New Orleans, a city renowned for its vibrant culture, rich history, and unparalleled cuisine, is home to one of the most iconic sandwiches in American food culture—the po’boy. This humble sandwich, steeped in history and brimming with flavor, is more than just a meal; it symbolizes the city’s resilience, creativity, and love for good food. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, hunting down the perfect po’ boy is a must-do experience. But before we dive into where to find the best po’boys in New Orleans, let’s take a moment to explore the fascinating history of this beloved sandwich.
The History of the Po’ Boy
The po’boy sandwich, traditionally filled with fried seafood or meat and served on a crisp and airy French bread loaf, traces its origins back to the late 1920s. The story begins during a streetcar strike in New Orleans in 1929. Bennie and Clovis Martin, former streetcar conductors who owned a small restaurant, wanted to support the striking workers. They created an affordable, hearty sandwich to feed the “poor boys” (striking workers) free of charge. Over time, the term “poor boy” morphed into “po’boy,” and the sandwich became a staple in New Orleans cuisine.
Initially, the po’boy was filled with simple ingredients like potatoes and gravy. Still, it quickly evolved to include local delicacies such as fried shrimp, oysters, roast beef, and more. The bread, made specifically for po’boys, is a crucial element—crunchy on the outside and soft on the inside, designed to hold up against the generous fillings.
The Best Places to Get a Po’Boy in New Orleans
New Orleans is teeming with spots where you can sink your teeth into a delectable po’boy, but a few stand out as the crème de la crème.
Domilise’s Po-Boys & Bar
A true New Orleans institution, Domilise’s has been serving po’boys for over a century. This family-run spot is known for its perfectly fried shrimp po’boys, dressed with all the fixings—lettuce, tomato, pickles, and mayo. The bread is delivered fresh daily, and the friendly, unpretentious atmosphere keeps locals and tourists coming back for more.
Killer Poboys
For a modern twist on the traditional po’ boy, Killer Poboys in the French Quarter is the place to go. Known for their creative takes, such as the Glazed Pork Belly po’boy and the Shrimp & Grits po’boy, this spot offers a fresh and exciting experience. The flavors are bold, and the ingredients are locally sourced, delighting each bite.
Johnny’s Po-Boys
Johnny’s Po-Boys has been a staple since 1950, located in the heart of the French Quarter. It’s one of the city’s oldest family-owned po’boy shops, offering a wide variety of po’boys, from classic shrimp to alligator sausage. The portions are generous, and the quick service makes it a perfect stop for a casual and satisfying meal.
Parkway Bakery & Tavern
Parkway is perhaps the city’s most famous po’ boy shop, and for good reason. Established in 1911, Parkway offers an extensive menu, but the roast beef po’boy with debris (gravy) is the star of the show. The sandwich is messy, flavorful, and quintessentially New Orleans. Check out their monthly special po’ boys, which feature unique and seasonal ingredients.
Guy’s Po-Boys
A neighborhood favorite, Guy’s Po-Boys in Uptown is beloved for its down-to-earth vibe and consistently excellent sandwiches. The fried catfish po’boy is particularly popular, with its perfectly seasoned fish and generous toppings. Guy’s is the kind of place where the locals eat, and that’s always a good sign.
Crabby Jack’s
Crabby Jack’s on the Orleans / Jefferson line is well worth the trip if you’re looking for a po’boy that’s just a bit off the beaten path. Known for its overstuffed po’boys, Crabby Jack’s offers some of the most flavorful sandwiches in the city. The Duck Po‘ Boy stands out, with succulent duck paired with a rich, savory gravy. The rustic setting and generous portions make this spot a favorite among locals and visitors.
Honorable Mentions
- Mother’s Restaurant: Known for its famous Ferdi Special, a po’boy loaded with ham, roast beef, and debris.
- Mahony’s Po-Boys & Seafood: Offering a great selection of po’boys with options like fried green tomatoes and smoked sausage.
- Liuzza’s by the Track: A unique option with their BBQ shrimp po’boy served in a hollowed-out loaf of French bread.
Conclusion
Whether you prefer your po’boy stuffed with fried seafood, roast beef, or something more adventurous, New Orleans offers a wealth of options to satisfy your craving. Each spot has its unique take on the po’boy, but they all share a commitment to quality, tradition, and flavor. So, next time you’re in the Big Easy, make sure to explore these spots and discover your favorite po’boy—it’s a delicious way to experience the heart and soul of New Orleans.
Don’t forget to read: The 5 Best Food Tours in New Orleans 2024
