Jazz Festivals are not just about the music; they’re a vibrant celebration of culture, and food plays a starring role in this experience. At festivals, the term “Fest Foods” takes on a whole new meaning, evolving beyond the typical fairground fare. These events become a melting pot of culinary traditions, offering a taste of local flavors and innovative food creations that are often unique to the festival itself. Louisiana, in particular, with its rich culinary heritage, exemplifies this perfectly. Festival cuisine here celebrates centuries-old traditions alongside modern classics, many conceived specifically for the festival atmosphere. Imagine menus overflowing with fresh, local seafood, vibrant produce, and the state’s renowned charcuterie. Festival organizers and food vendors alike invite you to dive into the heart of authentic regional and diasporic recipes, each dish lovingly prepared from scratch. This year, you can expect a delightful mix of returning favorites and exciting new food vendors ready to tantalize your taste buds. Come hungry, be adventurous, and prepare to leave utterly satisfied by the incredible fest foods on offer.
Food Area 1: A Taste of Louisiana Classics
Food Area 1 at this year’s festival is your gateway to experiencing the quintessential flavors of Louisiana. From savory sausages to comforting classics, there’s something to please every palate.
Savory Sausages and Po-boys from Vaucresson’s Sausage Company
Vaucresson’s Sausage Company from New Orleans brings their expertise in crafting flavorful sausages to the forefront. Indulge in a variety of po-boys featuring their signature HOT SAUSAGE, succulent CRAWFISH SAUSAGE, exotic ALLIGATOR SAUSAGE, or spicy JERK CHICKEN SAUSAGE. For the adventurous, don’t miss the HOGSHEAD CHEESE, a Louisiana delicacy.
Breads and Cajun Staples from Panaroma Foods
Panaroma Foods hailing from Marksville, LA, offers a delightful selection of stuffed breads. Try the CRAWFISH BREAD, SHRIMP BREAD, or the fiery SAUSAGE & JALAPENO BREAD.
Jambalaya and Fried Chicken from Catering Unlimited
Catering Unlimited of New Orleans serves up comforting Cajun classics. Enjoy a hearty serving of CAJUN JAMBALAYA, a flavorful rice dish packed with meats and spices, or their crispy and juicy FRIED CHICKEN.
Refreshments and Light Bites from Joyce’s Lemonade
Joyce’s Lemonade, a New Orleans favorite, provides refreshing options to cleanse your palate. Quench your thirst with FRESH SQUEEZED LEMONADE or opt for a light and healthy FRUIT SALAD. They also offer a classic PEANUT BUTTER & JELLY SANDWICH and a sweet CRISPY RICE TREAT for a quick bite.
Unique Po-boys and Pasta from CCI Catering
CCI Catering from Covington presents unique and satisfying dishes. Experience the TURDUCKIN PO-BOY, a poultry trifecta of TURKEY, DUCK & CHICKEN, or savor their creamy Duck & Shrimp Pasta.
Seafood Delights from Gallagher’s Grill
Gallagher’s Grill of Mandeville specializes in exquisite seafood creations. Try the PECAN CATFISH MEUNIÈRE, a delicate catfish dish with a buttery pecan sauce, the comforting SEAFOOD MIRLITON CASSEROLE, or the flavorful FRIED CRAB CAKE W/ SMOKED TOMATO TARTAR.
Muffuletta and Po-boys from DiMartino’s Famous Muffulettas
DiMartino’s Famous Muffulettas from Gretna brings their iconic sandwiches to the festival. Indulge in a classic MUFFULETTA, a hearty sandwich layered with Italian meats, cheeses, and olive salad, or a VEGETARIAN MUFFULETTA*. For a simpler option, the ROAST BEEF PO-BOY is always a crowd-pleaser.
Sweet Treats from Keyala’s Pralines
Keyala’s Pralines of New Orleans offers a tempting array of desserts. Indulge in the decadent BANANAS FOSTER CHEESECAKE, the local favorite LA STRAWBERRY CUPCAKE, the rich KEY CAKE WITH BOURBON PECAN SAUCE, or the crunchy MIXED NUT BRITTLE.
Crawfish Specialties from Clesi’s Seafood Restaurant
Clesi’s Seafood Restaurant of New Orleans is a must-visit for crawfish lovers. Enjoy a taste of Louisiana with their BOILED LA CRAWFISH, the flavorful LA CRAWFISH ETOUFFEE, or the savory CAJUN CRAWFISH DIRTY RICE.
Vegetarian and Seafood Casseroles from Ten Talents Catering
Ten Talents Catering from Covington offers comforting casserole dishes. Vegetarians can enjoy the creamy SPINACH ARTICHOKE CASSEROLE, while seafood enthusiasts will love the rich SEAFOOD AU GRATIN. For a lighter choice, the SUNFLOWER GREEN SALAD is a refreshing option.
BBQ and Southern Sides from Smoke Street Catering, LLC
Smoke Street Catering, LLC from New Orleans brings the smoky flavors of BBQ to the festival. Savor their BBQ CHICKEN SANDWICH, BBQ BRISKET SANDWICH, or the innovative BBQ JACKFRUIT SANDWICH. Complement your BBQ with SMOKEY BACON GREENS or crispy FRIED BRUSSELS SPROUTS*.
Red Beans and Rice and Cobbler from Burks & Douglas
Burks & Douglas of New Orleans serves up soul food staples. Enjoy the classic RED BEANS & RICE W/ SAUSAGE or the VEGETARIAN RED BEANS & RICE. For dessert, indulge in their warm BLACKBERRY COBBLER.
Crab and Catfish Dishes from Stufhapn Event Catering
Stufhapn Event Catering from New Orleans offers a variety of seafood dishes. Try the CRABMEAT PO-BOY, CREOLE STUFFED CRAB, or the elegant CATFISH ALMONDINE. Potato Salad* is available as a side.
Boudin and Crawfish Specialties from Papa Ninety Catering
Papa Ninety Catering from Marrero specializes in Louisiana favorites. Sample their BOUDIN and BOUDIN BALLS, or indulge in the SHRIMP & LUMP CRAB RAVIGOTE, LOUISIANA CRAWFISH REMOULADE, or LA CRAWFISH SALAD ROLL.
Gumbo and Oysters from TCA Brocato, LLC
TCA Brocato, LLC of New Orleans brings a taste of the coast to the festival. Warm up with their SHRIMP, SMOKED SAUSAGE & OKRA GUMBO, or savor the flavors of BBQ OYSTERS or BUFFALEAUX OYSTERS. For a vegetarian side, try the NOLA STREET CORN*.
Cochon de Lait Po-boy from Walker’s BBQ / Love At First Bite
Walker’s BBQ / Love At First Bite of New Orleans is known for their succulent Cochon de Lait. Don’t miss their COCHON DE LAIT PO-BOY, filled with slow-cooked pulled pork.
Crawfish Sack and Beignets from Patton’s Caterers
Patton’s Caterers from Slidell offers unique seafood treats. Try the CRAWFISH SACK, OYSTER PATTIES, or the savory SHRIMP BEIGNETS.
Fried Seafood Po-boys from Vucinovich’s Restaurant
Vucinovich’s Restaurant of New Orleans offers classic fried seafood po-boys. Choose from the FRIED SHRIMP PO-BOY, FRIED OYSTER PO-BOY, or the unique FRIED OYSTER SPINACH SALAD. They also offer a PANÉED CHICKEN PO-BOY.
Mango Freeze from WWOZ Community Radio
WWOZ Community Radio of New Orleans provides a refreshing MANGO FREEZE, perfect for cooling down on a festival day.
Ya Ka Mein and Bread Pudding from Ms. Linda’s Catering
Ms. Linda’s Catering from New Orleans serves up local comfort food. Try the Ya Ka Mein, a flavorful New Orleans-style beef noodle soup, available as both YA KA MEIN and VEGETARIAN YA KA MEIN. They also offer a FRIED PORK CHOP SANDWICH, MACARONI & CHEESE, and a classic BREAD PUDDING WITH RUM SAUCE. For a unique frozen treat, try the HUCKABUCK FROZEN CUP.
Herbal Iced Teas from Sunshine Concessions
Sunshine Concessions of Covington provides refreshing herbal iced teas. Choose from ROSEMINT HERBAL ICED TEA, MANDARIN ORANGE HERBAL ICED TEA, or BLACKBERRY BREEZE HERBAL ICED TEA.
Food Area 2: Global Flavors and Festival Favorites
Food Area 2 expands your culinary horizons with international flavors and more festival classics.
Herbal Iced Teas from Sunshine Concessions (Again!)
Sunshine Concessions (Covington) makes another appearance in Food Area 2, ensuring you have access to their refreshing ROSEMINT HERBAL ICED TEA, MANDARIN ORANGE HERBAL ICED TEA, and BLACKBERRY BREEZE HERBAL ICED TEA throughout the festival grounds.
Coffee and Café au Lait from New Orleans Coffee Company
New Orleans Coffee Company of New Orleans provides your caffeine fix with CAFÉ AU LAIT ICED, CAFÉ AU LAIT FROZEN, CAFÉ AU LAIT HOT, and BLACK COFFEE (HOT/ICED).
Soft Shell Crab and Catfish Po-boys from The Galley Restaurant
The Galley Restaurant from Metairie offers more delicious seafood po-boys. Indulge in the seasonal FRIED SOFT SHELL CRAB PO-BOY or the classic FRIED CATFISH FILET PO-BOY.
Savory Pies from Mrs. Wheat’s Foods
Mrs. Wheat’s Foods of New Orleans brings savory pies to the festival. Try the SPICY MEAT PIE, LA CRAWFISH PIE, or the vegetarian BROCCOLI & CHEESE PIE*.
Gumbo and Enchiladas from Prejean’s Restaurant
Prejean’s Restaurant from Lafayette offers hearty Louisiana dishes. Warm up with their PHEASANT, QUAIL, & ANDOUILLE GUMBO or try the flavorful CRAWFISH ENCHILADA.
Sweet Tarts and Shortcake from Judah Lea
Judah Lea of New Orleans offers delectable desserts. Enjoy the classic STRAWBERRY SHORTCAKE or the tangy KEY LIME TART.
Mediterranean Delights from Mona’s Café
Mona’s Café of New Orleans brings Mediterranean flavors to the festival. Try the GYRO SANDWICH, FALAFEL SANDWICH, or the refreshing HUMMUS W/ PITA and GREEK GARDEN SALAD*.
Moroccan and Tunisian Cuisine from Jamila’s Café
Jamila’s Café of New Orleans offers exotic Moroccan and Tunisian cuisine. Explore the Tagine of Lamb (Lamb Stew), Merguez (Grilled Lamb Sausage), Crawfish, Spinach & Zucchini Bisque, or the refreshing TUNISIAN SALAD*.
Japanese-Cajun Fusion from Ajun Cajun
Ajun Cajun of New Orleans offers a unique fusion of Japanese and Cajun flavors. Try the SHRIMP YAKISOBA (PAN FRIED NOODLES), YAKINIKU PO-BOY (GARLIC RIB-EYE), or the refreshing CRABSTICK & CUCUMBER SALAD and SEAWEED & CUCUMBER SALAD*.
Haitian Flavors from Fritai
Fritai of New Orleans brings the vibrant flavors of Haiti to the festival. Experience the GRILLED SHRIMP PIKLIZ (SPICY CABBAGE SLAW) W/ AVOCADO, HAITIAN CRAB MACARONI AU GRATIN, or the vegetarian TOASTED CORN RIBS W/ ROAST PEPPER AND COCONUT CREAM*.
Beignets and Pralines from Loretta’s Authentic Pralines
Loretta’s Authentic Pralines of New Orleans is a must-stop for sweet treats. Indulge in their famous LUMP CRAB BEIGNET, PRALINE STUFFED BEIGNET, CHOCOLATE BEIGNET, or classic PRALINES in PECAN, COCONUT, CHOCOLATE, OR RUM FLAVORS*.
Jambalaya from Wally Taillon
Wally Taillon of Gonzales offers a simple but satisfying festival staple: JAMBALAYA.
Remoulade Po-boys and Cajun Rice from TJ Gourmet
TJ Gourmet from Gretna provides flavorful Louisiana dishes. Try the SHRIMP REMOULADE PO-BOY or the hearty CAJUN CHICKEN & TASSO W/ CREOLE RICE.
Grits and Strudel from Caluda’s Cottage Catering
Caluda’s Cottage Catering of River Ridge offers comforting and unique dishes. Enjoy the CRAWFISH STRUDEL, SHRIMP & GRITS, PORK DEBRIS & GRITS, or the sweet WHITE CHOCOLATE BREAD PUDDING.
Cracklin from Chris’ Specialty Meats
Chris’ Specialty Meats of New Orleans offers crispy and savory cracklin. Choose from PORK CRACKLIN or CHICKEN CRACKLIN.
Tacos and Vegetarian Options from Carmo
Carmo of New Orleans offers a variety of tacos and vegetarian options. Enjoy the GRILLED GULF SHRIMP TACO, GRILLED GULF FISH TACO, GRILLED FRESH VEGGIE TACO, or ROJOS REFRITOS W/ HOMEMADE CHIPS.
Crawfish Monica ® from Big River Foods
Big River Foods of New Orleans is home to the iconic CRAWFISH MONICA ®, a creamy pasta dish that is a festival must-try.
Congo Square: International and Vegetarian Delights
Congo Square brings a diverse range of international flavors and vegetarian-friendly options to the festival.
Sno-balls from A.J.’s Sno-Balls
A.J.’s Sno-Balls of Meraux provides refreshing sno-balls in various flavors, including SNO-BALL, SUGAR FREE SNO-BALL, STUFFED SNO-BALL, and CHANTILLY SNO-BALL.
Jamaican Cuisine from Palmer’s Jamaican Cuisine
Palmer’s Jamaican Cuisine of New Orleans offers flavorful Caribbean dishes. Try the JAMAICAN CHICKEN, CARIBBEAN FISH, CURRY CHICKEN PATTIE, or the vegetarian STEAMED VEGGIES & RICE*.
Gambian Cuisine from Gambian Foods
Gambian Foods of New Orleans introduces West African flavors. Try the DIBBI (GRILLED STEAK ON PITA), SPICY GRILLED TOFU W/ VEGGIES, GRILLED VEGGIE PITA, or COUSCOUS W/ YOGURT SAUCE*.
Haitian and Vegetarian Dishes from Bennachin
Bennachin of New Orleans offers a mix of Haitian and vegetarian options. Enjoy the JAMA JAMA (SAUTEED SPINACH), FRIED PLANTAINS , or POULET FRICASSEE (CHICKEN ON A STICK).
Quiche and Sweet Potato Pie from Marie’s Sugar Dumplings
Marie’s Sugar Dumplings of Marrero offers comforting baked goods. Try the CRAB, SPINACH & TOMATO QUICHE, SWEET POTATO TURNOVER, SWEET POTATO PIE, or BANANA NUT BREAD.
Strawberry Lemonade from Strawberry Lemonade
Strawberry Lemonade of New Orleans provides refreshing STRAWBERRY LEMONADE and TITO’S STRAWBERRY LEMONADE.
Heritage Square: Vietnamese and Creole Fusion
Heritage Square offers a unique blend of Vietnamese cuisine and Creole classics.
Herbal Iced Teas from Sunshine Concessions (Again!)
Sunshine Concessions (Covington) is also available in Heritage Square, offering their refreshing ROSEMINT HERBAL ICED TEA, MANDARIN ORANGE HERBAL ICED TEA, and BLACKBERRY BREEZE HERBAL ICED TEA.
Beignets and Café au Lait from Café du Monde
Café du Monde of New Orleans brings their world-famous BEIGNETS and CAFÉ AU LAIT HOT, CAFÉ AU LAIT ICED, and CAFÉ AU LAIT FROZEN to the festival. They also offer MILK and CHOCOLATE MILK.
Creole Cuisine from Baquet’s Li’l Dizzy’s Café
Baquet’s Li’l Dizzy’s Café of New Orleans offers authentic Creole dishes. Try the CRAWFISH BISQUE, CREOLE FILÉ GUMBO, LOUISIANA TROUT BAQUET, or LOUISIANA TROUT DIZZY.
Creole Sweets from Down Home Creole Cookin’ Sweets
Down Home Creole Cookin’ Sweets of Baton Rouge offers a variety of sweet treats. Indulge in the FRESH STRAWBERRY CHEESECAKE, OOEY GOOEY CAKE, CARAMEL APPLE COBBLER, LEMON LAYER CAKE, or PECAN RUM CAKE.
BBQ and Southern Sides from Down Home Creole Cookin’
Down Home Creole Cookin’ of Baton Rouge offers savory BBQ and Southern sides. Enjoy the BBQ PORK RIBS, BBQ TURKEY WINGS, MEATY WHITE BEANS, COLE SLAW*, or PEACH COBBLER.
Ice Cream Sandwiches from Francofonte Catering, LLC
Francofonte Catering, LLC of New Orleans provides classic ICE CREAM SANDWICHES.
Around the Grounds: Sweet Treats and Refreshments
Around the Grounds offers a variety of sweet treats and refreshing drinks to keep you energized throughout the festival.
Artisan Gelato and Sorbetto from Francofonte Catering, LLC
Francofonte Catering, LLC of New Orleans also offers LOCALLY MADE ARTISAN GELATO & SORBETTO FEATURING CREME BRULEE, CHOCOLATE AZTECA, STRAWBERRY BALSAMIC AND MORE.
Sno-balls and Floats from Cee Cee’s Sno-Balls
Cee Cee’s Sno-Balls of Slidell provides a variety of sno-ball options, including SNO-BALL, SUGAR FREE SNO-BALL, CHOCOLATE SNO-BALL, as well as the OLD FASHIONED NECTAR CRÉME FLOAT and POPCORN*.
Pies from Mr. Williams’ Pastries
Mr. Williams’ Pastries of New Orleans offers a delightful selection of pies. Choose from APPLE PIE, BEAN CUSTARD PIE, CHERRY PIE, COCONUT PIE, PECAN PIE, or SWEET POTATO PIE.
Macaroons and Cream Puffs from Angelo’s Bakery
Angelo’s Bakery of Metairie offers classic pastries like COCONUT MACAROON, BROWNIE W/ PECANS, CREAM PUFF, and CHOCOLATE ÉCLAIR.
Pralines and Cookies from Loretta’s Authentic Pralines (Again!)
Loretta’s Authentic Pralines (New Orleans) has another location around the grounds, offering their signature PRALINES: PECAN, COCONUT, CHOCOLATE, OR RUM FLAVOR, PRALINE SHOE SOLES, and SWEET POTATO COOKIES.
Roman Chewing Candy from Roman Chewing Candy Company
Roman Chewing Candy Company of New Orleans offers a unique and nostalgic treat: ROMAN CHEWING CANDY.
Sno-balls from Plum Street Snowballs
Plum Street Snowballs of New Orleans provides classic sno-balls, including SNO-BALL and SUGAR FREE SNO-BALL.
Lucky Dogs from Lucky Dogs, Inc.
Lucky Dogs, Inc. of New Orleans offers their iconic LUCKY DOG hot dogs.
Mango Freeze from WWOZ Community Radio (Again!)
WWOZ Community Radio (New Orleans) also has a location Around the Grounds, offering their refreshing MANGO FREEZE.
Glazed Pecans from Jumbo Peanut Company
Jumbo Peanut Company of New Orleans offers delicious GLAZED PECANS.
Strawberry Lemonade from Strawberry Lemonade (Again!)
Strawberry Lemonade (New Orleans) is also available Around the Grounds with their refreshing STRAWBERRY LEMONADE and TITO’S STRAWBERRY LEMONADE.
Louisiana Folklife Village: Indigenous Cuisine
The Louisiana Folklife Village offers a taste of Louisiana’s indigenous cuisine.
Native American Dishes from United Houman Nation
United Houman Nation of Houma presents traditional Native American dishes like SHRIMP MACQUE CHOUX, SAUSAGE MACQUE CHOUX, FRY BREAD, INDIAN TACO, and STRAWBERRY SWEET POTATO BLOSSOM.
Grandstand: Quick Bites
The Grandstand area provides quick and easy food options.
Ice Cream Sandwiches from Francofonte Catering, LLC (Again!)
Francofonte Catering, LLC (New Orleans) also has a location at the Grandstand, offering their convenient ICE CREAM SANDWICHES.
Cultural Exchange Village: Latin American Flavors
The Cultural Exchange Village brings Latin American flavors to the festival.
Empanadas and Ceviche from Carmo & WASKA NOLA
Carmo & WASKA NOLA of New Orleans offers Latin American specialties like EMPANADA DE POLLO Y PAPA (CHICKEN & POTATO) CON AJÍ, EMPANADA DE PAPA Y QUESO (POTATO & CHEESE) CON AJÍ, CEVICHE DE CAMARON (GULF SHRIMP) CON PATACONES (FRIED PLANTAIN), and CEVICHE DE VEGETALES CON PATACONES (FRIED PLANTAIN).
Kids Area: Gourmet Popsicles
Even the Kids Area offers delightful culinary experiences.
Gourmet Popsicles from Firefly Pops NOLA
Firefly Pops NOLA of New Orleans offers GOURMET POPSICLES: LOUISIAANA STRAWBERRY, CHOCOLATE DIPPED LOUISIANA STRAWBERRY, and CAFÉ AU LAIT FIREFLY POP (LEMON & FRESH HERB SYRUP).
Enjoy your culinary journey through the festival and savor the best fest foods New Orleans has to offer!
