Embark on a flavorful journey through Louisiana with Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives as your guide. From the bustling streets of New Orleans to the charming towns of Mandeville and Slidell, this list highlights incredible eateries that showcase the best of Louisiana’s culinary scene. Each of these beloved spots, featured on the iconic food show, offers a unique taste of regional charm and creativity. Whether you’re indulging in a sweet treat or savoring a hearty po’boy, these restaurants promise a memorable dining experience rich with local flavor and Southern hospitality. Get ready to explore these must-visit gems that capture the essence of Louisiana’s vibrant food culture.
1. Rivershack Tavern
Nestled in the heart of Jefferson, Louisiana, Rivershack Tavern is a local gem that blends rustic charm with a lively atmosphere. This unique spot, featured on Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives back in 2008, is known for its quirky decor and warm, welcoming vibe. Its cuisine pays homage to Southern flavors, focusing on comfort food with a twist, which keeps locals and visitors coming back for more. The tavern is not just a place to eat, but a vibrant community hub where stories are shared and good times are guaranteed.
2. The Joint
In the vibrant neighborhood of New Orleans, The Joint stands out as a barbecue haven that has captured the hearts of locals and tourists alike. This iconic spot, highlighted in the 2008 episode of Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives, is renowned for its laid-back ambience and commitment to smoking meats the old-fashioned way. The Joint’s dedication to authentic barbecue flavors is evident from the moment you step in, with aromas that promise a hearty and satisfying meal. With its relaxed atmosphere and loyal following, The Joint embodies the soulful spirit of New Orleans dining, where every visit feels like a taste of home.
Don't lose this list! Drop your email and we'll send it to you, so you've got it handy next time you're hungry or planning a trip.
3. Creole Creamery
Located in the heart of New Orleans, Creole Creamery is more than just an ice cream parlor; it’s a sweet sanctuary for dessert aficionados. Featured on Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives in 2008, this beloved spot offers a delightful variety of homemade ice creams that push the boundaries of flavor. With its retro charm and innovative flavor combinations, Creole Creamery invites patrons on a whimsical journey of taste and nostalgia. It’s a place where the community gathers to indulge in sweet treats and savor moments of joy.
4. Casamento’s Restaurant
Situated in the bustling city of New Orleans, Casamento’s Restaurant has been a beacon for oyster lovers since its opening in 1919. This traditional establishment was featured on Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives in 2008, showcasing its deep roots in New Orleans culinary culture. Known for its classic seafood offerings and distinctive tile-clad walls, Casamento’s delivers an authentic taste of the Gulf in a charmingly old-school atmosphere. Whether you’re a longtime patron or a first-time visitor, the restaurant ensures a memorable dining experience that’s steeped in tradition and flavor.
5. Surrey’s Café & Juice Bar
In the heart of New Orleans, Surrey’s Café & Juice Bar offers a delightful blend of breakfast classics and creative comfort food. Highlighted in the 2008 episode of Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives, this charming café is cherished for its warm, inviting atmosphere and its commitment to using fresh, local ingredients. With colorful artwork and a bohemian vibe, Surrey’s is a perfect spot to enjoy a leisurely brunch or a comforting cup of coffee. Its eclectic menu and cozy setting make it a favorite among locals and visitors looking for a laid-back dining experience that captures the essence of New Orleans.
6. Parasol’s
Tucked away in the lively neighborhood of New Orleans, Parasol’s is a beloved local haunt with a rich history that stretches back decades. Featured on Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives in the latter part of 2008, this classic eatery is celebrated for its hearty, no-frills approach to food that embodies the spirit of New Orleans cuisine. Known for its laid-back atmosphere and welcoming vibe, Parasol’s offers a nostalgic dining experience where tradition meets taste. As a cornerstone of the community, it remains a cherished spot for both loyal patrons and newcomers eager to experience authentic local flavors.
7. Joey K’s Restaurant & Bar
Nestled on the famous Magazine Street in New Orleans, Joey K’s Restaurant & Bar is a delightful blend of Southern charm and down-to-earth hospitality. Appearing on Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives back in 2009, this neighborhood favorite is renowned for its generous portions and comforting Cajun-inspired dishes. Joey K’s shines as a quintessential example of New Orleans’ culinary scene, where good food and good company come together in a relaxed, family-friendly setting. With its welcoming atmosphere and mouth-watering cuisine, it’s a place that invites you to relax and enjoy the vibrant flavors of the city.
8. Sammy’s Food Service & Deli
Situated in the heart of New Orleans, Sammy’s Food Service & Deli has built a reputation for serving up delicious, unpretentious local fare. This spot, which made its appearance on Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives in 2010, captures the essence of community dining with its inviting ambiance and generous portions. Sammy’s offers a diverse menu that fuses classic New Orleans flavors with deli-style favorites, making it a go-to destination for both locals and visitors seeking a taste of authentic comfort food in a relaxed setting. With its friendly service and commitment to quality, Sammy’s embodies the vibrant food culture that New Orleans is famously known for.
9. Mahony’s Po-Boys & Seafood
Situated on the vibrant streets of New Orleans, Mahony’s Po-Boys & Seafood brings a fresh twist to the beloved po’boy sandwich, a staple of the city’s culinary scene. Featured on Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives in early 2011, Mahoney’s is a celebration of New Orleans flavor and flair. The shop is renowned for its commitment to quality ingredients and generous portions, making it a must-visit destination for locals and visitors alike. With a cozy, laid-back setting and a menu filled with inventive takes on classic po’boys, Mahoney’s offers a unique and satisfying taste of New Orleans’ rich food heritage.
10. La Pines Cafe
Nestled in the charming town of Slidell, Louisiana, La Pines Cafe is a welcoming eatery renowned for its hearty portions and warm hospitality. This delightful cafe gained national attention when it was featured on Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives in the 2011 episode. Known for serving up comfort food classics with a touch of Southern charm, La Pines Cafe has become a beloved local fixture. The friendly atmosphere invites diners to relax and enjoy a satisfying meal that captures the essence of down-home cooking. With its commitment to quality ingredients and a menu filled with soul-warming dishes, La Pines Cafe continues to be a favorite spot for both longtime residents and newcomers seeking an authentic taste of Louisiana.
11. Katie’s Restaurant & Bar
Situated in the heart of New Orleans, Katie’s Restaurant & Bar is a cornerstone of the local dining scene, celebrated for its welcoming atmosphere and inventive take on classic Creole cuisine. Featured on Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives in 2011, this beloved eatery combines the essence of Southern hospitality with a menu that delights the senses. Katie’s is a place where tradition meets innovation, offering dishes that pay homage to New Orleans flavors while adding a unique twist. The casual and friendly vibe makes it a popular spot for both locals and tourists eager to experience the vibrant culinary culture of the city.