Headed to New Orleans for the Essence Festival of Culture? Taylor Arnell Shares Five Places To Eat!

These warm and cozy restaurants are city treasures and have celebrity visitors all the time!

The 2023 Essence Festival of Culture is quickly approaching. In less than a week, New Orleans will be packed with fun experiences, soulful music, breathtaking performance, and delicious food. If you’re anything like us, just the thought of the food has us delighted!

Ask anyone and they will tell you that the vibrant city is known for more than its jazz culture and electrifying energy. NOLA is also known for helping visitors from around the world discover a whole new rhythm — the one that beats in the heart of every foodie.

It’s nearly impossible to stroll through the streets of the Big Easy and ignore the tantalizing aromas of Cajun spices dancing in the air. This city is an absolute culinary wonderland, from po’boys and gumbo to jambalaya to étouffée.

Get ready to eat through the Essence Festival of Culture 2023, discovering hidden gems and savoring the soulful flavors that make this city an epicurean paradise. We spoke to New Orleans-based influencer Taylor Arnell to get some of her recommendations for where to eat during your visit to the Cresent City.

Monday

Arnell recommends starting your culinary adventure at Monday Restaurant and Bar on Bienville Street. Kick things off right with the Bywater Breeze, which includes a refreshing blend of tequila, watermelon, jalapeño, and lime juice. Indulge your taste buds with the BBQ Blue Crab Claws and the Boudin Egg Rolls served with house-made Viet sauce.

When it’s time for the main course, Arnell insists on ordering The Bienville. This Creole-style crawfish étouffée served over steamed rice and topped with crispy fried catfish is a culinary masterpiece that shouldn’t be missed.

To end your night on the sweetest note, Arnell suggests indulging in their Sweet Potato Beignets. These delectable treats will satisfy your dessert cravings and leave you with a smile.

Morrow’s

Arnell loves Morrow’s culinary offerings, everything from the Pretty Peach Cosmo to the Oysters Morrow, Grilled Redfish Acadiana, and Lenora’s Hawaiian Bread Pudding. She explained each dish is crafted to delight your senses and leave you with an unforgettable dining experience.

Neyow’s Creole Café

Arnell advises diving into the culinary wonders of Neyow’s Creole Cafe, starting with the Char-Grilled Oysters, Crawfish Balls, and Smokin’ Wings, complemented by Neyow’s Fruit Punch.

She promises you will be left with a profound appreciation for the vibrant flavors that Neyow’s has to offer if you try the Pasta on the Bayou, which will take you on a journey through the heart and soul of Creole cuisine.

Sun Chong

Arnell says while you are in New Orleans, venture into Sun Chong to indulge in the Kimchi Dumpling and savor the Baco — an Asian bao bun stuffed with spicy pork or fried shrimp. She advises refreshing your palate with the I Love You cocktail which includes Roku Jin, Lychee soju, peach purée, and lime juice.

Later she advises delighting your sweet tooth with the Matcha Cheesecake. It’s a culinary experience that promises to tantalize your senses and leave you with a lasting appreciation for the beloved establishment.

Scrambled Cafe

Craving a delightful brunch experience? Look no further than a haven for brunch enthusiasts, Scrambled Cafe.

According to Arnell, you can’t go wrong with their mouthwatering French toast creations. The socialite suggests indulging in the Praline French Toast, a delectable treat drenched in a rich praline sauce.

For a burst of fruity flavors, try the Berrylicious French Toast, adorned with a medley of fresh berries.

And if you’re in the mood for something lusciously sweet, the Peaches and Cream French Toast will surely satisfy your cravings. Feeling adventurous? Why not order them all and embark on a French toast extravaganza?