In a state renowned for its food, the bar is set pretty high for must-try restaurants in Louisiana. We’re so used to dining on dishes that are overflowing with bold flavors that finding a new spot that stands out can be quite a task. While these eight eateries are a bit off the beaten path, they are certainly worthy of a pilgrimage to chow down on the delicious meals they serve. Gas up the car and get ready to set out on an epic food trip that will make your taste buds explode.

1. Cecil’s Cajun Kitchen
Cecil’s Cajun Kitchen/Facebook
Cecil's Cajun Kitchen, 120 W 1st St, DeRidder, LA 70634, USA
Cecil’s Cajun Kitchen/Facebook
For deliciously authentic Cajun cuisine, a stop at Cecil’s Cajun Kitchen is a must. This casual restaurant has a family-friendly atmosphere and a menu that features everything from stuffed crabs to juicy burgers, ensuring there's something for everyone.
2. East Gate Barbecue
googlemaps.com
East Gate Barbecue, 7516 LA-182, Morgan City, LA 70380, USA
khkrew/Trip Advisor
If you find yourself in Morgan City, then you need to pop on over to East Gate Barbecue. Low and slow is the motto here, and you’ll fall in love after just one bite.
3. Festival Tacos
John Harris/Google
Festival Tacos: Authentic Mexican & Seafood Grill, 853 Entrance Rd suit 3, Leesville, LA 71446, USA
Festival Tacos/Facebook
When you’re craving for tacos, Festival Tacos is just the ticket. This authentic Mexican and seafood grill has been around since 2011, stealing the hearts of Leesville residents and all those who visit. Check out the Festival Taco Facebook page for all of the incredible dishes you'll find here.
4. Mommie Jo’s
Mommie Jo’s/Facebook
Mommie Jo's, 15617 W Main St, Cut Off, LA 70345, USA
Jaricaor/Trip Advisor
Located down in Cut Off, this hidden gem is one of the best neighborhood restaurants around, so it's no wonder we've included it as a top spot in this must-try restaurants in Louisiana list. Nestled on the banks of Bayou Lafourche, you can sit on the back patio and gaze out at some magnificent views while feasting on good old-fashioned Cajun cuisine. Check Mommie Jo's Facebook page to see what's cookin' today and make your way over!

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5. Morel’s
Lauren-n-danzy/Trip Advisor
Morel's Restaurant, 210 Morrison Pkwy, New Roads, LA 70760, USA
Morels/Facebook
Tucked away on the banks of the False River in New Roads, Morel’s has been around since 1926. The dining room offers stunning views of the river and the menu is filled with delicious dishes like debris po’boys, lasagna, gumbo, and much more.
6. Peppers Pizzeria
IA_Hawks/Trip Advisor
Peppers Pizzeria of Houma, 541 Corporate Dr, Houma, LA 70360, USA
Peppers Pizzeria, 600 W 3rd St A, Thibodaux, LA 70301, USA
Peppers Pizzeria/Facebook
Peppers has been a favorite for over a decade, and it’s certainly worthy of a pilgrimage. This locally owned and operated pizza joint has some of the most mouthwateringly good pies you’ll ever taste, including unique pizzas like their signature jambalaya pizza (pictured above). Peppers has two locations, one in Thibodaux and another in Houma, so pick whichever one you're closest to and make tonight a pizza night.
7. Rabideaux’s Sausage Kitchen
Rabideaux’s/Facebook
Rabideaux Sausage Kitchen, 105 US-165, Iowa, LA 70647, USA
jzal01/Trip Advisor
From deli meats to boudin and cracklins, there’s something for everyone here at Rabideaux’s. You might want to bring an ice chest with you, because you’re going to want to stock up on all their specialty sausages.
8. Starfish
tstill2000/Trip Advisor
Starfish Restaurant, 3027 LA-1, Grand Isle, LA 70358, USA
David M./Foursquare
Located on Louisiana’s only inhabited barrier island, Starfish is a great pit stop when you’re traveling down to Grand Isle. This no-frills restaurant is all about flavor, and you can expect some of the freshest seafood around when you dine at Starfish.

Have you ever dined at any of these restaurants? Are there other under-the-radar restaurants that are worth tracking down? Let us know in the comments below!

Hungry for more? Check out some more incredible places to eat in Louisiana.

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More to Explore

Where to Eat in Louisiana

Jackie Ann | June 15, 2023

What food is Louisiana known for?

Louisiana is known for both Creole and Cajun cuisine. While they are similar, they do have distinct histories and use different ingredients. Cajun food is heavily influenced by French culture and Creole cuisine is also influenced by the French, but with more Spanish and Caribbean influences, too. A common saying in Louisiana is that the difference between Cajun and Creole food is a tomato. Traditionally, tomatoes are used in Creole dishes, but not Cajun dishes. 

Read on to learn more about some must-try foods in Louisiana. 

What are some of the most famous restaurants in Louisiana?

Some of the most famous restaurants in Louisiana are:

  • Antoine’s: Established in 1840, Antoine’s the oldest restaurant in Louisiana, and the oldest family-run restaurant in the country. Located in downtown New Orleans. 
  • Don’s Seafood: The first location opened in Lafayette in 1934 and has since grown to include locations in Metairie, Gonzales, Denham Springs, and Covington.
  • Fertitta’s: One of the oldest restaurants in Shreveport, and known for its signature spin on the New Orleans Muffuletta called the Muffy. Fertitta’s has remained a family-owned and operated restaurant since it opened in 1927. 
  • Lea’s Lunchroom: A humble roadside restaurant in Lecompte that’s known for its signature ham sandwich, but also homemade pies. Lea’s has been a favorite pitstop since it opened in 1928.

Read on to discover more famous restaurants in Louisiana.

Are there any waterfront Restaurants in Louisiana?

There are plenty of waterfront restaurants in Louisiana that serve up delicious cuisine with a mesmerizing view. Some of the best waterfront restaurants in Louisiana are:

  • Restaurant Cotton: A waterfront restaurant in Monroe overlooking the Ouachita River. 
  • Palmetto’s on the Bayou: This waterfront restaurant in Slidell overlooks Bonfouca and has a large outdoor deck that’s great for private events. 

Read on to discover more waterfront restaurants in Louisiana.

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