Beignets Are Calling: Our Sweet Adventure in New Orleans Awaits

 

While planning our upcoming trip to New Orleans, there’s one thing we’ve already decided on: we’re going all in on beignets. The very moment we started talking to people about our trip, three separate conversations began with, “You HAVE to try the beignets.” Without even asking for recommendations, this fried, powdered-sugar-dusted treat was at the top of everyone’s must-try list.

(Image: AI generated. Real pictures to come when we go!)

(Disclaimer: Some of the links on here are affiliate links and I may earn if you click or buy on them, AT NO EXTRA cost to you. Hope you find the information here useful! Thanks.)

We’ll admit, we’ve never had a beignet before. We’ve had donuts—plenty of donuts—but from what we’ve heard, beignets are something else entirely. Curious, we dug into their history via the Food Network (recipies can also be found here). Beignets, as we learned, are square, puffy pastries made with a less-sweet dough and fried to golden perfection before being buried under a mountain of powdered sugar. They’re a New Orleans staple that dates back to the Acadian migration, and their popularity has only grown over time. You can find them served throughout the day—as breakfast, a midday treat, dessert, or even a midnight snack. (There are even tasting tours you can take!)

Naturally, with Megan's help (a nice map can be found on her page) we started planning our beignet stops, and here’s what’s on our must-visit list:

1. Café du Monde
   We can’t miss this classic spot. It’s been serving beignets since 1862 and is practically synonymous with New Orleans. While we’ve heard their French Quarter location is iconic, we’re leaning toward the City Park outpost for its serene vibe and plenty of parking. We can already picture ourselves people-watching while savoring hot, chewy beignets with a chicory café au lait.

2. Loretta’s Authentic Pralines
   Known for putting a creative twist on the classic, Loretta’s offers praline beignets topped with melted pecan candy. We’re also intrigued by their savory options, like crabmeat-stuffed beignets. Their Marigny location sounds like the perfect spot to soak up some local flavor while enjoying these unique treats.

3. Stuph’D
   This place takes beignets to the next level with their stuffed creations. We’re already eyeing the Creole Queen, filled with crabmeat, crawfish, and shrimp, but we’re also tempted to try their pecan pie and brownie options for dessert. Plus, their Dat Punch drink, made with real fruit juices, sounds like the ideal pairing.

4. Chemin à la Mer
   For a more upscale experience, we’ll be stopping by this Four Seasons gem to try their housemade boudin-stuffed beignets. Sweet, savory, and served with views of the Mississippi River—how could we resist?

5. The Vintage
   For a fun twist, The Vintage is on our radar. From matcha-flavored beignets to seasonal specials like blueberry cheesecake, their creative takes are too intriguing to pass up. And the cozy, swanky cafe vibe is perfect for unwinding after a busy day of sightseeing.

6. La Petite Grocery
   As seafood lovers, we’re excited to try their blue crab beignets. Served with malt vinegar aioli, these sound like the perfect savory snack for strolling along Magazine Street.

We’re already imagining the powdered sugar dusting our clothes and the sweet aroma of freshly fried dough filling the air. Beignets feel like more than just a snack—they’re a quintessential part of the New Orleans experience, and we can’t wait to dive in.

Have we missed any hidden gems for beignets in New Orleans? Drop your recommendations in the comments below—we’ll happily add them to our itinerary!