By Administrator Landed at Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY) and your stomach is rumbling? Don’t make the mistake of settling for bland airport fare! Kenner, Louisiana, often viewed simply as an airport gateway to the vibrant city of New Orleans, is actually a culinary destination in its own right. Nestled just west of the Big Easy, Kenner boasts a surprisingly diverse and delicious food scene that deserves exploration. Forget grabbing a quick bite; prepare for a genuine culinary adventure!
This guide unveils the top spots for food near Kenner, Louisiana, showcasing a range of tastes and budgets. From authentic Cajun flavors that will ignite your senses to fresh seafood that embodies the spirit of the Gulf Coast, we’ll explore the best restaurants Kenner has to offer, ensuring a memorable dining experience, even before you hit the French Quarter.
Cajun and Creole Delights
No trip to Louisiana is complete without indulging in the rich and flavorful world of Cajun and Creole cuisine. These culinary traditions are alive and well near Kenner, providing a comforting and authentic taste of the region’s heritage.
First on the list is The Red Stove. This family-owned establishment has been serving up hearty portions of Cajun classics for generations. The aroma of simmering spices hits you the moment you walk in, promising a truly satisfying meal. Known for their generous portions and friendly service, The Red Stove is a local favorite. They are especially known for their rich and flavorful gumbo, brimming with seafood and andouille sausage. Their jambalaya is another must-try, perfectly seasoned and packed with tender chicken and shrimp. Expect to spend around fifteen to twenty-five dollars for a filling meal here, well worth it for the authentic experience. Find The Red Stove on Williams Boulevard, right off the main drag.
Next, consider Bayou Bistro, a more modern take on traditional Cajun and Creole fare. While they honor classic recipes, they also infuse them with a contemporary twist, resulting in exciting and innovative dishes. Bayou Bistro is particularly renowned for its crawfish étouffée, a creamy and decadent delight that showcases the region’s beloved crustacean. They also offer a selection of po’boys, stuffed with everything from fried shrimp to roast beef, each one a symphony of flavors and textures. Expect to pay a bit more here, closer to twenty to thirty-five dollars for an entree, but the elevated dining experience is certainly worth it. Located in a quieter part of town, Bayou Bistro offers a relaxed and sophisticated atmosphere.
Finally, for a more casual and quick option, check out Cajun Kitchen Express. Don’t let the name fool you – this isn’t your average fast-food joint. They serve up classic Cajun dishes with speed and efficiency, perfect for a quick lunch or a satisfying dinner on the go. Their red beans and rice are a standout, slow-cooked to perfection and bursting with flavor. The fried catfish is another popular choice, crispy on the outside and flaky on the inside. With most meals costing under fifteen dollars, Cajun Kitchen Express is a budget-friendly option that doesn’t compromise on taste. You can find them easily accessible right on Veterans Memorial Boulevard.
Seafood Sensations
Being so close to the Gulf of Mexico, it’s no surprise that seafood plays a starring role in the Kenner food scene. Fresh catches are delivered daily, ensuring that you’re getting the best and freshest flavors the ocean has to offer.
First, you have to try The Crab Shack. This lively and vibrant restaurant is a seafood lover’s paradise. From steaming platters of boiled crawfish to mountains of freshly shucked oysters, The Crab Shack offers a seafood experience that is both authentic and unforgettable. The atmosphere is casual and convivial, perfect for a fun night out with friends or family. Their boiled seafood is legendary, perfectly seasoned and cooked to perfection. The oysters are another must-try, briny and delicious. Expect to spend around twenty to forty dollars, depending on how much seafood you can handle! The Crab Shack is located near the lakefront, providing beautiful views while you dine.
Another great option is Gulf Coast Grill. This upscale restaurant offers a more refined take on seafood, with beautifully plated dishes and a focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients. Gulf Coast Grill is particularly known for its grilled fish, expertly prepared and served with a variety of flavorful sauces. They also offer a selection of innovative seafood appetizers, perfect for sharing. Expect to pay a premium here, with entrees ranging from thirty to fifty dollars, but the quality of the food and the impeccable service make it a worthwhile splurge. Gulf Coast Grill is a great choice for a special occasion or a romantic dinner.
Finally, for a more casual seafood experience, head to Fisherman’s Wharf. This no-frills seafood market also offers a selection of prepared dishes, perfect for a quick and tasty meal. Fisherman’s Wharf is known for its fried seafood platters, overflowing with shrimp, oysters, and catfish. They also offer a selection of homemade sides, such as coleslaw and potato salad. With meals costing under twenty dollars, Fisherman’s Wharf is a budget-friendly option that delivers on flavor. Conveniently located near the airport, it’s a great spot to grab a bite before or after your flight.
International Flavors
While Cajun and Creole cuisine may dominate the culinary landscape, Kenner also offers a surprising array of international flavors. From authentic Vietnamese pho to zesty Mexican tacos, there’s something to satisfy every craving.
For a taste of Italy, consider Bella Italia. This family-owned restaurant has been serving up classic Italian dishes for over two decades. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, perfect for a romantic dinner or a family gathering. Bella Italia is particularly known for its pasta dishes, made with fresh, homemade pasta and flavorful sauces. Their pizza is another popular choice, crispy and delicious. Expect to spend around fifteen to thirty dollars for a meal here, a reasonable price for authentic Italian cuisine. Bella Italia is located in the heart of Kenner, easily accessible from anywhere in town.
If you’re craving something spicy, head to Taco Loco. This vibrant Mexican restaurant serves up authentic tacos, burritos, and enchiladas, bursting with flavor. Taco Loco is particularly known for its carne asada tacos, marinated and grilled to perfection. They also offer a selection of vegetarian options, such as veggie burritos and quesadillas. With most meals costing under fifteen dollars, Taco Loco is a budget-friendly option that doesn’t skimp on taste. The lively atmosphere and friendly staff make it a fun and festive dining experience. Taco Loco can be found right off of Loyola Drive.
For a taste of Southeast Asia, visit Pho Saigon. This unassuming restaurant serves up steaming bowls of authentic Vietnamese pho, a flavorful and aromatic noodle soup that is perfect for a cold day. Pho Saigon is particularly known for its broth, slow-cooked for hours to extract maximum flavor. They also offer a selection of other Vietnamese dishes, such as spring rolls and banh mi sandwiches. With most meals costing under fifteen dollars, Pho Saigon is a budget-friendly and delicious option.
Casual Eats and Comfort Food
Sometimes, all you need is a good old-fashioned burger or a slice of pizza. Kenner offers a variety of casual eateries and comfort food joints to satisfy those cravings.
For a classic burger experience, head to Burger Haven. This local favorite serves up juicy burgers, crispy fries, and creamy milkshakes. Burger Haven is particularly known for its signature burger, topped with all the fixings and served on a toasted bun. They also offer a selection of chicken sandwiches and salads. With meals costing under fifteen dollars, Burger Haven is a budget-friendly and satisfying option.
If you’re in the mood for pizza, check out Pizza Palace. This family-owned pizzeria has been serving up delicious pizzas for over thirty years. Pizza Palace is known for its crispy crust, flavorful sauce, and generous toppings. They also offer a selection of pasta dishes and salads. With pizzas starting at around fifteen dollars, Pizza Palace is a great option for a casual night out.
Budget-Friendly Options
Eating out doesn’t have to break the bank. Kenner offers a variety of budget-friendly options that are both delicious and affordable. Cajun Kitchen Express, Taco Loco, and Pho Saigon, all mentioned above, are excellent choices for a tasty meal without spending a fortune. Look for daily specials and lunch menus to save even more money. Don’t forget to check out local delis and sandwich shops for quick and affordable lunch options.
Family-Friendly Restaurants
Traveling with kids? No problem! Kenner has plenty of family-friendly restaurants that cater to even the pickiest eaters. The Crab Shack, with its lively atmosphere and kid-friendly menu, is a great choice for a fun family night out. Burger Haven, with its classic comfort food and generous portions, is another excellent option. Many restaurants offer kids’ menus and high chairs, making dining with children a breeze.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
Venture off the beaten path and discover some of Kenner’s hidden culinary gems. Ask a local for their recommendations, and you’re sure to uncover some truly special dining experiences. There are many small local restaurants that serve great food. These gems often offer authentic dishes and a unique dining experience.
Conclusion
The food near Kenner, Louisiana, is far more than just convenient airport fare. It’s a diverse and delicious tapestry woven with Cajun and Creole traditions, fresh seafood, and international flavors. Whether you’re craving a steaming bowl of gumbo, a plate of freshly shucked oysters, or a juicy burger, you’ll find it all in Kenner. So, next time you find yourself near MSY, skip the airport food and embark on a culinary adventure through the heart of Kenner. Explore these restaurants near Kenner, La and you will not be disappointed.
We invite you to explore these recommendations and discover your own favorite spots. And don’t forget to share your culinary discoveries in the comments below! Bon appétit, and happy eating!
