New Orleans: Beyond the French Quarter Food Tour

This tour offers a guided evening journey through one of New Orleans’ most vibrant neighborhoods, the Audubon area, showcasing the city’s culinary excellence away from the typical tourist spots. While it’s a relatively short 3-hour experience, it packs in enough delicious food, local stories, and intimate ambiance to make it a highlight of any trip.

What we love about this tour is the opportunity to dine at three acclaimed local restaurants, each with its own chef-driven signature dishes, and to enjoy a cozy cocktail at a neighborhood bar before the feast begins. The small group size—just nine guests—ensures an intimate vibe, perfect for savoring food and asking questions.

One potential consideration is that the upscale restaurant requires guests to dress a bit more carefully—no shorts or flip-flops—and that the tour isn’t suitable for vegans, vegetarians, or those with food allergies. But for those who love authentic, hearty New Orleans cuisine and a chance to learn about the city’s culinary scene beyond the French Quarter, this tour hits the right notes. It’s especially suited for food lovers, curious travelers, or visitors who want a more local, relaxed experience.

Key Points

• Authentic Neighborhood Focus: Experience the Audubon district, less touristy and more local.
• Full Dinner at Three Restaurants: Enjoy generous portions of curated dishes at top-rated eateries.
• Knowledgeable Guide: Learn about New Orleans’ history, culture, and food scene from your expert guide.
• Intimate Group Setting: Small-group size ensures personalized attention and a friendly atmosphere.
• Pre-Dinner Cocktail: Kick off the evening with a drink at a cozy neighborhood bar.
• Accessible and Flexible: Wheelchair accessible with options to accommodate allergies and special needs.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

This tour is designed for those wanting to go beyond the usual French Quarter, diving into a neighborhood where locals eat, drink, and relax. Meeting just outside St. Joe’s Bar at 5535 Magazine, you begin with a special cocktail in a cozy, welcoming setting. It’s a perfect way to set the tone and get to know your small group.

From there, the walk is limited—just about 0.35 miles—so you won’t be doing much wandering on foot. Instead, you’ll be seated comfortably at three highly regarded restaurants, each offering full portions of dishes—think of it as a progressive dinner, but with more than just a taste. The emphasis is on quality and authenticity, with visits to award-winning establishments helmed by celebrated chefs.

Restaurant Stops and Food Highlights

Each restaurant has its own story and specialties, and your guide will share insights about the local culinary scene and what makes each spot special. One restaurant might shine with upscale Creole cuisine, while another offers more casual, hearty fare. Expect to sample dishes that showcase the best of New Orleans—signature recipes, creative twists, and fresh ingredients.

Guests consistently comment on the generous portions, with most leaving quite full—so coming hungry is a good idea. The food is not just plentiful but thoughtfully prepared, giving you a real taste of the city’s culinary craftsmanship.

Learning and Atmosphere

Your guide, Mark, gets high praise for his knowledgeable, friendly approach. As one reviewer put it, he was “very fun, friendly, and knowledgeable,” offering not only food recommendations but also a deeper understanding of local culture and history. Expect to hear engaging stories about the neighborhood’s past, its development, and how food plays a vital role in community life.

The VIP Feeling in a Small Group

With only nine participants, the tour feels more like a private dinner party than a crowded attraction. This small-group size allows for personalized attention and plenty of chances to ask questions or seek recommendations for the rest of your stay.

More Great Tours Nearby

Practical Considerations

• Dress code: The upscale restaurant requires guests to avoid shorts, graphic tees, ripped clothing, open-toe shoes, or tank tops for men.
• Weather readiness: As with any outdoor activity, bring weather-appropriate clothing. Tours run rain or shine.
• Allergies and dietary restrictions: Be sure to inform the provider when booking. Note that the tour isn’t suitable for vegans, vegetarians, or those with food allergies or gluten/lactose intolerances.
• Age restrictions: Only guests 21+ will be served alcohol, but mature children are welcome to join if they purchase a ticket.
• Accessibility: Wheelchair access is available with prior notice, and the limited walking makes it manageable for most.

Value for Money

The price covers a three-hour guided experience with multiple full plates, a cocktail, and insightful commentary. While it might seem pricey compared to a standard restaurant meal, the quality, exclusivity, and educational value make it a worthwhile investment for those seeking an authentic taste of New Orleans.

Authentic, Local, and Delicious

Many guests have raved about their experience, highlighting the delicious food and engaging guide. One reviewer called it a “10/10 recommend,” noting even as locals, they discovered new dishes and heard stories that deepened their appreciation for the city. The fact that most leave full and satisfied speaks to the generosity of the portions and the careful selection of restaurants.

The tour’s focus on less touristy eateries offers a unique perspective, perfect for travelers wanting to see more of the city’s authentic side. It’s a chance to taste inside the local culinary scene while learning about the neighborhood’s history and culture.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for foodies eager to explore beyond the French Quarter, history buffs interested in local stories, or travelers seeking an intimate, relaxed evening. It suits those who appreciate full meals, engaging guides, and small-group experiences.

However, if you have dietary restrictions or prefer a purely vegetarian or vegan experience, this tour might not be the best fit. Also, those on a very tight budget or with limited mobility should consider other options.

Final Thoughts

The New Orleans: Beyond the French Quarter Food Tour offers a fantastic opportunity to enjoy authentic local cuisine in a relaxed, friendly setting. It combines delicious food, insightful storytelling, and a small-group atmosphere that makes it feel personal and special.

For travelers who want to taste New Orleans’ culinary soul, learn about its neighborhoods, and enjoy a warm, welcoming environment, this tour is a winner. It’s a perfect way to expand your understanding of the city’s food culture and make meaningful connections with both locals and fellow travelers.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for vegetarians or vegans?
No, the tour is not suitable for vegans, vegetarians, or those with food allergies as the menu features specific dishes that are not plant-based.

How much walking is involved?
The walk is minimal—about 0.35 miles—making it manageable for most people and particularly suitable for those with limited mobility.

What should I wear?
Dress comfortably for the weather, and note that the upscale restaurant requires no shorts, graphic tees, or open-toe shoes for men.

Is there a dress code?
Yes, for the upscale restaurant, avoid shorts, graphic T-shirts, ripped clothing, open-toe shoes, and tank tops to ensure smooth entry.

Can I bring children?
Yes, mature children are welcome if they purchase a ticket, but keep in mind that alcohol is served only to guests 21 and over.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Yes, but please inform the provider in advance so they can notify the venues to have ramps available.

What if I have food allergies?
Be sure to specify allergies when booking; the tour host can discuss if the experience suits your needs.

What is included in the price?
The tour includes three full meals at top restaurants, a cocktail at St. Joe’s Bar, water at each stop, and the guidance of an informed, friendly guide.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 3 hours, making it a manageable yet satisfying evening activity.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, full refunds are available if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance.

This guided food tour in the Audubon neighborhood offers a well-rounded, authentic taste of New Orleans — perfect for those who want more than just sightseeing, but a true culinary adventure with the comfort of a small group and expert storytelling.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby