Louisiana’s culinary landscape is as diverse and flavorful as its cultural heritage, with the muffuletta standing out as a quintessential New Orleans sandwich.
Beloved for its unique blend of cured meats, cheeses, and tangy olive salad, the muffuletta is a testament to the city’s rich Italian influence.
This blog post celebrates seven exceptional muffuletta shops across Louisiana, each preserving the sandwich’s authentic spirit while adding their own distinctive touches.
From historic delis to modern bistros, these establishments keep the tradition alive, making the muffuletta a cherished part of the local food scene.
Central Grocery & Deli
Central Grocery & Deli, established in 1906 by Salvatore Lupo, is the birthplace of the muffuletta. Nestled in the bustling French Quarter, this iconic deli continues to set the standard for the traditional sandwich.
Owned by Lupo’s descendants, it preserves its original charm, offering jars of its famous olive salad. After Hurricane Ida’s closure, it reopened in December 2024, much to the delight of locals and tourists.
The classic muffuletta, with its layers of meats and cheeses, remains a staple, reflecting the deli’s commitment to authenticity.
Napoleon House
Napoleon House, a beloved spot in the French Quarter, offers a warm twist on the traditional muffuletta. Known for its inviting atmosphere and historic charm, it serves the sandwich toasted, enhancing the flavors of its classic ingredients.
The olive salad is made in-house, respecting the sandwich’s roots while catering to varied tastes. Despite the warm preparation, Napoleon House stays true to the muffuletta’s essence, balancing heritage with culinary innovation.
Its ambience and history make it a must-visit for those seeking an authentic New Orleans experience.
DiMartino’s Famous New Orleans Muffulettas
DiMartino’s, founded in 1975 by Peter DiMartino, is a regional chain with multiple locations. Known for its generous portions, the muffuletta is central to its identity.
Each sandwich upholds the traditional layering of meats and cheeses, complemented by a flavorful olive salad. While some locations offer a toasted option, consistency in quality is maintained across all branches.
DiMartino’s dedication to the original recipe ensures that customers experience the true essence of the muffuletta, making it a beloved choice for locals and visitors alike.
Cannatella Grocery
Cannatella Grocery, originally founded in 1923, adds a personal touch to the muffuletta tradition. This family-run Italian grocery, located in Baton Rouge, bakes its own round loaves daily, ensuring freshness.
The olive salad is crafted in-store, adhering to traditional recipes. Customers can choose between hot or cold versions, with each bite maintaining a balance of meats and cheeses.
Cannatella’s commitment to quality and tradition resonates with those seeking an authentic taste of Louisiana’s Italian heritage, making it a cherished stop for muffuletta enthusiasts.
Cochon Butcher
Cochon Butcher, a modern deli in New Orleans, elevates the muffuletta with its artisanal approach. Known for house-made cured meats and a dedication to quality, it respects the sandwich’s legacy while infusing innovation.
The carefully selected meats and cheeses create a harmonious blend, reminiscent of the original. Cochon Butcher’s respect for tradition, combined with a focus on ingredient excellence, makes it a favorite among those appreciating both history and flavor.
Its rustic setting adds to the appeal, offering a genuine taste of New Orleans’ culinary artistry.
Verti Marte
Verti Marte, a hidden gem in the French Quarter, is renowned for its “Mighty Muffuletta.” This corner store deli offers a casual setting for enjoying the iconic sandwich.
Whether served cold or hot, the muffuletta’s generous layers of meats and olive salad delight the palate. Verti Marte’s commitment to preserving the neighborhood feel, while serving a sandwich close to the traditional version, makes it a popular choice.
When Central Grocery is unavailable, locals and tourists alike flock to this vibrant spot for an authentic muffuletta experience.
Alberto’s Cheese and Wine Bistro
Located in the French Market, Alberto’s Cheese and Wine Bistro offers a muffuletta that pays homage to tradition while embracing innovation.
The sandwich features house-made olive salad and traditional meats, with occasional twists like different cheeses. This small bistro captures the essence of New Orleans by blending Mediterranean influences with local flavors.
For visitors seeking authenticity amidst the market’s hustle and bustle, Alberto’s provides a genuine taste of the city’s culinary spirit. Its dedication to maintaining core flavors makes it a noteworthy destination.