If there is one thing to say about New Orleans, it is that New Orleanians know food. The city that lives to eat has fantastic culinary options that span from the French Quarter to the backyard crawfish boil. Tourists flock to the city searching for a taste of the Cajon Creole magic that defines the city as much as Mardi Gras, Jazz Fest, and the Mississippi River.

As the city of New Orleans continues to attract partiers, eaters, and others who want a taste of the Big Easy, some of the city’s famous restaurants draw crowds and long lines. Since no one likes to wait for food, especially when they are hungry and have been drinking, follow these recommendations for delicious alternatives to New Orleans touristy restaurants.

Po’Boys

For a Po’ Boy, don’t wait in line at Mothers for an hour, try Johnny’s Po-Boys. A small but delicious shop in the French Quarter located just a few blocks from the St. Louis Cathedral. They serve the kind of po’ boys that require extra napkins and rolling up your sleeves, that are jam packed with delicious meats, cheeses and gravy. Each sandwich is so juicy and messy that it requires its own napkin dispenser! My personal favorite is the roast beef, but you can feast on crawfish, oyster, sausage, and a variety of other delicious sandwiches Johnny serves up daily.

Oysters

If you have a hankering for delicious, savory, juicy oysters, don’t follow the crowd to Acme and wait in a long line. Instead head to Royal House 3 blocks away on Royal St. in the French Quarter. A real deal oyster bar, they have a variety of delicious and creative options of oysters as well as Cajun food. If you like oysters raw on the half shell, chargrilled with parmesan cheese, or Rockefeller with spinach, this is the place to go. With ample seating and friendly staff, you won’t have to wait to savor the menu items. I highly recommend the oyster pasta and Cajon bloody mary.

Beignets

If you are looking for the sweet, buttery, powdered-sugary, New Orleans goodness that is called a beignet, don’t wait in line for an hour at Café Du Monde. Instead, head to Café Beignet at New Orleans Musical Legends Park. With free live jazz performances every night, space to sit and relax, and fresh beignets, Café Beignet cannot be beat! Their coffee and beignets are absolutely delicious and offer a relaxing reprieve from the madness of Bourbon Street.