18 Once-Famous Louisiana Sandwiches That Are Almost Gone
Louisiana, a culinary paradise, is home to some of the most iconic sandwiches. Despite their fame, many of these delectable creations are fading into obscurity. This list explores 18 once-famous Louisiana sandwiches that are now rare delights, from the bustling streets of New Orleans to the quiet corners of Lafayette and beyond.
1. Oyster Loaf — Casamento’s Restaurant, New Orleans, LA
Casamento’s Oyster Loaf is almost a rite of passage for New Orleans locals. This sandwich, with its crispy fried oysters nestled in a soft loaf, is a symbol of indulgence.
The tangy sauce that accompanies it drips tantalizingly, making it both delicious and high-maintenance.
Once ubiquitous, the effort required to craft it means fewer places maintain this tradition.
2. Shrimp Loaf — Parkway Bakery & Tavern, New Orleans, LA
Parkway Bakery’s Shrimp Loaf stands as the oyster loaf’s underrated yet equally delightful cousin. Bursting with perfectly fried shrimp, it offers a crunchy, savory bite.
The loaf’s structure contrasts wonderfully with the tender flesh of the shrimp, creating a texture lovers can’t resist.
Once a staple, this old-school gem is now a rare find in modern menus.
3. Garfish Po’boy — Zimmer’s Seafood, New Orleans, LA
The Garfish Po’boy from Zimmer’s brings a taste of authentic Louisiana to your plate. With its distinctive flavor, this sandwich is a local favorite.
The garfish, crispy and flavorful, harmonizes with the soft French bread, creating a memorable bite.
Its unique taste makes it a beloved choice, though it’s rarely seen on contemporary menus.
4. Debris Roast Beef Po’boy — Parasol’s, New Orleans, LA
At Parasol’s, the Debris Roast Beef Po’boy is legendary. Soaked in rich gravy, the roast beef’s intense flavor is a comforting embrace.
The bread, soaked yet sturdy, complements the tender meat, making every bite a delight.
Fewer spots capture this balance, making the po’boy a rare, cherished find.
5. Hot Sausage Po’boy — Frady’s One Stop, New Orleans, LA
Frady’s Hot Sausage Po’boy brings the heat with its spicy, snappy sausage nestled in fresh French bread. It’s a classic corner-store treasure.
The sausage’s bold flavors are perfectly balanced by the fresh crunch of lettuce and a hint of sauce.
This once-common sight now requires insider knowledge to locate.
6. The Ferdi — Mother’s Restaurant, New Orleans, LA
The Ferdi at Mother’s is more than a sandwich; it’s a tradition. Combining ham and roast beef debris, every bite is an explosion of flavor.
Messy yet satisfying, it’s dressed to perfection, capturing the essence of New Orleans dining.
While still adored, it’s a unique order that feels more like tradition than a menu item.
7. Shrimp Remoulade Po’boy — Arnaud’s Remoulade Room, New Orleans, LA
Arnaud’s Shrimp Remoulade Po’boy is a dance of flavors. The chilled shrimp, paired with zesty remoulade, creates a refreshing experience.
Its tangy sauce enhances the shrimp’s delicate flavor, offering a taste of old New Orleans charm.
Though still around, its presence is fading outside of classic venues.
8. Soft-Shell Crab Po’boy — Mahony’s Po-Boys & Seafood, New Orleans, LA
When soft-shell crab season hits, Mahony’s Po-Boy shines. The crispy crab offers a unique texture, paired perfectly with soft bread.
Its seasonal nature makes it a fleeting delight, requiring precise timing to enjoy.
The sandwich’s temporary availability adds to its allure, making it a sought-after treat.
9. Classic Fried Oyster Po’boy — Johnny’s Po-Boys, New Orleans, LA
Johnny’s Fried Oyster Po’boy is an ode to simplicity. With no gimmicks, it emphasizes quality ingredients.
Crispy oysters contrast with the soft, fresh bread, creating a delightful crunch in every bite.
The straightforward approach makes it a classic, but it’s less common as menus modernize.
10. Hot Muffuletta — DiMartino’s Famous New Orleans Muffulettas, Metairie, LA
DiMartino’s Hot Muffuletta transforms a classic. The warm layers of meats and cheese meld together, creating a savory, comforting bite.
Warming it the traditional way enhances the flavors, making each mouthful a cozy experience.
While not every place offers this style, its melty allure remains unforgettable.
11. Boudin-Stuffed Pistolette — Billy’s Boudin & Cracklins, Scott, LA
Billy’s Boudin-Stuffed Pistolette is a hidden treasure. The fried bread roll stuffed with boudin is a meal and snack all at once.
Its crispy exterior gives way to a soft, savory filling, offering a burst of flavor with every bite.
Outside of Acadiana, finding this done right is a challenge, adding to its rarity.
12. Half-and-Half Po’boy — Domilise’s Po-Boys, New Orleans, LA
Domilise’s Half-and-Half Po’boy answers the shrimp versus oyster debate by offering both. It’s the ultimate indulgence.
The combination of textures and flavors makes each bite exciting and memorable.
Once common, this satisfying choice is now a beloved rarity in local eateries.
13. Classic Catfish Po’boy — Spahr’s Seafood, Des Allemands, LA
Spahr’s Catfish Po’boy is a staple of Louisiana cuisine. The crispy fried catfish offers a delightful crunch, harmonizing with fresh bread.
A simple yet profound pleasure, it embodies the spirit of local dining.
Though a classic, the truly great versions are becoming scarce as menus evolve.
14. Roast Beef Po’boy, dipped hard — Short Stop Po-Boys, Metairie, LA
At Short Stop, the Roast Beef Po’boy is a comforting embrace. Dipped hard in luscious gravy, the tender beef melts in your mouth.
The bread, soaked yet firm, holds the flavors beautifully, making every bite unforgettable.
This style is a category of comfort that’s increasingly hard to find done right.
15. The Darrell’s Special — Darrell’s, Lake Charles, LA
The Darrell’s Special in Lake Charles is a culinary icon. With layers of meats, cheese, and jalapenos, it’s a flavorful journey.
Rich and satisfying, it’s more than a meal; it’s an experience that people talk about as a rite of passage.
A commitment to this sandwich makes it a unique treasure that’s hard to replicate.
16. Oversized “Acadiana-style” Po’boys — Olde Tyme Grocery, Lafayette, LA
Olde Tyme Grocery’s Acadiana-style Po’boys are a feast. Built for sharing, they’re packed with meats, sauces, and veggies.
The sheer size and messiness make them a fun, communal experience.
Though not a single recipe, this style is emblematic of Louisiana’s hearty, generous spirit.
17. Old-school Shreveport Po’boy Shop Classics — Poor Boy Lloyd’s, Shreveport, LA
Poor Boy Lloyd’s offers a step back in time with its classic po’boy. The straightforward flavors are a tribute to neighborhood eateries.
Each bite brings a sense of nostalgia, reminding patrons of simpler times.
As this style becomes rarer, finding a true classic shop is like discovering a hidden gem.
18. No-frills Fried Shrimp Po’boy — Bevi Seafood Co., New Orleans, LA
Bevi Seafood Co.’s Fried Shrimp Po’boy is all about simplicity. Hot shrimp and fresh bread make it a straightforward delight.
The minimal approach highlights the quality of ingredients, offering genuine comfort.
Though many places offer shrimp sandwiches, few capture the true counter-style essence.
