Hi everyone,

I will be down in New Orleans for a few days next week, staying right in the French Quarter. I will not actually have a car with me while there since I decided not to bother with the French Quarter parking. So that factors into this request.

Basically, I always love trying the local flavor when I dine in new areas. Some of my most memorable meals were at hole-in-the-wall eateries serving up local cuisine based on the age-old recipes. I also do not have a huge budget to spend on food. I am not talking McDonald's prices here... but I am not able to break the bank.

That being said, what recommendations do people have for good quality, local flavor in New Orleans? I am eager to try much of the cajun/creole cooking and the seafood, as well as any other foods they are known for that seem exotic to me. I know, however, that getting beyond the tourist traps often yields better meals and better value... so I am hoping you all have a few good suggestions for me! =)

Also, there will be two days that I have a car and I am going to drive along the coast and end up in Mobile... just a little side trip for one night. So if you know of any good places to catch a bite to eat along the MS or AL coast that would be much appreciated, too.

Thank you!

Acme Oyster House has exactly the kind of food you are craving for. And really inexpensive. Very casual.

http://www.acmeoyster.com/

If you want to go a little more upscale, Tujague's is the place for an authentic 6-course down-to-earth creole menu. They still use recipes dating from 1856. Moderately priced. Excellent value for money. Good atmosphere.

http://www.tujaguesrestaurant.com/

Desire Oyster Bar:
http://www.royalsonesta-neworleans.com/dining.html
Petunia's:
http://www.petuniasrestaurant.com/
Cafe du Monde:
http://www.cafedumonde.com/
Maspero's:
http://dinesite.com/info/rstrnt-314465/

And I agree with both suggestions from traveller1959.

Oh yea, should you be so brave - if you like hot dogs get a Lucky Dog. Locals turn their noses WAY up at them, but we kinda like 'em.

Am I reading the website correctly for Tujagues? That they ONLY serve a six course table de hote dinner?

You can walk to Central Grocery and buy a muffuletta! Great sandwiches! Only get a half, they are huge. We took ours across the street with a soft drink and sat by the water for a little picnic.
http://www.roadfood.com/Reviews/Overview.aspx?RefID=122

I totally agree with cd,

Muffaletta sandwich from Central Grocery is a "must do"

Enjoy your trip!

This may help - http://goneworleans.about.com/od/res.../cheapeats.htm

Johnnys Poboys. Gumbo Shop. Mother's.

Acme Oyster House
Johnny's Poboys (great breakfast biscuits)
Napoleon House
Central Grocery (muffaletta)
Mothers

I have never been a big fan of Cafe Maspero's, though there is always a line there - so most people must really like it.

Try the Gumbo Shop. Great food at affordable prices. I second the suggestions for Mother's and Acme Oyster House as well. Cafe Du Monde is cheap as well. Camelia Grill for breakfast is nice as well...

Be sure to try gumbo, crawfish ettouffee, jambalaya, dirty rice, and a po-boy.

Awesome... thanks for the great responses so far! It not only helps me plan where to hit but it is also making me that much more excited for the trip! =)

Thanks again!

Yep Patrick - you read it right. They also serve food in the bar though. We stopped in for the brisket po-boy and it was really good.

These are repeat suggestions but just to second & third them . . .

Acme
Cafe du Monde (beignets)
Central Grocery (just get 1/2 a mufeletta - it will be more than enough)
Mothers (the Debris)
Johnnys PoBoys (fried oyster)
Gumbo Shop (they have a combo plate which allows you red beans, jambalaya and etouffe)

These places are all "musts" every time we visit!

The portions at Tujagues are small enough that six courses are not as much as you would expect. If there are some that you are not wild about, just move them around on your plate and wait for the next.

In general, NO is one of the rare cities where locals and tourists eat well at the same places. The Central Grocery and Acme and Galatoire's are all full of locals and tourists, and for good reason.