The 26 Best Restaurants in New Orleans

"New Orleans has a strong Vietnamese food scene, and with most of the best such joints being in out-of-the-way spots, it’s mostly locals that benefit. For visitors to the city, Tan Dinh entails a drive to the decidedly untouristy neighborhood of the West Bank, which peers at downtown New Orleans across the mighty Mississippi River. Their pho is the most in-demand and celebrated dish, and it’s customizable with meat choices such as flank steak, beef balls, brisket, and even tripe for the die-hard purists. Appetizers make up an esoteric list that ranges from flash-fried frog legs to marinated quail to clay pot-baked catfish, plus classics such as spring rolls. Many locals have come to make it part of the irregular eating habit, and in regular times, it’s even a place to watch the football on a Sunday afternoon. There are thankfully a few Vietnamese restaurants that have solidified their place in the New Orleans culinary firmament, and Tan Dinh is one of them." - Paul Oswell