week.

5. Desire Oyster Bar

Desire Oyster Bar is a popular spot for seafood lovers, thanks to its selection of oysters, shrimp, and crab. The restaurant has a casual vibe, with indoor and outdoor seating available. Don’t miss the charbroiled oysters, which are smothered in garlic butter and Parmesan cheese.

6. Pesche Seafood Grill

Pesche Seafood Grill is a modern seafood restaurant that specializes in Gulf Coast cuisine. The menu changes regularly based on the availability of fresh ingredients, but you can always expect to find dishes like grilled whole fish and seafood paella. The restaurant has a sleek, contemporary decor that sets it apart from other seafood spots in the market.

🍔 Best Burgers and Sandwiches in French Market New Orleans

If you’re in the mood for a quick and tasty meal, check out these top spots for burgers and sandwiches:

7. NOLA Po-boys

NOLA Po-boys is a classic spot for New Orleans-style sandwiches. The menu features a wide range of po-boys, from traditional roast beef to fried shrimp. The sandwiches are piled high with toppings and served on crispy French bread.

8. Killer Po-boys

Killer Po-boys is a popular spot for gourmet sandwiches with a twist. The menu features creative sandwiches like glazed pork belly and seared Gulf shrimp, all served on fluffy buns. The restaurant has a funky, laid-back vibe that’s perfect for a quick lunch.

9. Phil’s Grill

Phil’s Grill is a local chain that serves up juicy burgers and hearty sandwiches. The menu features customizable burgers with toppings like avocado, bacon, and jalapenos. If you’re not in the mood for a burger, try the grilled chicken sandwich or the shrimp po-boy.

🥗 Best Vegetarian and Vegan Options in French Market New Orleans

If you’re looking for meat-free options in the French Market, don’t worry – there are plenty of options for vegetarians and vegans. Here are some of the best spots:

10. Bennachin Restaurant

Bennachin Restaurant is a cozy eatery that serves up West African cuisine. The menu features vegetarian and vegan dishes like jollof rice and peanut stew, all served with a side of plantains. The restaurant has a relaxed, casual atmosphere that’s perfect for a low-key dinner.

11. Carmo

Carmo is a popular spot for healthy, plant-based meals. The menu features dishes like vegan ceviche and a superfood salad, all made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The restaurant has a bright and colorful decor that matches the vibrant flavors of the food.

12. Seed

Seed is a vegetarian restaurant that specializes in comfort food with a healthy twist. The menu features dishes like vegan mac and cheese and buffalo cauliflower wings. The restaurant also has a selection of vegan desserts, like chocolate chip cookies and blueberry crumble.

🥡 Best Takeout and Street Food in French Market New Orleans

If you’re on the go and need a quick bite to eat, check out these top spots for takeout and street food:

13. Dat Dog

Dat Dog is a local chain that serves up hot dogs with a New Orleans twist. The menu features toppings like crawfish etouffee and alligator sausage. The restaurant also has a selection of vegetarian and vegan options, like the spicy veggie dog.

14. Organic Banana

Organic Banana is a food stand that specializes in healthy, organic snacks. The menu features smoothie bowls, acai bowls, and fruit cups. The stand also has a selection of fresh juices and smoothies.

15. Ajun Cajun

Ajun Cajun is a food stand that serves up authentic Asian cuisine. The menu features dishes like pad thai and Vietnamese banh mi sandwiches. The stand is located in the heart of the French Market and is a great spot for a quick lunch.

🍸 Best Bars in French Market New Orleans

The French Market is also home to some great bars, where you can enjoy a cocktail or a cold beer. Here are some of the top spots:

16. Jean Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop

Jean Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop is a historic bar that dates back to the 1770s. The bar is known for its signature Purple Drink, a potent cocktail made with vodka, grape juice, and lemonade. The bar also has a selection of local craft beers on tap.

17. The Erin Rose

The Erin Rose is a cozy Irish pub that’s popular with locals and tourists alike. The bar is known for its frozen Irish coffee, which is the perfect pick-me-up on a hot day. The menu also features classic pub fare like fish and chips and bangers and mash.

18. The Mayhaw

The Mayhaw is a trendy bar that specializes in craft cocktails. The menu features drinks like the L’Orange, made with gin, Lillet Blanc, orange blossom honey, and lemon. The atmosphere is sleek and modern, with plenty of seating both indoors and outdoors.

🍨 Best Desserts in French Market New Orleans

No meal is complete without a sweet treat to finish it off. Here are some of the top spots for dessert in the French Market:

19. Leah’s Pralines

Leah’s Pralines is a local favorite for its melt-in-your-mouth pralines. The shop also sells other sweet treats like fudge and pecan candy. The pralines are made fresh daily, so you know you’re getting the best quality.

20. Southern Candymakers

Southern Candymakers is a candy store that specializes in homemade sweets. The shop sells everything from saltwater taffy to chocolate-covered pecans. Don’t miss the creamy pralines, which are a customer favorite.

21. Cafe Beignet

Cafe Beignet is a great spot for a sweet snack or a light breakfast. The cafe serves up freshly made beignets, as well as a selection of coffee drinks. Grab a seat outside and enjoy your beignets while people-watching.

🤔 Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the French Market in New Orleans?

The French Market is a historic market in New Orleans that dates back to the