10 Louisiana Po’Boy Shops That Locals Can’t Stop Raving About
Nothing says Louisiana quite like a perfectly crafted po’boy sandwich. Crusty French bread stuffed with fried seafood, roast beef, or other delicious fillings has become an iconic part of the state’s food culture.
Locals know the best spots to grab these mouthwatering sandwiches, and they’re not shy about sharing their favorites with anyone who’ll listen.
1. Parkway Bakery & Tavern – New Orleans
Standing strong since 1911, Parkway has survived floods and changing times while maintaining its crown as a po’boy paradise.
Locals line up for their famous surf and turf version, a heavenly combo of golden fried shrimp and juicy roast beef drenched in gravy. The rustic ambiance adds extra flavor to every bite at this Mid-City landmark.
2. Domilise’s Po-Boys – New Orleans
Hiding in a humble corner store façade, Domilise’s has been serving po’boy perfection for over 100 years.
What makes locals swoon? The shrimp po’boy loaded with crispy, golden seafood that’s fried to order. Family-run charm radiates throughout this no-frills Uptown institution where patience rewards you with sandwich nirvana.
3. Johnny’s Po-Boys – New Orleans
Morning cravings find satisfaction at Johnny’s, where breakfast po’boys reign supreme alongside traditional varieties in the French Quarter.
Since 1950, hungry patrons have squeezed into this cash-only joint for massive sandwiches on perfectly crusty bread. Generous portions and old-school atmosphere keep the devoted fan base coming back despite tourist crowds.
4. Verti Marte – New Orleans
Open 24/7, this French Quarter bodega satisfies late-night sandwich cravings with legendary offerings like the “All That Jazz” po’boy.
After burning down in 2011, loyal fans practically demanded its rebuilding. Small but mighty, the cramped deli counter pumps out massive, messy masterpieces filled with grilled shrimp, mushrooms, cheese and secret sauce.
5. Mahony’s Po-Boy Shop – New Orleans
Culinary innovation meets tradition at Mahony’s, where the fried chicken livers po’boy with coleslaw has won awards and changed minds about organ meats.
Located on Magazine Street, this upscale twist on the classic po’boy joint offers craft cocktails alongside their sandwiches. Purists and adventurous eaters alike find common ground in the consistently excellent French bread.
6. Killer Poboys – New Orleans
Revolutionizing tradition without sacrificing soul, Killer Poboys brings global flavors to this Louisiana classic in the heart of the French Quarter.
Vegans rejoice over sweet potato and black-eyed pea offerings. Meat-eaters swoon for the glazed pork belly with lime slaw. Located inside the Erin Rose Bar, this tiny kitchen space proves innovation and respect can coexist deliciously.
7. Casamento’s Restaurant – New Orleans
Oyster lovers flock to this tiled time capsule that’s been shucking since 1919. Casamento’s transforms their famous bivalves into the city’s most celebrated oyster loaf.
Unlike traditional po’boys, this version comes on thick Texas toast instead of French bread. Closed during summer months without an ‘r’, this Garden District gem maintains quality standards that locals respect.
8. Guy’s Po-Boys – New Orleans
Potato chip crunch distinguishes Guy’s unforgettable sandwiches from the competition. Locals whisper about the potato-chip-topped roast beef po’boy that combines textures in miraculous ways.
Hidden in the Uptown neighborhood, this unassuming spot has limited hours and cash-only policies that somehow make the experience more authentic. Owner Marvin Matherne’s personality seasons every sandwich served.
9. Mother’s Restaurant – New Orleans
Infamous for their Ferdi Special, a debris-laden roast beef masterpiece, Mother’s has attracted lines of hungry patrons since 1938.
Beefy perfection comes from the “debris”, those falling meat bits soaked in gravy during carving. Downtown workers and tourists alike brave the perpetual line for what many consider the definitive New Orleans roast beef experience.
10. Liuzza’s by the Track – New Orleans
Jazz Fest attendees make pilgrimages for the legendary BBQ shrimp po’boy at this Mid-City neighborhood joint near the fairgrounds.
New Orleans-style BBQ shrimp swim in butter, Worcestershire sauce, and spices. Served on French bread with the shells removed (thankfully), this messy masterpiece requires multiple napkins and possibly a post-sandwich nap.
