Best Po' Boy Sandwiches in New Orleans: 5 Legendary Spots

A po' boy isn't a sandwich—it's a **New Orleans institution**. Crusty French bread, dressed (lettuce, tomato, pickle, mayo), stuffed with fried seafood or slow-roasted meat. Here are five temples of the craft.

1. Mother's Restaurant (Since 1938)

401 Poydras St (CBD). The "Ferdi Special" (baked ham, roast beef, debris, cheese) is legendary. Lines form early. Cash only. Touristy? Yes. Worth it? Yes.

2. Johnny's Po-Boys (Since 1950)

511 St. Louis St (French Quarter). No-frills counter. **40+ varieties** — try the **Crawfish Po' Boy** (seasonal) or **Shrimp & Oyster Combo**. Locals' lunch spot.

3. Domilise's Po-Boy & Bar (Since 1924)

5240 Annunciation St (Uptown). Family-run, checkerboard floor, fried shrimp/oyster/catfish/roast beef. **Shrimp Po' Boy** = gold standard. Cash only. Closed Sundays.

4. Parkway Bakery & Tavern (Since 1911)

538 Hagan Ave (Mid-City). **House-baked French bread** (the game-changer). Try the **Surf & Turf** (roast beef + fried shrimp) or **Alligator Sausage** (seasonal). Reopened post-Katrina by new owners—kept the soul.

5. The Praline Connection (Since 1990)

542 Frenchmen St (Marigny). Soul food + po' boys. **Sweet po' boys**: praline, chocolate chip, banana foster, whipped cream. Dessert as sandwich. Live music nightly.

Honorable Mentions

• Killer PoBoys (Erin Rose Bar, French Quarter) — creative, small plates.
• Mahony's Po-Boys & Seafood (multiple) — consistent, late night.
• Parasol's (Irish Channel) — roast beef debris, St. Patrick's block party.

Po' Boy Etiquette

• "Dressed" = lettuce, tomato, pickle, mayo (default yes).
• "Undressed" = meat only.
• Hot sauce on the side (Crystal or Louisiana).
• Napkins. Many napkins.

No wrong choice. Just go hungry.