Beyond Gumbo: Unique Food and Drinks of New Orleans

From gumbo to beignets, New Orleans has a wide range of delicious dishes. However, the city also has some rather odd food and drinks that some visitors may find a bit strange. Here are the top ten weirdest things people eat/drink in New Orleans.

  1. Alligator Meat
    Alligator meat is a common dish in New Orleans, and it can be found in many restaurants. It has a chewy texture and tastes like chicken, but with a slightly gamey flavor.
  2. Fried Oysters
    Fried oysters may not seem weird, but in New Orleans, they are often served with blue cheese or garlic butter sauce. It may not be for everyone, but it’s worth a try if you’re feeling adventurous.
  3. Turtle Soup
    Turtle soup is a classic New Orleans dish that is made with turtle meat, vegetables, and a dark roux. It has a unique flavor that is hard to describe, but it’s worth a try if you’re feeling daring.
  4. Crawfish Étouffée
    Crawfish Étouffée is a thick, roux-based stew made with crawfish tails, vegetables, and spices. While it may not be weird to locals, it can be a bit intimidating for those unfamiliar with the dish.
  5. Muffuletta
    The Muffuletta sandwich is a classic New Orleans sandwich made with Italian meats, cheese, and olive salad on a large round bread. While it may not be the weirdest food on this list, it’s certainly unique.
  6. Pickled Pig Lips
    Pickled Pig Lips may not sound appealing, but they are a popular snack in New Orleans. They are served in a jar and are often eaten as a side dish with other Cajun-style dishes.
  7. Sazerac
    The Sazerac Cocktail is a famous New Orleans drink made with rye whiskey, sugar, Peychaud’s Bitters, and absinthe. It’s a strong drink that has been around since the 1800s and is a staple of the city’s nightlife.
  8. Café Brûlot
    Café Brûlot is a coffee drink that is spiked with brandy, cinnamon, cloves, and orange peel. It’s typically served in a large copper bowl, and the drink is set on fire before being poured into a cup.
  9. Fermented Juice
    Fermented Pickle Juice is a popular drink in New Orleans, especially among athletes. It’s made by fermenting pickle juice with salt, vinegar, and garlic, and is believed to help with hydration and muscle cramps.
  10. Fleur de Lis Pizza
    The Fleur de Lis Pizza is a unique New Orleans pizza that is topped with crawfish, alligator sausage, and Tabasco sauce. While it may not be the weirdest dish on this list, it’s certainly not a traditional pizza topping.

In conclusion…
New Orleans has some unique and interesting food and drink options. While some of these may not be for everyone, they are certainly worth trying if you’re feeling adventurous. From alligator meat to pickled pig lips, there’s always something new to discover in New Orleans’ cuisine.