The best lunches in New Orleans combine sightseeing with authentic local cuisine. We love the airboat swamp tour with buffet at Houmas House – it’s a perfect mix of adventure and elegant dining in a historic setting. Another winner is the Creole Queen riverboat cruise, offering classic New Orleans dishes while you float past important landmarks. For seafood lovers, the French Quarter shrimp boil delivers fresh catches and true local atmosphere. These experiences go beyond typical restaurant dining by adding cultural elements that make lunch special. Check out our favorite lunch tours below.
Good To Know
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The unlimited gourmet buffet lunch at Houmas House, included in the Airboat and Plantations Tour, is highly praised for its exceptional local cuisine.
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The Creole Queen History Cruise offers an optional traditional New Orleans-style lunch served on board, providing a unique dining experience along the Mississippi River.
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The Small-Group Plantations Tour features a private, unlimited gourmet buffet lunch at Houmas House, offering an intimate and delectable culinary experience.
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The French Quarter Shrimp Boil Experience provides a private dinner party with a menu featuring local specialties like Red Fish on the Half Shell and classic shrimp boil.
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While some travelers have noted issues with lunch timing and food quality in certain tours, the overall feedback on the local cuisine and hospitality is overwhelmingly positive.
Airboat and Plantations Tour With Gourmet Lunch From New Orleans
What better way to experience the rich cultural heritage and natural wonders of Louisiana than with an Airboat and Plantations Tour with Gourmet Lunch from New Orleans? This highly-rated, full-day tour offers an immersive journey through the region’s iconic landscapes and historical sites.
Kicking off with a high-speed airboat ride through cypress swamps, guests have the chance to spot alligators, pelicans, and other wildlife. The tour then takes visitors to the grand Houmas House and Laura Plantation, where they can explore Cajun and Creole influences through interactive exhibits and guided tours.
Capping off the day is a gourmet, unlimited buffet lunch at Houmas House, providing a true taste of Louisiana’s renowned cuisine. With hotel pickup, transportation in a 14-passenger van, and all gratuities included, this tour streamlines the experience for a hassle-free adventure.
While some travelers noted rough roads and crowded conditions at one plantation, the overall feedback praises the knowledgeable guides, engaging activities, and delicious lunch.
Read our full review: Airboat and Plantations Tour With Gourmet Lunch From New Orleans Review
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New Orleans: Creole Queen History Cruise With Optional Lunch
Enjoy the history and culture of New Orleans with the Creole Queen History Cruise. Priced from $42 per person, this 2.5-hour excursion takes you down the Mississippi River with a narration of the Battle of 1812.
You’ll learn about the city’s landmarks, river lore, and Creole heritage. The cruise includes a 10-minute photo stop, a 1.5-hour narrated tour, and a guided exploration of the Chalmette Battlefield with National Park Rangers.
For an additional fee, you can enjoy a traditional New Orleans-style lunch aboard the Creole Queen. The sample menu features dishes like shrimp pasta, roast beef po-boys, jambalaya, and crawfish bread.
The cruise is wheelchair accessible, though the Chalmette Battlefield is not. Passengers are advised to bring a valid ID and avoid large bags or outside food and beverages.
With an overall rating of 4.4 out of 5 from nearly 1,000 reviews, this cruise offers an immersive and delicious way to experience the charm of New Orleans.
Read our full review: New Orleans: Creole Queen History Cruise With Optional Lunch Review
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Small-Group Louisiana Plantations Tour With Gourmet Lunch From New Orleans
This small-group tour provides visitors a unique opportunity to explore the rich history and architecture of two renowned Louisiana plantations.
With a rating of 4.7 out of 119 reviews and a Badge of Excellence, this full-day tour is highly recommended by 95% of travelers. The small group size, limited to 14 people, ensures an intimate experience with a knowledgeable guide.
The tour includes pickup and drop-off from downtown New Orleans hotels, visits to the historic Destrehan Plantation and the lavish Houmas House, and a private, unlimited gourmet buffet lunch at Houmas House.
Guests can explore the vibrant gardens and oak-lined paths at Destrehan and marvel at the beautiful rooms, artwork, and antiques at Houmas House. The tour also provides insights into the architectural history of the homes and notable film history.
While some guests have mentioned issues with lunch timing and food quality, the overall experience is frequently described as memorable and enriching, with many recommending it as a highlight of their New Orleans trip.
Read our full review: Small-Group Louisiana Plantations Tour With Gourmet Lunch From New Orleans Review
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French Quarter Shrimp Boil – Dinner Cabaret or Storytelling Lunch
For a truly immersive dining experience in the heart of New Orleans’ vibrant French Quarter, travelers can embark on the French Quarter Shrimp Boil – Dinner Cabaret or Storytelling Lunch.
This highly-rated activity, recommended by 95% of travelers, offers a private dinner party celebrating local flavors and vibrant music. Guests can savor a menu featuring starters like Red Fish on the Half Shell and Stuffed Local Blue Crab, followed by a classic shrimp boil with sausage and corn.
The experience also includes live entertainment from local performers, creating a unique cabaret-style atmosphere. Accommodating a maximum of 30 travelers, the intimate setting allows guests to enjoy balcony views and Chef Gregory’s hospitality and storytelling.
With ample portions and memorable entertainment, including jazz music, this French Quarter experience is a must-try for visitors to New Orleans. The activity is wheelchair accessible, near public transportation, and offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Read our full review: French Quarter Shrimp Boil – Dinner Cabaret or Storytelling Lunch Review
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Frequently Asked Questions
How Long Do the Tours Typically Last?
The tours typically last around 2-3 hours, depending on the specific tour and the number of stops along the way. Most food tours in the area provide a rundown of the local cuisine and cultural highlights within this timeframe.
Are Vegetarian/Vegan Options Available for the Meals?
Vegetarian and vegan options are often available for meals in New Orleans. Many restaurants cater to diverse dietary needs, providing meatless alternatives and plant-based dishes. Visitors should inquire about menu options when making reservations or upon arrival.
Is Transportation to and From the Tour Sites Provided?
Transportation to and from the tour sites is typically not provided, as most lunch experiences in New Orleans are self-guided. Guests are responsible for their own transportation to and from the dining locations.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tours?
Guests can typically bring their own food and drinks on tours, though some operators may have restrictions. It’s best to check with the tour company beforehand to understand their policies regarding outside provisions.
Do the Tours Accommodate Guests With Mobility Limitations?
Most tours in New Orleans accommodate guests with mobility limitations, though it’s best to check with the tour operator in advance. They can provide details on accessibility and make arrangements to ensure a comfortable experience.
The Sum Up
New Orleans offers a diverse range of lunchtime experiences, from airboat tours and plantation visits to Creole Queen cruises and French Quarter shrimp boils. Visitors can enjoy the city’s rich history and culture while enjoying gourmet meals or interactive dining experiences. Whether seeking an educational adventure or a lively culinary outing, New Orleans provides numerous delectable lunch options to suit a variety of tastes and preferences.