New Orleans Original Seafood Tour of the French Quarter

Our review explores the New Orleans Original Seafood Tour of the French Quarter, a guided food experience that promises to take you beyond the typical tourist spots into the city’s culinary heart. While we haven’t personally sampled every bite, the overwhelmingly positive reviews and detailed itinerary suggest this tour offers a genuine taste of NOLA’s vibrant food scene.

What makes this experience especially appealing are the expertly guided visits to iconic eateries and the chance to sample dishes like Creole crepes and blackened catfish—not just at one place, but across several legendary restaurants. Plus, the small group size ensures a cozy, personal feel.

One potential consideration is that the tour is strictly food-focused—so if you’re not a seafood lover or have specific dietary restrictions (like vegetarian or gluten-free needs), this might not be ideal. But for those eager to sample authentic, hearty dishes and learn about local cuisine from knowledgeable guides, this tour hits the mark. It’s best suited for foodies, first-time visitors, or anyone seeking a tasty, cultural introduction to the French Quarter—and the vibrant flavors of New Orleans.

Key Points

• Authentic Food Experience: Sample classic Creole and Cajun dishes in a carefully curated route.
• Expert Guides: Guides entertain with fun facts and local insights, enriching the tasting.
• Small Group Intimacy: Limited to 16 travelers, ensuring a personal and relaxed atmosphere.
• All-Inclusive Tastings: The ticket price covers five food stops, making it a filling, value-packed experience.
• Historical and Cultural Highlights: Visit landmarks like Jackson Square while exploring local food traditions.
• Ideal for Food Lovers: The tour is perfect for those wanting a deep dive into New Orleans cuisine with no need to research or plan ahead.

The Detailed Experience

The 3-hour tour kicks off at 816 Decatur Street, right in the bustling heart of the French Quarter. You’ll meet your guide at 2:00pm and set out on foot, exploring this historic district while sampling some of the best seafood and Creole fare the city offers.

Tasting Stops and What They Offer

Tujagues is your first stop, a place with a long-standing 160-year reputation for Creole cuisine. Here, you’ll indulge in Shrimp Remoulade and Goat Cheese Crepe, both highlighted as unforgettable by past visitors. One reviewer called the dishes a “Tastebud delight,” noting how the flavors perfectly capture the essence of New Orleans cooking. The restaurant’s history and local atmosphere make it more than just a meal—it’s a connection to the city’s culinary roots.

Next, the tour takes you to Court of Two Sisters, notable for its daily jazz brunch and an enchanting courtyard. Here, the signature dish is Creole Seafood Gumbo, a hearty, spice-laden bowl that embodies NOLA’s love of seafood and bold flavors. The courtyard, with its wisteria-draped trellises and classical fountains, provides a scenic backdrop for your tasting. Many travelers have lauded this stop as a “must do” for first-timers, with some mentioning the availability of local brews to complement the meal.

The Cornet Restaurant on Bourbon Street is next, famous for its legendary balcony and its connection to jazz history—Louis Armstrong’s first horn was given to the family that owns it. Here, you’ll sample Alligator and Blackened Catfish, two dishes that showcase the city’s Cajun and Creole influences. The balcony experience offers a chance to soak in vibrant street life while enjoying your flavorful bites.

Finally, at The Old Coffee Pot, you’ll get a taste of Shrimp and Crab Cakes—a dish so popular it was featured on Diners, Drive-ins and Dives. The tour also includes a sweet ending with Miss Pearl’s Bread Pudding, a classic that’s been made the same way for 50 years, according to reviews. Many visitors find this stop a fitting conclusion, adding a sweet layer to the day’s savory explorations.

Authenticity and Local Flavor

What makes this tour stand out is the focus on authentic, local recipes. The food is hearty, flavorful, and rooted in tradition. The guide’s storytelling enhances each stop, providing context about the dishes’ history and the city’s culinary evolution.

One reviewer mentioned how guide Denise shared “origin stories” behind every dish, adding depth to the tasting experience. Another praised how the guide Kim kept everyone intrigued with fun facts, making the tour more than just a food crawl—it’s a lively cultural journey.

The Practical Side

The price of $99.63 per person might seem steep at first glance, but when you consider the five tastings included—more than enough for lunch—and the personal attention in a small group, it becomes a good value. Plus, the tour covers all food costs at each stop, so there’s no pressure to buy additional items unless you wish to indulge further.

The tour is weather-permissive, meaning it operates in all conditions, so dress accordingly, especially since it involves walking through streets with uneven surfaces. Comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate attire are recommended.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for foodies eager to taste the real flavors of New Orleans without the hassle of research. It suits first-time visitors wanting a quick culture and seasoned travelers craving a culinary highlight. It’s also perfect for small groups or couples seeking an intimate, lively outing with a knowledgeable guide.

What to Keep in Mind

While the tour is highly praised, a few considerations are worth noting. The tour does not cater to specific dietary restrictions like vegetarian, gluten-free, or vegan options. Plus, alcoholic beverages are available for purchase, but not included in the price, so plan accordingly if you wish to pair drinks with your tasting.

Reviewers have shared some slight inconveniences—such as weather halting praline shopping or the occasional miscommunication about the tour’s availability, as one noted with a canceled booking. However, these seem to be exceptions rather than the rule.

The Bottom Line

In all, this French Quarter seafood tour offers a well-balanced mix of delicious food, cultural insights, and personal attention. It’s a fantastic way to get a taste of New Orleans in a relaxed, friendly setting. The focus on local eateries and authentic dishes means you won’t just be eating—you’ll be experiencing the city’s heart through its flavors.

This tour is best for those who want a comprehensive culinary overview without the hassle of planning. It suits travelers who love food, history, and lively atmospheres, all wrapped into a manageable 3-hour outing. The small group size makes it feel special, almost like exploring with friends.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 3 hours, giving enough time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed.

What is included in the ticket price?
All food tastings at five different locations are included, which are more than enough for lunch. Beverages are available for purchase, but not included.

Are there any dietary restrictions accommodated?
No, this tour does not provide substitutions for vegetarians, shellfish allergies, gluten-free, dairy-free, or other special diets.

Where does the tour start and end?
The tour begins at 816 Decatur Street and concludes in the French Quarter, near the starting point.

What is the group size?
Maximum of 16 travelers, ensuring a more personal experience.

Do I need to bring anything?
Comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate attire are recommended, as it’s a walking tour in all weather conditions.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is there an age restriction?
Most travelers can participate; specific age restrictions aren’t noted, but keep in mind the walking and eating nature of the tour.

Final thoughts

If you’re after an enriching, flavor-packed introduction to New Orleans’ cuisine, this tour delivers. The combination of authentic dishes, intimate group size, and knowledgeable guides creates an experience that’s both fun and educational. While it’s designed for seafood lovers and those eager to discover local culinary traditions, even skeptics of seafood might find themselves surprised by how much they enjoy the variety.

For travelers who want more than just sightseeing and are willing to indulge their taste buds, the New Orleans Original Seafood Tour stands as a tasty, memorable way to understand the city through its most delicious lens—food.