Exploring the Best Cajun Dishes in New Orleans: Where to Find Them and What to Try

If you’re looking for delicious and spicy Cajun cuisine, New Orleans is the place to be! Here are some of the best Cajun dishes to try and where to find them in the city:

1. Gumbo:
   Gumbo is a classic Cajun stew that typically contains a mix of seafood or meat, okra, and a dark roux. It’s a hearty and flavorful dish that is often served over rice. You can find delicious gumbo at places like Dooky Chase’s Restaurant, The Gumbo Shop, and Commander’s Palace.
   
2. Jambalaya:
   Jambalaya is another classic Cajun dish that features a mix of meats (usually chicken, sausage, and/or shrimp), vegetables, and rice. It’s typically cooked with a spicy tomato-based sauce and has a bit of a kick to it. Some great places to try jambalaya in New Orleans include K-Paul’s Louisiana Kitchen, Cochon, and Dooky Chase’s Restaurant.
   
3. Crawfish Etouffee:
   Crawfish etouffee is a rich and flavorful dish that features crawfish cooked in a roux-based sauce with onions, bell peppers, and celery. It’s often served over rice and is a must-try for any seafood lover. Some of the best places to find crawfish etouffee in New Orleans include Galatoire’s Restaurant, Mr. B’s Bistro, and Commander’s Palace.
   
4. Po’ Boys:
   A po’ boy is a classic New Orleans sandwich that usually features some type of meat (such as roast beef, fried shrimp, or fried oysters) served on a French bread roll. It’s typically dressed with lettuce, tomato, and mayonnaise, and can be quite spicy depending on the filling. Some of the best places to get a po’ boy in New Orleans include Domilise’s Po-Boy & Bar, Parkway Bakery & Tavern, and Johnny’s Po-Boys.
   
5. Red Beans and Rice:
   Red beans and rice is a staple dish in New Orleans, and it’s often served on Mondays (a tradition that dates back to when Monday was wash day, and cooks would put on a pot of beans to simmer all day while they did their laundry). The dish typically features red beans cooked with sausage or ham and served over rice. Some great places to try red beans and rice in New Orleans include Cafe Reconcile, Dooky Chase’s Restaurant, and Commander’s Palace.

Overall, New Orleans is a mecca for Cajun cuisine, and there are countless restaurants and eateries that serve up delicious and authentic dishes. Whether you’re a fan of seafood, spicy meats, or hearty stews, you’re sure to find something to satisfy your cravings in this vibrant and flavorful city.