New Orleans Creole Cafe
If you're looking for an authentic taste of New Orleans in San Diego, New Orleans Creole Cafe is the place to be. Located at 2476 San Diego Ave, this cozy spot offers a delightful mix of Southern comfort and Creole flavors that’ll transport you straight to the heart of Louisiana. Whether you're a local or just visiting, the New Orleans Creole Cafe is a must-try.
From the moment you step in, the relaxed, casual vibe sets the tone for a great meal. The cafe features both indoor and outdoor seating, making it a perfect choice for sunny days or cooler evenings. It's a fantastic option for families, too, with a kid-friendly atmosphere and plenty of space for groups. The quieter ambiance adds to the overall experience, allowing you to savor your meal without distractions.
The menu is packed with classic dishes that’ll leave you craving more. Crawfish Etouffee is a fan favorite, offering a rich, savory sauce that complements the tender crawfish perfectly. If you're a seafood lover, the Shrimp Creole is a flavorful option, brimming with spices and freshness. Another standout is the Alligator Sausage—a true Southern delicacy that’s hard to find elsewhere in San Diego. Pair it with Red Beans and Andouille Sausage for a truly satisfying meal, or opt for the comforting Red Beans and Rice for a hearty, flavorful dish.
What makes New Orleans Creole Cafe stand out is not just its food but its warm, welcoming environment. The laid-back setting makes it the ideal place to enjoy a delicious meal with friends, family, or even on your own. Whether you're craving something bold like spicy jambalaya or prefer something milder, there’s a dish for every palate. This place captures the essence of New Orleans’ vibrant culture, making it a hidden gem in San Diego.
Reviews
Having returned from a NOLA trip where I ate crawfish étouffée, every single day, I was really craving but didn't think I'd find what I was looking for in San Diego. We came on a weeknight in January and easily found parking out front. The restaurant is more of a bungalow, and it's quiet and really pretty on the outside. There is a door on the left of the stairs that leads to a small, old timey dining room, and it's going to be weird...I'll warn you about that. When you open the door, it feels like you just walked in on someone's private dinner party. It's super quiet in there and it's just a bunch of tables. No host/hostess. You seat yourself if there's a table. A server comes in and out of the room to serve the tables. The Mac and cheese was meh, we ordered it for a toddler. The crawfish étouffée was so good, they did not skimp on crawfish. I like it a little spicier, but this was what I needed. I would definitely come back here! If it's a cold night, dress accordingly, this bungalow is not insulated and the server comes in and out, so it was freezing. Can't imagine the heat in summer, but the food is worth it.
We didn't expect much from this little spot in Old Town. Creole in Old Town? Who would've thought?! But it is authentic and delicious. The guys running this restaurant are chill and laid back. Don't expect a fancy reservation or waitlist. Just show up and hope you get a coveted table. We've been back several times, it's where I bring friends or family when I want to do something a little unique.
Came for dinner last night and the food was really good. Got the crawfish etoufee and a macaroni and cheese for my son, which he thoroughly enjoyed. I would come back here again
I cant believe I've never written a review about one of my favorite restaurants in the country. Been going here for years! Best New Orleans food in San Diego and I've tried them all. We's try one restaurant and be like, nope it's not better. Gumbo is better than Emeril's. That's right. This food is fine dining at non fine dining prices. Service is impeccable. Hes the cook AND the server and hes always checking up on the customers. It's in what feels like a tucked away cabin with a lot of NOLA chachkis. And outside the door is the small park so you never hear noise from the street. I love it, theres no other restaurant setting like this. It's like you're at your auntie's house. Now I wanna go back. Will update posts with photos! Some things to be aware of: - the dining room is very intimate. Tables are spaced out but if you're a loud talker, the whole dining room will hear you lol - he doesnt do takeout. He's too busy. You just gotta dine in! Food: - for non seafood eaters, the gumbo and jambalaya are still good! You can pick out the shrimps easily. - mac and cheese is the best in San diego! Theres nothing like it. That creamy cheese sauce is the most flavorful I've had - crawfish etoufee: that's my usual go to dish
Great service and everyone in our group loved their food. Thanks for the dinner. Definitely a spot t I would try again. The gumbo was delicious.