New Orleans is a city known for its vibrant culture, rich history, and of course, its mouthwatering cuisine. During my recent trip, I made sure to experience a quintessential New Orleans treat: beignets at the famous Cafe Beignet on Canal Street. My visit turned out to be a delightful start to the day, and here’s why you should make it a stop on your New Orleans itinerary.
Arriving at Cafe Beignet just before they officially opened at 7:30 AM proved to be a stroke of genius. I reached the Canal Street location around 7:20 AM and found a small group already gathered near the entrance. Waiting those mere ten minutes before opening was the best decision, as I later witnessed a line snaking down the block just a few hours later. Pro-tip: beat the crowds and get there early!
Being tenth in line meant I had ample time to peruse the menu without feeling rushed. By the time I reached the counter, I was ready to order like a pro. The attendant was efficient and friendly, and I opted for the breakfast sandwich – a classic bacon, egg, and cheese on a bagel – along with an iced latte and, naturally, three beignets. The total came to around twelve dollars, a reasonable price for a satisfying breakfast in a tourist hotspot. I received my order number, 28, and was directed to wait near the counter for my latte. True to their word, my iced latte was ready within moments.
With my coffee in hand, I scanned the charming café for a seat and settled into a quirky heart-shaped chair on the opposite side of the room. The ambiance at Cafe Beignet is part of its appeal. A self-playing piano filled the air with old-timey tunes, contributing to the café’s delightful retro aesthetic. While perhaps a tad loud for a quiet morning, it certainly added to the overall lively and nostalgic atmosphere.
It wasn’t long before my food arrived. The breakfast sandwich was generously sized, a welcome surprise compared to the often-small and overpriced breakfast sandwiches you find elsewhere. The toasted bagel held perfectly melted cheese, flavorful bacon that wasn’t overly salty, and a perfectly cooked egg without being runny. I devoured the sandwich in what felt like record time – it was that good.
But let’s be honest, the real stars of the show at Cafe Beignet are, without a doubt, the beignets. These square, pillowy pastries, generously dusted with powdered sugar, lived up to all expectations. Paired with the creamy iced latte, they were a match made in breakfast heaven – light, fluffy, and perfectly sweet. While I couldn’t quite manage to finish all three beignets after the substantial sandwich, conquering two out of three felt like a victory. The only minor casualty was a dusting of powdered sugar on my pants, a small price to pay for such deliciousness.
My visit to Cafe Beignet on Canal Street was a truly lovely experience. From the quick service and charming atmosphere to the delicious breakfast and iconic beignets, it’s a must-do for anyone visiting New Orleans. If I find myself back in the Big Easy, a return trip to Cafe Beignet is definitely on the cards.
