KIRK WINDSTEIN’S FIVE BEST FOODS TO TRY IN NEW ORLEANS

New Orleans isn’t just known for it’s metal and sludge music — it’s also a hot bed for good eats! If you’re planning on traveling here, give these dishes a whirl, and wash ’em down with a daiquiri!

(YES, the picture is real. You can actually go to a DRIVE THROUGH and buy booze here in Louisiana!)

#5 – Shrimp, Oysters, Crawfish

Despite the recent environmental issues with the aftermath of Katrina and now the horrendous oil spill, you can still get some really good local and farm-raised shellfish. When Jasta comes to town, I take him to the Harbor, where we destroy about fifteen pounds of Crawfish. I like to suck the face off!

#4 – Po Boy Sandwich from Mother’s (Crawfish, Shrimp or Oyster)

You haven’t lived until you’ve had a Po Boy in Nola.

#3 – Char Grill Oysters from Drago’s

It’s said that Mel Gibson loves this place… lots of celebs go there to enjoy these bad boys. I’ll suck down thirty-six in one sitting!

#2 – Muffaletta sandwich from Central Grocery

Muffaletta is a round, “Italian” sandwich piled with more meat than Carnie Wilson giving Mo’nique a piggy back ride! However, the defining and best quality of a mufaletta is the olive salad.

#1 – Gumbo from Acme’s Oyster House

People wait in line for a long time just to get a bowl or cup of this goodness!

After you try this you shall thank the old one by buying me a cold one!

Since I took the time to write this you should take the time to check out this bad ass shirt!

And for the truly daring, try the turtle soup at Commander’s or the blackened gator at The Harbor.

Gator tastes good, don’t be scared!

I also advise on trying a BEIGNET (pronounced ben-YAY) — it’s a light, flaky, hollow doughnut covered with powdered sugar. You can get real good ones Cafe Du Monde.

So next time you’re in Nola, give it a whirl and lemme know whatchya think!

-KW