Visiting a new city is always exciting. We do some of the fun tourist things to do, visit parts that aren’t usually found on a tourist map and of course find good food. While the big chain restaurants are good to visit if you’re looking for the usual fare, we like to find off the beaten path places, local food and flavor. Our first day in New Orleans we struggled to find places that were open and had items I could eat. But the second morning out, we walked just around the corner from our hotel and found a tiny place called Red Gravy.
Red Gravy is just a quick walk off of Canal street and nestled between larger businesses. But don’t let Red Gravy’s small size deceive you – inside you will find everything from sandwiches, pasta, breakfast, lost bread and even gluten free pasta! Along with all of that you will find a line of hungry guests waiting to get in the door. Your best bet? Call ahead and make a reservation. Don’t forget to add New Orleans Ghost Tours to your plans after dinner too.
When people ask – what is good there to eat? The only thing we can answer is “Everything”. Brunch the first day was so good we actually made reservations for the next day before we got up from our table.
As we planned our trip to New Orleans I was assured to just ask for gluten free options in the city. This worked, at most places I was given the general list of bun-less burgers and seafood. With a horrible seafood allergy, I’d opt for the protein or a salad. When I asked at Red Gravy, I was greeted with a fantastic server who not only covered what I could and couldn’t have on the menu, but assured me that they have great gluten free pasta. He promised it was moist, and not crunchy.
On our first visit I stuck with a more traditional breakfast, but for brunch our second day – I opted to try the pasta. The server was not lying, it was fantastic! Not dry, not crunchy and nothing like packaged gluten free pasta I’ve ever had before. The reason? It doesn’t just come from a bag like most restaurants grab. Instead it is made with a paleo recipe that owner Roe uses herself. The result is a soft and chewy pasta that fills you up and makes you come back for more. Order it with Red Gravy and some Italian sausage and you will be full all day.
We almost made a third stop to Red Gravy after our boat docked, but ran out of time. Instead it is on our list of places to return to next time we visit New Orleans. If you haven’t tried Red Gravy, just ask one of the people outside in line how good it is when you walk by. You will undoubtedly leave with a full stomach and the urge to go back for more.
You will find Red Gravy in the French Quarter Business District, just on the other side of Canal. Be sure to call ahead to enjoy their fantastic food.
Red Gravy
125 Camp Street
New Orleans, LA 70130
Phone : (504) 561 – 8844
Just left Red Gravy … It was listed in the top ten places to eat when I googled French Quarter although it is just outside the reviewer said it was worth the walk. Roe the owner greeted us and told us that they just had their 4 year anniversary. Maybe that is why they were not rated #1. I can’t think of any other reason. The staff was wonderful, the atmosphere was charming, and the food was amazing. You have to try it!