5 Best Spots in New Orleans for Breakfast

I went to LSU, my dad was born and raised in New Orleans, and I was basically raised on gumbo and boudin. So when I say I know a good Southern breakfast when I see one, I mean it. New Orleans is hands down my favorite city in the U.S. The food, the culture, the chaos, the powdered sugar in your eyebrows from Café du Monde… it’s all just chef’s kiss.

Cajun and Creole food are, in my opinion, some of the best cuisines in the world. Breakfast in New Orleans isn’t just eggs and toast. It’s crab cakes and alligator omelets. It’s beignets and boudin and shrimp and grits so good you forget your hangover. This list is made up of my personal go-to spots that I’ve eaten at more times than I can count.

Whether you're into sweet French toast, spicy Benedicts, or buttery croissants dipped in café au lait, I got you. These are the five best breakfast spots in New Orleans. Ranked, reviewed, and fully devoured.

5. Ruby Slipper Cafe

         204 Decatur St, New Orleans, LA 70130

Location/Vibe: This restaurant actually has multiple locations, and it's honestly making the list because it's yummy. Additionally, you're able to join the waitlist ahead of time, so if you're hungover and dying, you don't have to worry about waiting around for food.

What I order: When it comes to breakfast, I'm definitely more of a savory person, but I can't deny that the Sweet Heat French Toast Bites are pretty phenomenal ($15.75). There's nothing better than a sweet and savory combo in my opinion. I also appreciate that they offer some classic breakfast options for when you're dining with someone who prefers simpler fare.

Rating: 7/10 Honestly, I am only rating it last on my list because of how busy it can be; there is almost always a wait. 

Things to keep in mind: Because of its location in the French Quarter, it is very popular. Be sure to visit the website to join the waitlist so you don't have to wait around for too long

 

4. Zesty Creole 

       827 Canal St New Orleans, LA 70130

Location/Vibe: The atmosphere is very casual and homey inside. Situated right in the French Quarter, this spot is perfect for breakfast, especially if you're staying in the Quarter. I love the walkability of the French Quarter, so finding great restaurants there is always a favorite for me.

What I order: As you can probably tell, I am a big savory person when it comes to breakfast, so my go-to is the crab cakes benedict ($18.50). Crab Cakes Benedict holds a special place in my heart – and on my plate. There's just something about the marriage of tender crab cakes, perfectly poached eggs, and velvety hollandaise sauce that ignites my taste buds. Also, if a menu has an alligator omelette ($16.50), you best believe I am ordering that bad boy. I mean, where else in the world are you eating alligator for breakfast? So clearly, you gotta seize the opportunity.

Rating: 7.8/10I love how you can almost always get seated right away, and they have a fun menu.

Things to keep in mind: During the week, you can almost always get a seat with no wait. Plus, the service is very good.

 

3. Café Amelie

      900 Royal St New Orleans, LA 70116

Location/Vibe: Well, every restaurant in New Orleans, especially in the French Quarter, exudes a unique vibe thanks to the courtyards and architecture, but this spot truly is magical. The courtyard is beyond gorgeous and whimsical, and the building itself is steeped in history.

What I order: I'm a big fan of pretty much everything on their menu, from brunch to dinner. I think they're doing it right. I love their shrimp and grits ($18/26), which you can order in a specific size depending on how hungry you are. Their shrimp and grits with maque choux sauce is a unique spin on the classic dish. I'm also a big fan of their cochon de lait ($17.00) because I'm a sucker for slow-roasted pork. Oh, and I can't forget their gumbo ($12.00), which, in my opinion, is some of the best you can get in the city. If you're looking for a non-traditional American breakfast, this would be a great spot for you.

Rating: 8/10 I just can't brag enough about this spot. The only reason it's in my number 3 spot is because their menu is very similar to what you can find at any other restaurant in town.

Things to keep in mind: This is more of a brunch spot, so they open at 10:30 am and close at 2:30 pm, but they reopen for dinner at 5:30 pm. I would also recommend making a reservation because it can get pretty busy in there.

 

2. Croissant D'Or Patisserie

        617 Ursulines Ave New Orleans, LA 70116

Location/Vibe: Situated right next to the Old Ursuline Convent, this quaint pastry and coffee shop serves up some delicious goodies. It has a cozy coffee shop vibe where you order at the front and have your food brought to your table or handed right to you if you're getting a pastry.

What I order: Well, if it's in the name, I'm definitely going for it. So, obviously, I go with the croissants. My favorites are the blueberry ($3.95) and almond ($3.95), but honestly, you can't go wrong with anything they have in that case. Oh, and don't forget to get a cafe au lait ($3.95) to dip them in.

Rating: 8/10. For a charming spot where you can grab some pastries and coffee and stroll around the French Quarter, this place is fantastic. There's a variety of basics on the menu, making it a great choice for people with different tastes.

Things to keep in mind: They are closed on Tuesdays, which is common in New Orleans. Additionally, they close at 1 pm on weekdays, and I believe it's extended to 3 pm on weekends, but I'm not 100% sure.

 

1. Stanley of New Orleans

        547 St Ann St., New Orleans, LA 70116

Location/Vibe: Situated right in Jackson Square, this restaurant is hard to miss. If you're facing St. Louis Cathedral, it's on the right-hand corner. Due to its prime location, it's bustling with tourists, so plan to arrive early.

What I order: The Beaux Bridge Benedict ($19.30) – that's it. Honestly, this is easily my favorite breakfast of all time; nothing compares. I know the idea of eating boudin may turn some people off, but whatever they're doing here is magical. I cannot rave about it enough. Give it a try and let me know your thoughts in the comments below.

Rating: 10/10. Yeah, I said it, a goddamn 10 because of how much I love it.

Things to keep in mind: Due to its popularity among tourists, this spot fills up quickly, so try to arrive early before the hungover crowd piles in. Also, note that they are closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays.