BBQ with a Side of Blues

New Orleans isn’t just a food town, it’s one of the United States’ bona fide food meccas, with a culinary heritage deeply interwoven into every aspect of the city’s identity. Yes, New Orleans does dining differently, and BBQ is no exception. Since the Crescent City Blues & BBQ Festival’s founding in 2006, the diversity and range of local BBQ has exploded, reflecting the culinary creativity that distinguishes the city’s restaurant scene.

During this year’s festival, Lafayette Square becomes a one-stop shop where barbecue lovers get to see (and taste) the amazing variety of New Orleans low-and-slow BBQ options first-hand. With pescatarian, vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options available alongside more traditional beef, pork, and chicken options, there’s truly something for everyone. 

Of course many of the giants of local BBQ and Cajun smokehouse traditions will be on hand. Look out for finger-lickin’ offerings from Cochon King BBQ, Devil Moon and Central City BBQ. Traditional New Orleans and Southern classics come courtesy of Cocoa & Cream Catering, Voleos Seafood, Cafe Dauphine, Tiger’s Creole Cuisine, Steakman Catering and Divine Cuisine. Want to discover how BBQ culture is evolving? Don’t miss tasting how Que Pasta Nola Latin Street Food’s BBQ chops are elevating a menu already steeped in fusion. 

For a sweet treat, several local restaurants, including Quintin’s Natural Ice Cream & Sorbet, KD’s NOLA Treats, Fresh Fruit Sensations and Etalian Happy Ice will be on-site to serve desserts, too. Whether you come for the Crescent City Blues & BBQ Festival’s first-rate musical lineup, collectible artwork, or unforgettable local flavors, count on leaving with all your senses nourished. To see what’s on the menu, visit jazzandheritage.org/food-menus-2023-crescent-city-blues-bbq-festival/