Just above Uptown and nestled next to the Mississippi River levee, the Riverbend neighborhood of New Orleans is a residential oasis dotted with thriving boutique shops and restaurants. Before becoming part of New Orleans in 1874, the Riverbend was part of the city of Carrollton with Oak Street as its Main Street. You don’t want to miss the chance to walk down this historic commercial corridor while you’re in New Orleans, so we’ve created a guide to this quirky locals’ neighborhood.
History of the Riverbend
Carrollton was originally designated as a plantation belonging to Le Sieur de Bienville, who founded New Orleans. The plantation passed through several owners before eventually being split into plots. In the 1830s, homes began springing up in the area, and in 1845 it was officially incorporated as the city of Carrollton.
Soon New Orleans and Carrollton were linked by the New Orleans and Carrollton line, which is today the St. Charles Avenue Streetcar Line. Though they could access the French Quarter and other parts of New Orleans, residents of Carrollton were more likely to shop in one of the city’s commercial corridors: present day Maple Street and Oak Street.
Founded in 1834, Tulane University has long been a staple of the Riverbend neighborhood. Together with Loyola University of New Orleans, the area is a hub for education, each with gorgeous, walkable campuses.
Riverbend Today
Today the Riverbend neighborhood is very much part of New Orleans, full of dive bars, neighborhood restaurants, coffee houses, and shops. We’ve got a few recommendations to help you make the most of your visit to the neighborhood.
Coffee
Sip bold New Orleans coffee at Rue de la Course, one of the city’s most elegant coffee shops, or get funky at Z’otz with artists, musicians, and other New Orleans characters.
Breakfast
Grab some pancakes or Eggs Benedict at Refuel or try a shrimp and grits sandwich at Luca Eats. If you’re in the mood for a fresh bagel, head to Cibo, an Italian eatery and deli on Carrollton Avenue.
Lunch
The Riverbend has you covered for all your lunch cravings. If you’re in the mood for Vietnamese, try Ba Chi Canteen. For a burger, check out Cowbell, or munch on some wings on the patio at Bourree.
Happy Hour
Sip wine and enjoy a cheese plate at Chais Delachaise or Oak Wine Bar. If you’re more of a beer drinker, head over to Ale on Oak, which is right next door.
Dinner
Carrollton Market and Brigtsen’s are special occasion destinations for Riverbend residents, with menus featuring local produce and classic cocktails. Jacques-Imo’s is a New Orleans staple serving classic dishes such as jambalaya and étouffée plus funky twists like alligator cheesecake.
Live Music
The Riverbend is home to the Maple Leaf, an iconic New Orleans music venue. Rebirth Brass Band and George Porter, Jr. frequent this classic club.
Bars
Laid-back bars dot the Riverbend neighborhood. Carrollton Station is great for live music and comedy shows and Cooter Brown’s is the spot to watch a Saint’s game. Bonus points if you stay up late enough to make it to Snake and Jakes.
Shopping
Shops dot Maple Street, but Gae-tana’s, which carries clothes, shoes, accessories, and gifts, stands out. We also love Blue Cypress Books, an independent bookstore on Oak Street.
