7 Best Restaurants in New Orleans, Louisiana

A rough-edge classic in every way, this no-frills eatery is a prime source for briny, chilled Gulf oysters; legendary shrimp, oyster, and roast-beef po'boys; and tender, expertly seasoned red beans and rice. Even locals can't resist, although most opt for the less crowded, if less charming, suburban branches (there's one in Metairie). Expect lengthy lines here in the French Quarter, often a half-block long. Crowds lighten in the late afternoon, making Acme a choice respite for a mid-afternoon snack of a dozen on the half shell washed down with an Abita beer.

This eatery has been a haven for Uptown seafood lovers since 1919. Third- and fourth-generation family members still wait tables and staff the immaculate kitchen in back, while a reliable handful of oyster shuckers ensure that plenty of cold ones are available for the standing room–only oyster bar. Specialties from the diminutive menu include buttery char-grilled oysters, fried shrimp, trout, soft-shell-crab platters, and the restaurant's iconic fried "oyster loaf" sandwich (two thick slices of white bread stuffed with fresh and greaseless bivalves). Everything is clean, and nothing is superfluous. Even the oyster shells are turned into art on the walls by one of the owners.

If you're trying to find the quintessential New Orleans neighborhood restaurant, look no further: team pennants and posters vie for space on the paneled walls of the low-ceiling bar and dining room, while a jukebox blares beneath them. From the kitchen's steaming cauldrons come boiled shrimp, crabs, and crawfish, piled high and ready to be washed down with ice-cold beer. The daily po'boy roster might feature fried crawfish tails or oysters, meatballs in tomato sauce, or roast beef with gravy, but the fried-shrimp po'boy is Frankie & Johnny's calling card.

Long famous for its seafood, GW Fins has shifted its efforts to support sustainable, local fishing practices, and its menu now focuses on the Gulf Coast’s bounty—and whatever fresh catch is delivered daily. The steaklike, dry-aged bluefin tuna rib eye, Parmesan crusted sheepshead, and snapper ceviche with habanero sorbet are just some of the delicious ways that local seafood is utilized here. For dessert, try the pretzel-crusted ice cream pie. The spacious dining room's attractive modern decor and the enthusiastic service make this a relaxing refuge from the French Quarter's crowds.

As the Bywater dining scene has largely shifted toward the new, trendy, and exploratory, this historical location on Poland Avenue has stood its ground, remaining one of the only classic New Orleans dinner joints in the area. Expect large portions of fried and boiled seafood favorites, like catfish, redfish, oysters, and shrimp, as well as po'boys, stuffed flounder, and surf-and-turf plates. It's a fun, casual spot, and you will not leave hungry.

The name implies fish, and that's what you'll find at this modern temple to seafood, the brainchild of nearby Cochon proprietors Donald Link and Stephen Stryjewski. In addition to an airy, modern space enhanced by exposed beams and a wood-burning grill, the dining room has a fascinating history: the building was a former mortuary that claims to have embalmed Confederate president Jefferson Davis. If that doesn't give you something to talk about, the crowd-satisfying fare will: there's head-on, coal fire grilled whole fish; smothered catfish with pickled greens; and excellent nonfish options. The small plates offer inventive options such as spicy ground shrimp with noodles, a raw bar menu featuring the best of local oysters, and an excellent seafood salad.

In setting that evokes a luxury wooden schooner’s cabin, Seaworthy in the Ace hotel delivers an intimate evening of pristine seafood. Try oysters raw and grilled, caviar crudo, snapper collar, and fish-and-chips made with local fluke. Service is attentive and informed.