New Orleans' Italian connection runs deep—Sicilian immigrants shaped the city's food culture. Today you'll find everything from muffulettas to modern trattorias across diverse neighborhoods.
NOLA Legends
Mosca's
$$$ • Avondale
Old-school roadhouse Italian. The oysters Mosca are legendary.
Mandina's
$$ • Mid-City
New Orleans Italian-Creole since 1932. Red gravy perfection.
Vincent's
$$ • Uptown
Family-style Italian that locals love.
Modern Italian
Gianna
$$$$ • Magazine Street
Southern Italian from Donald Link. Outstanding.
Paladar 511
$$$ • Freret
Latin-Italian fusion in Freret neighborhood.
Avo
$$$$ • Garden District
Modern Italian with New Orleans touches.
Neighborhood Classics
Irene's Cuisine
$$$ • French Quarter
Romantic Quarter spot with Creole-Italian.
Italian Barrel
$$ • French Quarter
Wine bar with excellent small plates.
Adolfo's
$$ • Marigny
Upstairs from Apple Barrel bar. Cash only, BYOB.
Pro Tip: Don't miss the muffuletta at Central Grocery—a NOLA Italian invention that's essential eating.