New Orleans is famous for its vibrant culture, diverse history, and mouth-watering food scene. One of the city’s most beloved dishes is the beignet, a light, fluffy pastry that’s often eaten for breakfast or as a sweet treat throughout the day. While there are plenty of places to find beignets in New Orleans, from trendy cafes to classic bakeries, many locals have their favorite spots where they go to indulge in these delicious treats.
In this article, we’ll explore some of the best places in New Orleans where locals go to eat beignets. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned NOLA veteran, this guide will help you discover some hidden gems and popular hotspots where you can savor the city’s signature pastry like a true local. So grab your coffee, prepare your sweet tooth, and let’s get ready to explore the authentic beignet scene in New Orleans.
History of Beignets in New Orleans
Beignets are a delectable and iconic treat associated with the city of New Orleans. These deep-fried dough confections are made from a mix of flour, eggs, milk, and yeast and are generously coated with powdered sugar. The history of beignets in New Orleans can be traced back to the French colonizers who introduced this delightful pastry to the region in the 18th century.
The legendary beignet shop and cafe, Cafe du Monde, located in the heart of the French Quarter, has been serving beignets and coffee since 1862. The original owner, Gaston L. Monde, used to sell coffee and beignets to the French market workers who used to come to the city from the countryside. Today, Cafe du Monde has become an iconic landmark and a must-visit spot for tourists and locals alike. In addition to Cafe du Monde, there are several other beignet shops in the city where locals flock to get their fix.
Best Beignet spots in the French Quarter
New Orleans’ French Quarter is renowned for its iconic beignets, and there are several places where locals swear by their delectable treats. One of the most popular spots is Cafe Du Monde, which has been around since 1862. It’s hard to miss the long lines that snake around the block, but the wait is worth it. The beignets at Cafe Du Monde are piping hot, fluffy, and generously sprinkled with powdered sugar. Be sure to order a cup of their chicory coffee to complete the experience.
Another favorite spot is Cafe Beignet, which has locations throughout the city, including the French Quarter. Their beignets are also renowned for their fluffy texture and crispy exterior. Unlike Cafe Du Monde, this spot offers a wider variety of toppings for their beignets, such as praline sauce and fruit compote. Cafe Beignet also features live music at their French Quarter location, making it a great spot to enjoy a hot cup of coffee and a tasty beignet while taking in some local tunes.
Top Cafes serving freshly made Beignets
New Orleans is known for its beignets, which are deep-fried pastries dusted with powdered sugar. These delicious treats are served hot and fresh, and many locals have their preferred spots for satisfying their cravings. Here are some of the top cafes where you can find freshly made beignets in the city.
Café du Monde is a famous French Quarter institution that has been serving beignets since 1862. It’s a popular tourist spot, but locals still flock here for the delicious beignets and cafe au lait. Another favorite is Morning Call, which has been a local hangout since 1870. The airy and laid-back ambiance combined with fresh and delicious beignets and cafe au lait make it a must-visit spot for any beignet lover. Another more recent addition is the Cafe Beignet, which has locations in the French Quarter, Bourbon Street, and Royal Street. They serve traditional beignets along with a wide variety of coffee drinks, teas, and live music on some nights.
Neighborhood favorites for locals
When it comes to finding the best beignets in New Orleans, the locals have their favorite neighborhood spots that they swear by. One such local favorite is Morning Call Coffee Stand, which has been serving up hot and fresh beignets since 1870. Located in City Park, this historic coffee stand is famous for its signature beignets, piping hot café au lait, and outdoor dining area under the oak trees.
Another popular spot for locals is Café du Monde’s sister location on the Westbank, which boasts the same delicious beignets and café au lait that made the original location famous. With its convenient drive-thru service and spacious indoor dining area, this location is a go-to spot for many locals, especially those who live on the Westbank. Other neighborhood favorites for locals include Loretta’s Authentic Pralines, The Creole Creamery, and District Donuts Sliders Brew. With so many delicious options to choose from, it’s no wonder that locals have their go-to spots for their beloved beignets.
Vegan and Gluten-free beignet options in New Orleans
New Orleans is known for its delicious beignets; however, many people with dietary restrictions miss out on this iconic New Orleans treat. Luckily, there are some great vegan and gluten-free options for beignets in the city.
One popular spot for vegan beignets is Goûter, which makes their beignets with almond milk and coconut cream. They also offer gluten-free beignets made with rice flour. Another great option is Breads on Oak, a vegan bakery that serves gluten-free beignets as well as traditional ones. Their beignets are made with organic ingredients and are fried in sunflower oil. Whether you have dietary restrictions or simply prefer vegan or gluten-free options, these spots are a must-try for delicious beignets in New Orleans.
Insider tips for avoiding tourist traps when looking for Beignets
When in New Orleans, finding the best beignets can turn into a daunting task. As a tourist, it is easy to fall for the attractive signs and high-priced cafes enticing you to try their version of this much-loved dessert. Unfortunately, these kinds of places often do not live up to the hype and are tourist traps. To avoid such places, you must take a cue from the locals.
One way to identify a local favorite spot is to follow the queue. If a place is packed with locals, it undoubtedly signifies the quality and authenticity of the beignets. Moreover, indulging in a quick chat with the locals can lead you to hidden gem spots where many tourists would never think to go. With these helpful insider tips, you will be well on your way to enjoying the best beignets in town at an authentic local favorite spot.
Beignet recipes to try at home
If you’re missing the taste of New Orleans beignets, why not try making them at home? Here are a few recipes to get you started.
First, there’s the classic French Quarter-style beignet recipe. Mix together flour, sugar, and yeast, then add in warm milk and eggs to form a dough. Let it rise before frying the squares of dough until they’re golden brown. Dust with powdered sugar before serving.
For a unique twist on the classic recipe, try making sweet potato beignets. Simply replace some of the flour with sweet potato puree and add in cinnamon and nutmeg for a delicious, seasonal treat. With these recipes, you can enjoy the taste of New Orleans’ beignets no matter where you are.
Conclusion
When it comes to finding the best beignets in New Orleans, the locals have spoken. From the iconic Cafe du Monde to the lesser-known joints like Morning Call and Loretta’s Authentic Pralines, there’s no shortage of delicious options to choose from. Whether you’re a tourist or a lifelong resident, exploring the city’s diverse beignet scene is a must-do activity.
Beyond just the food, the communal experience of enjoying a piping hot plate of beignets with friends or family is a cherished tradition in New Orleans. So, take the time to embrace this delicious and cultural delicacy the way the locals do – with a cup of chicory coffee, perhaps some powdered sugar on your nose, and a sense of appreciation for the culinary heritage that makes New Orleans so unique.