With Wave Weekend just days away, the last thing you need is a “where should we eat?” debate. Here is a list of campus favorites and local gems that promise a memorable visit, guaranteeing your parents will leave proud and well-fed.
3 spots close to campus
The Husky
A new addition on Freret Street this past year, the vibes at The Husky are sure to impress. This steakhouse serves up delicious starters and mains alike, with a variety of steaks and other options. The bone marrow and beef wellington are fan favorites, but the vodka pasta is also delicious. The Husky is a great spot for those who love a swanky interior and steak.
The Camellia Grill
One of my favorites for a late-night spot, the Camellia Grill is an authentic New Orleans establishment, since you easily fall into conversation with the strangers sitting next to you. The omelets are to die for, but a trip to Camellia Grill isn’t complete without a slice of pie. The pecan pie with a scoop of ice cream is my go-to, but it’s impossible to pick wrong.
Jacques-Imo’s
Some parents want classic, and there are few better spots that stay open for dinner than Jacques-Imo’s. Although the restaurant is known for their alligator cheesecake, I also wouldn’t skip the blackened redfish or fried chicken. Plus, their free bread is cornbread — need I say more?
3 fine dining spots
LUFU
Theres a lot of great Indian food in New Orleans, but my favorite must be LUFU. The classics are done perfectly here — the chole bhature tastes exactly like my mom’s. This is also the only place I know in the city where you can get a dosa, but only if you go for lunch, so make sure to get there early.
Mosquito Supper Club
With a creole tasting menu whose gumbo is as good as any Louisiana-native grandmother’s, Mosquito Supper Club is as authentic as it is innovative. You can try to snag a table in the front or make a reservation for the seasonal tasting menu; either way, the sweet potato biscuits and gumbo stand out. This is another great spot to meet some other Tulane families if you hop on a communal table.
GW Fins
If you are looking to head to the French Quarter and Bourbon Street, GW Fins is the perfect stop for seafood with a Creole and Vietnamese twist. The fried oysters, red snapper and herb-crusted halibut are all phenomenal. If you save space to order dessert, the salty malty ice cream pie is a great portion to share and the perfect way to finish off a meal.
3 spots off the beaten path
Sneaky Pickle
In the Bywater, there’s nothing sneaky about how great Sneaky Pickle and Bar Brine is. Focusing on farm to table with phenomenal vegan dishes that would trick even the most dedicated meat-lovers, I can’t recommend their oysters, mac and cheese
and squid ink noodles enough.
Porgy’s Seafood Market
If you’re heading over the Mid-City, perhaps for a City Park visit, Porgy’s is the perfect stop along the way. It’s hard to get fresher than a seafood market, and there’s no compromise in flavor in the unique dishes. Both the Adela’s Shrimp Ceviche or Thai Style Fish Ceviche are stellar, and the crispy fish wings absolutely knock it out of the park with spice and crispiness. If you’re looking to add to your po’boy resume, this is a great stop to check off your list.
Le Crepe Nanou
If you’re looking for fondue and a crepe to pregame your Creole Creamery ice cream run, look no further than Le Crepe Nanou which is less than a minute away. The vibes inside are eclectic and comforting, with fondue that can make a meal for two alone. The crepes and fries are wonderful as well, especially if you dip the fries in the rich, melted cheese.