The traditional flavors of a Thanksgiving dinner spread don’t just make our bellies happy; they make our hearts happy, too. And no matter what time of year, you can find those quintessential fall flavors at some of your favorite New Orleans restaurants. Happy eating, y’all.
Turkey
St. James Cheese Co. — Calling all sandwich lovers! The Hook’s cheddar sandwich at this beloved cheese shop on Magazine in the Warehouse District and Uptown on Prytania is one of the best, with a sky high serving of house smoked turkey with Wisconsin cheddar, fresh basil, and avocado on ciabatta.
Parkway Tavern – To warm up on chilly days or sweat out a hangover all year round, grab a bowl of Alligator Sausage and Stewed Turkey Gumbo from this famous Mid-City po-boy shop. Served with rice and buttered French bread because, New Orleans.
Sweet potato
Kingfish — Strolling the French Quarter for some yummy bites? Stop into Kingfish on Chartres Street for their sweet potato andouille hash.
Red Dog Diner – If you’re a breakfast guy or gal, swing on over to this adorable diner on Magazine Street for some sweet potato pancakes with a maple syrup, bacon, and sweet potato compote on top. Bring on the sugar rush!
Killer Po-Boys — Vegetarians will fall for the roasted sweet potato po-boy at this killer sandwich shop. Black-eyed peas and pecan spread add a rich flavor, while savory braised greens keep it from being overly sweet.
Dooky Chase’s — OK, so these candied yams aren’t technically sweet potatoes, but they boast that same earthy richness, and they’re available on the menu all the time. Did we mention they’re amazing?
Brussels Sprouts
Pêche – If you haven’t been to Donald Link’s restaurant in the Warehouse District, I strongly encourage you to do so. And when you do, make sure to order a side of the Brussels sprouts with chili vinegar. These baby cabbages are in such high demand that they’ll rarely take them off the menu.
Cane and Table – Brussels sprouts appear in Cane and Table’s avocado salad, alongside fresh citrus, seeds, and herbs.
1000 Figs — Enjoy ’em fried with lemon, cabbage, and greens at this Mid-City spot.
Cranberry
Commander’s Palace — Fresh cranberries out of season just isn’t going to happen, so drink ’em instead at this fine dining institution. Commander’s sturdy Cosmo is just 25 cents with the purchase of an entree at lunch, Monday through Friday.
Pumpkin Flavors
Breads on Oak – This adorable bakery and café on Oak Street serves up a vegan (!) pumpkin cheddar biscuit all year long (!). Try it alone or stuffed with organic tofu scramble.
Pecan Pie
Camellia Grill – A local favorite always worthy of recognition. They slice it, warm it on the griddle, and serve it a la mode. Diner pie is always a good idea IMHO.
Brigtsen’s – Chef Frank Brigtsen makes a mean pecan pie, y’all. And as if sugary pecan goo inside a buttery crust wasn’t enough, Chef Frank gilds the lily with a drizzle of house-made caramel sauce.
For more pies, such as Key Lime, Banana Cream, Chocolate Tart, and other specialty pies, check out our year-round guide here.
