Metairie, Louisiana, often considered the gateway to New Orleans, offers a culinary experience that beautifully complements the Big Easy’s renowned food scene. Just a short drive from the French Quarter’s bustling streets, Metairie presents a vibrant, diverse, and often more relaxed dining atmosphere. Forget any preconceived notions you might have; Metairie is quietly building a reputation as a serious foodie destination in its own right. With influences from traditional Louisiana cooking, coupled with international flair and modern innovation, Metairie’s food scene caters to every palate and preference. This guide will explore the must-try restaurants and eateries in Metairie, showcasing the best of what this Louisiana gem has to offer, ensuring that you find the perfect spot for your next culinary adventure. We’ll delve into seafood sensations, authentic Louisiana experiences, a world of international tastes, delightful sweet treats, and the hidden gems that locals adore, promising a flavorful journey that will leave you craving more.
Seafood Sensation in Metairie
No visit to Louisiana is truly complete without immersing yourself in the abundance of fresh seafood, and Metairie offers a treasure trove of restaurants that deliver on this promise. From succulent oysters to perfectly seasoned crawfish, the seafood scene here is both diverse and deeply satisfying.
Deanie’s Seafood
Deanie’s Seafood, a Metairie institution, is a must-visit for anyone craving authentic Louisiana seafood. Located on Metairie Road, Deanie’s offers a casual, family-friendly atmosphere where you can truly unwind and savor the flavors of the Gulf Coast. This restaurant stands out because of its dedication to freshness, sourcing much of its seafood locally, and its generous portions. You’ll find classic dishes like fried seafood platters, gumbo brimming with seafood, and po-boys piled high with shrimp or oysters. A must-try dish is their barbecue shrimp; a uniquely Louisiana dish where large shrimp are cooked in a peppery, buttery, Worcestershire-based sauce. Don’t forget to mop up all of that delicious sauce with crusty French bread. Expect to spend around $15-$30 per person for a fulfilling meal. What truly makes Deanie’s special is its history and longevity, remaining a family-owned and operated business that has consistently delivered high-quality seafood for generations. As one longtime patron said, “Deanie’s is like coming home. The food is always great, the service is friendly, and it’s a true taste of Louisiana.”
Drago’s Seafood Restaurant
For an upscale seafood experience, look no further than Drago’s Seafood Restaurant, situated inside the Hilton New Orleans Airport. Though a bit more refined than some of the casual seafood shacks, Drago’s has earned a reputation for quality and innovation, and is renowned for its charbroiled oysters. The restaurant emanates an elegant ambiance, making it suitable for special occasions or a memorable dinner out. While Drago’s offers a wide array of seafood dishes, it’s their charbroiled oysters that consistently steal the show. Each oyster is grilled to perfection, slathered in a rich butter sauce, and generously topped with garlic, herbs, and Parmesan cheese. These oysters are so addictive, you’ll find yourself ordering multiple rounds. The price range here is slightly higher, with entrees typically costing between $25 and $45, but the experience is well worth the investment. Drago’s distinguishes itself with its high-quality ingredients, professional service, and its commitment to perfecting the art of charbroiled oysters.
Cajun Seafood
If you’re after a more laid-back, boil-in-a-bag seafood experience, Cajun Seafood is a great option. Specializing in crawfish, shrimp, and crab boils, with your choice of seasoning and spice level, Cajun Seafood offers a truly authentic taste of Louisiana. Its emphasis is on the freshness of its seafood and the bold flavors of Cajun spices. Their crawfish boil is the star of the show, offering the perfect blend of spice, herbs, and perfectly cooked crawfish. Prices are generally very reasonable, with boil prices fluctuating with the market. Cajun Seafood is unique in its approach to traditional Cajun cooking, serving up a no-frills dining experience that highlights the genuine flavors of Louisiana. It’s a perfect place to gather with friends and family for a fun, hands-on dining adventure.
Metairie’s seafood scene ranges from casual, family-friendly restaurants like Deanie’s Seafood to the more upscale, innovative flavors found at Drago’s, ensuring there’s a perfect seafood experience for every taste and occasion.
Authentic Louisiana Cuisine in Metairie
Immerse yourself in the heart and soul of Louisiana with these must-try Metairie restaurants serving up traditional dishes that have been passed down through generations. This is where you’ll find the true flavors of the region, prepared with passion and a deep respect for culinary heritage.
Short Stop Poboys
No exploration of Louisiana cuisine is complete without experiencing the po-boy, and Short Stop Poboys in Metairie offers some of the best in the region. This casual eatery specializes in generously stuffed sandwiches filled with everything from roast beef and fried shrimp to hot sausage and even french fries. Its atmosphere is informal and welcoming, making it an excellent option for a quick lunch or a casual dinner. Their roast beef po-boy is a perennial favorite, featuring tender, slow-cooked roast beef drenched in gravy and dressed with shredded lettuce, tomatoes, and mayonnaise. Prices are incredibly reasonable, with most po-boys costing between $8 and $12. Short Stop Poboys stands out due to its commitment to using high-quality ingredients, its speedy service, and its extensive menu of po-boy options.
Oak Oven
Though Oak Oven started as a pizza restaurant, they have expanded their menu to include many different options of Louisiana cuisine with an elevated spin. Located on Severn Avenue, Oak Oven is a sophisticated establishment perfect for a date night or family gathering. This establishment offers a variety of options from seafood to steak to pizza. Oak Oven serves the best of both worlds when it comes to authentic food. Prices range from $15 to $35 for an entree.
Vincent’s Italian Cuisine
Another popular restaurant located on Metairie Road, Vincent’s Italian Cuisine serves Louisiana cuisine but with an Italian twist. The restaurant is very cozy inside, and has an old-school Italian feel. This restaurant has many great options like pasta, seafood, and salad. What makes Vincent’s unique is that the food served is an old Italian family recipe passed down through generations. Prices range from $20 to $40.
From the comforting simplicity of Short Stop Poboys to the classic Italian American dishes at Vincent’s, Metairie offers a rich tapestry of flavors that truly capture the essence of Louisiana’s culinary soul. These establishments are more than just restaurants; they are cornerstones of the community, preserving and celebrating the traditions that make Louisiana cuisine so unique.
A World of Flavors in Metairie
Venture beyond Louisiana classics and discover a global gastronomic adventure in Metairie’s diverse international restaurants. From the exotic spices of Asia to the vibrant flavors of Latin America, Metairie offers a wealth of opportunities to expand your culinary horizons.
Pho Bang
For a taste of authentic Vietnamese cuisine, Pho Bang is a must-visit. Located on Veterans Memorial Boulevard, Pho Bang specializes in pho, a traditional Vietnamese noodle soup made with flavorful broth, rice noodles, herbs, and your choice of meat or vegetables. The atmosphere is clean, modern, and inviting, making it a great place to enjoy a comforting and satisfying meal. Their signature pho is the star of the show, featuring a rich, aromatic broth that has been simmered for hours, tender rice noodles, and fresh herbs. Prices are incredibly affordable, with most bowls of pho costing between $8 and $12. Pho Bang distinguishes itself with its authentic recipes, high-quality ingredients, and commitment to providing a genuine Vietnamese dining experience.
El Taco Loco
Satisfy your cravings for authentic Mexican fare at El Taco Loco. Located in a small strip mall, El Taco Loco is a hidden gem known for its fresh ingredients and homemade tortillas. The menu features a wide array of Mexican favorites, from tacos and enchiladas to quesadillas and burritos. Their tacos are a must-try, featuring flavorful fillings such as carne asada, al pastor, and carnitas, served on warm, homemade tortillas. Prices are very reasonable, with tacos costing around $2-$4 each. What truly makes El Taco Loco special is its dedication to authenticity and its commitment to using only the freshest ingredients.
Sweet Treats & Coffee Shops in Metairie
Indulge your sweet tooth with a visit to Metairie’s best bakeries, dessert shops, and coffee houses. Whether you’re craving a decadent pastry, a refreshing cup of coffee, or a scoop of artisanal ice cream, Metairie has something to satisfy every sugary desire.
Angelo Brocato Italian Ice Cream
This place has been serving locals since 1905 and is the go to place to find authentic Italian sweets. This includes pastries, ice cream, and cookies. Angelo Brocato is a small, family owned business that provides its customers with a variety of choices with many unique flavors.
CC’s Coffee House
For a caffeine fix and a cozy atmosphere, CC’s Coffee House is a local favorite. With multiple locations throughout Metairie, CC’s offers a wide variety of coffee drinks, teas, and pastries. CC’s is known for its high-quality coffee beans, its friendly baristas, and its comfortable and inviting atmosphere.
Hidden Gems & Local Favorites in Metairie
Discover the hidden treasures and local haunts that Metairie residents swear by. These are the restaurants and eateries that may not be widely known but offer exceptional food, friendly service, and a genuine taste of Metairie’s unique character.
Parkway Bakery & Tavern (technically NOLA, but close!)
A very popular poboy restaurant located right on the line between Metairie and New Orleans. It’s been a long-standing family run business with many awards for its creative combinations and delicious food.
Morning Call Coffee Stand
This 24-hour coffee stand serves pastries and beignets. This establishment is a New Orleans staple since 1870 but closed in 2018. Luckily in 2019, Morning Call reopened in Metairie.
Metairie is a culinary destination that complements and enhances the already rich food scene of the New Orleans area. From fresh seafood and authentic Louisiana dishes to international flavors and delightful sweet treats, Metairie offers a diverse range of culinary experiences to satisfy every palate. So, next time you’re in the New Orleans area, be sure to venture just beyond the city limits and discover the hidden culinary gems that Metairie has to offer. Whether you’re a local resident or a visiting tourist, Metairie’s food scene promises a memorable and delicious adventure that will leave you wanting to return for more. Explore the diverse options, support the local businesses, and discover the unforgettable flavors that make Metairie a true foodie paradise.
