ISO a lunch spot between airport and CBD

Question

Landing in NO at 11am on a Thursday. I've been to the city before, but my boys (ages 25 and 29) have never been. We are big foodies! Looking for a good restaurant, featuring local food, between the airport and our hotel in the CBD. (Looking to kill some time before we can check in.) We will not have a car, but are planning to Uber/Taxi it into the city. Looking for a place that is outside of the areas within the city we will most likely frequent on our 4-day trip. TIA!

Answer

It sounds like you're looking for a great lunch spot that serves local New Orleans cuisine, ideally located between the airport and the Central Business District (CBD), and off the usual tourist track. Luckily, New Orleans has a rich food scene with lots of hidden gems to choose from. Here are some suggestions for you and your boys to try:

Lunch Spots Between the Airport and CBD

Desire Oyster Bar – Located on the edge of the French Quarter, Desire Oyster Bar is a great spot to experience classic New Orleans dishes like gumbo, jambalaya, and, of course, fresh oysters. It's a lively but slightly off-the-beaten-path place, making it perfect for foodies wanting to try authentic, local flavors without being surrounded by tourists.
Coop's Place – If you're looking for a more casual spot with a local vibe, Coop's Place in the French Quarter offers delicious Creole dishes like seafood gumbo, fried chicken, and jambalaya. It’s not far from the airport, and you'll get a taste of New Orleans without being in the heart of the tourist crowd.
Willie Mae’s Scotch House – A bit farther out from the CBD but worth the short ride, Willie Mae’s in Treme is one of the most iconic spots for fried chicken in New Orleans. If you're in the mood for crispy, golden fried chicken with all the fixings, this is a must-visit. It’s an experience that’s both delicious and deeply rooted in the city's culinary culture.
Li’l Dizzy's Café – Located in the Treme neighborhood, Li’l Dizzy’s serves up classic Creole comfort food like shrimp and grits, fried catfish, and po'boys. It's a cozy spot that's not too far from the airport, and it offers a great taste of New Orleans' soul food tradition. You’ll find an authentic, no-frills atmosphere and hearty portions.

Off-the-Path Local Flavor

St. Roch Market – For something a little different, check out St. Roch Market, a historic market turned food hall in the Bywater neighborhood (just outside the French Quarter). It has a variety of food stalls offering everything from seafood to tacos to vegan options. You can wander around, sample a bit of everything, and enjoy a laid-back vibe. It’s an excellent option if you want a casual, trendy spot with a range of local flavors.
The Parkway Bakery & Tavern – For the ultimate New Orleans po'boy experience, Parkway Bakery in the Mid-City area is the place to go. It’s a bit of a local institution, serving some of the best po'boys in town, including shrimp, roast beef, and fried catfish. The casual atmosphere makes it a great spot to relax after a flight, and it’s just a short ride from the airport.

All of these spots are easily accessible via Uber or taxi and will give you a true taste of New Orleans, offering local dishes in a more authentic setting. They’re also a bit off the beaten path, so you’ll avoid the more tourist-heavy areas and have a chance to explore the local scene. Enjoy your trip and the amazing food!