New Orleans is one of America’s greatest food towns, from the oyster houses and beignets of the French Quarter, to the exotic and eclectic flavors found throughout every neighborhood. In fact, the U.S. News ranks New Orleans as the second-best foodie city in the U.S. One of the best ways to get a taste of some of the city’s most popular snacks and delicacies is to take a foodie road trip, where you learn about the history and culture that goes into the different types of food. Here are essential foodie road trips that can help you get acquainted with the rich culinary scene in New Orleans, no matter how long you’re staying.
The Creole gumbo trail
New Orleans is known as a gumbo town. But did you know it has its very own gumbo trail? if you are planning to take a trip to this trail, you can start by picking up a copy of The New Orleans Gumbo Trail Guide, then get new or used vehicle that can accommodate you comfortably during your trip. This self-guided route takes you down the back alleys of the French Quarter to find the best restaurants that serve their own special gumbos. It’s a delicious way to see and eat your way around this neighborhood. This street foodie trail includes stops at Café Du Monde, Mother’s and its famous Gumbo Shop, Allen’s Restaurant & Oyster Bar, Dick and Jenny’s Seafood Place, New Orleans Jazz Market, Savoy Restaurant & Bar, and 701 Seafood Restaurant & Oyster Bar. If you’re a first-timer, you should first drive-by Allen’s before tackling the whole route. You can also check out a map of the Creole Gumbo Trail here.
The Sazerac trail
People from New Orleans take their cocktails seriously. And if you’re a cocktail aficionado, then you’ll love this self-guided Sazerac trail. This route takes you to the city’s best bars and dives where you can sample local craft beer, expertly crafted mixology and even Sazeracs served the way they were meant to be – ice cold and with a wedge of lemon. Signature cocktails are just part of the fun: sometimes the bartenders at these establishments will even share their favorite recipes with you.
Muffaletta trail
New Orleans loves its sandwiches. And if you’re a fan of the muffuletta, you should check out this self-guided route that runs in the Mid City area. The cities are known for their Italian food – particularly Italian subs and pasta – but now there’s a fun way to incorporate Italian sandwiches into your trip itinerary. There are stops at Muffaletta Cafe, Muffaletta on Decatur, and Ronnie’s Bakery to sample sandwiches that include fresh mozzarella, basil pesto, and more.
French market food tour
No meal is complete without a proper French pâté, and there’s no finer way to explore the culture of Napoleon-era Europe than by making a stop at the French Market. This self-guided tour takes you through the historic district to sample some of the best Creole cuisines in town: pork-filled beignets, croques monsieur, and roast beef po’boy sandwiches, among other mouth-watering dishes. The French Market is open from 6am until 11pm every day – give yourself plenty of time to explore.
The best way to get the most out of this trip is to include a mix of both major and minor food stops as it’s a fun way to learn about the culture while indulging in delectable dishes. You don’t have to eat a full meal at every spot, and you don’t have to stay long at every place. Just remember to have a taste of everything and have fun on your road trip.