Best Restaurants In French Quarter For Lunch

Discover The Top Restaurants In French Quarter, New Orleans

New Orleans is a true foodie paradise, and the French Quarter is the heart of its culinary scene. From classic Cajun cuisine to contemporary Creole dishes, there is something for everyone to enjoy in this vibrant neighborhood. Whether you are a local or are visiting from out of town, you won’t want to miss out on the best restaurants that the French Quarter has to offer. Here are our top picks for the best lunch spots in the French Quarter:

1. Cafe Du Monde 🤅

No trip to the French Quarter is complete without a stop at Cafe Du Monde. Famous for its beignets and cafe au lait, this iconic eatery is a must-visit for anyone with a sweet tooth. Be prepared to wait in line for a table, but trust us – it’s worth it.

2. Galatoire’s 🥘

For an upscale meal that won’t break the bank, head to Galatoire’s. This elegant restaurant has been serving classic Creole cuisine for over a century, and it remains a favorite among locals and tourists alike. Don’t miss the shrimp remoulade or the crabmeat au gratin.

3. Coop’s Place 🍗

If you’re looking for a more casual lunch spot, Coop’s Place is the perfect choice. This cozy dive bar serves up delicious pub grub and killer cocktails. Try the famous rabbit and sausage jambalaya or the fried chicken.

4. Brennan’s 🍽

Brennan’s is a New Orleans institution, and for good reason. This elegant restaurant is known for its classic Creole dishes and its famous brunch – but don’t overlook their lunch menu. The turtle soup and the eggs Benedict are both excellent choices.

5. Acme Oyster House 🦪

For seafood lovers, Acme Oyster House is a must-visit. This lively restaurant is known for its fresh oysters and its po’ boys, but the gumbo and the jambalaya are also worth trying. Be prepared to get messy!

6. Napoleon House 🏰

The ambiance alone is reason enough to visit Napoleon House. This historic building dates back to the early 1800s, and it has been beautifully restored into a charming restaurant and bar. The muffuletta sandwich is a standout, but the pizzas and salads are also delicious.

7. Stanley’s 🍲

Located on Jackson Square, Stanley’s is a great spot for people-watching while you eat. The breakfast menu is especially popular, but the lunch options are just as tasty. Don’t miss the fried oyster and bacon sandwich.

8. Antoine’s 🍴

Antoine’s is the oldest family-owned restaurant in the country, and it is a true New Orleans institution. This elegant eatery is known for its classic French and Creole dishes, and the lunch menu is no exception. The oysters Rockefeller and the Pompano Pontchartrain are both must-tries.

9. Central Grocery 🥪

You can’t talk about lunch in the French Quarter without mentioning Central Grocery. This tiny Italian grocery store is famous for its muffuletta sandwich, which is piled high with meats, cheese, and olive salad. Don’t forget to grab a bag of Zapp’s chips to go with it.

10. The Gumbo Shop 🍜

As the name implies, The Gumbo Shop is the place to go for a steaming bowl of gumbo. This casual restaurant also serves up other Cajun and Creole classics, like red beans and rice and jambalaya. The balcony seating is a great spot to enjoy a meal with a view.

11. Muriel’s Jackson Square 👻

Muriel’s Jackson Square is a beautiful restaurant with a spooky history. Legend has it that the ghost of a former owner still haunts the building. But don’t let that scare you away – the food is excellent. Try the crawfish and goat cheese crepes or the shrimp and grits.

12. Mr. B’s Bistro 🧂

Mr. B’s Bistro is a favorite among locals, and for good reason. This elegant restaurant serves up contemporary Creole cuisine with a focus on seafood. The BBQ shrimp is a standout, but the gumbo and the fried chicken are also delicious.

13. Bayona 🏄

Bayona is a hidden gem in the French Quarter. This intimate restaurant serves up inventive dishes with a focus on local and seasonal ingredients. The duck confit and the goat cheese crouton are both delicious appetizers, and the fish of the day is always a good choice.

14. Cafe Amelie 🌿

Cafe Amelie is a charming restaurant with a beautiful courtyard. The lunch menu features classic New Orleans dishes with a twist, like the cochon de lait sandwich with pickled vegetables and the fried green tomato BLT. Don’t miss the frozen Irish coffee.

15. Arnaud’s 🎶

Arnaud’s is another classic New Orleans restaurant, known for its elegant atmosphere and its delicious Creole dishes. The lunch menu offers a variety of options, from the seafood gumbo to the veal grillades and grits. Don’t forget to save room for the bananas Foster.

What Makes These Restaurants The Best?

Each of the restaurants on this list has something unique to offer, whether it’s a classic dish that has been perfected over generations or an innovative twist on traditional New Orleans cuisine. But what they all have in common is a commitment to quality and a passion for great food. These restaurants are all beloved by locals and visitors alike, and they represent the best of what the French Quarter has to offer.

FAQs

1. What is the best time to visit these restaurants?

It’s best to visit these restaurants during the weekday lunch rush, as they tend to get crowded in the evenings and on weekends.

2. What is the dress code for these restaurants?

Most of these restaurants have a casual dress code, but it’s always a good idea to check their website or call ahead to be sure.

3. Are reservations necessary?

Reservations are recommended for some of the more popular restaurants on this list, like Galatoire’s and Antoine’s. It’s always a good idea to call ahead and check their policies.

4. What is the average price range for these restaurants?

Prices vary depending on the restaurant and the dish, but most of these restaurants fall in the mid-range to upscale price range.

5. Are these restaurants family-friendly?

Most of these restaurants are family-friendly, but some may have limited options for children. It’s always a good idea to check their menus before visiting.

6. What type of cuisine do these restaurants serve?

These restaurants serve a variety of cuisines, from classic Creole and Cajun dishes to contemporary twists on traditional New Orleans fare.

7. What is the best dish to try at each of these restaurants?

Each restaurant has its own standout dishes, but some of our favorites include: the beignets at Cafe Du Monde, the shrimp remoulade at Galatoire’s, the rabbit and sausage jambalaya at Coop’s Place, the turtle soup at Brennan’s, the oysters at Acme Oyster House, the muffuletta at Central Grocery, the gumbo at The Gumbo Shop, the crawfish and goat cheese crepes at Muriel’s Jackson Square, the BBQ shrimp at Mr. B’s Bistro, the duck confit at Bayona, the frozen Irish coffee at Cafe Amelie, and the bananas Foster at Arnaud’s.

Conclusion

The French Quarter is home to some of the best restaurants in New Orleans, and these 15 spots are the cream of the crop. Whether you’re in the mood for classic Creole cuisine or contemporary twists on traditional dishes, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. So why not plan a lunch date with friends or colleagues and explore all that the French Quarter has to offer? Bon appetit!

Disclaimer: The information in this article is accurate as of the time of publication. Prices, menus, and policies may change without notice.