Our quest for the best Po-Boy
On our first trip to New Orleans, we were introduced to Po-Boy’s. This simple yet tasty sandwich is available in most restaurants around the city. There are many versions of the Po-Boy but the classic is either the shrimp or oyster. Personally, I love the oyster. We made it our mission to explore as many Po-Boys’s and find the best in the city.
What exactly is a Po-Boy and what makes it special? There are any number of lightly fried fillings, catfish, shrimp, oyster, french fries and more, that can appeal to any craving. When they ask – “dressed?” always say yes! Dressed means lettuce, tomato, mayo and pickles and finishes the sandwich just right. But it’s the bread that makes the Po-Boy, read the story of the Po-Boy and the evolution of the bread. This sandwich is such a part of New Orleans, it even has an annual festival.
Domilise’s Po-Boys & Bar
Pulling up to the corner spot, we knew we were in for a treat as locals and tourists were all heading to the same place; it seemed like everyone had the same idea. Don’t let the line deter you, the made to order sandwich makes it worth the wait.
Initially, a local bar, Sophie began making sandwiches for dock workers, and locals. Miss Dot took over the family business in the forties, she ran the restaurant for more than 70 years. Ensuring everyone who entered was treated like family. To this day, the Domilise family carries on the original recipes, and customer focused mantra.
The full-service bar serves up ice cold drafts, local cans, and sodas, great conversation is the by-product. The small restaurant feels like a family kitchen, with the camaraderie and enjoyment of gathering for a family get together. Honestly, this was our favorite Po-boy, full of flavor and freshness. We had one oyster and one half and half (oyster and shrimp) fully dressed. It was so good, we contemplated sharing another, but we were stuffed. Not sure if it was the food or the feeling of welcoming or both, we didn’t want to leave and can’t wait to get back!
Johnny’s Po-Boy
Up early, we were craving lunch, and most restaurants were not open yet, we stumbled onto Johnny’s. Since 1950, the DeGrusha family has been serving local workers and tourists with everything made fresh daily from local ingredients.
The yummy oyster and shrimp Po-boy’s hit the mark, so we could wander the French Quarter with more energy. Additionally, Johnny’s is famous for its muffaletta sandwich. This is another New Orleans notable sandwich in the same vein as a traditional Italian hero.
Mother’s Restaurant
The cafeteria-style restaurant has been serving New Orleans since 1938. The no-frills establishment doesn’t skimp on flavor or service, through the years they have added Nola favorites to go with the sandwiches. They are famous for the “world’s best baked ham” and the Ferdi Special – roast beef and ham, smothered in debris au jus. Messy but awesome. All the meats are roasted on-sight, home-cooking at it’s best.
Open all day, a line often spills out the door, but it moves quick. There is no table service, but the staff floats around the dining room, ready to assist. The filling meals make a great start to a night on Bourbon Street.
Parkway Bakery & Tavern
Another family run business, serving New Orleans since 1911. Starting out as a bakery, the fresh bread, donuts, and rolls, consequently, Parkway supported the local neighborhood restaurants with their baked goods. With the creation of the Po-boy, Parkway added to its menu so it could offer more to the community. In 1978, a devastating flood destroyed the brick ovens ending the bakery. But the Po-boys kept going.
Today, the legendary spot continues to bring the community together with locals and tourists enjoying the family feel. The menu has grown through the years, but the traditional Po-boy remains a star. The slow-cooked roast beef sandwich is everything; additionally sides of fried pickles and homemade potato salad complete the meal. Trust us, you will be stuffed. Heading to City Park, stop here first, then walk it off through the massive park. Don’t skip the Po-boy ice cream sandwich!
Killer PoBoys
Inspired and creative, Killer Po-boy’s include Vietnamese inspired toppings with Shrimp, Pork Belly or Sweet Potato fillings. These are not the classic style but a fresh update with great flavor. Partial to historic and dive bars, we couldn’t wait to try the Erin Rose location. The bar staff is super friendly and welcoming after ordering at the back of the bar we got a couple of local beers. We weren’t disappointed with the Dark & Stormy Pork Belly and Seared Gulf Shrimp sandwiches.
The team recently opened its first freestanding restaurant not far from its first location at the Erin Rose Bar. The full restaurant has a few more menu options, including breakfast. If you have anyone under the age of 21, go to the restaurant. But, we are partial to the bar location, it’s laid back atmosphere, and friendly bar staff makes it a fun spot to spend an afternoon or evening. Either site offers up great tasting Po-boys.
Next on our List
Help Us Enjoy more Po-Boy’s!
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Read more about New Orleans here.
