🎺 Budget Guide to New Orleans: Music, Culture & Food on the Cheap 🎷

Affordable Eats & Local Favorites Without Breaking the Bank

Hey y’all! If you’re heading to New Orleans soon and your wallet’s already whispering “be gentle,” then you’re in the right place. I’m about to make my first trip to this soulful city—from just a few hours away—but like many of you, I’ve got to keep things budget-friendly. That doesn’t mean settling for fast food or missing out on authentic Creole, Cajun, or soul flavors. Nope. NOLA’s got plenty of cheap eats, and I’ve gathered the best tips so you can eat like a local without spending like a tourist.

🍗 Where to Find Cheap, Authentic Food in New Orleans

1. The BEST Fried Chicken (That’s Not Popeye’s)

Look, Popeye’s was born in Louisiana, but if you want to taste fried chicken that locals swear by, make your way just outside New Orleans to Highway Fried Chicken in Harahan.

Pro tip: It’s a gas station spot—but don’t be fooled. This is the real deal. Crispy, juicy, seasoned to perfection, and cheaper than most city options.

2. Coop’s Place – A Quarter Legend

If you’re near the French Quarter, check out Coop’s Place. It’s one of the most affordable and authentic joints around. Locals swear by their:

• Fried Chicken

• Jambalaya

• Barbecue Shrimp

• In-house made salad dressings (yes, even the coleslaw slaps)

It’s got a gritty charm, loyal crowd, and won’t empty your wallet.

3. Adams Grocery – Hidden Gem in Carrollton

You haven’t truly done New Orleans until you’ve had a po-boy, and Adams Grocery serves up giant po-boys for $5–$6. Perfect to grab and eat at City Park, or in your car (no shame, we’ve all been there).

🌮 Pop-Ups, Plates & Tacos: Neighborhood Secrets

New Orleans is full of cash-only counters and local pop-ups that feel like stumbling into a food treasure map.

• Frady’s One Stop (Bywater) – Classic hot plate meals & po-boys.

• Jamaican Jerk House – Great weekday lunch specials.

• Hank’s Supermarket – Another go-to for fried chicken on the cheap.

• Rosalita’s Backyard Tacos – Flavor-packed and friendly on the budget.

• Faubourg Wines – Sip on $5 glasses of wine, because why not?

For something more spontaneous, check out the pop-up food vendors near AllWays Lounge or Hi Ho Lounge—especially in the neutral ground areas. It’s street food meets community vibes.

🥪 Vegetarian & Vegan Options That Won’t Break the Bank

Vegetarians, you’re not forgotten!

• Breads on Oak (CBD): Don’t skip their vegan muffaletta. Packed with flavor, zero animal products.

• Wakin Bakin: Mixed reviews, but worth a try—especially if you love a brunchy vibe.

• Veri Mart (Quarter): 24/7 spot. Great sandwiches for night owls or early birds.

• Twelfth Night Coffee: Solid coffee and pastries, no overpriced nonsense.

Note: Café du Monde is iconic, but the beignets at Quarter Café can be a bit dense. Might not be worth the hype (but we’ll let you decide!).

🎶 Final Thoughts: Budget Doesn’t Mean Boring in the Big Easy

New Orleans is alive with culture, rhythm, and food that tells a story—and you don’t have to spend big to enjoy it all. Whether you’re snacking on a po-boy in your car, sipping wine under string lights, or dancing down Frenchmen Street with fried chicken in hand, you’ll quickly see that this city’s flavor doesn’t come from fancy dining—but from its soul.

📌 Quick Tips:

• Bring cash – A lot of the best local spots are cash-only.

• Check happy hours – Some of the best deals are tucked away in afternoon specials.

• Talk to locals – Ask your Uber driver or bartender where they eat.

• Skip tourist traps – If it looks like a postcard, it’s probably overpriced.

Planning a trip to NOLA? Save this post and follow @TuneTravels for more budget tips, food recs, and soulful street finds.