Delightful and Refreshing Food Picks at NOLA Jazz Fest
As the sun blazes down at the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival (NOLA Jazz Fest), revelers know how to beat the heat with energizing and vibrant culinary delights. Whether you’re a seasoned attendee or a first-timer, the festival promises a delicious array of light, cool dishes that will keep you refreshed. Here’s a curated list of the top food picks for the 2025 festival.
A Taste of Vietnam: Shrimp Bun
Vermicelli Noodle Bowl, Heritage Square
Cool rice noodles serve as the foundation for this traditional Vietnamese dish from Ba Mien restaurant. Combining fresh lettuce, crunchy carrots, and crispy fried shallots, each bite is enhanced by a flavorful fish sauce and optional Sriracha for those who crave some spice. Opt for grilled shrimp or choose beef or tofu for a customizable experience. This dish offers a perfect balance of textures and flavors, making it a must-try!
Louisiana Twist: Street Corn
Food Area 1
Indulge in this Louisiana take on Mexican elotes created by Troy Brocato and family. Drizzled with crab boil mayo and sprinkled with "cracklin’ dust," this street corn elevates a simple treat into something spectacular. Prefer a classic approach? Opt for the roasted corn topped solely with seasoned butter—though let’s be real, the full flavor combination is where it’s at!
Fresh and Flavorful: Fried Oyster Spinach Salad
Food Area 1
Vucinovich’s Restaurant presents a light yet satisfying salad featuring spinach and thinly sliced red onion all topped with cornmeal-crusted fried oysters. The creamy dressing is balanced perfectly, allowing the lightness of the salad to shine, making this dish a delightful treat amidst the festival hustle.
Cool Off with Shrimp Pikliz
Food Area 2
Beat the heat with shrimp pikliz, a dazzling dish from Fritai, a Haitian eatery in Treme. This cool slaw of cabbage sparks delight with a kick of Scotch bonnet chile pepper, enriched with sweet shrimp and paired with crunchy plantain chips. It’s a dish that’s perfect for both hot days and adventurous palates.
A Unique Offering: Crabstick and Cucumber Salad
Food Area 2
Experience a refreshing twist with this crabstick salad, featuring marinated cucumber, topped with green onions and tobiko. It’s a creamy, crunchy delight that serves as a perfect palate cleanser amid the festival’s robust flavors.
Dive into Shrimp Ceviche
Cultural Exchange Pavilion
This year, celebrate Mexican flavors with a fresh shrimp ceviche created through a collaboration between Ella and Tempero’s Market Kitchen. This zesty dish features plump Louisiana shrimp marinated in tangy lime, served on freshly fried tostadas, making for a delightful texture and a burst of flavors.
Sweet Finale: Mango Freeze
Food Area 1 and Fais Do-Do Stage
No trip to Jazz Fest is complete without indulging in the iconic mango freeze! This refreshing sorbet strikes the perfect balance between robust mango flavor and mellow sweetness. For an extra treat, consider pouring some sparkling wine over it for a festive touch.
Enjoy the Flavors of Jazz Fest!
With an array of light and invigorating dishes at the NOLA Jazz Fest, you’re sure to find something that tantalizes your taste buds and keeps you refreshed as you dance to the vibrant tunes of New Orleans. Prepare your appetite, explore the diverse culinary offerings, and make this festival an unforgettable experience!
