Welcome to New Orleans Creole Cafe
Welcome to New Orleans Creole Cafe, a hidden gem in San Diego that brings the vibrant flavors of Cajun and Creole cuisine right to your table. Nestled in a quaint bungalow, this intimate eatery offers a unique dining experience reminiscent of a cozy dinner party. Under the watchful eye of its dedicated chef-owner, guests are treated to dishes like rich gumbo, savory crawfish étouffée, and mouthwatering BBQ shrimp. Each plate encapsulates authentic New Orleans spirit, complemented by friendly, laid-back service. Whether indulging in their homemade bread pudding or savoring the hearty alligator sausage, every visit promises a delightful journey through Louisiana's culinary treasures.
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2476 San Diego Ave A, San Diego, CA 92110 Hotline: (619) 542-1698
Welcome to the vibrant flavors of the New Orleans Creole Cafe, nestled in the heart of San Diego at 2476 San Diego Ave A. This small gem specializes in authentic Cajun and Creole cuisine, providing a warm and inviting atmosphere reminiscent of a rustic New Orleans bungalow. From the moment you step inside, you're transported to a place where the soul of Louisiana's culinary heritage comes alive.
The cafe boasts an array of tantalizing starters, including the Shrimp Remoulade Salad and Blackened Alligator Sausage, both bursting with rich flavors and a delightful kick. As you delve deeper into the menu, you’ll encounter the signature Chicken, Shrimp, and Beef Sausage Gumbo, often hailed as a must-try. The dark roux intermingled with peppers and spices transforms this dish into a melting pot of warmth and comfort, often described as having “the glow” by satisfied patrons.
- Fried Shrimp Platter: Delightfully battered and fried to a golden crisp, served with creole sauce – a true crowd-pleaser.
- Crawfish Étouffée: The epitome of deep flavor; generous portions of crawfish swim in a buttery sauce, making it a highlight of the dining experience.
- Macaroni and Cheese: Surprisingly creamy and perfectly spiced, this dish has garnered a loyal following among families.
For those with a sweet tooth, the cafe does not disappoint. The Bread Pudding with Whiskey Sauce is a decadent finale that has patrons raving about its heavenly taste and texture.
Amidst the buzz of dining, the personal touches from the owner and staff stand out. Described as friendly and down-to-earth, they create an atmosphere where you feel like part of a family gathering. With only a handful of tables, the intimacy of the dining area allows for a personalized experience; it truly feels as if you’ve stepped into someone’s home for dinner.
While the café may have a few quirks, such as no formal greeter and a cozy setting with minimal air circulation, these add to its charm. Guests have noted that the ambiance complements the dining experience, making it a unique spot to enjoy a taste of New Orleans in Southern California.
In the words of loyal customers, this cafe is a hidden treasure that deserves attention—even if it means navigating a slightly unconventional dining setup. So whether you’re a long-time fan of Creole cuisine or a first-timer eager to explore, the New Orleans Creole Cafe captivates taste buds with every dish. Don’t miss your chance to visit this enchanting establishment that promises warmth, flavor, and a touch of New Orleans magic.
For reservations or inquiries, feel free to call (619) 542-1698. But be advised, dining here means embracing the spirit of spontaneity—just walk in and secure your spot to savor the soulful flavors that await!
Omg the sauce in the shrimp creole soooo good. Bread was perfect owner was friendly down to earth. Worth the trip and definitely will be back. Wish I had taken a pic, will next time..
I am extremely surprised by the poor reviews. Our experience did not reflect that. We smelled the delicious food while waiting for our Whaley house tour and decided to look in. The restaurant appeared full. We decided to go in after the tour and found it empty. Keep in mind it is a bit confusing to know how it goes, there's no greeter. You just go in. We were worried that maybe 45 min before closing was too late but the waiter was great and personable. We loved our alligator sausage, gumbo, and crawfish etouffee. Agree with the other poster that nothing was spicy but had great depth of flavor. The bread and salad weren't anything to write home about but not worth taking off a star. Definitely a great creole meal outside of Louisiana. Seemed to be just the cook and the server working there. As the only patrons we didn't have a problem with it but might be a bit of a concern if the place is busy.
Having returned from a NOLA trip where I ate crawfish étouffée, every single day, I was really craving but didn't think I'd find what I was looking for in San Diego. We came on a weeknight in January and easily found parking out front. The restaurant is more of a bungalow, and it's quiet and really pretty on the outside. There is a door on the left of the stairs that leads to a small, old timey dining room, and it's going to be weird...I'll warn you about that. When you open the door, it feels like you just walked in on someone's private dinner party. It's super quiet in there and it's just a bunch of tables. No host/hostess. You seat yourself if there's a table. A server comes in and out of the room to serve the tables. The Mac and cheese was meh, we ordered it for a toddler. The crawfish étouffée was so good, they did not skimp on crawfish. I like it a little spicier, but this was what I needed. I would definitely come back here! If it's a cold night, dress accordingly, this bungalow is not insulated and the server comes in and out, so it was freezing. Can't imagine the heat in summer, but the food is worth it.
We didn't expect much from this little spot in Old Town. Creole in Old Town? Who would've thought?! But it is authentic and delicious. The guys running this restaurant are chill and laid back. Don't expect a fancy reservation or waitlist. Just show up and hope you get a coveted table. We've been back several times, it's where I bring friends or family when I want to do something a little unique.
Came for dinner last night and the food was really good. Got the crawfish etoufee and a macaroni and cheese for my son, which he thoroughly enjoyed. I would come back here again
I cant believe I've never written a review about one of my favorite restaurants in the country. Been going here for years! Best New Orleans food in San Diego and I've tried them all. We's try one restaurant and be like, nope it's not better. Gumbo is better than Emeril's. That's right. This food is fine dining at non fine dining prices. Service is impeccable. Hes the cook AND the server and hes always checking up on the customers. It's in what feels like a tucked away cabin with a lot of NOLA chachkis. And outside the door is the small park so you never hear noise from the street. I love it, theres no other restaurant setting like this. It's like you're at your auntie's house. Now I wanna go back. Will update posts with photos! Some things to be aware of: - the dining room is very intimate. Tables are spaced out but if you're a loud talker, the whole dining room will hear you lol - he doesnt do takeout. He's too busy. You just gotta dine in! Food: - for non seafood eaters, the gumbo and jambalaya are still good! You can pick out the shrimps easily. - mac and cheese is the best in San diego! Theres nothing like it. That creamy cheese sauce is the most flavorful I've had - crawfish etoufee: that's my usual go to dish
Returned in January to get a large order to go for my wife's Birthday . The owner partners are the nicest guys around. Packed everything up nice to go. Remember there is a 4% fee if you use a credit card. Bring Cash.
Public parking in old town Located at the Whaley house backyard Check in at the kitchen 6 inside tables no AC just fans Few tables outside for take out eating Be patient slow service Cooked to order Restroom works for dinners only Salad and bread included Small menu 4% charge for Creditcard's