The Top 5 Hole-in-the-wall Restaurants in New Orleans is home to some of the best hole-in-the-wall restaurants in the country, offering a unique blend of flavors and atmospheres that cannot be found anywhere else. Here is why they are the best restaurants in New Orleans for you to discover.
1. Willie Mae’s Scotch House – Known for their famous fried chicken, Willie Mae’s Scotch House, included as one of the top hole-in-the-wall restaurants in New Orleans, has been an institution for over 60 years. Despite its unassuming location in the Treme neighborhood, it has received numerous accolades and has been featured on the Food Network and Travel Channel.
2. Domilise’s Po-Boys – A family-owned restaurant, one of the most popular hole-in-the-wall restaurants in New Orleans, that has been serving up classic New Orleans po-boys since 1918. Domilise’s is a local favorite for its no-frills atmosphere and delicious sandwiches made with fresh, local ingredients.
3. Coop’s Place – Located in the French Quarter, Coop’s Place, while among the top hole-in-the-wall restaurants in New Orleans, is a popular spot for traditional New Orleans cuisine such as gumbo, jambalaya, and red beans and rice. It’s also known for its lively atmosphere and live music.
4. Neyow’s Creole Cafe – This unassuming restaurant, another of the top hole-in-the-wall restaurants in New Orleans, in Mid-City is a hidden gem, known for its flavorful Creole dishes like shrimp and grits, crawfish étouffée, and fried catfish. It’s also praised for its friendly staff and affordable prices.
5. Dat Dog – Although not strictly a “hole-in-the-wall” restaurant, they are amid the top hole-in-the-wall restaurants in New Orleans. Dat Dog’s original location in a converted gas station is a quirky and charming spot to enjoy creative hot dog combinations like the Crawfish Etouffee dog and the Alligator Sausage dog. Its outdoor seating area is also a great place to people-watch in the eclectic Freret Street neighborhood.
Top 5 hole-in-the-wall Restaurants in New Orleans
Willie Mae’s Scotch House
Address: 2401 St Ann St, New Orleans, LA 70119, United States
Hours: Monday to Saturday – 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, Sunday – Closed
Phone Number: +1 504-822-9503
Willie Mae’s Scotch House, included as one of the top hole-in-the-wall restaurants in New Orleans, is a legendary restaurant located in the Treme neighborhood of New Orleans. Founded in 1957, the restaurant has become famous for its crispy, juicy, and flavorful fried chicken. The interior of the restaurant is small and cozy, with simple wooden tables and chairs, and a few historical photographs and paintings adorning the walls. The atmosphere is friendly and inviting, with the aroma of the famous fried chicken wafting through the air.
The signature dish at Willie Mae’s Scotch House is their fried chicken, which is made using a secret recipe passed down through generations of the family. The chicken is coated in a perfectly seasoned flour mixture and fried to crispy perfection. The result is a juicy and flavorful chicken with a crispy exterior that is sure to leave customers wanting more. They also offer other classic New Orleans dishes like gumbo, red beans, and rice, as well as daily specials.
What makes Willie Mae’s Scotch House unique is its rich history and tradition. The restaurant has survived many challenges, including Hurricane Katrina, and has remained a beloved institution in the community. The restaurant has been featured on the Food Network and Travel Channel, and it has received numerous awards and accolades over the years.
The service at Willie Mae’s Scotch House is friendly and welcoming. The staff is knowledgeable about the menu and is happy to make recommendations. The wait times can be long, especially during peak hours, but the staff makes every effort to ensure that customers are comfortable while they wait.
Main Menu Items:
1. Fried Chicken – This is the star of the menu and the dish that Willie Mae’s is famous for. The chicken is seasoned with a secret blend of spices, coated in flour, and fried to crispy perfection. The result is juicy, flavorful chicken with a crispy crust that is not to be missed.
2. Red Beans and Rice – This classic New Orleans dish is made with red beans, sausage, and spices, served over a bed of rice. The beans are slow-cooked until they are tender and flavorful, and the sausage adds a spicy kick.
3. Gumbo – Another classic New Orleans dish, gumbo is a thick soup made with a roux, vegetables, and your choice of protein, such as chicken, sausage, or seafood. Willie Mae’s gumbo is rich, flavorful, and sure to warm you up on a chilly day.
4. Fried Catfish – If you’re looking for something other than chicken, the fried catfish at Willie Mae’s is a great choice. The catfish is coated in a seasoned cornmeal mixture and fried to crispy perfection. It’s served with sides like fries or potato salad.
5. Macaroni and Cheese – This classic comfort food is made with elbow macaroni and a rich, creamy cheese sauce. It’s the perfect side dish to go with your fried chicken or any other main course. Willie Mae’s mac and cheese is cheesy, gooey, and delicious.
Customer Reviews:
“I had the pleasure of trying the fried chicken at Willie Mae’s Scotch House, and I have to say it was the best I’ve ever had. The chicken was crispy and flavorful, and the seasoning was just right. The service was excellent, and the atmosphere was cozy and inviting.”
“The fried chicken at Willie Mae’s Scotch House is absolutely delicious! I also tried the red beans and rice, and they were outstanding. The staff was friendly and accommodating, and the restaurant has a great atmosphere. I highly recommend it!”
“Willie Mae’s Scotch House is a must-visit when you’re in New Orleans. The fried chicken is incredible, and the atmosphere is authentic and welcoming. The staff is friendly and attentive, and the service is excellent. I can’t wait to go back!”
Overall, Willie Mae’s Scotch House is a must-visit for anyone looking for a true taste of New Orleans. The famous fried chicken is worth the trip alone, and the cozy atmosphere and friendly service make for an unforgettable dining experience. They rank amid the top 5 hole-in-the-wall restaurants in New Orleans for good reasons.
Domilise’s Po-Boys
Address: 5240 Annunciation St, New Orleans, LA 70115, United States
Hours: Monday to Saturday – 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM, Sunday – Closed
Phone Number: +1 504-899-9126
Domilise’s Po-Boys, one of the most popular hole-in-the-wall restaurants in New Orleans, is a classic New Orleans sandwich shop located in the Uptown neighborhood of the city. The restaurant has been around since 1918 and is known for its delicious po-boys, a type of sandwich that originated in New Orleans. The interior of the restaurant is small and unassuming, with a long wooden bar and a few tables and chairs. The walls are covered in photos and memorabilia, giving the place a homey and nostalgic feel.
The signature food at Domilise’s is, of course, their po-boys. The sandwiches come on soft French bread and can be filled with a variety of meats, seafood, and veggies. The most popular options include fried shrimp, oysters, and roast beef, all served with lettuce, tomato, pickles, and mayo. The bread is crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, and the fillings are always fresh and flavorful.
What makes Domilise’s unique is its history and tradition. The restaurant has been in the same family for generations, and many of the recipes and techniques used today are the same ones that were used when the restaurant first opened over 100 years ago. The atmosphere is also a big part of the experience, with the feeling of stepping back in time to an era when things were simpler and slower-paced.
The service at Domilise’s is friendly and efficient. The staff is knowledgeable about the menu and is happy to make recommendations. The restaurant can get busy during peak hours, but the line moves quickly, and customers can watch as their sandwiches are made fresh to order.
Main Menu Items:
1. Fried Shrimp Po-Boy – Soft French bread filled with crispy fried shrimp, lettuce, tomato, pickles, and mayo.
2. Oyster Po-Boy – Soft French bread filled with fried oysters, lettuce, tomato, pickles, and mayo.
3. Roast Beef Po-Boy – Soft French bread filled with slow-cooked roast beef, gravy, lettuce, tomato, pickles, and mayo.
4. Ham and Cheese Po-Boy – Soft French bread filled with sliced ham, melted cheese, lettuce, tomato, pickles, and mayo.
5. Sausage Po-Boy – Soft French bread filled with grilled sausage, onions, peppers, lettuce, tomato, pickles, and mayo.
Customer Reviews:
“I had the fried shrimp po-boy at Domilise’s, and it was amazing. The shrimp were perfectly crispy, and the bread was soft and delicious. The service was friendly and quick, and the atmosphere was cozy and inviting. I can’t wait to go back and try some of the other sandwiches!”
“Domilise’s is a must-visit for anyone looking for an authentic New Orleans po-boy. I tried the oyster po-boy, and it was the best I’ve ever had. The bread was fresh and soft, and the oysters were perfectly fried. The staff was friendly and helpful, and the atmosphere was charming and cozy.”
“I’ve been coming to Domilise’s for years, and it never disappoints. The roast beef po-boy is my go-to, and it’s always delicious. The bread is crispy and the meat is juicy and flavorful. The staff is like family, and the atmosphere is like stepping back in time. I highly recommend it!”
Overall, Domilise’s Po-Boys is a New Orleans institution that is not to be missed. The sandwiches are delicious and made with care, and the atmosphere is cozy and nostalgic. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, Domilise’s is a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the true flavor of New Orleans. They stand out among the top hole-in-the-wall restaurants in New Orleans.
Coop’s Place
Address: 1109 Decatur St, New Orleans, LA 70116, United States
Hours: Monday to Thursday – 11:00 AM to 11:00 PM, Friday to Sunday – 11:00 AM to 12:00 AM
Phone Number: +1 504-525-9053
Coop’s Place, while among the top hole-in-the-wall restaurants in New Orleans, is a casual, divey restaurant located in the French Quarter of New Orleans. The menu features classic Louisiana cuisine, including po-boys, gumbo, red beans and rice, jambalaya, and more. The interior of the restaurant is small and dimly lit, with a long bar and a few tables and booths. The walls are covered in graffiti and neon signs, giving the place a gritty and lively feel.
The signature food at Coop’s Place is their jambalaya, a rice dish made with chicken, sausage, and seafood. The jambalaya is rich and spicy, with a perfect balance of flavors and textures. Other popular menu items include the fried chicken, the rabbit and sausage jambalaya, and the fried seafood platter. The portions are generous, and the food is always hot and fresh.
What makes Coop’s Place unique is its history and authenticity. The restaurant has been around since 1983 and is a favorite among locals and visitors alike. The atmosphere is lively and unpretentious, with a mix of tourists, locals, and service industry workers. The restaurant also has a full bar, with a wide selection of beers, cocktails, and shots.
The service at Coop’s Place is friendly and efficient. The staff is knowledgeable about the menu and is happy to make recommendations. The restaurant can get busy during peak hours, but the wait staff keeps things moving quickly, and customers can expect to be seated and served promptly.
Main Menu Items:
1. Jambalaya – This signature dish is a spicy and savory rice dish made with chicken, sausage, and seafood.
2. Fried Chicken – Coop’s Place serves up some of the best fried chicken in town, with a crispy, seasoned batter and juicy, tender meat.
3. Red Beans and Rice – A classic Louisiana dish, Coop’s Place’s version is slow-cooked with sausage and spices for a hearty and flavorful meal.
4. Fried Seafood Platter – This dish includes a mix of fried shrimp, oysters, and catfish, served with fries and hushpuppies for a filling and delicious seafood feast.
5. Rabbit and Sausage Jambalaya – For something a bit different, try this jambalaya made with tender rabbit meat and spicy sausage, served with rice and Creole sauce.
Customer Reviews:
“I had the jambalaya at Coop’s Place, and it was amazing. The flavors were rich and complex, and the portion was huge. The service was friendly and efficient, and the atmosphere was lively and fun. I would definitely recommend this place to anyone looking for an authentic New Orleans experience.”
“Coop’s Place is a hidden gem in the French Quarter. I had the fried chicken, and it was some of the best I’ve ever had. The batter was crispy and flavorful, and the meat was juicy and tender. The service was friendly and attentive, and the atmosphere was lively and unpretentious.”
“I came to Coop’s Place for the seafood platter, and I was not disappointed. The fried shrimp, oysters, and catfish were all perfectly cooked and seasoned, and the sides of fries and hushpuppies were delicious. The service was friendly and efficient, and the atmosphere was casual and fun. I would definitely come back!”
Overall, Coop’s Place is a must-visit for anyone looking for authentic Louisiana cuisine in a fun and lively atmosphere. The jambalaya is a standout dish, but the menu has something for everyone, from po-boys to fried seafood to gumbo. The service is friendly and efficient, and the atmosphere is unpretentious and welcoming. They deserve to be ranked among the top 5 hole-in-the-wall restaurants in New Orleans.
Neyow’s Creole Cafe
Address: 3332 Bienville St, New Orleans, LA 70119
Hours: Monday-Saturday 11am-9pm, Sunday 11am-8pm
Phone Number: (504) 827-5474
Neyow’s Creole Cafe, another of the top hole-in-the-wall restaurants in New Orleans, is a family-owned restaurant that specializes in traditional Creole cuisine. The interior is cozy and welcoming, with exposed brick walls and colorful paintings adorning the walls.
One of Neyow’s most popular dishes is the Shrimp and Grits, which features large Gulf shrimp sautéed with onions, bell peppers, and garlic in a rich, creamy sauce served over a bed of cheesy grits.
Neyow’s prides itself on its use of fresh, locally sourced ingredients in all of their dishes. They also offer a unique and delicious twist on traditional Creole cuisine by infusing Caribbean and Latin American flavors into their dishes.
The service at Neyow’s is friendly and attentive, with staff members going out of their way to ensure that diners have an enjoyable experience.
Main Menu Items:
1. Shrimp and Grits – Large Gulf shrimp sautéed with onions, bell peppers, and garlic in a rich, creamy sauce served over a bed of cheesy grits. This is one of Neyow’s signature dishes.
2. Red Beans and Rice – A classic New Orleans dish made with red beans slow-cooked with sausage and spices, served with rice for a hearty and satisfying meal.
3. Jerk Chicken – A Caribbean twist on traditional Creole cuisine, Neyow’s Jerk Chicken features tender chicken marinated in spicy Jamaican jerk seasoning and grilled to perfection.
4. Crawfish Etouffee – Tender crawfish tails smothered in a rich roux-based sauce with onions, bell peppers, and celery, served over a bed of rice for a classic Creole dish.
5. Fried Catfish Platter – Neyow’s serves up perfectly crispy fried catfish with fries and hushpuppies for a filling and delicious seafood feast.
Customer Reviews:
“I had the red beans and rice with sausage and it was amazing! The beans were cooked to perfection and the sausage was so flavorful. The staff was incredibly friendly and welcoming, and the atmosphere was cozy and inviting.”
“The Shrimp and Grits is hands down one of the best dishes I’ve ever had. The shrimp was perfectly cooked and the sauce was so rich and flavorful. The staff was also amazing – they were so helpful in recommending dishes and making sure we had everything we needed.”
“I loved the unique twist on Creole cuisine that Neyow’s offers. The Latin American and Caribbean influences really made the dishes stand out. I tried the Jerk Chicken and it was so flavorful and tender. The service was also top notch – the staff was so friendly and welcoming.”
Neyow’s Creole Cafe is a must-visit restaurant for anyone looking for delicious, authentic Creole cuisine with a unique twist. The Shrimp and Grits is a must-try dish, and the friendly service and cozy atmosphere make for an enjoyable dining experience. They have earned the rank of the top 5 hole-in-the-wall restaurants in New Orleans.
Dat Dog
Address: 3336 Magazine St, New Orleans, LA 70115
Hours: Monday – Thursday: 11am – 10pm; Friday – Saturday: 11am – 11pm; Sunday: 11am – 9pm
Phone Number: (504) 324-2226
Dat Dog, while amid the top hole-in-the-wall restaurants in New Orleans, is a casual restaurant that specializes in hot dogs and sausages with a creative twist. The interior is brightly colored and quirky, with a fun and laid-back atmosphere.
Dat Dog’s signature dish is the Dat Dog, a classic hot dog with unique toppings like crawfish etouffee, bacon, guacamole, and wasabi, among others. They also have vegetarian and vegan options available.
Dat Dog has a large selection of toppings and sauces to choose from, allowing customers to create their own custom hot dog creations. They also have a wide range of beers and cocktails available, making it a great spot for drinks and snacks.
The service at Dat Dog is friendly and efficient, with staff members taking the time to explain the menu and help customers choose their toppings. The food is prepared quickly and served hot and fresh.
Main Menu Items:
1. Dat Dog – A classic hot dog served on a bun with your choice of sausage, including alligator, crawfish, and beef, and topped with a wide range of creative toppings like guacamole, bacon, and crawfish etouffee.
2. Alligator Sausage – A unique and flavorful sausage made with alligator meat and served on a bun with your choice of toppings.
3. Vegan Dog – A vegan-friendly hot dog made with a plant-based sausage and served on a bun with a wide range of vegetable toppings like sauerkraut, avocado, and jalapenos.
4. Duck Sausage – A delicious and juicy sausage made with duck meat and served on a bun with your choice of toppings.
5. Fries – Crispy and delicious fries that are perfect as a side dish or as a snack on their own. Customers can choose from a variety of dipping sauces, including chipotle mayo, garlic aioli, and ranch.
Customer Reviews:
“I had the crawfish etouffee dog and it was amazing! The toppings were fresh and flavorful, and the hot dog itself was delicious. The staff was friendly and helpful, and the atmosphere was fun and lively.”
“Dat Dog has the best vegan hot dogs I’ve ever had! They have so many creative toppings to choose from, and everything is so tasty. The service is always great, and the atmosphere is so fun and laid-back.”
“I love the vibe at Dat Dog, it’s such a fun and quirky spot. The hot dogs are amazing, especially the alligator sausage with creole mustard. The staff is always so friendly and welcoming, it’s definitely one of my favorite spots in NOLA.”
Dat Dog is a fun and casual spot in New Orleans with a creative take on classic hot dogs and sausages. With a lively atmosphere and friendly service, it’s a great spot for a quick bite or a fun night out. They can definitely be counted among the top hole-in-the-wall restaurants in New Orleans.
From classic po-boys to innovative hot dogs, these five restaurants – Willie Mae’s Scotch House, Domilise’s Po-Boys, Coop’s Place, Neyow’s Creole Cafe, and Dat Dog – have become beloved institutions among locals and tourists alike, drawing crowds with their delicious food, friendly service, and vibrant ambiance. This is why they are the best restaurants in New Orleans for you to discover. Whether you’re a foodie or just looking to try something new, a visit to one of these top hole-in-the-wall restaurants in New Orleans is an absolute must-do experience for any traveler.
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