10 Legendary Louisiana Po’Boy Shops Loved By Locals
Louisiana po’boys are more than just sandwiches – they’re a cultural treasure. These iconic creations feature crusty French bread stuffed with everything from fried seafood to roast beef, dressed with lettuce, tomato, pickles, and mayo.
When hunger strikes in the Bayou State, locals skip the chains and head to these beloved po’boy shops where tradition and flavor come together in every bite.
1. Parkway Bakery & Tavern – New Orleans
Founded in 1911, this Mid-City landmark survived Hurricane Katrina to reclaim its po’boy throne. The vintage building houses a century of sandwich-making wisdom.
Their surf and turf po’boy combines roast beef and fried shrimp for the indecisive eater. Locals recommend the gravy-soaked roast beef that requires a stack of napkins and zero shame about the delicious mess you’ll make.
2. Domilise’s Po-Boy & Bar – New Orleans
Hidden in an unassuming residential corner of Uptown, this hole-in-the-wall has served generations of New Orleanians since 1918. Yellow formica counters and wood paneling create a time capsule atmosphere.
Their fried shrimp po’boy achieves the perfect balance – crispy golden shrimp, soft bread, and zingy sauce. The sandwich makers behind the counter have decades of experience and zero patience for complicated orders.
3. Old Tyme Grocery – Lafayette
College students and locals pack this converted grocery store for what many consider Lafayette’s finest po’boys. The shop’s weathered wooden exterior holds no pretension – just sandwich perfection.
Their seafood options shine, particularly the fried crawfish po’boy that captures Louisiana’s essence. Owner Glenn Murphree started as a delivery driver before buying the place in 1982, and his commitment to quality hasn’t wavered in four decades.
4. Marilynn’s Place – Shreveport
Chef Robert Baucom transformed an old gas station into this North Louisiana Cajun oasis. The casual atmosphere features patio seating where locals gather for both traditional and creative po’boys.
Their Cajun Cuban po’boy fuses Louisiana and Miami influences with roast pork, ham, and spicy remoulade. Weekend crowds spill onto the patio during their famous Brunch service, where bloody marys flow alongside their hangover-curing breakfast po’boys.
5. Mother’s Restaurant – New Orleans
Since 1938, this downtown institution has welcomed everyone from dock workers to presidents. The walls display decades of history while lines often stretch out the door.
Their Ferdi Special combines ham and roast beef with debris – the roast beef bits that fall into the gravy during cooking. Locals know to order their po’boys “dressed” with cabbage instead of lettuce, a Mother’s tradition that sets them apart from other shops.
6. Killer Poboys – New Orleans
Tucked inside the Erin Rose Bar in the French Quarter, this modern take on tradition proves po’boys can evolve. The tiny kitchen space produces globally-inspired creations that would shock po’boy purists.
Their glazed pork belly po’boy with lime slaw and garlic aioli breaks all the rules in the best way. While traditionalists might scoff, locals appreciate how chef Cam Boudreaux respects the soul of po’boys while introducing international flavors and techniques.
7. Guy’s Po-Boys – New Orleans
Fern Decuir has run this Magazine Street gem since 1992 with no-nonsense efficiency. The small shop’s handwritten menu board and cash-only policy remind customers of simpler times.
Their potato salad-topped roast beef po’boy inspires fierce loyalty among regulars. Guy’s blackened shrimp version delivers the perfect spice kick, and savvy customers know to call ahead on Saints game days when lines can stretch down the block.
8. NOLA Poboys – New Orleans
Murray Tate’s French Quarter shop offers over 45 po’boy varieties to satisfy every craving. The walls showcase New Orleans culture while tourists and locals alike debate their next sandwich choice.
Their alligator sausage po’boy introduces visitors to Louisiana’s wilder flavors. The crawfish étouffée po’boy brilliantly combines two Cajun classics into one portable meal, making this spot a favorite for those wanting authentic flavors without a formal sit-down restaurant.
9. Johnny’s Po-Boys – New Orleans
This French Quarter institution has fed hungry visitors since 1950. The no-frills interior features communal tables where strangers become friends over massive sandwiches.
Their breakfast po’boys filled with eggs and hot sausage cure the worst Bourbon Street hangovers. Family-owned for three generations, Johnny’s represents old-school New Orleans – where quality ingredients and generous portions matter more than fancy decor or trendy food concepts.
10. Crabby Jack’s – New Orleans
Chef Jacques Leonardi of Jacques-Imo’s fame created this casual Jefferson Highway spot for quick, affordable versions of his Creole specialties. The quirky decor features folk art and vintage signs collecting decades of patina.
Their slow-roasted duck po’boy with gravy has achieved legendary status among food enthusiasts. Regulars know to arrive before noon when popular items like fried green tomato and shrimp po’boys often sell out, leaving latecomers to choose from limited options.
