Well, to put it simply, jambalaya is heaven. Jambalaya is typically considered a southern dish, popular in the New Orleans area. It is a mix of Spanish and French influences and tastes delightful. Cajun seasoning is often added to kick the dish, and many people love the extra spice. The meal consists of rice, meat, and vegetables. The meat is usually sausage, and a type of seafood such as crayfish or shrimp, or chicken and pork have been added too. Onions, celery, green bell peppers, carrots, tomatoes, chilies, and garlic are often used in the mix. The broth is added, and the entire concoction is cooked together until everything is done. It is a favorite dish among locals in New Orleans, and if you’re in the area, make sure to try it out at one of these top jambalaya places.
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Coop’s Place
Coop’s Place on Decatur Street in New Orleans seems to be the favorite place for jambalaya. The brick bar setting is hip and trendy, and the food is raved about. This is a laid-back atmosphere and nothing fancy, but the food is sure to impress. Another favorite dish is the gumbo if you want to try it. Have a beer and grab a table because the food is so good that the place fills up quickly.
Gumbo Shop
Although its name has “Gumbo” in it, this is another excellent place to try some authentic jambalaya. The restaurant has a beautiful little courtyard, and a historic New Orleans feel to it. The dish called the trio jambalaya is delicious and has red beans and shrimp in it. Treat your taste buds to some excellent food and try out the Gumbo Shop.
Mother’s Restaurant
Mother’s Restaurant can be found on Poydras Street and is home to award-winning Jambalaya. The line can go down the block for this restaurant, and a good reason, as the food, is remarkable and well-known. It was established in 1938 and has been delighting tummies and taste buds since then. There is plenty of room for groups, parties, and rehearsal dinners at Mother’s Restaurant, so get in line before it gets too long!
Napoleon House & Bar Café
The Napoleon House & Bar Café has a historical aura about it. The interior design and decoration complete with wait staff dressed in white shirts with bowties add a certain ambiance to the dining area. Ask for a patio seat and enjoy your delicious meal outdoors. Try the famous Primm Cup or indulge in one of the other specialty dishes which includes some Cajun favorites.
Acme Oyster House
Located on Iberville Street, the Acme Oyster House is, of course, famous for its oysters, but has many other dishes that are delicious as well, including a smoky jambalaya. Choose a brunch, lunch, or dinner time to go to the Acme, and wash your authentic food down with some delicious specialty beer. It is a seafood restaurant meets bar type of atmosphere which is fun and relaxed.
Joey K’s
Joey K’s was featured on the Food Network on Television, and has a “real taste of Louisiana soul food.” Try the classics including red beans and rice and oysters as well as others. Some state that this is the best jambalaya they’ve had in the area! Seat yourself and browse the menu for some of the best food you may have in Louisiana.
Oceana Grill
Look for the giant blue sign with a happy crawfish on it, and you’ve found the Oceana Grill on Conti Street. They serve breakfast, lunch and dinner, and some of the best Cajun food you’ve ever tasted. The alligator bites are a favorite as is the Cajun jambalaya pasta. Large portions and a great atmosphere make this place a hotspot for visitors and locals. Bring your appetite because you will get your fill at the Oceana Grill.
K-Paul’s
Another favorite for jambalaya, K-Paul’s also has terrific blackened chicken and delicious frog legs. The portions here are huge, and you can also enjoy your meal with a beautiful glass of wine. Located in the French Quarter, there are many things to do and see in the area, so this makes an excellent stop for brunch, lunch, or dinner. They have an ever-changing menu, but the Cajun classics still stay. Some say this is the best meal they’ve had in New Orleans, but you can judge for yourself.
The Old Coffeepot Restaurant
This restaurant was also featured on the food network and has some of the best classic New Orleans dishes. It has been around since 1894, and any restaurant that can last that long has to have fantastic food. Most of their dishes involve jambalaya, whether by it, served over linguini or added on to other dishes for a great combination of food to devour.
Jambalaya New Orleans, New Food Experiences
New Orleans is known for its Mardis Gras, entertainment, drinking, and its food. You will find the best Cajun-style cooking and seafood here, and you won’t be disappointed. Jambalaya is a New Orleans tradition, and a favorite. The combination of rice, meats, vegetables, spices, and the way it is cooked together is a delight and savory experience to those who try it. You won’t find cooked to perfection in anywhere, but New Orleans and many other wonderful dishes have that special something only New Orleans seems to give. Tasters beware; you will crave the New Orleans jambalaya, and have to come back for more!
