May 1, 2026
A Local’s Favorite Restaurants in New Orleans (Where I Actually Eat)
New Orleans is one of the best food cities in the world. Most people know that. In New Orleans we have loads of amazing restaurants, each fitting the needs of the many palates of its patrons. What one person loves, another person many think is just ok. There are plenty of restaurants I'm glad I went to, but wouldn't necessarily go back.
These are the restaurants I have gone to for years and would continue to support. They are ones I recommend when someone asks me where to eat. The ones that feel worth it, whether it’s a casual lunch, a glass of wine, or a full dinner out. I've got you covered for all sorts of delicious spots.
What are the Best Restaurants in New Orleans?
I'm not a huge fan of claiming what "the best" is here because we have so many great restaurants from which to choose. Where you spend your dollars is a very personal decision, and I have many conversations with many people about this fact. The restaurant list I'm going to share with you is not necessarily the most famous or the most Instagrammed, but they are places that get my money time and time again. I take into consideration food quality, service, ambiance, and overall feel. This is my list, and I'm sticking to it.
Paladar 511
Where Do Locals Actually Eat in New Orleans?
Locals eat all over the city every single day. Where we don't eat are places that tourists go and stand in long lines because we know there are 100 other places with better food. Mostly, we find our neighborhood joint and frequent it because we like the familiarity. Sometimes, we try new places that get a good review and keep going back because it was a great experience. Other times we make special plans with special people and make a special night out of it. New Orleanians love eating and love gathering, so you'll find us everywhere. We're like roaches. What a terrible comparison when talking about restaurants!
Are the Most Famous Restaurants in New Orleans Worth It?
If you're seeing the name of a restaurant over and over, especially in visitor groups, the answer is probably that no, it's not worth going to. There are some exceptions, like Commander's Palace or a Friday at Galatoire's, that are worth the experience. Locals do places like those all the time. However, the names you don't hear so frequently might give you the best meal and most memorable experience while in New Orleans. Keep your options open, and branch out from the popular crowd. You'll be happy you did.
What Are Good Date Night Restaurants in New Orleans?
I'll crack a joke and say I don't know because I don't go on dates here in New Orleans, but once upon a time I did, and I do have my gal pals I like to go on friend dates with. I promise I'm qualified to answer this, and I'll share my favorites below.
- Café Degas
- Paladar 511
- Lilette
- Saint Germain
You won't go wrong if you choose any of these options to take your special someone.
What Are Good Casual Restaurants in New Orleans?
Casual restaurants are gold here in New Orleans. These are the great lunch spots and easy places you want to go and relax with your people or by yourself. I love taking myself on lunch dates when I'm out and about, and maybe indulging in a glass of wine while doing so. Good food and a nice wine = winning at life.
- St. James Cheese Company
- Martin Wine Cellar
These are two of my favorite places to get a sandwich or salad and a glass of wine any day of the week.
St. James Cheese Sandwich, Chips, Wine
My Favorite Restaurants in New Orleans
My picks of restaurants are not going to be screaming at the top of many popular lists. First, I don't do lines, and I'm quite the contrarian when it comes to following the herd of sheep. So, you're getting some great, solid, quality restaurant suggestions that you are welcome to try or not. I'll still go because they are fantastic, and perhaps I'll see you there.
Café Degas
The first time I went to Café Degas was on a date, and my boyfriend at the time was appalled that I had not been. After going, I understood why. It's the most charming, adorable restaurant, and one that I take anyone who hasn't been yet for the first time. I like to pop their proverbial cherry to this place because I'm that proud to introduce it.
Why I go here:
The atmosphere more than anything. It’s a place I can linger, whether it’s lunch or dinner. And I feel like I could almost be in Paris for a little while. I'm usually ordering Les Moules au Fenouil. They come with frites and I am here for it every time.
When I go:
Date/girlfriend nights that aren’t overly formal, but are on the nicer and more special side, or a slower and more upscale lunch.
Paladar 511
This is one of my go-to spots when I don’t want to overthink dinner but still want something consistently good. Make a reservation because all the locals make it their go-to spot as well.
Why I go here:
It’s reliable. It always hits, and it feels a little elevated without being a whole production. The waitstaff is friendly, the food is delicious and fresh, and the drink selection is 10/10. Share some of their smaller plates with the table - all of them are delicious.
What it’s like:
Lively but not overwhelming. It's a place that works for a casual night out but still feels intentional. Sit upstairs for a little bit quieter experience.
When I go:
Weeknight dinners, casual date nights, or when I just want something easy that I know will be good.
Cafe Degas with an Out-of-Town Friend
Lilette
This is one of my favorite spots when I want something upscale, crazy good, and I am not worried about how much I am spending. It's, for a me, a special occasion place.
Why I go here:
It’s consistently good and always feels like a proper night out without being stuffy. Sitting outside on the patio is where I like to be when the weather permits.
When I go:
Date nights or when I want something more intentional. After all, Taylor Swift and her dude chose to eat here when she was in town for her concert. She must have gotten my memo that it was good.
Saint Germain
This is more of an experience than just dinner. You're getting a multi-course meal that gets served over hours. It's wonderful, and it's a set price. Make a reservation weeks in advance.
Why I go here:
It is curated and different, and something you remember afterward for a long time.
When I go:
This is a spot that my other experience-loving people enjoy. It's not a place where you tap your watch at 5 pm and say "we should go to Saint Germain" because you need to reserve your place, and they have to prepare for the number of patrons.
Doris Metropolitan
Full disclosure, I've been going to Doris for YEARS. Mainly I enjoy sitting at the bar and chatting to the bartender, eating my multitude of appetizers and sipping my cocktail. I don't eat meat, but meat eaters, I hear it's the best cuts in town. There are plenty of non-meat products that I enjoy, so it's a W for everyone.
Why I go here:
It's a perfect night out in the French Quarter. Go before a show at the Saenger or on a special date night. Be sure to make a reservation.
When I go:
Nicer dinners or when I want something a little indulgent. Sometimes I like dressing up, and this is one of those places you can do that and feel good about your snazzy outfit.
Doris!
N7
N7 is a whole vibe. Know that when you show up, you have to almost guess where the entry door is because it looks like a gate. Enter into a magical little courtyard, and find yourself in another world for a few hours while dining on French-style food.
Why I go here:
It feels a little hidden and different from the typical New Orleans restaurant scene. It's quite magical. Get a cheese plate and fries and you'll be quite ecstatic. If you like meats, get the charcuterie.
When I go:
When I want something that's unique, off the beaten path, and very local.
Seaworthy
One of my favorite spots for oysters and drinks. Their happy hour is amazing, and indulge when I am there for it.
Why I go here:
It’s great for seafood in a more relaxed setting without committing to a full formal dinner. The location is perfect, easy to access, and the food is consistently good.
When I go:
Casual nights or drinks that turn into dinner. I did go for an early New Year's Eve dinner and it was awesome. So really, go anytime.
Pluck Wine Bar
This is one of my favorite wine spots in the city. Ok, it's my very favorite wine spot. The staff knows their stuff, the food is delicious, and I love the hangout couch up front.
Why I go here:
It's reliable, I feel like a rock star when I'm there because the staff is so good, the wine selection is outstanding, and...do I need to go on? I will. I'm into their popcorn as an appetizer, and pretty much anything else they serve on their menu.
When I go:
Catching up with people here is perfect. I even spent my birthday here because it's so special to me. Casual and easy and delicious.
**Pluck is also on my list of my favorite bars as a local.
Pluck Wine Bar for My Birthday
St. James Cheese Company
This is one of my go-to casual spots. I like their sandwiches, and I typically get a grilled cheese because I cannot resist. Sitting on their front porch at the Uptown location on my own is perfection.
Why I go here:
It’s easy, consistently good, and always hits the spot.
When I go:
Lunch, quick meals, or when I want something simple but still really good. And a glass of wine with my meal.
Martin Wine Cellar
This is one of those places that just feels very local because it is. There are a couple of locations, one in Metairie and one Uptown, and both are perfect for a bustling but easy lunch. Their sandwiches and salads are always spot-on, and I'm usually coming away with a bottle of wine or two when I leave.
Why I go here:
It’s reliable, low-key, and somewhere I can grab a good meal without overthinking it. I also make sure to stop at Lucy Boone ice cream if I'm at their Uptown locations since it's right around the corner. Double trouble.
When I go:
Casual lunches or easy dinners when I don’t want to plan around a reservation. Just show up.
Oyster Happy Hour from Seaworthy
Let's Eat
New Orleans has no shortage of incredible restaurants, but these are the ones I actually come back to over and over. If you’re visiting, you don’t need to hit every “famous” spot. In fact, please try not to. A mix of a few well-known places and a few like these will give you a much better experience of the city. And hey, you might just see me in the wild at one!
If you liked this list, you might also like my guide on New Orleans street food, or the must eat foods in New Orleans.
You'll also love my favorite and best coffee shops and picks of my favorite bars in New Orleans.
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