Traditional creole-soul food at its finest! Li’l Dizzy’s will leave you thinking about gumbo, fried chicken and bread pudding for days!

Li’l Dizzy’s is a family run business whose history in the restaurant industry stretches back three generations. Wayne Baquet Sr opened this legendary hangout in the Treme neighbourhood in 2005 and decided to name it after his grandson Zachary, who played the trumpet in St. Augustine’s High School band and was nicknamed Li’l Dizzy in honour of the celebrated trumpeter virtuoso Dizzy Gillespie.

The restaurant is located outside of the French Quarter so you won’t find any tourists here, unless they have done their research on where to find the best local food in New Orleans! Just keep in mind that the café is only open between 11am – 3pm Monday – Saturday so make sure to time your visit over lunch.

Their gumbo recipe has been passed down from generation to generation and perfecting their fried chicken, which they have developed over the years,  has become a long sought after family tradition. The go to dishes on the menu have to be their famous fried chicken or one of the seafood platters, accompanied by  some of their signature sides including mac & cheese, southern greens and candied yams. Or, you can always check out the specials board and if you are lucky enough to be there on the white beans and rice day you have struck the jackpot. It’s pretty difficult when the portions are enormous and the food is so delicious, but make sure to leave room for their acclaimed bread pudding, as it’s way too good to miss!

I loved the relaxed atmosphere of this small establishment and with a friendly hello as you enter, you are instantly made to feel welcome by the staff. Order at the counter and then grab a seat and get ready to tuck into some outstanding creole favourites from one of the best joints in town!