Our favorite NOLA restaurant is Budsi’s Thai. (1760 N. Rampart st. New Orleans, LA. 70116)

We know; sounds crazy. But we seem to make friends every time we go here; the food is a clean and healthy alternative to all the fried chicken you will end up eating; and they have a great and unique cocktail program. Family owned and operated. Outdoor seating. Order the Dumpling Soup if you seek restoration and healing.

(If you were going to The Goat, maybe you’d want to stop here on your walk over.)

Upscale Dining:

Commander’s Palace
1403 Washington Ave, New Orleans, LA 70130
(504) 899-8221
A dear family friend and grand ambassador to the city, Jerry Jacob, says this is his favorite restaurant. My parents say it is the best service they have ever had. Reservation and formal attire required.

Galatoire's
209 Bourbon St, New Orleans, LA 70130
(504) 525-2021
Reservation and formal attire required. Order the side dish “Spinach Rockefeller” (prepared alongside oysters; not suitable if you have shellfish allergy). I dream of it.

Cochon

930 Tchoupitoulas St,New Orleans, LA 70130
(504) 588-2123
No reservation needed.Formal attire not required. Woodfired Oysters are incredible.

Great Casual Food:

Red Fish Grill
115 Bourbon St, New Orleans, LA 70130
(504) 598-1200
You’ll want the titular red fish with crawfish étouffée. They only take limited reservations so your best bet is to get a cold lemonade or beer to go, get there early, and use your time in line as a chance to make new friends.

Three Legged Dog
Dive bar with crawfish boil 6pm every day
(504) 412-8335 (to make sure that boil is happening before you march on out there)
400 Burgundy St, New Orleans, LA 70112

Liuzza’s
1518 N Lopez St, New Orleans, LA 70119
(for the Sprimp po boy)

Due to NOLA being a historic landing place for early Lebanese immigrants, the Lebanese food is supposedly amazing there. Aunty Lauryn (from Sarah Rose’s side - the Lebanese side) recommends:

Mona’s Cafe
3901 Banks St, New Orleans, LA 70119