8324 Oak St., New Orleans, La. 70118 • 504-861-0886

If you’re looking for the quintessential New Orleans dining experience, Jacques-Imo’s is the place to be.

Under owner and head chef Jacques Leonardi, this Oak Street landmark has risen to fame for its delicious Creole soul food, funky decor and friendly staff. While parents will enjoy getting a taste of New Orleans culture, students can look forward to a fancy, filling meal without having to shell out the big bucks themselves.

Just be sure to book your reservations in advance –visitors to Jacques-Imo’s can expect to wait up to two hours on any given night of the week due to the restaurant’s popularity with tourists and locals alike.

Highlights from Jacques-Imo’s French, Italian and Creole-inspired menu, include crabmeat stuffed shrimp and deep fried po’boys in addition to classic New Orleans dishes like jambalaya and shrimp creole.

Each entree comes with a fried oyster on top, and a green salad and freshly baked cornbread muffin accompany every meal. Don’t forget to try their famous Shrimp and Alligator Cheesecake, a hearty slice of cornbread made with alligator sausage and shrimp in a bed of cream sauce.

RUNNERS-UP:

• Commander’s Palace
• 1403 Washington Ave.
• New Orleans, La. 70130
• 504-899-8221

• Vincent’s
• 7839 St. Charles Ave.
• New Orleans, La. 70118
• 504-866-9313

   

(ERIC BURAS/ Staff Photographer)

(ERIC BURAS/ Staff Photographer)