The countdown to Mardi Gras is officially on! I have to confess I love Mardi Gras more than Christmas…. The food, the costumes, the parades…. * sigh *. The birthplace of this awesome holiday is New Orleans and it is a fabulous city known for its savoury foods and jazz music. There are so many yummy dishes the originate from this colourful place that a list is necessary to make sure you don’t miss out. Below are nine foods and one drink you need to try during your time in the city.
1. Beignet: Cafe du Monde (800 Decatur Street) – a classic New Orleans hot spot
2. Shrimp Po-Boy: Parkway Bakery and Tavern (538 Hagan Avenue) – one of these is never enough!
3. Rockefeller Oysters: Antoine’s (713 Saint Louis Street) – I am not a huge fan of raw oysters, so these are a nice alternative
4. Muffuletta: Central Grocery and Deli (923 Decatur Street) – the spot where the sandwhich was born and totally worth the wait
5. Banana Foster: Brennan’s Restaurant (417 Royal Stree) – Banana, rum and ice cream… what’s not to like?
6. Red Beans and Rice: Joey K’s (3001 Magazine Street – A Monday Classic, but this hearty dish is served up everyday at Joey K’s.
7. Alligator Meat: N’awlins Cafe (1101 North Peters Stree) – it’s sounds exotic and adventurous, but really it tastes like pork.
8. Crab Cakes – Mr. B’s Bistro (201 Royale Street) – known for their fresh crabmeat and savoury seasoning.
9. Jambalaya -Crescent Pie and Sausage (4400 Banks Street) – Andouille sausage, chicken, shrimp, rice, and just the right amount of heat. Tastes even better after a few Hurricanes.
10. Hurricanes: Pat O’Briens (718 Saint Peter Street) – be warned this stuff is potent!
