Old Metairie isn’t just one of the prettiest neighborhoods in greater New Orleans—it’s also a paradise for people who love to eat well. This charming suburb, defined by oak-lined streets, historic homes, and an unmistakable local character, boasts a food scene that’s equal parts classic creole, French-inspired finesse, and neighborhood comfort. Whether you’re a brunch fanatic, bakery nerd, or someone searching for the city’s best gumbo, Old Metairie’s eateries deliver unique flavors and cozy atmospheres all day long. Here’s where you should eat—and why you’ll want to keep coming back.
Café Culture: Where Locals Linger
There’s something magical about Old Metairie’s cafes—maybe it’s the morning light coming through a garden, or the steady hum of regulars chatting over chicory coffee.
- French Press Coffeehouse (424 Metairie Rd)
Step inside and you’ll be greeted with friendly staff, abundant pastries, and a delicious coffee selection. Their homemade scones fly off the counter in the morning, and the breakfast wraps are hearty enough to fuel your day.
- Café B (2700 Metairie Rd)
While technically more of a restaurant, Café B feels like the heart of Metairie’s café scene, perfect for lunch meetings or catching up with neighbors. Sip a cappuccino on their sunny patio and don’t miss the shrimp & grits—a true NOLA classic with a modern twist.
Standout Restaurants: Flavors for Every Mood
From romantic date spots to lively family haunts, Old Metairie’s main food drag—Metairie Road—clusters many of the neighborhood’s iconic restaurants. Here are the must-tries:
- Bearcat Café (2200 Metairie Rd)
With roots in New Orleans but a stellar home in Old Metairie, Bearcat is famous for bridging clean, modern flavors with comfort classics. Try the “Good Cat” (healthy options like quinoa bowls and avocado toast) or go full “Bad Cat” with decadent fried chicken biscuits and banana foster pancakes.
- Impastato’s (3400 16th St, just off Metairie Rd)
An Old Metairie staple for over 40 years, Impastato’s is the go-to for Italian fine dining. Save room for their famed seafood-stuffed cannelloni, and be sure to chat with the owner, Joe, who’s usually making the rounds.
- Loft18 (3128 Metairie Rd)
For something playful, Loft18 doubles as a virtual golf lounge and contemporary eatery. Their tacos and sliders are surprisingly gourmet, and it’s a great late-night spot with craft beers and a bustling social scene.
- Porter & Luke’s (1517 Metairie Rd)
Consistently voted among Metairie’s best for classic Creole dishes, Porter & Luke’s is beloved for crab cakes, turtle soup, and a stellar fried shrimp po’boy. The prices are reasonable, making it a fantastic lunch stop.
Sweet Spots and Bakeries: Sugar and Spice
Indulge your sweet tooth at Old Metairie’s iconic bakeries, where French traditions meet Southern hospitality.
- Chez Pierre Bakery (2901 Ridgelake Dr, just off Metairie Rd)
This French bakery has been a neighborhood favorite for decades. Don’t leave without a butter croissant, lemon tart, or their king cake during Mardi Gras season. Everything is fresh, buttery, and made with love.
- Haydel’s Bakery (4037 Jefferson Hwy)
Technically just outside Old Metairie by a few blocks, Haydel’s is worth the short drive. Known for its legendary king cakes, danishes, and pralines, this is where you go for edible souvenirs (or breakfast on the go!).
Food Trucks & Pop-Ups: Street Food, NOLA Style
While Old Metairie is mostly about sit-down spots, the food truck scene is steadily growing, especially near major intersections and community parks.
- Rollin’ Fatties
Frequently posted along Metairie Road near the Bonnabel intersection, this truck is a local legend for massive burritos and loaded nachos. Check their Instagram for current locations and daily specials.
- Old Metairie Farmers Market (1st Wednesday each month, Bayou Metairie Park)
Not quite a food truck but a rolling feast featuring rotating pop-ups, local honey, gourmet jams, crawfish pies, and hot beignets. It’s the perfect family activity and street food paradise rolled into one.
Hidden Gems & Old Favorites
Dig deeper and you’ll find little-known heroes serving up New Orleans comfort with a neighborhood twist.
- Oak Oven (6625 Jefferson Hwy)
Just on the edge of Old Metairie, Oak Oven is a casual Italian gem. Their wood-fired pizzas are some of the best in the parish, and the homemade lasagna is worth every calorie.
- Brasa Churrasqueria (3200 Metairie Rd)
Tucked away in a nondescript plaza, Brasa is an Argentinian steakhouse serving flame-grilled meats, empanadas, and chimichurri. Sit down for dinner—the service and flavors are unforgettable.
- Chateau Coffee Café (139 Allen Toussaint Blvd)
Technically on the Lakeview line, but a decade-long haunt for Old Metairie residents. The breakfast sandwiches and coffee are legendary, and the laid-back patio appeals to all ages.
Local Traditions: What to Order and When
Eating in Old Metairie isn’t just about single meals—it’s about savoring local traditions, from weeknight gumbo runs to Sunday brunches. Look for these can’t-miss experiences:
- *King Cake Season* — Every bakery and café battles for best-in-show, but Haydel’s and Chez Pierre are top contenders.
- *Seafood Fridays* — Porter & Luke’s and Bearcat Café both offer daily Gulf catches and crawfish étouffée.
- *Happy Hour on Metairie Road* — Most restaurants along the main drag feature happy hour deals on cocktails and small plates, especially Thursday and Friday afternoons.
- *French Pastries on Sunday* — Grabbing fresh croissants and macarons for a Sunday stroll is a true Old Metairie ritual.
Why Old Metairie Is a Culinary Must-Visit
The Old Metairie food scene reflects the best of suburban New Orleans life—innovative, welcoming, and always focused on doing the simple things well. From white-tablecloth icons to under-the-radar bakeries and street food, the neighborhood offers something for every craving and every budget. If you’re looking to eat your way through greater New Orleans, make Old Metairie your next delicious stop.