A Local's Guide To New Orleans: Where To Eat, Drink and Fall In Love with New Orleans
The Best Restaurants, Bars & Coffee Shops According to a New Orleans based Jewelry Designer
New Orleans is a city that gets into your bones. The food, the music, the stories, the way people look you in the eye when they talk to you – it all weaves into a kind of everyday magic.
I grew up here. I design jewelry here. I come home from Guatemala, from Austin, from wherever life takes me, and I still find myself craving the same streets, the same bars, the same bowls of lemongrass chicken and powdered-sugar-dusted beignets.
This isn't a generic "Top 10 Things to Do in New Orleans" list.
This is my New Orleans – seen through the eyes (and appetite) of a local jewelry designer who loves good food, good people, and places that feel like they have soul.
Whether you're visiting for the first time, coming back for Mardi Gras, or you're a local looking to fall in love with your city again, I hope this guide helps you eat well, explore with curiosity, and feel a little more connected to the spirit of New Orleans.
How to Use This New Orleans Food Guide
This guide is organized by what you're craving: Vietnamese food, oysters, Hispanic food, po-boys, beignets, coffee shops, breakfast burritos, and the best bars in New Orleans.
Most of the spots are:
- Local or locally rooted
- Casual to "nice casual" (you can dress up, but you don't have to)
- Places I actually go – often solo, sometimes with friends, always with joy
As you read, notice how often relationship comes up. For me, New Orleans isn't only about what you eat or drink. It's about who remembers your order, who checks in on you, and the little rituals that make a place feel like home.
Best Vietnamese Food in New Orleans: Mint Modern & Lily's Café
It's a tie between Mint Modern on Freret & Lily's Café on Magazine
I cannot choose just one, so you get a tie – because my New Orleans life is split between two Vietnamese love stories: Mint Modern on Freret and Lily's Café on Magazine Street.
Mint Modern on Freret Street
Mint Modern is my go-to when I'm on Freret, especially when I'm eating solo.
I usually sit at the bar, where Joe – the bartender – has basically become a friend. He keeps me company when I'm eating alone, and he knows my order by heart. Every time, he still pauses to confirm it with me before putting it in, and that kind of small, respectful ritual is exactly why I love New Orleans.
What to order at Mint Modern:
- Pork bao "tacos" with jalapeños – soft, flavorful, with just enough heat to wake up your taste buds
- Lemongrass chicken rice plate – comforting and bright at the same time
- Add a fried egg on top if you're really hungry
Vibe: Perfect for a solo meal at the bar, a casual date, or catching up with a friend. It feels modern and fresh but still warm and personal.
Location: Freret Street, New Orleans
Lily's Café on Magazine Street
On Magazine Street, my heart belongs to Lily's Café.
Lily and her staff always recognize me when I walk in. There's something almost sacred about being seen and remembered like that in your own city.
What to order at Lily's Café:
- Chicken dumplings to start – I almost always begin here
- Lemongrass chicken – completely different from Mint's version, and that's part of the joy
- Extra crispy shallots on top for crunch
- A generous side of chili oil (never skip this)
Vibe: Simple, familiar, and unpretentious. It feels like that place you keep returning to because it tastes like comfort and consistency.
Location: Magazine Street, New Orleans
Best Oysters in New Orleans: Seaworthy
Seaworthy on Carondelet Street
If you're looking for the best oysters in New Orleans, my answer is clear: Seaworthy on Carondelet.
It's not only about the oysters (which are excellent); it's the combination of selection, atmosphere, and service that makes it my favorite oyster bar in the city.
Why Seaworthy is the best oyster spot in New Orleans:
- Their oyster selection is always thoughtful and fresh
- The atmosphere is quaint and romantic – dim lighting, historic building, a feeling like you've stepped into a little pocket of time
- It's my go-to place to take my girlfriends on "friend dates"
- It works beautifully for small groups (I'd say up to 4 is ideal)
You can come for oysters and cocktails, and end up staying for a full meal. It's that kind of place.
Location: Carondelet Street, New Orleans
Best Hispanic Food & Tacos in New Orleans
New Orleans has quietly fantastic Hispanic food, and I've built a little rotation depending on what I'm craving.
Best Tacos in New Orleans: Chilango's in Kenner
If we're talking tacos, I'm driving out to Chilango's in Kenner.
- Casual, flavorful, and deeply satisfying
- It's one of those places where the food speaks louder than the décor, and that's exactly why I love it
Location: Kenner, LA
Runner-Up for Best Tacos: Paco's Tacos in Metairie
Paco's Tacos in Metairie is a very close second.
- Great for a quick, delicious meal when I'm on that side of town
- It has that "local favorite" feeling, like you're in on something that isn't over-hyped
Location: Metairie, LA
Modern Tacos: Barracuda on Tchoupitoulas
Barracuda on Tchoupitoulas is also up there for me.
- A bit more stylish, with a fun, modern take on tacos
- Think casual, sunny, and social – a great place to meet friends and linger
Location: Tchoupitoulas Street, New Orleans
Best Queso in New Orleans: La Carreta
If we're being very specific (and we are):
For queso dip and chips, my heart belongs to La Carreta.
Their queso is my favorite – the kind that makes you realize you ordered "for the table," but really it's for you.
Best Po-Boy in New Orleans: Guy's Po-Boys
Roast Beef Po-Boy from Guy's on Magazine Street
If you want to taste a true New Orleans po-boy, I'm sending you to Guy's Po-Boys on Magazine Street.
My order is very specific:
- Roast beef po-boy
- French fries
- With brown gravy on the side
But there's a catch:
I have to catch him on a good day, because for reasons I still don't fully understand, sometimes he simply does not want to sell me the gravy.
It's one of those wonderfully human, very New Orleans quirks: you don't always get what you ask for, but when you do, it is so worth it.
Location: Magazine Street, New Orleans
Best Beignets in New Orleans: Café Beignet & Vintage
It's a tie between Café Beignet & Vintage on Magazine
Beignets are one of those non-negotiable New Orleans experiences. But I have opinions.
Café Beignet on Royal Street
My favorite beignets in the French Quarter are from Café Beignet.
- They're thick, full, and heavy – in the best way
- I love the ambience on Royal Street: live music, people watching, that dreamy French Quarter energy
As a local, though, I'll be honest: sometimes the parking and crowds can make it feel like a bit of a mission. But when I'm in the mood and already in the Quarter, Café Beignet is my first choice.
Location: Royal Street, French Quarter, New Orleans
Best Specialty Beignets: Vintage on Magazine Street
Closer to my Magazine Street home, Vintage is a very strong runner-up.
- Vintage offers unusual and seasonal beignets – stuffed, drizzled, filled with jellies, chocolates, and more
- It's creative and fun, especially if you want to try something beyond the classic
But at my core, I'm a traditionalist. Give me a simple beignet with powdered sugar, and I'm happy.
Bonus: Vintage can be a great place to work and people-watch, if you catch it during a quieter time when it isn't packed.
Location: Magazine Street, New Orleans
Best Coffee Shops in New Orleans to Work, Chill & People-Watch
CR Coffee on Magazine Street
If I had to pick one favorite coffee shop on Magazine Street, it would be CR Coffee.
I truly think they have the best ice in New Orleans. They use that perfect nugget ice that crunches so satisfyingly while you sip an icy cold brew. If you're an ice person, you already know this detail matters.
The ambience is tranquil and bright, with a lovely bar that overlooks Magazine Street. On a beautiful, sunny day, it's one of my favorite places to sit, work, and casually watch the neighborhood go by.
Best for: Working remotely, iced coffee, people-watching
Location: Magazine Street, New Orleans
Trumpet & Drum Coffee
I really love Trumpet & Drum for its overall vibe. Great coffee, cozy and creative energy, and it always feels alive.
The only "downside," if you can call it that, is that it's often so busy that finding a seat to work can be a challenge. On the days when every table is taken, I usually wander down the block and end up back at CR Coffee.
If you're looking more for hangout energy than guaranteed laptop space, Trumpet & Drum is a solid choice.
Best for: Socializing, great coffee atmosphere
La Boulangerie: Best French Bakery in New Orleans
La Boulangerie is one of those places where everything on paper is perfect:
- The croissants are delicious
- The coffee is excellent
- The ambience is charming and very Paris-in-New-Orleans
- The mornings are lively and packed
To be fully honest (because that's the point of this guide): I've sometimes found the staff to be surprisingly rude, which has made me less inclined to linger. That said, if you're in it for great pastry and a quick caffeine fix, it's still absolutely worth a visit.
Best for: Croissants, French pastries, quick coffee
Best Smoothies in New Orleans: Raw Republic
Raw Republic
If you're looking for the best smoothies in New Orleans, I'm pointing you straight to Raw Republic.
I love their Mud Magic Cacao smoothie and their Levitation Coffee Smoothie – and honestly, I haven't found another place locally that makes them better.
Raw Republic is a great wellness spot to snag juices, vitamins, and health-conscious bites to go. It's perfect for those days when you want something nourishing and delicious without sacrificing flavor.
Best for: Smoothies, fresh juices, healthy grab-and-go options
Best Breakfast Burrito in New Orleans: Undergrowth Coffee
Undergrowth Coffee on Magazine & Napoleon
For breakfast on the go, the title of best breakfast burrito in New Orleans goes to Undergrowth Coffee on Magazine and Napoleon.
This quaint little coffee shop will surprise you. The coffee is excellent, but the real star for me is their breakfast burrito.
My standing order:
- Egg
- Cheese
- Potato
- Add bacon
It is, in a word, heavenly.
If you're the type who wants something more substantial than a pastry before starting your day, Undergrowth is a must-visit.
Location: Magazine Street & Napoleon Avenue, New Orleans
Best Bars in New Orleans: Where Locals Actually Hang Out
The Chloe: Best Upscale Experience
The Chloe is a mansion-turned-boutique-hotel and bar on St. Charles Avenue, and it's as dreamy as it sounds.
You can:
- Dine inside
- Sip cocktails out front along the iconic St. Charles streetcar line
- Or hang in the back by the pool
There's an irresistible vibe here that somehow makes you feel both relaxed and important at the same time. It's one of my favorite spots to bring friends who want to feel the romantic, elevated side of New Orleans nightlife.
Best for: Date night, special occasions, poolside cocktails
Location: St. Charles Avenue, New Orleans
Bouligny Tavern: Best 70's Bar Vibe
Walking into Bouligny Tavern feels like stepping into a beautifully curated version of the 1970s.
They play vintage records, the lighting is warm, and the entire space has this intimate, retro lounge energy that I adore. The food selection is thoughtful (their burger is quite good), and it's a great place for a low-key but still special night out.
I will, however, never forgive them for getting rid of their gouda beignets. They were iconic.
Best for: Vintage vibes, vinyl records, intimate dates
The Peacock Room: Best Live Music Bar
If you're in the mood for something a little Gatsby-adjacent, with art deco vibes and a touch of theatricality, head to The Peacock Room.
I especially love Thursday nights, when local singer Songbird performs live. Watching her sing in that space is such a treat. The atmosphere is rich and moody, with a strong cocktail and bites menu to match.
Best for: Live music, art deco atmosphere, cocktails
Cure on Freret: Best Craft Cocktail Bar
Cure on Freret is a classic for a reason.
The bar itself is beautiful, the cocktails are carefully crafted, and the vibe is cool, calm, and a little dressy – the kind of place where you want to put on a great outfit.
I'll be honest: the anatomical cockroach art on the wall grosses me out every time I look at it. But aside from that one decor choice, everything else about Cure is lovely, and it remains one of my favorite cocktail bars in New Orleans.
Best for: Craft cocktails, date night, dressing up
Location: Freret Street, New Orleans
Your New Orleans Story Starts Here
I've always believed that New Orleans is less of a destination and more of a relationship. It's a city that reveals itself through the places you return to again and again – your favorite bar stool, your go-to coffee shop, the one po-boy that tastes like home.
For me, jewelry is an extension of that same feeling. The pieces I design for Cristy Cali Jewelry are little altars to this city: to its food, its culture, its resilience, its humor, and its heart.
Visit Sterling Silvia in the French Quarter
Speaking of jewelry and New Orleans roots: if you find yourself in the French Quarter near the French Market, please stop by Sterling Silvia – my family's jewelry store.
This is where I got my start in the jewelry business at age 15. I helped manage Sterling Silvia as a teenager and all through college before eventually starting my own jewelry brand. It's a huge part of my story, and walking through those doors still feels like coming home.
If you visit, tell them Cristy sent you. They'll take good care of you.
Location: 41 French Market Street in the French Quarter, near the French Market, New Orleans
So while you're exploring these spots – eating, sipping, and savoring the city I love – I hope you also find ways to carry New Orleans with you. Maybe that looks like a ring inspired by Carnival colors, a charm that reminds you of your favorite street, or a tiny symbol of home you can wear wherever life takes you.
Wherever you go next, New Orleans will still be here, waiting to feed you, delight you, and look you in the eye like an old friend.
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