Tucked just off Jackson Square, Gumbo Shop turns weekend cravings into rituals.
Locals and travelers flock for bowls that steam with history, spice, and stories, earning 4.4 stars from nearly ten thousand fans.
From seafood-and-okra classics to vegan renditions, the Creole flavors are layered, soulful, and deeply comforting.
If you’ve ever wondered why New Orleanians are fiercely loyal to their gumbo, one spoonful here will make you a believer.
Seafood & Okra Gumbo: The Signature Draw
At Gumbo Shop, the seafood and okra gumbo arrives piping hot, lush with Gulf shrimp and crab swirled through a dark, glossy roux. The okra lends silkiness while filé and spices deepen every sip, forming a rich, ocean-kissed backbone.
Ladled over rice and flanked by warm French bread, it’s the bowl regulars plan their weekends around. The courtyard’s breeze, the dining room’s old-world charm, and attentive service elevate the experience.
Add a dash of hot sauce and taste why this Creole classic keeps guests returning, eager for that perfect balance of brine, smoke, and comfort.
Chicken & Andouille: Roux-Deep Comfort
For those who love spice with soul, the chicken and andouille gumbo is a masterclass in balance. Smoky sausage releases peppery richness into a mahogany roux, while tender chicken pulls apart into savory strands.
Each spoonful hums with heat without overwhelming, letting herbs and aromatics shine. Served over rice, it’s straightforward, honest comfort that lingers. Pair with a Cajun Bloody Mary from the full bar for a weekend lunch that feels celebratory.
The staff’s quick, friendly service means your bowl lands hot, fragrant, and ready for French bread dipping—simple pleasures done expertly, again and again.
Vegan Gumbo: Plant-Forward, Full-Flavored
Gumbo Shop’s vegan gumbo proves depth doesn’t require meat. A vegetable-rich stock, okra, and aromatics create body, while spices deliver that unmistakable Creole cadence. It’s hearty, not heavy—equally satisfying for plant-based diners and curious omnivores.
Regulars praise how it captures classic gumbo character with a clean finish, making it a smart pick before an afternoon stroll in the French Quarter. Pair with corn maque choux or a vegetarian po’ boy for a complete, colorful plate.
The result is a bowl that welcomes everyone to the table without compromise—comforting, soulful, and weekend-worthy.
Creole Combination: A Tour of House Favorites
Can’t choose? The Creole combination lets you sample beloved Gumbo Shop staples on one plate. Expect a rotation of gumbo alongside jambalaya, red beans and rice, or étouffée, each representing a delicious chapter of New Orleans’ culinary story.
It’s a smart way to map your tastes for future visits, and many regulars use it as their gateway to the menu. The pacing is brisk, the portions generous, and the flavors layered yet distinct.
Add French bread and butter, then finish with bread pudding or pecan pie for a well-rounded, classic Creole feast.
Courtyard Vibes: Where Bowls Meet Breezes
The courtyard at Gumbo Shop is an oasis amid the French Quarter’s energy. Under dappled light, gumbo bowls feel even more indulgent, steam curling into the warm Louisiana air. It’s ideal for leisurely weekends—cocktails, conversation, and a second basket of bread.
Indoors, vintage details and old-world charm set a timeless mood, with efficient service keeping the experience smooth. Whether you’re refueling after Jackson Square or savoring a late lunch, the setting amplifies every bite.
With operating hours stretching into the evening, you’ll find your perfect window to linger, sip, and slurp.
What Regulars Order: Rituals and Pairings
Ask the regulars and you’ll hear a chorus: seafood and okra gumbo, chicken and andouille, and a side of perfectly crusty French bread.
Many add a Cajun Bloody Mary or a local beer, turning lunch into a mini celebration. Veggie fans swear by the vegan gumbo, corn maque choux, and a vegetarian po’ boy. For dessert, bread pudding or pecan pie closes the loop.
Staff often steers guests toward off-menu specials—trust them. Prices are fair for the Quarter, and the pace is friendly yet efficient. Routine quickly becomes ritual here.
Plan Your Visit: Hours, Location, Essentials
Find Gumbo Shop at 630 St Peter, steps from Jackson Square, with a steady flow of locals and visitors. Doors open at 11 AM daily, closing 10 PM Thursday through Sunday and Friday/Saturday, and 9 PM Monday through Wednesday.
Expect $20–30 per person, with quick, courteous service that keeps things moving. Call +1 504-525-1486 or browse gumboshop.com to check menus and specials.
The space offers indoor charm and a relaxed courtyard—ideal for casual dates, family outings, or solo slurps. Arrive a bit early on weekends to skip the wait and dive right into that first spoonful.
Beyond the Bowl: Sips, Sides, and Sweet Endings
Gumbo reigns, but the supporting cast elevates every visit. Start with a cocktail—the Cajun Bloody Mary or a tropical piña colada—then add sides like red beans and rice, corn maque choux, or grilled catfish.
The bread arrives warm, perfect for chasing the last drops of roux. Save room for bread pudding or pecan pie, both perennial favorites. Servers are personable and quick with suggestions, often pointing to seasonal specials.
Whether you’re a first-timer or a weekend regular, these extras transform a great gumbo into a complete, satisfying New Orleans meal.