New Orleans is famed for its rich culinary legacy, which combines Creole, Cajun, and French elements to form a distinct and diversified gastronomic culture. And when it comes to discovering the top food and drink spots in New Orleans, Jackson Square is a must-see. Jackson Square, located in the heart of the French Quarter, is a historic park surrounded by renowned structures, bustling street performers, and a plethora of delectable culinary options. This blog will take you on a culinary adventure as we reveal the top 10 food and drink spots near Jackson Square in New Orleans. These culinary places will please your taste buds and leave you wanting more, from traditional eateries to hip cocktail bars.
Cafe du Monde, Jackson Square
- Address: 800 Decatur St, New Orleans, LA 70116
No trip to New Orleans is complete without a beignet from Cafe du Monde. This renowned open-air coffee stand, which opened in 1862, is famous for its beignets, which are deep-fried doughnuts coated with powdered sugar. These pillowy delicacies are true New Orleans delicacies when served hot and fresh. For the perfect breakfast or snack, pair them with a café au lait, a strong coffee blended with hot milk. Cafe du Monde, with its great location, just steps away from Jackson Square, is a must-visit for any foodie exploring the French Quarter.
Court of Two Sisters
- Address: 613 Royal St, New Orleans, LA 70130
Court of Two Sisters, a historic restaurant famed for its legendary jazz brunch, evokes the beauty of ancient New Orleans. This magnificent eatery on Royal Street, just a short walk from Jackson Square, serves a scrumptious buffet including a wide variety of Creole and Cajun delicacies. Court of Two Sisters serves typical New Orleans fare such as jambalaya, gumbo, crawfish étouffée, and shrimp and grits. This is a dining experience you won’t want to miss, especially with live jazz music serenading you as you dine in their lovely courtyard.
Antoine’s, Jackson Square
- Address: 713 St Louis St, New Orleans, LA 70130
Antoine’s, the oldest continually operating restaurant in New Orleans, opened its doors in 1840 and is steeped in history and tradition. The Antoine’s is a true culinary institution, located in the center of the French Quarter, just a stone’s throw away from Jackson Square. This historic restaurant is known for its classic Creole cuisine and elegant setting, with various dining rooms filled with gorgeous chandeliers, old artwork, and a sense of timeless charm. Experience the flavors of New Orleans heritage by indulging in their legendary Oysters Rockefeller, Crawfish Cardinal, or Baked Alaska.
The Chart Room
- Address: 300 Chartres St, New Orleans, LA 70130
If you’re searching for a relaxed place to drink near Jackson Square, go no further than The Chart Room. This tiny dive pub on Chartres Street is a local favorite known for its welcoming environment and powerful drinks. Step inside to find a dimly lit space decorated with nautical antiques and a jukebox playing vintage hits. Sip a cool beer and start up a discussion with the humorous bartenders. The Chart Room serves a wide range of beers, drinks, and spirits, as well as their famous frozen Irish coffee. It’s a great place to unwind after a day of visiting Jackson Square and taking in the local vibe.
Compère Lapin
- Address: 535 Tchoupitoulas St, New Orleans, LA 70130
Compère Lapin offers a sophisticated take on Caribbean-inspired cuisine. This stylish restaurant is managed by acclaimed chef Nina Compton, a Top Chef finalist, and is located in the Warehouse District, just a short distance from Jackson Square. Compère Lapin’s menu boasts a creative blend of flavors, including curried goat, jerk-spiced tuna, and conch croquettes. The trendy decor and energetic environment of the restaurant makes it a popular choice for a wonderful dining experience.
The Carousel Bar & Lounge, Jackson Square
- Address: 214 Royal St, New Orleans, LA 70130
The Carousel Bar & Lounge, housed in the historic Hotel Monteleone, transports you to a fanciful world. This historic bar boasts a revolving carousel that has been in operation since the 1940s and is a must-see for cocktail connoisseurs. While enjoying live music and the exquisite environment, sip on classic libations or try their distinctive cocktails, such as the Vieux Carré or the Ramos Gin Fizz. The Carousel Bar & Lounge is a New Orleans classic that is ideal for a wonderful night out.
Central Grocery & Deli
- Address: 923 Decatur St, New Orleans, LA 70116
Look no further than Central Grocery & Deli for a traditional New Orleans sandwich. The muffuletta, a hefty sandwich loaded with Italian cold cuts, cheese, and olive salad, was invented by this iconic eatery. Central Grocery & Deli, located on Decatur Street, just steps away from Jackson Square, has served exquisite muffulettas since 1906. Grab a sandwich to go and have a picnic in Jackson Square, or bring it back to your hotel for a filling lunch.
Napoleon House
- Address: 500 Chartres St, New Orleans, LA 70130
Napoleon House, a historic tavern and restaurant on Chartres Street, will transport you back in time. Since 1914, this renowned New Orleans institution has been known for its laid-back atmosphere and delicious Creole cuisine. Napoleon House, with its quaint courtyard, brick walls, and old furnishings, feels like a step back in time. Savor the pleasures of New Orleans’ culinary legacy by indulging in their famous muffuletta, shrimp remoulade, or gumbo.
Sylvain, Jackson Square
- Address: 625 Chartres St, New Orleans, LA 70130
Sylvain is a hidden treasure on Chartres Street famed for its creative drinks and farm-to-table cuisine. This charming restaurant has a rustic, candlelit interior and a pleasant patio for outside dining. Sylvain’s menu features locally produced foods and inventive flavors, such as crispy fried chicken, roasted pork cheeks, and Gulf fish. Craft drinks, such as the Smoky Margarita and the Barrel-Aged Manhattan, are a highlight. Sylvain is a fantastic setting for a romantic supper or a fun night out with friends.
The French Market
- Address: 1008 N Peters St, New Orleans, LA 70116
No trip to New Orleans would be complete without experiencing The French Market’s colorful atmosphere. This historic market, just a short walk from Jackson Square, has been a focus of local commerce for 200 years. There’s a plethora of food sellers here, selling everything from fresh veggies and seafood to hot beignets and po’boys. As you meander through the market, sample local specialties like crawfish étouffée, jambalaya, and muffuletta sandwiches while taking in the sights and sounds of this historic New Orleans institution.
FAQs
Q: Are these places within walking distance of Jackson Square?
A: Yes, all of the places described in this blog are within walking distance of Jackson Square, making them conveniently accessible to guests roaming around the neighborhood.
Q: Are these places suitable for families with children?
A: While some of the establishments have a more adult-oriented ambiance, there are those that are family-friendly, such as Café du Monde and The French Market, which provide wonderful treats that children will appreciate.
Q: Are these places budget-friendly?
A: Prices vary according to the establishment, however, there are possibilities for all budgets. Some restaurants, such as Café du Monde and Central Grocery & Deli, are recognized for their economical and tasty fare, whilst others, such as Compère Lapin and Napoleon House, are more upscale.
Conclusion
New Orleans is a foodie’s heaven, with its rich culinary tradition and bustling food scene. There’s something for everyone near Jackson Square, from classic cafes and ancient bars to fashionable restaurants and lively markets. Whether you want beignets and café au lait, a classic muffuletta, or inventive cocktails, these top 10 New Orleans food and drink spots will satisfy your needs and deliver an authentic experience of the city. So, prepare to savor the flavors of New Orleans and embark on a culinary adventure during your visit to Jackson Square!
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