New Orleans is unlike any city I’ve ever visited. The history, the atmosphere and THE FOOD. There are so many New Orleans restaurants to choose from, where do you start?

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While this list doesn’t nearly touch on all of the amazing restaurants in New Orleans, it’s a start. Here is my list of must try New Orleans restaurants!

1. GW Fins

This amazing seafood restaurant is located just off of Bourbon Street. Though it’s right in the middle of the action, the ambiance is night and day compared to the craziness on Bourbon. It’s the perfect spot for a date night or even a family dinner.

Everything we’ve had here has been fantastic. From the lobster dumplings and crispy pork belly to their famous scalibut dish, you can’t go wrong with anything here.

Don’t forget to save room for dessert. Their Salty Malty Ice Cream Pie is the most popular dessert but I don’t turn down banana pudding, ever.

2. Herbsaint

Herbsaint by Chef Donald Link is outstanding. The menu of French Cajun cuisine consists of only the best local and in-season produce.

The beef short rib entrée with potato rosti and horseradish cream melted in my mouth. I could eat that dish everyday. The filet au poivre, house made spaghetti, dirty rice and black forest cake were also amazing.

This restaurant has both indoor and outdoor seating which is perfect for enjoying your meal in the that southern breeze.

3. Cochon

If Anthony Bourdain ate there, you know it’s good. In fact, he inspired me to dine at many of the restaurants on this list. This is another restaurant by Chef Donald Link that specializes in Cajun and southern cooking.

I didn’t go wrong choosing the rabbit and dumplings for dinner with peach cobbler for dessert. I’ve dined there multiple times now and it’s on my must-eat list every time I return to New Orleans.

4. NOLA

This restaurant is one of the many restaurants in the area owned by chef Emeril Lagasse. It’s located right in the lively French Quarter and features classic Cajun cooking.

Some of the many things we had? The cornbread skillet, Mama Hay’s Stuffed Chicken Wings, Boudin, Duck Confit Pizza, St. Paul’s Gumbo, Creole Spiced Salmon and Banana Cream Pie (of course!).

5. Commander’s Palace

This place is a true New Orleans institution serving Creole cuisine in the beautiful Garden District. Not only will you get to savor some classic cuisine you’ll also get top notch service and hospitality.

Don’t leave without trying the turtle soup and bread pudding soufflé. If you visit during lunch, enjoy the 25 cent martinis!

Keep in mind, they have a strict dress code. Be prepared to be turned away if you aren’t following the guidelines.

6. Shaya

This incredible restaurant combines Israeli and southern cuisines to make something truly amazing.

I’ve tried the babaganoush, lamb ragu hummus, fried halloumi, falafel and the tuna skewer. Delicious.

As with nearly all of the restaurants on this list, be sure to make reservations ahead of time.

7. Willie Mae’s Scotch House

You will never have fried chicken as good as Willie Mae’s, ever. It’s the best, literally. My order? Fried chicken, macaroni & cheese, candied yams, butter beans, cornbread and a lemonade. Am I able to eat all of it? Nope, but I’m not going to leave New Orleans without having all of my favorites.

They’ve opened up a new location, Willie Mae’s at the Market. If you can’t make it to their flagship then go here to at least try their food but it’s just not the same as the original location.

8. Stanley

I don’t truly feel like I’m in New Orleans until I’m sitting at Stanley listening to live music while sipping a latte and enjoying breakfast. Try out their corned beef hash, bananas foster French toast or even their cornmeal crusted gulf shrimp poor boy. You’ll love anything you get here.

Want some flavors of New Orleans at home? Try out my Bananas Foster French Toast Recipe!

9. Cochon Butcher

Located right behind Cochon is Cochon Butcher. It’s a laid-back butcher/eatery serving up their house made charcuterie, fantastic sandwiches, specialty cocktails and extensive craft beer list.

One of my menu favorites? Their famous Le Pig Mac which is their take on a Big Mac but with pork of course. Pork makes everything better.

Stop in here for a quick bite and a cocktail.

10. Atchafalaya

This cute restaurant is in an old cottage and features live music, great food and even a make-your-own bloody Mary bar.

Are you a fan of American Horror Story: Coven? They filmed scenes here!

11. Mother’s

This restaurant first opened in 1938 and became a local hangout for many in the U.S. Marine Corps. during WWII. To this day, it’s wildly popular so expect to wait in a line that will stretch down the block.

This restaurant has an extensive menu with so many New Orleans classics on it. Get a debris biscuit (roast beef and au jus on a biscuit) or a shrimp po’ boy.

12. The Joint

If you want a little break from creole food, head to The Joint for some southern BBQ. They have all that you would expect on the menu; ribs, brisket, pulled pork, beans, mac & cheese and so much more.

The bonus? That fun, laidback New Orleans vibe that comes with it.

13. Acme Oyster House

If you are on Bourbon Street and want a bite to eat, stop in Acme. They are famous for their charbroiled oysters.

14. Dat Dog

Want to try an alligator dog while sipping on a glass of champagne? Look no further. This fun restaurant has three locations within New Orleans that serves specialty hot dogs & sausages. It wouldn’t be New Orleans without a full bar to go with it!

Click here for more information on this restaurant!

15. Pythian Market

This is a one-stop shop to try out a bunch of different food at one cute market. We grabbed ourselves a table and then grabbed food from many of the vendors.

This is your chance to try out Willie Mae’s (if you can’t make it to the flagship restaurant). You’ll also find chicken and waffles, tacos, pizza, sushi and so much more!

16. Café du Monde

Beignets and New Orleans go hand in hand. This café keeps it simple. You choose how many beignets you want and pick a drink. My recommendation, an order of beignets with a café au lait.

And don’t wear black, it’s impossible to not get covered in powdered sugar while enjoying these little pillows of heaven.

I hope this list helps you decide where to eat when visiting New Orleans!