Local New Orleans Diners

Nothing beats discovering a small, mom-and-pop type diner in your area. The food is typically home-style and the prices are worth writing home about. In the Greater New Orleans area, these types of diners seem to exist on every street corner. You may not be lured in by the looks of the establishment, but word of mouth of the following diners is what boosts their popularity.

First, there's Café Fleur de Lis on Chartres Street in the French Quarter. It was deemed "The Best Breakfast Eatery in the French Quarter". They are open from 7am to 3pm and are known for their breakfast dishes such as their Fleur de Lis Omelet and their Big Easy Breakfast. Their breakfast prices range from $3.95 to $11.95. You can also opt for a healthier menu item such as their fruits, salads, and sandwiches. They also offer a variety of pastries you can bring home to enjoy later. www.cafefleurdelis.com

Next, there's The Camellia Grill located on South Carrollton near Tulane University. If you're searching for a silver spoon type eatery, this landmark New Orleans eatery is the place for you. It's been part of the city's food culture since 1946 and with no dish over $10, you will find an eclectic mix of people dining there. From their blender mixed eggs and omelets the size of a rolled up magazine, to their grilled cheese and grilled chicken sandwiches, your taste buds are sure to be satisfied. Recently, I had my fill of their chili cheese fries and am quite positive I've never found any other restaurant that created these so sloppy and enjoyable. www.camelliagrill.net

Lastly, you can get entertain your taste buds at Mother's Restaurant on the corner of Poydras and Tchoupitoulas Street. Having been open since 1938, Mother's was a local hang out for the U.S. Marine Corps during and after World War II. Aside from the restaurant's impressive history, Mother's is also known for its impressive demand of their ham and roast beef sandwiches. Daily, you can view a line wrapped around the street corner - people waiting to get sink their teeth into one of their outstanding sandwiches. As Mother's website states, "In a single year, Mother's serves up no less than 175,000 pounds of ham and roast beef, and more than 40,000 pounds of turkey". Trust me, the wait is worth the taste. www.mothersrestaurant.net

Keep in mind these are simply three of the umpteen local diners in and around the New Orleans area. Your best bet is to stop in and try the fare at any of the diners located on almost every street corner. With a majority of them owned and run by some of the oldest and most experienced New Orleans chefs, you are sure to get your fill of a true New Orleans-type dining experience.