Classic
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Jacques-Imo's

4.6
·491k reviews·,

A quirky, mural-lined New Orleans hotspot serving up unforgettable Creole soul food with a fun, vibrant atmosphere.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Wed/Fri 18-21h

Blue hour photography, calmer galleries

CrowdLow
Classic

Jacques-Imo's

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A quirky, mural-lined New Orleans hotspot serving up unforgettable Creole soul food with a fun, vibrant atmosphere.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"This spot definitely lives up to the hype. I'll be back!"

TIP

Prepare for a Wait

They don't take reservations, so arrive early or expect a wait. Enjoy nearby bars!

Split Entrees

Portions are generous; consider sharing entrees to sample more of the menu.

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Quick Facts

Closed·Opens 5PM

Cuisine

Cajun/Creole

Price

Mid-range

Phone

(504) 861-0886

Address

8324 Oak St, New Orleans, LA 70118, USA

Insta-Factor

High

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Shrimp and Alligator Sausage Cheesecake

Shrimp and Alligator Sausage Cheesecake

A unique, savory appetizer that perfectly blends Creole flavors with an unexpected twist.

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Vibrant, Art-Filled Atmosphere

Vibrant, Art-Filled Atmosphere

Experience a lively New Orleans vibe with walls adorned with eclectic art.

Google Review
Legendary Fried Chicken

Legendary Fried Chicken

Crispy, flavorful, and a must-try for any visitor seeking authentic New Orleans cuisine.

Best Places For Fried Chicken In New Orleans9 Best Spots For Fried Chicken In New Orleans, LouisianaGoogle Review
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Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Prepare for a Wait

They don't take reservations, so arrive early or expect a wait. Enjoy nearby bars!

Split Entrees

Portions are generous; consider sharing entrees to sample more of the menu.

Weekday Visits

Try visiting on weekdays, especially during Jazz Fest, for potentially shorter waits.

Try the Sides

Don't overlook the sides like cabbage or cornbread, which are often highlights.

Tips

from all over the internet

Prepare for a Wait

They don't take reservations, so arrive early or expect a wait. Enjoy nearby bars!

Split Entrees

Portions are generous; consider sharing entrees to sample more of the menu.

Weekday Visits

Try visiting on weekdays, especially during Jazz Fest, for potentially shorter waits.

Try the Sides

Don't overlook the sides like cabbage or cornbread, which are often highlights.

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Jacques-Imo's is celebrated for its uniquely delicious Creole soul food, vibrant atmosphere, and friendly service, making it a must-visit in New Orleans. While the lively, sometimes loud, ambiance and potential for long waits without reservations are noted, the exceptional quality of dishes like the alligator cheesecake and fried chicken, coupled with attentive staff, consistently makes it a top dining experience for many.

"Local place with really delicious food. Eclectic food mix of traditional New Orleans food without the watered down spice profile of the touristic French quarter. The beef tips were melt in your mouth with a solid but not overbearing grits under layer. The bouillabaisse was fantastic. Just the right amount of Cajun seasoning to give it a kick without numbing your senses. Food was very fresh, ambiance was casual and fun, wait was about 30 minutes on a weekday evening during Jazz fest for 2 people. Highly recommend forking over the cash for the cab ride out here, definitely worth the price."

Abrush onyedi

"Made it to Jacques-Imo’s, and I totally see why so many people recommend it! The atmosphere is incredible—the space is beautifully decorated with art everywhere, giving it a unique and lively feel.

The food was absolutely amazing, full of flavor and cooked to perfection. The drinks were just as great, and everything came together to create a memorable night out. The energy and vibe of the place were spot on—fun, welcoming, and full of character.

This spot definitely lives up to the hype. I’ll be back!"

Fumei Jackson

"This place is so charming. Art everywhere including on the ceiling. Food is very good (except the spinach salads). They had kid friendly options. Try the cabbage for your side! Our waiter Doug was super helpful and took good care of us."

Cashelle Rose

What People Like

Unique and flavorful Creole soul food
Lively, art-filled atmosphere
Friendly and attentive service

What People Dislike

Long waits due to no reservations
Loud dining environment

Frequently Asked Questions

No, Jacques-Imo's does not accept reservations for smaller parties. Be prepared for a wait, but you can enjoy drinks at nearby bars. Reservations are required for parties of five or more.

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The Shrimp and Alligator Sausage Cheesecake is a legendary starter. Other highly recommended dishes include the fried chicken, blackened redfish, and Cajun bouillabaisse.

Restaurants in New OrleansNew Orleans Food Bucket List: Most Essential Places to Eat & Food to TryThe Best New Orleans Food: 10 Iconic Dishes+3

The restaurant is known for its fun, vibrant, and quirky atmosphere with walls covered in eclectic art. It can be quite lively and loud.

Google Review

Most diners agree that the unique flavors and overall dining experience at Jacques-Imo's are well worth the wait, even if it's significant.

17 Best Restaurants In New Orleans For Authentic NOLA CuisineGoogle Review

Customers often praise sides like the cabbage and the cornbread, which is noted for its garlic butter topping.

Google Review+1

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Inspired by both French and Italian cuisines, Jacques-Imo’s is a New Orleans dining hotspot located in the heart of Uptown’s Oak Street. The Creole-soul-food restaurant, established in 1996 by two city residents, houses the popular “Austin Leslie’s Fried Chicken,” a plate featuring irresistible dark, mix or white chicken meat, a house salsa and a choice of two side dishes, which includes everything from mashed sweet potatoes and butter beans and rice to smothered cabbage and corn macque chow. Even though guests can expect a wait due to the joint’s popularity and no-reservations policy, Jacque-Imo’s fosters an easygoing atmosphere and live music at neighboring bars, allowing visitors to pre-game (drink before going to a party) while waiting to be seated.

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Oak Street might look like any other sleepy urban thoroughfare by day, but once the sun sets, the half-block stretch containing Jacques-Imo's Cafe feels like the center of the universe. Prepare for lengthy waits (two hours at times) in the festive bar for a table in the boisterous, swamp-theme dining rooms (fortunately, the bartenders are fast), but most agree the wait for the modest-looking but innovative food is worth it: deep-fried roast-beef po'boys, shrimp-and-alligator-sausage cheesecake, Cajun bouillabaisse, and fried rabbit tenderloin with Creole mustard sauce are among the only-at-Jacques-Imo's specialties. Reservations are required for parties of five or more and not accepted for smaller groups.

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Jacques-Imo's has been slinging Cajun and Creole delicacies like fried green tomatoes, barbecued shrimp, and fried chicken since 1996. The Oak Street haunt's claim of being "one of the hottest tickets in New Orleans for anyone looking for 'real Nawlins' food'" is no joke — it's common for hopeful patrons to spend up to two hours waiting in line for a table, and reservations frequently fill up weeks in advance. Part of Jacque-Imo's appeal is its laid-back approach — in fact, its website advertises warm beer, lousy food, and poor service.

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