Introduction
Forget Bourbon Street and the French Quarter; the real culinary adventure in the New Orleans area awaits in Metairie, a vibrant suburb brimming with hidden gems and established favorites. Metairie, Louisiana, often overshadowed by its famous neighbor, is quickly becoming a destination for food lovers seeking authentic flavors, diverse cuisines, and a more relaxed dining experience. This article will guide you through some of the best food places in Metairie, covering a range of cuisines, budgets, and dining experiences. Consider this your personal guide to planning an unforgettable eating trip to Metairie. Get ready to discover why this suburb is quickly earning its place on the culinary map!
Classic Creole and Cajun Cuisine: A Taste of Louisiana Heritage
No exploration of Louisiana’s food scene is complete without indulging in the rich and flavorful traditions of Creole and Cajun cuisine. Metairie proudly upholds this culinary heritage, offering a delectable array of restaurants that serve up authentic versions of these iconic dishes. These aren’t just meals; they’re experiences steeped in history and culture.
Drago’s Seafood Restaurant
A Metairie institution, Drago’s is renowned for its charbroiled oysters. The atmosphere is lively and bustling, perfect for a celebratory dinner or a casual gathering with friends. Beyond the oysters, the menu boasts a wide selection of fresh seafood dishes, prepared with Creole flair. Expect to spend a moderate amount for a satisfying meal. Drago’s is unique because of its commitment to quality ingredients and its unwavering popularity with locals. It’s more than just a restaurant; it’s a Metairie tradition.
Deanie’s Seafood
Deanie’s is another Metairie staple, known for its generous portions and family-friendly atmosphere. Their boiled seafood, particularly crawfish during the season, is a must-try. They also offer a variety of fried seafood platters, perfect for sharing. Dining at Deanie’s is an affordable and delicious experience. This place is great because it provides the opportunity for people to enjoy fresh Louisiana seafood in a relaxed and convivial environment.
Acme Oyster House
For a more upscale Creole experience, consider Acme Oyster House, which has a Metairie location. While known for their raw oysters, Acme also offers a variety of Creole classics, such as gumbo and jambalaya, prepared with a refined touch. The price point is slightly higher, but the quality and ambiance justify the cost. Acme’s is great because it offers a sophisticated take on traditional Creole flavors, making it perfect for a special occasion.
These restaurants offer a glimpse into the heart of Louisiana’s culinary soul, showcasing the vibrant flavors and traditions that make this region so unique. When deciding where to eat, bear in mind the amount that you want to spend, the ambiance you’re looking for, and the particular dishes you are interested in trying.
Seafood Sensations: From Gulf to Table Freshness
Being so close to the Gulf of Mexico, Metairie naturally has an abundance of fresh seafood. Numerous restaurants capitalize on this proximity, offering a diverse range of seafood preparations, from classic boils to innovative fusion dishes. Prepare to be amazed by the bounty of the sea!
R&O’s Restaurant
R&O’s is a Metairie favorite, famous for its roast beef po-boys and, of course, its seafood. Their boiled seafood, especially crawfish during the season, is incredibly popular. The restaurant has a casual, local vibe, perfect for a relaxed meal. Expect to spend a moderate amount for a satisfying seafood feast. R&O’s is unique as it has earned its reputation for the combination of quality food, reasonable pricing, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Parran’s Po-Boys & Seafood
While the name suggests po-boys (and they are excellent!), Parran’s also boasts a wide array of fresh seafood options. From fried shrimp to grilled fish, there’s something for every seafood lover. The price range is affordable, making it a great option for a casual lunch or dinner. It is a go-to spot for locals seeking quality seafood without breaking the bank.
Mr. Ed’s Oyster Bar & Fish House
For a more upscale seafood experience, visit Mr. Ed’s Oyster Bar & Fish House. Mr. Ed’s is known for its fresh oysters, prepared in a variety of ways, as well as its delicious seafood entrees. The atmosphere is more refined, making it a great choice for a special occasion. While slightly pricier, the quality and presentation of the food make it worth the splurge. It is a top-notch restaurant in Metairie that offers the patrons the greatest seafood.
Metairie’s seafood restaurants are an experience of freshness and flavor. From the chargrilled oysters at Drago’s to the fried seafood platters at Deanie’s, you’re sure to find something to satisfy your seafood cravings.
International Flavors: A Global Gastronomic Tour
Metairie’s culinary scene isn’t limited to Creole and Cajun flavors. The suburb boasts a surprisingly diverse range of international restaurants, reflecting the area’s growing multicultural population. From Italian trattorias to Vietnamese pho shops, Metairie offers a global gastronomic tour without ever leaving town.
Andrea’s Restaurant
Andrea’s is a Metairie institution, known for its elegant atmosphere and authentic Italian cuisine. The menu features classic pasta dishes, fresh seafood preparations, and a wide selection of Italian wines. Expect to spend a bit more for a fine dining experience. Andrea’s is great because it has established itself as a culinary landmark in Metairie, celebrated for its timeless elegance, impeccable service, and traditional Italian dishes.
Pho Orchid
Pho Orchid is a popular spot for authentic Vietnamese cuisine, specializing in pho, a flavorful noodle soup. The menu also includes other Vietnamese favorites, such as spring rolls and vermicelli bowls. The price range is very affordable, making it a great option for a quick and satisfying meal. The place is great because it provides people with delicious and authentic Vietnamese food, with the pho soup being the highlight.
El Gato Negro Mexican Cuisine
El Gato Negro offers a modern take on traditional Mexican dishes, with a focus on fresh ingredients and bold flavors. The menu includes tacos, enchiladas, and other Mexican favorites, as well as a selection of creative cocktails. Expect to spend a moderate amount for a delicious and festive meal. They bring to the table a truly authentic Mexican experience.
Metairie’s international restaurants offer an exciting culinary adventure, showcasing the diverse flavors and traditions of cultures from around the globe. Whether you’re craving pasta, pho, or tacos, you’re sure to find something to satisfy your international cravings.
Casual Eats and Sweet Treats: Quick Bites and Decadent Delights
Sometimes, you just need a quick bite or a sweet treat to satisfy your cravings. Metairie has plenty of options for casual eats and decadent desserts, from sandwich shops to bakeries. These places are perfect for a lunch on the go or a delightful afternoon indulgence.
Parkway Bakery & Tavern
Okay, this one is *technically* in New Orleans, but it’s close enough and iconic enough to include! Parkway is famous for its po-boys, especially the roast beef and shrimp versions. It’s a casual spot with a long history and a loyal following. The price range is affordable, making it a great option for a quick and satisfying lunch. Parkway’s is a popular spot among the locals and tourists that serves great New Orleans food.
Haydel’s Bakery
Haydel’s is a Metairie institution, known for its King Cakes during Mardi Gras season, but they also offer a wide variety of other pastries, cakes, and desserts year-round. The price range is moderate, and the quality is outstanding. Haydel’s is great because it ensures to cater to the customer’s needs by offering great pastries for a good price.
PJ’s Coffee of New Orleans
PJ’s is a local coffee chain that offers a wide variety of coffee drinks, pastries, and sandwiches. It’s a great place to grab a quick coffee and a bite to eat, or to relax and work on your laptop. The price range is affordable, making it a great option for a quick break.
These restaurants offer a quick bite to eat and the chance to indulge in sweet treats.
Tips for Planning Your Metairie Food Adventure
Planning your Metairie food adventure is easy, but here are a few tips to make the most of your culinary exploration:
* Best Time to Visit: Consider visiting during crawfish season (typically March-May) for the freshest and most flavorful boiled crawfish. However, Metairie’s food scene is vibrant year-round.
* Transportation: While ride-sharing services are readily available, having a car is beneficial for exploring Metairie and the surrounding areas. Public transportation is also an option, but it may be less convenient.
* Making Reservations: Reservations are highly recommended for popular restaurants, especially during peak dining hours and weekends. Call ahead or use online reservation systems to secure your spot.
* Exploring Beyond the Restaurants: Combine your food exploration with other Metairie attractions, such as Lakeside Shopping Center or Lafreniere Park. This will give you a well-rounded experience of the suburb.
* Consider a Food Tour: To sample a variety of Metairie’s culinary offerings in a short amount of time, consider joining a guided food tour. This is a great way to discover hidden gems and learn about the local food culture.
Conclusion: Your Culinary Journey Awaits
Metairie, Louisiana, offers a surprisingly diverse and delicious culinary scene, waiting to be explored. From classic Creole and Cajun dishes to fresh seafood and international flavors, there’s something for every palate. Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or a casual diner, you’re sure to find a memorable meal in Metairie.
So, pack your appetite and get ready to embark on a delicious journey through the best food places in Metairie, Louisiana. You won’t be disappointed! What are your favorite restaurants in Metairie? Share your recommendations in the comments below!
