Best Restaurants In The French Market: A Culinary Journey

The French Market is a hub of culinary delights, teeming with the freshest produce, seafood, and exotic spices. Nestled in the heart of New Orleans, the French Market is a popular destination for food lovers from around the world. Amidst the vibrant atmosphere and colorful ambiance, the French Market boasts of some of the city’s best restaurants that offer a delectable range of cuisines.

The Best Restaurants In The French Market

Here are some of the best restaurants in the French Market that offer an unforgettable culinary experience:

1. Café Du Monde 🍩

The iconic Café Du Monde is a must-visit for anyone visiting the French Market. Try their world-famous beignets, a French-style donut sprinkled with powdered sugar, and wash it down with a cup of chicory coffee. Open 24/7, the café exudes an old-world charm that transports you to a bygone era.

2. Felix’s Restaurant and Oyster Bar 🦪

Indulge in the freshest oysters at Felix’s Restaurant and Oyster Bar, renowned for its seafood delicacies. Choose from a range of oyster preparations, including raw oysters, charbroiled oysters, and oysters Rockefeller. The restaurant also offers a range of seafood platters and po’boys that are a delight for the taste buds.

3. The Gumbo Shop 🥘

Sample the best gumbo in town at The Gumbo Shop, a family-owned restaurant that has been serving authentic Creole cuisine since 1948. The restaurant is known for its hearty gumbo, jambalaya, and étouffée, all prepared using traditional recipes passed down through generations.

4. Coop’s Place 🍗

Coop’s Place is a popular hangout for locals and tourists alike, known for its spicy fried chicken and rabbit jambalaya. The restaurant also offers a range of seafood dishes, burgers, and po’boys, all served in massive portions. The rustic ambiance and friendly staff add to the charm of this iconic restaurant.

5. Johnny’s Po-Boys 🥪

Johnny’s Po-Boys is a legendary sandwich shop that has been serving up classic New Orleans po’boys since 1950. Choose from a range of fillings, including roast beef, shrimp, oyster, and catfish, all served on freshly baked bread. The restaurant also offers breakfast options, including eggs and grits.

6. Central Grocery Co. 🧀

Central Grocery Co. is a landmark deli that has been serving the famous muffuletta sandwich since 1906. The sandwich is made with a round Italian bread stuffed with ham, salami, mortadella, and provolone cheese, topped with olive salad. The deli also offers a range of Italian groceries and specialty items.

7. Napoleon House 🍹

Napoleon House is a legendary bar and restaurant that has been serving the city since 1914. The restaurant is known for its classic cocktails, including the Pimm’s Cup and Sazerac, and its signature muffuletta sandwich. The restaurant’s courtyard is a popular spot for live music and outdoor dining.

8. Cafe Beignet 🫖

Cafe Beignet offers a twist on the classic beignet, serving savory beignets filled with crawfish, shrimp, andouille sausage, and other fillings. The cafe also offers a range of sweet beignets and coffee drinks. The ambiance is cozy and inviting, making it a perfect spot for a leisurely breakfast or brunch.

9. Loretta’s Authentic Pralines 🍬

Loretta’s Authentic Pralines is a confectionary that offers a range of sweet treats, including pralines, fudge, and chocolates. The shop’s pralines are a must-try, made using traditional recipes passed down through generations. The shop also offers gift boxes and souvenirs.

10. Market Cafe 🍤

Market Cafe is a casual restaurant that offers a range of Cajun and Creole dishes, including boiled shrimp, crawfish étouffée, and red beans and rice. The restaurant’s outdoor seating area offers a picturesque view of the Mississippi River, making it a popular spot for tourists.

11. Tujague’s Restaurant 🍴

Tujague’s Restaurant is a historic establishment that has been serving traditional Creole cuisine since 1856. The restaurant’s signature dish is the boiled beef brisket, served with horseradish sauce and Creole mustard. The restaurant also offers a range of seafood and vegetarian options.

12. The Original Pierre Maspero’s 🍛

The Original Pierre Maspero’s is a cozy restaurant that offers a range of classic New Orleans dishes, including red beans and rice, jambalaya, and turtle soup. The restaurant’s courtyard is a popular spot for outdoor dining, offering a serene escape from the bustling French Market.

13. Antoine’s Restaurant 🍷

Antoine’s Restaurant is a fine-dining establishment that has been serving haute Creole cuisine since 1840. The restaurant’s signature dishes include the oysters Rockefeller, pompano en papillote, and baked Alaska. The restaurant’s elegant ambiance and impeccable service make it a perfect spot for special occasions.

Best Restaurants In The French Market: Frequently Asked Questions

1. What are the best restaurants in the French Market?

The French Market is home to several top-rated restaurants, including Café Du Monde, Felix’s Restaurant and Oyster Bar, The Gumbo Shop, Coop’s Place, and Antoine’s Restaurant.

2. What is the signature dish of the French Market?

The French Market is known for its seafood delicacies, including oysters, shrimp, and crawfish. The market’s signature dish is the muffuletta sandwich, made with Italian bread and stuffed with meat, cheese, and olive salad.

3. Can you find vegetarian options in the French Market restaurants?

Yes, several French Market restaurants offer vegetarian and vegan options, including The Gumbo Shop, Market Cafe, and Tujague’s Restaurant.

4. What is the ambiance like in the French Market restaurants?

The French Market restaurants offer a range of ambiance, from casual and lively to fine-dining and elegant. Many restaurants have outdoor seating areas that offer a scenic view of the Mississippi River.

5. What is the best time to visit the French Market?

The French Market is open daily from 10 am to 6 pm, making it accessible throughout the day. However, the market tends to get busy during peak hours, so it’s best to visit during off-peak hours.

6. Can you find gluten-free options in the French Market restaurants?

Yes, many French Market restaurants offer gluten-free options, including The Gumbo Shop, Cafe Beignet, and Market Cafe.

7. Are the French Market restaurants kid-friendly?

Yes, the French Market restaurants offer a range of options that are suitable for kids, including fried chicken, burgers, and mac and cheese.

8. What is the price range for the French Market restaurants?

The French Market restaurants offer a range of price points, from affordable to high-end. Many restaurants offer lunch specials and happy hour deals that are easy on the wallet.

9. Are reservations required for the French Market restaurants?

Reservations are recommended for fine-dining establishments, including Antoine’s Restaurant and Tujague’s Restaurant. However, most restaurants in the French Market operate on a first-come, first-serve basis.

10. What is the dress code for the French Market restaurants?

The dress code for the French Market restaurants varies, with most restaurants adopting a casual attire. However, some fine-dining establishments may have a dress code, so it’s best to check before visiting.

11. Can you find international cuisine in the French Market restaurants?

Yes, the French Market restaurants offer a range of international cuisines, including Italian, Mexican, and Vietnamese.

12. Are there any restaurants in the French Market that offer live music?

Yes, many French Market restaurants offer live music, including Napoleon House and The Gumbo Shop.

13. What is the best way to explore the French Market restaurants?

The best way to explore the French Market restaurants is on foot, strolling through the market