New Orleans is a city where food is about taste and history, culture, and tradition. Two of the city’s most iconic dishes—gumbo and po’boys—tell stories of the diverse influences that have shaped this vibrant culinary landscape. Here’s a guide to the best places to experience these dishes, along with a bit of their historical background.
Gumbo: A Stew of Cultures
Gumbo is more than just a dish; it’s a symbol of the diverse cultures that converged in New Orleans. This rich, flavorful stew blends French, African, Spanish, and Native American influences, with roots in both Creole and Cajun traditions. Key ingredients like okra, filé powder (ground sassafras leaves), and a roux (flour and fat mixture) form the backbone of gumbo. There are countless variations, with seafood, sausage, and chicken as common proteins. But all gumbos have one thing in common: they’re a celebration of New Orleans’ melting pot of flavors
Top Places to Try Gumbo:
Commander’s Palace
- Location: 1403 Washington Ave, New Orleans, LA 70130
- Why Visit: A historic and upscale institution offering a classic Creole gumbo that blends tradition with refinement.
Dooky Chase’s Restaurant
- Location: 2301 Orleans Ave, New Orleans, LA 70119
- Why Visit: Known for its rich gumbo, this is where Chef Leah Chase made the dish famous, and it’s a spot deeply rooted in African American history.
The Gumbo Shop
- Location: 630 St Peter St, New Orleans, LA 70116
- Why Visit: A beloved French Quarter spot offering multiple gumbo varieties, from shrimp to chicken and sausage, in a cozy, no-frills setting.
Po’boys: The Sandwich of New Orleans Resilience
The po’boy is not just a sandwich—it’s a story of solidarity, labor strikes, and the spirit of New Orleans. Born in 1929 during the streetcar strike, the po’boy was created by Bennie and Clovis Martin, two former streetcar conductors. The brothers began feeding striking workers for free, calling the sandwiches “poor boys.” Over time, this humble sandwich became a symbol of New Orleans’ working-class spirit and a culinary icon.
Top Places to Try Po’boys:
Parkway Bakery & Tavern
- Location: 538 Hagan Ave, New Orleans, LA 70119
- Why Visit: An institution known for its hot roast beef po’boys, Parkway offers one of the best versions in the city with a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
Domilise’s Po-Boys
- Location: 5240 Annunciation St, New Orleans, LA 70115
- Why Visit: This Uptown gem serves up legendary fried shrimp po’boys, with a no-nonsense, neighborhood vibe that gives you a true taste of local culture.
Acme Oyster House
- Location: 724 Iberville St, New Orleans, LA 70130
- Why Visit: Known for its fried seafood po’boys, Acme is a bustling spot where tourists and locals alike indulge in delicious oysters and po’boys.
A Culinary Experience Rooted in History
When savoring a bowl of gumbo or sinking your teeth into a po’boy, you’re not just eating food—you’re partaking in the history of New Orleans. From the African influences in gumbo to the labor history that birthed the po’boy, each dish offers a glimpse into the soul of the city. As you explore the culinary landmarks, you’re also tasting the resilience, diversity, and creativity that define New Orleans.
Pro Tip: For the full experience, don’t forget to “dress” your po’boy—lettuce, tomato, pickles, and mayonnaise—adding the perfect finishing touch to an already delicious meal.
