New Orleans, a city renowned for its vibrant culture, is an exciting destination for attendees of the Global Security Exchange (GSX) this September. With its rich culinary heritage, lively music scene, and inspiring cityscape, there’s no shortage of experiences to savor in city known as the “Big Easy.” To help you prepare for your GSX experience, ASIS International put this list of hot spots (and links) together for you so you can plan ahead and hit the ground running when you get to town. Feel free to share these tips, too.
Culinary Delights
When it comes to food, New Orleans is a melting pot of flavors influenced by French, Spanish, African, and Creole traditions. Its celebrated food scene has grown to include other global delicacies as well, all with a slightly different twist on things. Here is our “Top 20” list of mouth-watering spots to indulge in local cuisine:
1. Café du Monde: Start your day with a classic beignet and a café au lait at this iconic French market. The airy pastries dusted with powdered sugar are a must-try for any visitor.
2. Commander’s Palace: This award-winning restaurant offers a taste of New Orleans fine dining. Known for its impeccable service and classic Creole dishes, such as shrimp and grits and turtle soup, it’s a perfect place to experience traditional Southern hospitality.
3. Cochon Restaurant New Orleans: Located in the Warehouse District, Cochon specializes in Cajun Southern cooking. Try the boudin or the cochon de lait for a true taste of local flavors. The rustic atmosphere enhances the dining experience.
4. Domilise’s Po-Boy and Bar: For a casual yet delicious meal, head to this local favorite for a po-boy sandwich. The shrimp po-boy is a standout, perfectly fried and served on fresh bread.
5. French Market District: If you’re looking for a variety of options, the French Market offers an array of food stalls featuring everything from jambalaya to gumbo. It’s a great spot to sample different flavors and grab a quick bite.
6. Dooky Chase’s Restaurant: A historic establishment that is a cornerstone of Creole cuisine, Dooky Chase’s is known for its gumbo and fried chicken. This restaurant has played a significant role in the civil rights movement, and dining here offers not only a taste of authentic New Orleans but also a glimpse into its rich history.
7. Stein’s Deli: This beloved deli in the Uptown neighborhood is famous for its incredible sandwiches and a vast selection of artisanal cheeses. Whether you’re craving a classic pastrami on rye or one of their signature creations, Stein’s is a perfect spot for a satisfying lunch. Don’t forget to check out their take-home items for a taste of New Orleans to bring back with you.
8. Herbsaint Bar and Restaurant: Located on St. Charles Avenue, Herbsaint is a modern bistro that offers a blend of Southern and French cuisine. Chef Donald Link’s dishes, such as the house-made pasta and roasted duck, showcase the flavors of the region with a contemporary touch. The ambiance is perfect for a relaxed dinner after a busy day.
9. Cafe Beignet: For a delightful breakfast or afternoon snack, stop by Cafe Beignet for a taste of their famous beignets. With a lovely outdoor patio, it’s a charming spot to enjoy coffee and pastries while soaking in the New Orleans atmosphere.
10. Turkey and the Wolf: A quirky eatery that has gained national acclaim, Turkey and the Wolf is known for its creative sandwiches and unique sides. The “Fried Bologna Sandwich” is a must-try, as is their “Potato Salad” with a twist. The casual, laid-back vibe makes it a great place to grab a quick bite and enjoy some local flair.
11. Brennan’s: This elegant restaurant is famous for its brunch, featuring classic dishes like Bananas Foster, which was invented there. The beautiful courtyard setting makes it a perfect place to unwind after a busy morning.
12. Mothers Restaurant: A local institution, Mother’s is known for its po-boys and traditional New Orleans dishes. The “Ferdi Special” is a popular choice, combining roast beef and ham for a hearty meal. The casual, bustling environment adds to the charm.
13. Shaya: Shaya is a modern Israeli restaurant in New Orleans that blends traditional Middle Eastern flavors with Southern ingredients. Led by Chef Alon Shaya, the menu features fresh, wood-fired pita, vibrant meze and dishes inspired by his heritage. Located in the city’s Uptown neighborhood, Shaya offers a warm, contemporary atmosphere that reflects its bold yet comforting cuisine.
14. Mosquito Supper Club: This is an intimate, reservation-only dining experience in New Orleans that celebrates traditional Cajun cuisine through a seasonal, multi-course tasting menu. Founded by Chef Melissa Martin and housed in a cozy Uptown cottage, the supper club tells the story of Louisiana’s coastal communities with dishes like oyster stew, shrimp boulettes, and crawfish étouffée—all made with locally sourced Gulf ingredients. Guests are seated communally, creating a warm, familial atmosphere where storytelling is as central as the food.
15. Gabrielle Restaurant: This family-run Cajun-Creole spot in New Orleans’ Tremé neighborhood, is known for refined Southern dishes like duck with orange-sherry sauce, BBQ shrimp pie, and she-crab bisque. Led by Chef Greg Sonnier, it offers a cozy, unpretentious dining experience with deep local roots and bold, soulful flavors.
16. The Creole Creamery: Creole Creamery is a beloved Uptown New Orleans ice cream shop known for its creative, house-made flavors like lavender honey, goat cheese & fig, and Thai basil coconut. Housed in a retro 1950s space, it offers everything from classic scoops to the epic eight-scoop Tchoupitoulas Challenge.
17. Dian Xin: This Chinese eatery in the French Quarter is known for its expertly crafted dim sum and bold, street food–style flavors. Favorites include crab and crawfish soup dumplings, jianbing, and salt-and-pepper pork chops—earning it a spot among New Orleans’ top Chinese restaurants.
18. Vincent’s Italian Cuisine: A cozy New Orleans staple serving hearty Italian-Creole classics like crab bisque in a bread bowl and veal cannelloni. With locations in Metairie and Uptown, it’s beloved for its warm, old-school charm and consistently satisfying dishes.
19. Central Grocery & Deli: This is a must-go-to in the French Quarter as they are the original home of the muffuletta—a stacked Italian sandwich made with their legendary olive salad. It’s a must-visit for a true taste of New Orleans food history.
20. Luke: A lively French-Creole brasserie on St. Charles Avenue, known for its raw bar, house-made charcuterie, and local classics like shrimp & grits and duck gumbo. With its mix of Old-World elegance and New Orleans flavor, it’s a go-to for oyster happy hour and upscale comfort food.
Bonus Selection:
Sweet Soulfood: This beloved vegan gem in New Orleans, serving up plant-based versions of Southern Classics like jambalaya, mac & cheese, and okra gumbo. With its vibrant flavors and hearty portions, it’s proof that comfort food doesn’t need meat to be soulful.
Music Scene
The music of New Orleans is as diverse as its food, with jazz, blues, and zydeco echoing through the streets. Here are some top venues to enjoy live performances:
- Preservation Hall: This historic venue is the heart of New Orleans jazz. Catch a traditional jazz performance in an intimate setting, where the music flows as freely as the spirits.
- Frenchmen Street: A hub for local musicians, Frenchmen Street is lined with bars and venues like The Blue Nile and Café Negril. Here, you can find everything from live jazz to reggae performances, often without cover charges.
- Tipitina’s: This legendary venue hosts a range of musical acts, from local favorites to national stars. It’s a great place to experience the energetic vibe of New Orleans music.
- The Spotted Cat Music Club: A small, intimate venue on Frenchmen Street, this club features local jazz bands and is a fantastic spot to dance the night away.
Other Attractions
While you’re in New Orleans for GSX, don’t miss out on
some essential sights:
- The French Quarter: Wander through this historic neighborhood, with its stunning architecture, lively atmosphere, and street performers.
- The National WWII Museum: A short distance from the convention center, this museum offers a deep dive into history, making it a worthwhile visit. It will also serve as the host site for this year’s ASIS CELEBRATES! event taking place on Tuesday night, 30 September (6:30 p.m. – 9:30 p.m.).
- Jackson Square: This iconic park is perfect for people watching and enjoying the local art scene.
- The Gardens of New Orleans: The gardens of New Orleans are a lush reflection of the city’s rich cultural tapestry, blending Creole, Caribbean, and Southern influences in vibrant, fragrant displays. From hidden courtyards to grand oak-lined avenues, they offer a tranquil, living history amid the city’s lively rhythm.
With its irresistible blend of food, music, and culture, New Orleans promises an unforgettable experience for GSX attendees. Whether you’re indulging in a delicious meal or listening to live music, the spirit of the city will leave you enchanted.
To register for GSX 2025, please visit gsx.org.