In June 2025, Chef Ashwin Vilkhu opened a contemporary Asian restaurant in New Orleans that pays homage to his family dinners from his childhood. The restaurant, Farouki Farouki, boasts interiors inspired by the golden hour in his family’s home where he first learned to cook. Named after the street his family lived on after moving from New Delhi to New Orleans in the 1980s, Farouki Farouki offers a four-course dinner that takes guests on a sensory journey of Chef Vilkhu’s most cherished flavors. One standout dish is the crab, brie, and Champagne soup, which pairs perfectly with a glass of crémant.
For a more casual experience, visitors can head to Bar Pomona in the Marigny neighborhood. The cozy interiors exude a countryside diner vibe, and on Mondays, guests can enjoy lasagna paired with natural wines from regions like the Jura and Savoie.
Tiki cocktail enthusiasts should not miss out on a visit to the renowned tiki bar founded by Jeff Berry. Known for reviving vintage tiki cocktails to their original glory, the menu at this establishment features premium spirits infused with unique flavors like anise, pandan leaf extract, and almond.
Acamaya, a seafood-driven Mexican restaurant co-owned by sisters Ana and Lydia Castro, has quickly become a staple in the Bywater neighborhood. With a menu curated by James Beard Award-nominated chef Ana Castro, every dish at Acamaya is a culinary delight that showcases the sisters’ Mexican heritage.
In the French Quarter, visitors can indulge in Caribbean and Cuban flavors at a longstanding favorite helmed by executive chef Alfredo Nogueira. The restaurant’s seasonal approach to ingredients ensures that each visit offers a new and exciting culinary experience, with standout dishes like sweet plantains and fish rundown.
Brennan’s, a New Orleans fine dining institution since 1946, is a must-visit for those looking to savor classic dishes with a modern twist. Known for inventing the flaming dessert Bananas Foster, Brennan’s offers an array of delectable options, including the popular Eggs St. Charles on the brunch menu.
Located on Magazine Street, a historic building houses a contemporary restaurant led by James Beard Award-winner Chef Justin Devillier. The menu offers a creative take on traditional New Orleans cuisine, with must-try dishes like the blue crab beignets that are sure to delight diners.
For a truly luxurious dining experience, Emeril’s flagship restaurant is a standout choice. Celebrity Chef Emeril Lagasse’s son, E.J. Lagasse, now oversees the restaurant, which features a lavish butter cart, Petrossian caviar, and the freshest Louisiana meats and produce. Guests can opt for a wine pairing with the tasting menu and enjoy a mini tour of the kitchen before their meal.
While there are many contenders for the title of the best po’boy in the city, Verti Marte stands out as a top pick. This cash-only deli in the French Quarter offers a flavorful selection of po’boys that are sure to satisfy any craving.
With a diverse range of culinary experiences to explore, New Orleans offers a vibrant dining scene that caters to all tastes and preferences. Whether indulging in upscale fine dining or savoring a classic po’boy, visitors are sure to be delighted by the city’s rich culinary heritage.
