You’re far more likely to stumble onto a good meal in the Quarter than a bad one. But, for the absolute best examples of the city’s most iconic dishes, rely on local gourmand Ian McNulty, a longtime dining reporter who covers all things food for the New Orleans Times-Picayune.
He recommends you savor the classics at these fine establishments:
MR. B’s Bistro’s Gumbo
The dark roux for the andouille and chicken “gumbo ya ya” at this old-school Brennan family restaurant is straight from the Louisiana countryside. (201 Royal)
Arnaud’s Shrimp remoulade
The definitiÅve version of this piquant shrimp cocktail never disappoints. (813 Bienville)
Napoleon House’s Muffuletta
New Orleans' iconic Italian sandwich is at its best at this deeply atmospheric bar with a storied past. (500 Chartres)
Antoine’s Oysters Rockefeller
These famous green, herbal and aromatic baked oysters were first dreamed up at this French Quarter institution. (713 St. Louis)
Galatoire’s Fish Amandine
A classic French sauce melded with local bounty from the Gulf Coast. (209 Bourbon)
Muriel’s Bread Pudding
This Jackson Square spot offers a classic treatment of this traditional finale, enlivened with a heady dash of rum. (801 Chartres)
Bourbon House’s Oysters
Claim a perch along the marble bar and order a dozen straight up or dappled with Louisiana caviar. (144 Bourbon)
Calas Cafe’s Calas
You’ve heard of beignets, but these Old World Creole rice fritters from this pop-up just blocks from the Quarter should be on your bucket list, too. (1010 Treme)
