A Sandwich with a Story: The History of the Po’ Boy
New Orleans is known for its rich food scene, but few dishes capture the city’s spirit like the po’ boy. This humble sandwich, packed with flavor and rich history, is a staple of Louisiana cuisine, enjoyed by locals and visitors alike.
The origins of the po’ boy date back to 1929 during a streetcar strike in New Orleans. Bennie and Clovis Martin, former streetcar conductors turned restaurant owners, sought to feed striking workers for free. They created a simple yet satisfying sandwich using crispy French bread stuffed with fried potatoes, roast beef, or other affordable ingredients. As the hungry workers came in, the Martins would call out, “Here comes another poor boy!”, a phrase that soon became synonymous with the sandwich itself.
Over time, the po’ boy evolved into a culinary masterpiece, incorporating everything from crispy fried seafood to slow-cooked debris roast beef smothered in gravy. What makes a po’ boy special is the bread—light, airy, with a crisp crust—baked fresh daily by local bakeries like Leidenheimer Baking Co.
Today, po’ boys remain an essential part of New Orleans’ culture, found in neighborhood joints, high-end restaurants, and even festivals dedicated to celebrating their deliciousness. Whether you prefer yours “dressed” (with lettuce, tomatoes, pickles, and mayo) or plain, this sandwich is a must-try for anyone visiting the Crescent City.
Where to Find the Best Po’ Boys in New Orleans
From hole-in-the-wall spots to famous establishments, here’s where to get the best po’ boys in New Orleans:
1. Parkway Bakery & Tavern
538 Hagan Ave, New Orleans, LA 70119
A legendary po’ boy institution, Parkway Bakery & Tavern has been serving up these iconic sandwiches since 1911. While they offer a variety of fillings, the roast beef with debris gravy and fried shrimp po’ boys are fan favorites. The bread is perfectly crisp, and the portions are generous—making it worth the wait in line.
2. Domilise’s Po-Boy & Bar
5240 Annunciation St, New Orleans, LA 70115
A true neighborhood gem, Domilise’s has been slinging po’ boys for over a century. The family-run shop keeps things simple but perfected, with fried shrimp and hot sausage po’ boys among the best in town. The combination of Leidenheimer bread, house-made sauces, and fresh ingredients makes for an unforgettable bite.
3. Crabby Jack’s
428 Jefferson Hwy, Jefferson, LA 70121
If you want an overstuffed po’ boy, look no further than Crabby Jack’s. Their duck po’ boy is a must-try, offering a rich, flavorful twist on the classic sandwich. Located just outside of New Orleans, it’s a casual yet essential stop for any po’ boy lover.
4. Johnny’s Po-Boys
511 St Louis St, New Orleans, LA 70130
A French Quarter staple, Johnny’s Po-Boys is one of the oldest po’ boy shops in the city. With an extensive menu, they offer everything from classic shrimp and oyster po’ boys to unique creations like alligator sausage. The portions are massive, and the flavors are deeply satisfying.
5. Killer PoBoys
219 Dauphine St, New Orleans, LA 70112
For a modern take on the po’ boy, Killer PoBoys offers inventive versions with global influences. Their glazed pork belly and smoked salmon po’ boys redefine what a po’ boy can be while still maintaining its essence. If you’re looking to try something different, this is the place to go.
6. Guy’s Po-Boys
5259 Magazine St, New Orleans, LA 70115
A locals-only kind of spot, Guy’s Po-Boys keeps things old-school with generous portions and a no-frills attitude. Their fried catfish and roast beef po’ boys are legendary, offering the perfect balance of crispiness and tenderness.
7. Mahony’s Po-Boys & Seafood
3454 Magazine St, New Orleans, LA 70115
A slightly upscale po’ boy experience, Mahony’s offers jumbo Gulf shrimp, oyster, and even a Peacemaker po’ boy—a combination of fried shrimp and oysters topped with bacon. Their craft approach to ingredients and preparation makes it a must-visit.
Po’ Boys: More Than Just a Sandwich
A po’ boy isn’t just food—it’s history, culture, and tradition wrapped in crispy French bread. Whether you’re a fan of roast beef dripping with gravy, fried seafood perfection, or modern twists on the classic, New Orleans has a po’ boy for every taste.
No matter where you go, one thing is certain: when in New Orleans, you haven’t truly eaten like a local until you’ve had a po’ boy.
So, which po’ boy are you trying first? Let us know your favorites!
