We all know that New Orleans is known for its food. Whether that's fancy meals out when the 'rents are in town or fast food runs with your friends. But what are the 10 food spots that are a must as a freshman in New Orleans? The key to dining in this city is right here.
1. Raising Canes
Coming from the East Coast I had no clue what Cane's was. Within the first month of school down South that changed. Personally, I always get the box combo: four chicken fingers; crinkle-cut fries; one Cane's sauce; toast; coleslaw; and a drink. A word to the wise, get an extra Cane'e sauce, it's worth the 50 cents. Cane's may be considered a fast-food chain, but for chicken fingers lovers it is a must.
2. Satsuma
The perfect breakfast or lunch spot is Satsuma. The fun quirky vibe and chalkboard menu sets the tone. The restaurant has fresh-brewed coffee and espresso drinks to enhance the mouth-watering food. My favorite is the green breakfast sandwich: one egg; baby arugula; tomato; avocado mash; and Swiss on a bagel or croissant.
3. Hansen's
When the New Orleans heat and humidity are unbearable, you can find the perfect snowball at Hansen's. Although the line is normally out the door and around the block, it's worth the wait. The motto is "There are no shortcuts to quality." Hansen's still make its own flavors every day, the best is half cream of nectar and half ice cream flavored. The key to the fluffiest snowball? They layer the ice, syrup, ice, syrup and so forth.
4. Sarita's Grill
Nothing is better than Cuban, Mexican and Central American fusion and margaritas. Sarita's Grill is a fun dive on Freret Street, a perfect spot to go for a quick bite with your friends. I recommend the Mexi Bowl in a burrito and a mango margarita. The best thing about this restaurant? On Wednesdays and Thursdays it has two-for-one margaritas!
5. Camellia Grill
Camellia Grill is special. You're seated in old fashion diner seats and served by waiters in bow ties. It really doesn't get any more special than that. Anything on the menu is to die for. It serves an outstanding breakfast at any time of the day but a top choice for me is the pecan pie with a scoop of ice cream. No other restaurant makes pecan pie as well as Camellia Grill.
6. Vincent's
When the 'rents come to town it's time to dine out. Vincent's is located uptown so it's convenient for when your parents just get to town. They have the most flavorful Italian food you will find. Before even looking at any of the entrees, you have to try the corn and crab meat bisque. Sure, it's rich and creamy, but you're in New Orleans, you have to embrace it!
7. The Big Cheezy
If you're a grilled cheese fan like me, the Big Cheezy is a must. The best grilled cheese on the menu is by far the Mac&Cheezy. Inside the grilled cheese is four-cheese mac and cheese and bacon. Yes, the sandwich will probably clog your arteries, but trust me, it's worth it.
8. Morning Call
Although the beignets at Cafe Du Monde are famous, Morning Call is equally as good. Where else can you have a plate of beignets and a cup of coffee in the middle of a park? The scenery doesn't get better than this location!
9. Refuel
Although the line is always out the door during brunch time and it takes 30 minutes to find a seat, the wait is worth it. Refuel has one of the best breakfasts around. Its cheesy grits are hands down the best in town. Especially if you pair the cheesy grits with the Beast breakfast sandwich. This includes: bacon; egg; avocado; spinach; tomato; and pesto aioli. The name of the sandwich speaks for itself.
10. Port of Call
An amazing dive in New Orleans is Port of Call. I recommend going just with one friend and not a big group -- like most restaurants the line is out the door and there's not much seating. The only two things you have to order are a baked potato and a cheeseburger and your taste buds will be screaming. Without a doubt, the best baked potato I have had down South.
If you haven't been to all of these places as a freshman in New Orleans you should. They force you to explore the amazing city of New Orleans while exploring different Southern foods.
