#NeedToDigest: Best Places in Eat in NOLA

No matter what day Southern Jaguar fans travel down to the Big Easy for the Bayou Classic festivities, one thing is for certain: they will need to eat.
Instead of spending money at fast food or chain restaurants you can find anywhere, why not take the opportunity to enjoy some of the best ‘hole in the wall’ spots the city has to offer, without putting a hole in your wallet?
Several Southern students from the greater New Orleans area dropped by the Office of Student Media to voice their opinions, including freshman Psychology major, Emanee Drake and sophomore Business Management major, Jasmine Brooks.
Their contributions led to the following list of restaurants, considered to be the best for college students and their families to eat, for various reasons.
These are actual destinations minutes away from where many of the Bayou Classic activities will be taking place, and the contact information for these eateries are provided.
Now, on to the rest of our list (in no particular order):
Walk-Ons
1009 Poydras Street
Although it doesn’t scream ‘New Orleans’, this restaurant is a good backup plan for groups arguing over where to eat.
For starters, it is only a few blocks away from the Mercedes-Benz Superdome. With parking likely being limited due to the many events going on at one time, walking likely will become your best option. There is a decent variety of options to choose from at a reasonable price. It is also oen until midnight, making it a prime option after the Battle of the Bands.
New Orleans Hamburger & Seafood Co./New Orleans Coffee & Beignet Co.
4141 St. Charles Avenue
Most locals identify this place as simply “Hamburgers’ Seafood”, but customers could also enjoy pasta, gumbo, and pasta at the St. Charles location, along with the beignet and coffee shop located in the back.
Travel time is about thirteen minutes from the Superdome, but parking is not as much of a hassle.
You can’t help but take in the gorgeous scenery that comes with being in the neighborhood.
Take advantage of the free ice cream that comes with every meal. Also, think of it as saving a trip to Café Du Monde, which is bound to be crowded this weekend.
Cajun Seafood
2730 South Broad Avenue
Native New Orleanians already know about this hidden gem. Less than 10 minutes away from the Superdome, this spot is ideal for those who want a real taste of an authentic New Orleans crawfish boil.
Don’t let the name confuse you though; they also serve po-boys, pasta, gumbo, and boudin. Many of these options are at reasonable prices, good enough to be featured at the tailgate Saturday.
Mandina’s Restaurant
3800 Canal Street
Here is a potential date night option, or your chance to impress.
Being around more than 80 years, this restaurant focuses on Italian cuisine and seafood. However, it would not be a true New Orleans eatery without offering other suitable options, from seafood gumbo, filet mignon, to muffalettas, you name it.
In terms of our list, Mandina’s is more of a fine dining option, and the prices reflect that. If you choose not to be a part of that environment, their website takes delivery orders.
Melba’s Poboys
1525 Elysian Fields Ave
Instead of choosing Waffle House, make Melba’s your post-midnight food destination.
The name does not give this institution the credit it deserves. This place is located past Mandina’s, yet still within minutes of the Superdome.
It manages to squeeze the food, drink, and vibes of the Crescent City into an affordable hotspot that is open 24 hours every day.
You can count on your hands the number of items over $10 from their extensive menu. Melba’s also delivers.
Do you know of a better place to eat in NOLA? Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram and give us your input using the hashtag #NeedToDigest. Your response could be featured on our social media pages.