Living and working in the Harahan/River Ridge area for the past 14 years, I rarely leave my neck of the woods when I’m wanting a great place to eat. The Harahan and River Ridge area is a well-kept secret when it comes to New Orleans suburbs, but few realize this area features some of the finest and most fun places to dine. Here are several reasons to pay a visit to Harahan and River Ridge next time you’re looking for a cool place to try:
- Seither’s Seafood. This is an awesome little place for a seafood lunch or dinner. There are people who make special trips to Seither’s anytime they’re in town. It’s an adorable place with excellent food.
- Happy Italian. This little family-owned Italian place stole my heart right from the beginning. If you can pass up the pancetta mac and cheese, you’re stronger than I. The chef features a special each day, and the pizzas are made in-house. This is a fantastic place to carry out a pizza or to bring the family for dinner.
- Koz. Years ago when I lived in the Gentilly area, I had the best muffuletta at a place called The Bakery. Katrina washed the place away, but the chef, Koz, popped back up in Harahan and boy am I happy he did. This little place carries the same casual vibe as The Bakery did, and the muffulettas never disappoint. If you’re not an olive salad fan, try any of the poboys, and if you need to feed a crowd, grab a whole loaf! It’ll go the length of your table and everyone will be happy. Extra points if you try the mac and cheese with gravy!
- The Wandering Goat. Brandy and Dale are an adorable couple who opened this quirky bakery full of delicious surprises. Bring the kids since there’s a selection of games they can play while you order at the counter. Macarons, cakes, cookies, bagels, bread, coffee, and more await you here, and plenty of gluten-free options are available. An everything bagel with lemon dill whipped cream cheese will send you straight to breakfast heaven. My current obsession is Brandy’s cookie dough cookies and the pickle bread. Check the hours before you go, but make the trip. It’s worth it.
- Rosemary and Roux. The physical location on Hickory, is unfortunately closing, but they will still be doing pop ups & catering. The roast beef debris po-boy with garlic fries is my favorite, though a Cobb salad is also an excellent choice from here if you’re looking to go a healthier route.
- Smoked. Steve and Maureen opened this BBQ place a few years ago and their brisket is second to none. The pork is also amazing. I purchased my Thanksgiving turkey from here and will never go back to anything else. They serve breakfast options that are unique and fun, and the sides they offer do not disappoint, neither do the desserts like banana pudding or blueberry cobbler. If you’re in the mood for BBQ and haven’t tried Smoked, do yourself a favor.
- The 70123 Restaurant (formerly Perrins) This restaurant at the corner of Sauve and Hickory is a great place to bring the family. Burgers, seafood, sandwiches, and more are on the menu so there’s something for everyone.
- Oak Oven. Someone made excellent use of a closed-down fast food restaurant, turning it into this adorable place to have a lovely lunch or dinner. House-made pasta, sauces, gelato, and more are an awesome feature here. This is a great place for a grown-up night out, and also features an outdoor seating option. If you leave without having the tiramisu, don’t blame me.
- Tres Bon Meats. You can walk into this place and leave with a bag full of hot cracklins. If you know, you know. This is a great place for lunch or you can stop by to pick up a selection of meat for home. Some of my favorites from here have been the brisket, a venison egg roll, and andouille mac and cheese. (I know, again with the mac and cheese! What can I say?)
- Debbie on the Levee. This little spot, right on the edge of River Ridge and Kenner, is an annex of The Bakery Bar. If you’ve ever had a Debbie Does Doberge cake (and if you haven’t, you need to remedy that) you can get a slice at Debbie on the Levee along with a cocktail to wash it down. This adorable place brings a bit of downtown flair to our little suburb. Weekend mornings are a great time to visit for a biscuit special or ending your day with a sweet treat and a cocktail from here is an ideal option this top ten list is by no means an exhaustive compilation of the offerings in Harahan and River Ridge. This neighborhood is close-knit, but options like a weekly Farmers Market, plenty of coffee shops, fun bars, cute boutiques, and more make it a great place to visit for a good time. See ya’ll around!
- The Red Wagon Grocery and Deli. Best place for poboys and lunch specials. The prices are reasonable. Fan favorites in clude the Shrimp Poboy, fettuccini, chicken, salad and potato salad. Just remember to bring cash or check for payment.
- Kim Ahn’s Noodle House. The best Pho in Harahan. Not interested in pho, their menu has many more delicious options, something for everyone.
- Royal Thai Bistreaux. Amazing thai restaurant located on Hickory Avenue in Harahan. Must try the shrimp pad thai!
- Okini Sushi Bar. Serving freshly made sushi and alcoholic drinks (sake)!
- Taqueria Corona. Looking for some delicious Mexican food? This local favorite has a delicious menu including their taco pizzas and homemade flan for dessert.