On a recent trip to New Orleans we enjoyed two vegan restaurants. Each serving up food associated with the iconic city.
First we headed off the beaten path to I-Tal Garden. No mainstream tourists here. Just locals and vegan tourists like us.
It's one of those places that when you walk in, you just know the food is going to be great. Low frills, but each table was full and everyone was smiling.
I don't know the story of the restaurant but it feels like a family affair. The vibe is very chill. If you are not familiar with "meat and three" restaurants, they are places very popular in the south with locals, where diners choose a meat and three sides. I-Tal Garden's menu has a similar structure but vegan. They have pre designed plate combos, make your own options, and a la carte items as well.
We decided to make our own combo. We shared 2 "veggie proteins" and 3 sides.
We chose the jackfruit ribs and the crispy cauli-wings (both gluten free). For the sides we had Mac and Triple Cheese, Southern Cornbread and Creole Greens. All were very good. The Jackfruit Ribs were a standout - we never had jackfruit like that! The texture and flavor were exciting and delicious. We also love cornbread and greens and I-Tal Garden's did not disappoint.
After dinner we headed over to the French Market. Within this popular tourist destination is Meals From the Heart Cafe and they serve vegan beignets!
Beignets are a deep fried pastry covered in powdered sugar and are very popular in New Orleans. Most places make them with milk, so we were very excited to try the vegan version (which they also assure are dusted with non bone char powdered sugar).
And Yes, they are as good as you imagine. Thank you Meals From the Heart Cafe! Also fyi, Meals From the Heart has a full menu, so be sure to check it out if you visit.
We then took a stroll, had a drink and stumbled upon some great jazz. With vibes like that, no wonder New Orleans called The Big Easy!
I-Tal Garden Plate
Meals From the Heart Cafe Vegan Beignets
