50 Best American Restaurants in New Orleans

“Bywater American Bistro is a hidden gem with excellent food and warm, friendly staff. The chef accommodates dietary restrictions and offers delicious specialty dishes. The restaurant serves creative cocktails, like the Venus of the Myrtle, and dishes like burrata, shrimp cavatelli, and ricotta tart appetizer. Vegetarian options include the Eggplant Parmesan and several appetizers. The service is exceptional, with attentive staff who cater to children. The atmosphere is welcoming, with a ramp at the front door for wheelchair accessibility. Overall, Bywater American Bistro is a highly recommended dining experience.“

“Paladar 511 serves sincerely delicious food in a beautiful and relaxing atmosphere. The cornbread brioche, carrots, Mezza Luna, and margherita pizza with sausage are standouts. Impeccable service and a talented chef and kitchen staff make for an unforgettable dining experience, despite its remote location.“

“Jewel of the South, voted one of the top bars globally, offers a fabulous atmosphere, over-the-top drinks, and a unique menu. Despite limited options, the food like sausage stuffed long neck duck and zucchini side is a chef's kiss. The exquisite cocktails and delicious offal dishes like tripe make it one of the best dining experiences. With fantastic service and a vibrant vibe, it's a hidden gem for spontaneous and memorable meals in NOLA.“

“Doris Metropolitan New Orleans is a restaurant known for its incredible food, including a delicious tuna tartare and exceptional tomahawk ribeye. The atmosphere is perfect, and the staff is friendly and attentive, providing wonderful service. The cocktails are also a highlight. However, there may be some minor maintenance issues. Overall, it offers an incredible culinary experience, making it one of the best restaurants to visit.“

“The Elysian Bar offers a standout dining experience in New Orleans, known for its outstanding service and artistic ambiance. The cozy, private seating areas create a sweet and relaxing atmosphere. The menu features dishes such as chicken under a brick, focaccia bread, tuna crudo, carrots, and steak, all highly recommended. The knowledgeable staff caters to diverse tastes, ensuring a satisfying meal. The bar serves a variety of drinks, making it an ideal reprieve any time of day.“

“Sylvain is a charming bar in the French quarter, boasting a beautiful garden and cozy interior. Friendly and knowledgeable staff serve top-quality food with full flavor. The menu features dishes like the short ribs and fried chicken sandwich, while the drinks are made with in-house ingredients. With a quintessential Nola vibe and excellent bartenders, Sylvain is a must-visit destination.“

“Zasu is a gem in NOLA, known for its imaginative flavors and impressive presentation. The lush green decor enhances the ambience. The staff is welcoming and accommodating, even to families with infants. The food is fantastic, with dishes like baby octopus, pork cheek, flounder, and pierogis receiving high praise. The service is top-notch, with great wine and cocktail recommendations. Despite some noise when full, Zasu is a must-try for both locals and visitors alike.“

“Willa Jean is a must-visit for breakfast enthusiasts. The restaurant boasts a stunning display of baked goods, amicable staff, and a well-lit ambiance. The food is excellent, with popular dishes like the crab cheese appetizer, salmon Benedict, and homemade biscuits. Don't miss their delicious pastries, including the blueberry muffin, and save room for a slice of pecan pie. Despite tricky parking, Willa Jean is a top-recommended spot in New Orleans.“

“Ralph's On The Park is a renowned restaurant in New Orleans that offers an exceptional dining experience. The restaurant's location, across the street from the beautiful New Orleans City Park, provides a picturesque setting with a view of the oak trees, creating an almost outdoor seating experience. The food at Ralph's On The Park is highly praised, with excellently prepared and presented dishes. Diners have enjoyed the roast duck with butter beans, the brown butter glazed drum with green beans and fingerling potatoes, and the Meyer Limoncello cheesecake for dessert. The service is also commendable, with attentive and helpful waiters, such as Barry and Angel, who ensure a memorable dining experience. Despite a minor issue with the veal dish, which had too much breading, the overall consensus is that Ralph's On The Park is a must-visit destination for those seeking exceptional cuisine and impeccable service in a beautiful setting.“

“Toups Meatery offers a memorable dining experience with exceptional dishes. Standout meals include chicken thighs, crab salad, smoked duck, bone marrow special, venison loin, and a delightful chocolate peanut butter cake. They also accommodate food allergies and offer an outstanding wagyu burger. A must-visit restaurant in New Orleans for locals and tourists alike.“

“Cochon Butcher offers great food and service. The menu features delicious and fast-paced meals with appropriate portions. The staff is attentive and accommodating, making it a hidden gem for lunch, especially for visitors of the nearby WWII museum or Star Wars fans.“

“Cafe Amelie is a popular and bustling restaurant that requires a booking to secure a table. The atmosphere is described as nice, and the service is praised as sweet. The menu offers a variety of dishes, including hamachi tartare, gumbo, mole lamb, and shrimp and grits, all of which are well-received. The bread pudding, in particular, is reported to be delicious, though some customers found the cherries at the bottom to be a minor drawback. Overall, Cafe Amelie provides a satisfying dining experience.“

“Palm & Pine is a vibrant and lively restaurant in New Orleans that offers a unique dining experience. The atmosphere is electric, and the staff are attentive and friendly. Guests can enjoy the chef's table, where they can watch the kitchen staff in action, or simply soak in the LGBTQ-friendly ambiance. The menu features a variety of creative and delicious dishes. The buttermilk ceviche is a standout, with its perfect balance of tanginess, sweetness, and savory flavors. The blackened fish and steak are both cooked to perfection, with the steak's buttery, crunchy, and comforting potatoes side being a particular highlight. While the gumbo was not as well-received, the overall consensus is that Palm & Pine is a local gem worth visiting. The Corner Store Crudo and the fried oysters, salad, corn babies, and boudin are all highly recommended. With its fun and innovative cuisine and cocktails, Palm & Pine is a must-do for anyone visiting New Orleans.“

“Gautreau's Restaurant offers a wonderful dining experience with delicious food and excellent service. The wagyu steak and Ossobuco lamb are highly recommended, as well as the banana split for dessert. The upscale neighborhood restaurant can get noisy due to its small size and popularity, but the quality of the menu and service make it worth a visit. The trout dish and fish options are standout choices, along with the foie gras appetizer. Be sure to make reservations in advance to secure a table at this culinary gem.“

“Copper Vine is a charming restaurant with a beautiful outdoor space and a great atmosphere. The food is AMAZING, with a focus on American-style cuisine. The wine menu is well-balanced and reasonably priced, making it a great spot for wine lovers. The service is excellent, with knowledgeable staff happy to make recommendations. Standout dishes include the Louisiana Crawfish Beignets and Bananas Foster. Overall, Copper Vine is a great spot for a night out, offering a unique and elevated dining experience.“

“Surrey's Café & Juice Bar is a welcoming spot with kind staff and delicious food. Their pear & goat cheese French toast, shrimp & grits, orange juice, Banana fosters French toast, breakfast burrito, Migas dish, and biscuits with gravy come highly recommended. Despite potential wait times, the quick service makes it worth the visit. It's a must-try place for a great breakfast in NOLA, attracting both locals and visitors who appreciate fresh, tasty meals.“

“Maypop offers a phenomenal culinary experience with its superb food and excellent wine selection. The rotating menu with a few staples ensures a unique dining experience, and the 5-course tasting menu at $120 is a great value. With accommodating service and delicious mocktails, Maypop is a must-visit for a memorable night out.“

“Sneaky Pickle & Bar Brine is a restaurant that offers a fantastic dining experience. Located in New Orleans, it has received high praise from visitors, including those from Connecticut. The gnocchi dish is a standout, and even those who don't typically enjoy beets or walnuts have found it to be exceptionally well-prepared. The restaurant offers a variety of vegetarian and vegan options, making it a great choice for those with dietary restrictions. The service is super attentive, and the staff is friendly, providing local recommendations. The space is welcoming, and the food is delicious and reasonably priced. Additionally, the restaurant has its own hot sauce and merchandise that have received positive feedback.“

“Beggars Banquet is a highly recommended restaurant known for its delicious food, great atmosphere, and excellent service. Highlights include the gnocchi, halibut special, duck with sweet potato hash, and scallops with crab hash. The brunch menu features incredible biscuits and grilled banana bread with maple bacon butter. Many menu items are dairy free and gluten free, including a designated gluten free fryer.“

“Criollo Restaurant offers exceptional service from the moment you arrive, making you feel like a VIP. The food is scrumptious, with standout dishes like the Jazz Brunch, which features elevated fried green tomatoes and chicken biscuit. The chef's attention to detail is impressive, with innovative touches like complimentary Rosemary & Lemon Custard Madeline's and expertly prepared fries. The atmosphere is classy and French-inspired, with a warm and accommodating staff, including Alexander and Roy. The restaurant is a must-try spot in the French Quarter, with consistently great food, service, and entertainment.“

“Cure is a restaurant that offers a unique and enjoyable dining experience. The staff is known for their attentiveness and accommodation, such as holding tables for late guests and providing recommendations for drinks based on personal preferences. The cocktails are a highlight, with a home-tender praising their authenticity and quality. However, it is worth noting that the prices are on the higher end. The atmosphere is described as having a fun vibe, and the service is generally efficient and friendly. However, there have been some issues with seating, such as being placed near an air vent and leading to discomfort. Overall, Cure is a recommended spot for those looking for a lively and enjoyable dining experience.“

“Emeril's restaurant offers a surreal and unique dining experience, where guests can enjoy exceptional service and elite treatment. The restaurant provides a front-row seat to the kitchen action, with a tour included for an exclusive insight into the culinary process. The classic tasting menu offers perfection in every bite, with dishes that are beyond comparison. The staff is attentive to every need and goes above and beyond to ensure a memorable evening. Guests can indulge in a cheese course at the end, adding to the overall wonderful experience. Whether celebrating an anniversary or a birthday, Emeril's is the go-to restaurant for a quiet and enjoyable evening. The restaurant stands out from others in New Orleans, providing a level of detail on every plate that is truly remarkable. For those with dietary restrictions, such as a cilantro allergy, accommodations are readily made. Opt for the tasting menu and prepare for a dining experience like no other at Emeril's.“

“District Donuts Sliders Brew is a highly recommended restaurant, known for its delicious doughnuts and awesome cinnamon buns. The coffee is described as killer and the staff as friendly. The restaurant offers creative and tasty donut options, including gluten-free ones. The Vietnamese coffee is a must-try. The fried and blackened chicken, served during brunch, is also a popular choice. The restaurant is praised for its clean bathrooms and kind and attentive staff. It is a popular spot in the Garden District and a must-visit when in the area.“

“Rosedale Restaurant is a hidden gem that offers an enjoyable dining experience. The service is excellent, with the staff being polite and attentive to customers' needs. The ambiance is pleasant, with the option to dine both indoors and on the patio. The menu features a variety of unique dishes, including a pork rib eye (a large pork chop with mashed potatoes and Brussels sprouts) and a drum dish, which was reportedly enjoyed. While some dishes may have room for improvement, such as the meatloaf being too sweet, the overall experience is positive, with the pecan pie and ice cream being a highlight. The restaurant also boasts a superb selection of wines and other drinks, making it a great choice for a night out.“

“The High Hat Cafe is a fantastic spot in NOLA with great service, atmosphere, and delicious food. The Fried Chicken and old family recipe mac and cheese are a must-try. The High Hat Burger, Pimento Mac and Cheese, and tender pork on the Cuban sandwich were all top-notch. The Chicken and Waffle and Cornmeal Pancakes for brunch were delightful. Despite some noise during lunch, the excellent service and tasty dishes like the Cuban sandwich and BBQ shrimp make it worth a return visit.“

“Stuph'd Beignets & Burgers is a welcoming restaurant with a lovely atmosphere, featuring both indoor and outdoor seating areas, including a small outdoor space with umbrellas where you can bring your dog. The friendly staff provides kind and accommodating service. The menu offers fresh and high-quality food, including delicious beignets, burgers, and specialty drinks like strawberry lemonade and strawberry cucumber lemonade. Try their signature items like the Jalapeño and Cheddar stuph'd burger, Creole Queen stuph'd beignets, and Praline Beignets. Be prepared for a short wait, but it's worth it for the yummy food and beautiful artwork on display, which is also available for sale. The restaurant maintains a superb level of cleanliness, making it a great spot to return to with family and friends.“

“Picnic Provisions & Whiskey is a charming restaurant that offers a delightful dining experience. The staff is attentive and helpful, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable visit. The menu features a variety of delectable options, including excellent pimento and crackers, crispy corn beignets, and tasty chicken sandwiches and tenders. With reasonable portions, fair prices, and a family-friendly atmosphere, Picnic Provisions & Whiskey is a great choice for a casual lunch or dinner.“

“The Franklin is a local favorite in New Orleans, known for its cozy and inviting atmosphere. The menu is not extensive, but it offers delicious and high-quality dishes. The bar is a popular spot, with bartenders who are skilled at making classic cocktails with a twist. The martini, in particular, is a standout. The service can be spotty, but the staff is friendly and attentive when they are available. The lighter dinner options, such as the mushrooms and lamb lollipops, are highly recommended. The hamachi crostino is also a must-try, with a unique and delicate flavor. The dessert options are less impressive, but the rest of the meal makes up for it. The signature burger is a highlight, with a lean and flavorful patty, topped with plenty of juicy goodness. The brioche bun is soft and buttery, providing a perfect balance to the meat and toppings. The Franklin has a great selection of wine and cocktails, making it an ideal spot for a date or a night out with friends. The music is upbeat and lively, adding to the restaurant's vibrant energy. Despite a few hiccups in service, The Franklin is a standout spot in New Orleans, offering delicious food and a welcoming atmosphere.“

“Boulevard American Bistro offers an exceptional dining experience with friendly and attentive staff. The menu features delicious dishes like crawfish bread and crabcake fettuccine pasta, which are sure to impress. The atmosphere is beautiful, clean, and vibrant, making it a must-visit spot. With excellent food, drinks, and service, this restaurant is a gem in the quarter.“

“Betsy's Pancake House is a cozy breakfast spot on Dorgenois Street, offering a homey atmosphere with basic breakfast options like eggs, bacon, grits, toast, and pancakes. The portions are generous, and prices are very reasonable. Vegetarian options are available, and staff are accommodating to dietary restrictions. The restaurant is fully accessible, kid-friendly, and has plenty of parking in the area.“

“Bayou Hot Wings is a restaurant known for its delicious and fresh wings, made to order. The menu includes a variety of sauces that are highly praised by customers, even those who are vegetarian. The restaurant is convenient for take-away or dining on the outdoor tables, and the staff is friendly. Prices are reasonable, and the portions are generous. The restaurant is a small, independent establishment in New Orleans that stands out for its delicious food. Customers recommend trying the peper jelly and chili wings, and the hot sauce is available for purchase.“

“BEARCAT CBD offers a delightful dining experience in the heart of New Orleans. The restaurant serves a range of delicious dishes, including crispy potatoes, spicy chicken sandwiches, and steak and eggs. Their freshly squeezed juices are a must-try. The quality of food is evident in every bite, with standouts like the grilled pork chop with orange sauce and the cauliflower "grits". The pancakes are also a highlight. While wait times can be expected, the attentive servers ensure that customers are well taken care of. With a cozy patio seating area and a relaxed atmosphere, BEARCAT CBD is a top choice for brunch in downtown New Orleans. Visitors can expect a warm welcome, even on busy days, and will leave feeling satisfied and eager to return.“

“Iacovone Kitchen is a hidden gem on a cool street in NOLA's Freret area. Despite its small, unassuming appearance, this hole-in-the-wall restaurant offers delicious and reasonably priced food. The chef, who used to work at top Nola restaurants, creates incredible dishes like curry, crab lasagna, and crawfish. The intimate setting allows for personal interactions with the chef/owner, who shares stories about his culinary journey and love for New Orleans. With a family-friendly and inviting atmosphere, Iacovone Kitchen is a must-visit spot for those looking to enjoy serious food at affordable prices in the Crescent City.“

“Batture Bistro and Bar is a gem in the heart of downtown New Orleans, located in the One11 Hotel. This chill spot offers a great bar, friendly staff, and delicious food. Their charcuterie board is a must-try, featuring a variety of meats and cheeses at a great price. Other menu favorites include Boudin Egg Rolls, Deviled Eggs, and Artisan Flatbread Pizza. The restaurant has a contemporary and endearing atmosphere, with stunning furniture and a private room for events. The servers are accommodating, and the chefs prepare exquisite dishes, such as the Creole Benedict and breakfast potatoes. Batture Bistro and Bar is a fantastic spot to relax and enjoy a great meal.“

“Lakeview Harbor offers a clean, comfortable atmosphere and great service. The menu features delicious options like the stuffed Bleu cheese burger and a 14 oz Ribeye steak with a baked potato, providing excellent value. The restaurant also serves fresh, hot food and has a good selection of drinks, including craft beer from the neighboring brewery. With friendly staff and recommendations from local residents, Lakeview Harbor is a reliable choice for a satisfying meal.“

“Compère Lapin offers great food, excellent wine, and top-notch cocktails in a perfect atmosphere. The eclectic menu features inventive Creole cuisine with a Caribbean flair, including must-try dishes like curried goat with sweet potato gnocchi. Friendly and professional staff provide efficient service, making it ideal for dining and hosting events.“

“Katie's is a friendly restaurant serving delicious food. The menu offers a variety of options, including veggie choices, and dishes like chicken parm, ribs, stuffed poboy with pulled pork and shrimp, and char-grilled oysters. The Garlic Feta Fries are a highlight, and the crab cakes are a must-try. The service is always great, with attentive and helpful staff. The atmosphere is wonderful, making it a great spot to enjoy a meal. Whether you're in the mood for pizza, soup, or a margarita, Katie's is a great choice.“

“Cochon King BBQ serves outstanding barbecue with mouth-watering dishes like Barbarcoa tacos, tender ribs, and delicious pulled pork. Their creative twists on sides, such as potato salad and Mac N cheese, are also a hit. With generous portions and affordable prices, this hidden gem is a must-visit for BBQ lovers.“

“Orleans Grapevine Wine Bar and Bistro is a renowned establishment that offers an exceptional dining experience. The restaurant serves impressive food, including tender filets and flavorful Boudin and Gumbo, which has been hailed as the best in New Orleans. The service is impeccable, with attentive and knowledgeable staff, such as James and Michael, who provide exceptional hospitality. The ambiance is charming, with a cozy courtyard and a welcoming atmosphere. The menu features creative specials, like artichoke soup and roasted marrow bone, which are prepared with flair and attention to detail. With its reasonable price point, Orleans Grapevine Wine Bar and Bistro is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to indulge in a memorable meal.“

“Ye Olde College Inn is a must-visit in New Orleans, known for the best shrimp poboy in the city and flavorful seafood gumbo with plenty of seafood. The food is excellent, especially the desserts, like the bread pudding. Customers praise the Steak Frites, brisket with Brussels sprouts, and Steak Caesar Salad, all cooked perfectly. Despite a minor issue with a watermelon mojito, the service was outstanding, making it a great place to celebrate special occasions. The restaurant also supports Angels' Place, adding to its charm. Ye Olde College Inn is highly recommended for a delicious dining experience.“

“One of my childhood favorite places. I remember when it was first built.My daddy use to take me as well as my 2 daughters and my nieces and nephew here before he passed away. He loved Van's. He was one of Van's best customers. Came to visit today and still tastes the same!“

“Domilise's Po-Boy & Bar is a must-visit spot in New Orleans, serving up fantastic po-boys that are sure to impress. The roast beef po-boy with extra gravy is a particular favorite, and the shrimp po-boy is also a hit, with perfectly fried and flavorful shrimp. The Leidenheimer bread adds an authentic touch to each sandwich. While the prices may be a bit steep, the delicious food and lively atmosphere make it well worth a visit. Be prepared for a messy but satisfying meal, and don't be surprised if you find yourself using a stack of napkins! Overall, Domilise's is a quintessential New Orleans experience that will leave you wanting more.“

“Superior Seafood & Oyster Bar is a spacious, upscale restaurant serving delicious food and drinks. Their charbroiled oysters are a highlight, topped with a flavorful cheese. Other popular options include pasta Del Mar, a spicy seafood pasta. The restaurant offers a warm atmosphere, friendly wait staff, and a happy hour menu featuring strong frozen French 75s at a great price.“

“Dat Dog is a lively and entertaining eatery serving some of the best hot dogs in town. With a wide variety of food options and a great selection of drinks, this restaurant is a must-visit for anyone who loves hot dogs. The hot dogs themselves are exceptional, with a standout bun that takes them to the next level. Known for its fun and chaotic atmosphere, Dat Dog is the perfect spot for a unique dining experience.“

“McKenzie's Chicken in a Box is a beloved staple in the neighborhood, with a long history of serving top-notch food and exceptional service. The owner is warm and welcoming, taking the time to engage with customers and ensure they feel at ease. The menu boasts some of the best fried chicken and fries in the city, with crispy, flavorful pieces at a reasonable price.“

“Lakeview Harbor offers a welcoming atmosphere, where friendly staff make guests feel at home. The greeter and waitress are attentive and courteous, ensuring a pleasant dining experience. The food is delicious, with generous portions that satisfy. The diverse menu features comfort food options, such as the chicken alfredo with fried chicken, which comes with a side salad. The chicken bacon ranch wrap with crispy fried chicken is also a popular choice. Overall, Lakeview Harbor provides a wonderful experience, with top-notch service and a cozy atmosphere.“

“Cooter Brown's Tavern is a cozy pub located at the end of the Charles Street streetcar route. Despite its unassuming exterior, the interior is a charming old-fashioned bar serving excellent pub grub. The menu features a variety of options, including burgers, PoBoys, fried food, and crawfish. The oyster bar is a standout, offering a great selection of oysters and beers to pair with them. The atmosphere is relaxed, making it a great spot for adults to enjoy comfort food and drinks. With a 21+ policy, this tavern is not suitable for children.“

“Bamboula's on Frenchmen Street is a must-visit spot in New Orleans. The live music creates a charming atmosphere, with bands like Jon Roniger & The Good For Nothing Band and Amber & the Sweet Potatoes setting the stage. While service can be slow and prices a bit high, the delicious food bursting with flavor makes it all worth it. For a memorable night out capturing the vibrant culture of New Orleans, Bamboula's is highly recommended.“

“Juniors on Harrison offers a diverse menu with delectable food options. Customers praise the great taste of the burgers and other dishes. However, the service quality has been inconsistent, with some reports of server attitude issues and wine shortages. Despite these occasional service challenges, the restaurant is recommended for those seeking a nice place for brunch or lunch.“

“Ruby Slipper Uptown serves delicious dishes, including avocado toast, omelets, and migas, which are flavorful and filling. The restaurant offers a mimosa flight, coffee, and bloody Mary, which is considered one of the best. The staff is friendly and attentive, with great service. The menu accommodates dietary restrictions, including gluten-free bread. Prices are reasonable, and the overall experience is amazing, making it a highly recommended spot.“