Introduction
Forget the beignets on Bourbon Street for a moment. While the French Quarter certainly holds its own in culinary acclaim, just a stone’s throw away, across the parish line, lies a hidden gem for food lovers: Metairie, Louisiana. Often overshadowed by its famous neighbor, New Orleans, Metairie quietly boasts a vibrant and diverse food scene that rivals the Big Easy in both quality and charm. From cozy neighborhood eateries serving up authentic Louisiana staples to innovative restaurants showcasing international flavors, Metairie offers a delicious escape for those seeking good food without the tourist crowds. Prepare to embark on a culinary adventure as we explore the best eats in Metairie, a true food lover’s paradise waiting to be discovered. Whether you are looking for classic New Orleans comfort food or something more exotic, Metairie has something to delight every palate. This is a foodie’s guide to good food Metairie locals love.
Louisiana Flavors: A Taste of Home
No exploration of Metairie’s good food scene would be complete without diving into the heart of Louisiana cuisine. Metairie proudly carries the torch of its heritage, serving up classic Creole and Cajun dishes that are rich in flavor and steeped in tradition. Here, you’ll find restaurants where the aroma of simmering seafood gumbo fills the air and the sounds of lively conversation mingle with the clatter of plates.
Seafood Haven
Take, for example, Seafood Haven, a Metairie institution known for its fresh-from-the-Gulf seafood and its unwavering commitment to authentic Louisiana recipes. Entering Seafood Haven is like stepping into a warm embrace. The atmosphere is relaxed and inviting, with friendly staff and a menu brimming with comforting classics. Their gumbo is a must-try: a dark, flavorful broth packed with shrimp, crab, oysters, and andouille sausage, served over a bed of fluffy rice. Every spoonful is a taste of Louisiana soul.
But Seafood Haven doesn’t just shine with its gumbo. Their crawfish étouffée, a creamy, decadent stew smothering tender crawfish tails, is another crowd-pleaser. The dish perfectly balances rich flavors with a hint of spice, making it both satisfying and unforgettable. Seafood platters are also a popular choice, overflowing with crispy fried shrimp, oysters, catfish, and other Gulf delicacies, perfect for sharing (or not!). For a true taste of local flavor, order the boiled crawfish during crawfish season. Perfectly seasoned and cooked to perfection, they are a true culinary experience. Seafood Haven serves the good food Metairie is looking for.
Bayou Bites
Another essential stop on any Metairie food tour is Bayou Bites, a family-owned restaurant that has been serving up mouthwatering po-boys for over three generations. Po-boys, those iconic New Orleans sandwiches, are elevated to an art form at Bayou Bites. The crusty French bread is always fresh, and the fillings are generous and expertly prepared. From the classic roast beef with debris gravy to the crispy fried shrimp with lettuce, tomato, and mayonnaise, every po-boy is a masterpiece.
What truly sets Bayou Bites apart is their dedication to quality ingredients and their unwavering commitment to customer satisfaction. The owners take pride in sourcing the freshest meats and seafood from local suppliers, ensuring that every sandwich is bursting with flavor. The staff is friendly and welcoming, making you feel like a part of the Bayou Bites family from the moment you walk in. Don’t forget to try their homemade sweet potato fries or their tangy coleslaw to complete your meal. The good food Metairie residents expect is always delivered here.
The Creole Kitchen
If you are looking for a more upscale Louisiana dining experience, look no further than The Creole Kitchen. With its elegant décor and refined atmosphere, The Creole Kitchen offers a sophisticated take on classic Louisiana cuisine. Their menu features innovative dishes that showcase the freshest seasonal ingredients. Their jambalaya, a flavorful rice dish packed with chicken, sausage, and shrimp, is a standout. The Creole Kitchen elevates this humble dish to new heights with its perfectly balanced flavors and its presentation.
But The Creole Kitchen isn’t just about jambalaya. Their blackened redfish, a pan-seared fillet coated in Cajun spices, is another must-try. The fish is cooked to perfection, with a crispy, blackened crust and a moist, flaky interior. The dish is served with a side of creamy grits and a drizzle of Creole sauce. The restaurant provides a modern take on good food Metairie staples.
International Delights: Global Flavors in the Heart of Metairie
While Metairie is deeply rooted in Louisiana traditions, its food scene extends far beyond the bayou. The suburb is home to a diverse array of international restaurants, offering a tantalizing taste of global flavors. From authentic Italian trattorias to vibrant Vietnamese pho shops, Metairie’s international restaurants are sure to satisfy any craving.
Bella Napoli
For an authentic taste of Italy, head to Bella Napoli, a family-owned restaurant that has been serving up traditional Neapolitan pizzas for over two decades. Their pizzas are cooked in a wood-fired oven, giving them a crispy crust and a smoky flavor. The ingredients are imported directly from Italy, ensuring that every pizza is a true taste of Naples.
Their Margherita pizza, with its simple yet elegant combination of San Marzano tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil, is a classic. But Bella Napoli offers a wide range of other pizzas to choose from, from the spicy Diavola with salami and chili peppers to the decadent Quattro Formaggi with four different cheeses. The restaurant also serves a variety of pasta dishes, salads, and desserts, making it the perfect place for a complete Italian meal. The pasta is fresh and homemade, the sauces are rich and flavorful, and the tiramisu is the perfect ending to the meal. This is exceptional good food Metairie offers to its residents.
Pho Saigon
For a taste of Southeast Asia, visit Pho Saigon, a bustling Vietnamese restaurant that specializes in flavorful pho. Pho, the iconic Vietnamese noodle soup, is a comfort food staple in Metairie. At Pho Saigon, the broth is simmered for hours, infusing it with rich, savory flavors. The noodles are perfectly cooked, and the toppings are fresh and plentiful. You can choose from a variety of pho options, from the classic beef pho with thinly sliced beef to the chicken pho with shredded chicken to the vegetarian pho with tofu and vegetables.
In addition to pho, Pho Saigon also serves a variety of other Vietnamese dishes, such as spring rolls, banh mi sandwiches, and rice dishes. The spring rolls are light and refreshing, the banh mi sandwiches are packed with flavor, and the rice dishes are satisfying and filling. The restaurant is always busy, but the service is fast and friendly. Pho Saigon offers affordable and delicious good food Metairie wants to experience.
El Fuego
If you’re craving something with a little more spice, head over to El Fuego, a vibrant Latin American restaurant that serves authentic dishes from across the region. From the flavorful tacos al pastor to the hearty pupusas El Salvador, El Fuego will transport you to the streets of Latin America.
Casual Bites: Local Favorites and Everyday Delights
Metairie is more than just fancy restaurants and international cuisine. The suburb is also home to a plethora of casual eateries that serve up delicious and affordable fare. These local favorites are the backbone of Metairie’s food scene, offering a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere where you can grab a quick bite or linger over a leisurely meal.
Burger Bliss
Burger Bliss is a must-try for burger lovers. This popular spot serves up juicy, flavorful burgers made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Their classic cheeseburger is a standout, but they also offer a variety of other burger options, such as the bacon cheddar burger, the mushroom Swiss burger, and the spicy jalapeno burger. All burgers are served on a toasted bun with your choice of toppings and sides.
Pizza Paradise
Pizza Paradise is another local favorite, serving up crispy, cheesy pizzas that are perfect for sharing. Their pepperoni pizza is a classic, but they also offer a variety of other pizza options, such as the veggie pizza, the meat lovers pizza, and the Hawaiian pizza. You can also create your own custom pizza with your choice of toppings. Good food Metairie style, done right.
Sweet Endings: Dessert and Coffee Havens
No meal is complete without a sweet ending, and Metairie has plenty of dessert and coffee spots to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Sweet Surrender Bakery
Sweet Surrender Bakery is a local bakery that specializes in decadent cakes, cupcakes, and pastries. Their king cake, available during Mardi Gras season, is a must-try. This traditional New Orleans cake is filled with cream cheese and topped with icing and sprinkles. Sweet Surrender also offers a variety of other cakes, such as chocolate cake, vanilla cake, and red velvet cake. For good food Metairie can’t resist.
Coffee Corner
Coffee Corner is a cozy coffee shop that serves up delicious coffee drinks and pastries. Their lattes are a must-try. The pastries are freshly baked and flavorful, making Coffee Corner the perfect place to relax and recharge.
Conclusion: Metairie: A Culinary Destination
Metairie’s food scene is a reflection of its unique character: a blend of Louisiana tradition and modern innovation, a melting pot of cultures and flavors. From classic Creole restaurants to international eateries, Metairie offers a culinary experience that is both authentic and exciting. So next time you are in New Orleans, make sure to venture just across the parish line and discover the good food that Metairie has to offer. Your taste buds will thank you. Metairie is truly a food lover’s destination, a place where good food, friendly faces, and a relaxed atmosphere combine to create an unforgettable dining experience.
