Central Grocery and Deli
Italian grocery store · French Quarter ·
Invented the muffuletta sandwich, a large Italian deli classic
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Invented the muffuletta sandwich, a large Italian deli classic
"Known for a famously hefty muffaletta that can be intense to finish—an iconic, substantial sandwich experience that challenges even avid eaters." - Henna Bakshi
"Central Grocery returned to New Orleans’s iconic foods landscape in December 2024 after being closed for three years following Hurricane Ida. Thank goodness, because a taste of the deli’s famed muffuletta is that much more special after visiting the French Quarter storefront where it was invented. The sandwich, which is the only one Central Grocery sells, is layered with olive salad, Genoa salami, ham, mortadella, provolone, and Swiss cheese, and is served cold. It travels exceptionally well, so a good move is to bring one down to the riverfront for an al fresco experience. If a hot and toasty version of the sandwich sounds more your style, the nearby Napoleon House is the spot to try one. Here’s a full list of where to find the best muffulettas in town." - Eater Staff
"Described as the iconic storefront across from the French Market (open again at 923 Decatur), this is the origin point for the muffuletta: the famous sandwich was layered with olive salad, genoa salami, ham, mortadella, provolone, and Swiss cheese on bread as big as a plate." - Beth D’Addono
"Opened in 1906; closed in 2021 for three years Central Grocery in the French Quarter invented the muffaletta a century ago, and proceeded to produce the sandwiches for long lines of people until Hurricane Ida hit. The restaurant closed for a long, sad period of repairs. Even though you could get Central Grocery’s sandwich at a few other locations around town (or order a three-pack on Goldbelly for $165), New Orleans just wasn’t the same without them. Thank god, Central Grocery reopened in December 2024 with 16-ounce jars of raw garlic, imported pecorino, and tangy olive spread stocked on their shelves. The biggest draw is the new seating area in the back, where you can take down their legendary (and large) sandwich." - anne cruz
"The po’boy might be the most famous sandwich in New Orleans, but the muffuletta—a giant Italian sandwich that can easily feed four people—is a close second. You can find it across the city, but it was invented at Central Grocery in the French Quarter, and that’s where you should eat one. This Italian specialty shop recently reopened in the same building with more seating in the back. There’s always a lunch crowd, but they’re constantly churning out muffulettas, so the line moves quick." - megan braden perry, zella palmer, team infatuation
