Going on a formal to New Orleans is fun in itself, but what makes it even better are the numerous delicious food and drink options to choose from in such a small area. Here’s a list of some of my go-to spots for a good time and an even better atmosphere when I’m in the Crescent City (and mainly on Bourbon Street) with friends.

Felix’s Restaurant & Oyster Bar (739 Iberville St, New Orleans, LA 70130, $$, 4.4 stars)

Felix’s is one of those places that embodies exactly what you would expect the food in Nola to be like. Specializing in freshly shucked oysters and Creole fare, the restaurant is a Bourbon Street staple and so good that I’ve managed to pay a visit every time I visit the city.

We sat at the bar for dinner the most recent time I ate there and it was an experience I’ll never forget thanks to the entertainment and vocals provided behind the oyster station, Wood the Master Shucker (you can find him on Tiktok @woodfromdahood). I’m allergic to seafood so I don’t have any opinions on their oysters, but my friends love how fresh they are! Their 1/2 fried fish po-boy & side of red beans and rice is the perfect amount of food and so delicious. Not going to lie, I’ve also tried their fried gator po-boy and would recommend doing so if you’ve never tried alligator before.

Felix’s is where I tried my first real martini (extra dirty of course) and it was such a good pairing with their seafood-focused menu.

Crescent City Pizza (407 Bourbon St, New Orleans, LA 70130, $, 4.3 stars)

Crescent City Pizza is another tried-and-true spot that feels like home whenever I eat there no matter what time of night it might be. You can’t go wrong with their cheese and pepperoni slices, but their buffalo chicken (above) and pulled pork pizza renditions hold a special place in my heart, especially when dipped in ranch sauce.

Bourbon Street Drinkery (217 Bourbon St, New Orleans, LA 70130, $$, 4.6 stars)

This is one of my favorite bars on Bourbon because of its chill yet polished atmosphere. They always have a live band playing towards the front of the space and smooth drinks (RIP to their famous frozen Moscow Mule shown above). You can’t go wrong with their highly curated beer list or craft cocktails. I got a Mojito to fill the void of missing their frozen Moscow Mule, which tasted more like a vodka sour but was still refreshing.

Flamingo A-Go-Go (869 Magazine St, New Orleans, LA 70130, $$, 4.2 stars)

The staff is always so sweet and accommodating. Not only does their bottomless do the trick, but their food is pretty damn good too. If the weather is nice try to sit outside – they have a fun patio with flamingo-themed decor. Another tip based on my personal preference is to stick to bottomless mimosas instead of opting into bottomless margaritas and get there as early as possible to get a good table.

GW Fins (808 Bienville St, New Orleans, LA 70112, $$$, 4.8 stars)

Only been to GW Fins once but it was a meal to remember. The dining room reminded me of what fancy supper clubs look and feel like from the soft lighting and circular tables that defined the space. They have a great wine selection and even better espresso martinis that include a lemon rind (a flavor I’ve never found in an espresso martini before or even thought would pair well with coffee!). I ordered the redfish for my entrée and finished the meal off with their signature Salty Malty Ice Cream Pie (above). SO. GOOD.

💘 Hanna