Best Spots for a Taste of New Orleans

As winter in Chicago hits its stride, there’s no doubt the cold temperatures and gloomy skies can make you want to book a flight to warmer temps and fun times! While you brainstorm, may we suggest New Orleans…? The food and fun scene in this city is legendary, and you actually don’t have to even jump on a jet plane to experience all that New Orleans is known for 💜 There are restaurants across the city and suburbs who are bringing les bons temps right into Chicago! Head to these spots for a Mardi Gras party, a great cocktail, or when you just want to go all out for dinner and a show…

Daisy's Po-Boy and Tavern {5215 South Harper Avenue, Chicago; 773.675.8767}

From James Beard award winner Chef Erick Williams, this casual Hyde Park eatery is an ode to the recipes of Williams’ family - It’s named after his late Aunt Daisy! Their po’ boys and freshmade Muffalettas are definitely two-hand sandwiches, but make sure you save room for Banana Pecan Bourbon Toffee Cake for dessert 🥳

Bordel Cabaret & Cocktail Bar {1721 West Division Street, Chicago; 312.487.1236}

Even New Orleans bar-lovers will be blown away by this bordello-inspired lounge and cabaret 🍾 Their live performances and music will keep you engaged all evening long - And we do recommend staying until closing time! You’re going to need the whole night to try cocktails like White Negronis, Sazeracs and Bordel’s World Famous Spanish Coffee (made with Grand Marnier, overproof rum, hot coffee, cinnamon, fresh cream + magic).

via Ina Mae

Ina Mae Tavern {1415 North Wood Street, Chicago; 773.360.8320}

There’s no doubt Ina Mae knows how to show its guests a good time - It’s the New Orleans way! It has a neighborhood corner bar vibe, but with a menu that’s as stand out as their ongoing live music and special events. Start with the Chargrilled Oysters, end with the Beignets, and thank us later!

Bluegrass {1636 Old Deerfield Road, Highland Park; 847.831.0595}

Perfect for family meals or larger groups, Bluegrass brings plenty of fun and Southern flair to the Chicago suburbs. They have all the classics, from Crawfish Etouffee and Blackened Redfish to Shrimp & Grits 🦀 Everyone will find something to love, and feel oh so welcomed at this cozy destination!

Soulé {Multiple Locations}

This soul food kitchen has recently expanded to a second location, so even more Chicagoans will have the opportunity to dig in to Honey Drizzled Fried Chicken, Blackened Catfish and Fried Salmon Jerk Pasta with Shrimp. It’s a relaxed atmosphere that makes you feel comfortable and cozy from the moment you step in the door. The Soulé team wants every diner to feel like family - Come join in!

via Storyville

Storyville {712 North Clark Street, Chicago; 312.741.9786}

Inspired by the 20th-century New Orleans’s red-light district, this River North bar and restaurant goes all out to provide a good time for everyone who walks through their doors. Think chandeliers and sexy vibes, strong cocktails like Hurricanes and Corpse Revivers, plus classic cajun dishes to bring up the heat even more.

The Angry Crab {Multiple Locations}

Only come to this famous seafood boil restaurant if you’re ready to get your hands dirty. You can Build Your Own Bag of seafood favorites like clams, Snow Crab, crawfish and more before adding sauces and spices that go all the way up to the “OMG” level (that’s the official name) 🦀 Seafood boils are perfect for a group looking to have a whole lot of fun and dig in the NOLA way.

Luella’s Southern Kitchen {4609 North Lincoln Avenue, Chicago; 773.961.8196}

Every meal is a good one at Luella’s but brunch is definitely the best time to relax and take a load off! Heralded as “Chicago’s best Southern kitchen,” you’re going to want to come hungry so you can dig in to Skillet Cornbread, Chicken & Waffles, Beignets and everything else on the menu. You’ll love every single bite 💜

By Kaleigh Glaza | Market Editor