by Allie Pape - 10 Reviews - 45 List
There is no way to replicate New Orleans. The city has a charm, uniqueness and history all its own. The only way to truly experience the Big Easy is to plan a New Orleans vacation. But for when you need a little N?awlins fix in San Francisco to get you in the mood, we have the inspiration in these restaurants, bars and more that channel the French Quarter and beyond.
Updated: August 10, 2011
Hidden out in Portola, this family-run storefront cafe is quietly turning out some of the best Cajun food in the city. Its signature po'boys, such as the fried oyster and the roast beef Debris, are hearty and delicious, and its gumbo earns raves from native New Orleanians.
A few blocks from the ocean in the Outer Sunset, Cajun Pacific combines local seafood with Louisiana-style cooking. It's known for its creamy crawfish pasta and Dungeness crab cakes, infused with Cajun spices.
For a superlative Sazerac, head to this exclusive speakeasy. Its manager is so fond of the classic New Orleans cocktail that he served a menu of six different variations of them on his birthday. The Prohibition-era vibe, dark wood, and soft 1920s music will make you feel like you've been transported back to New Orleans' Golden Age.
Hip and friendly, this Cajun-inspired restaurant on the outskirts of the Mission is full of fun touches, including rocking chairs on the titular front porch and repurposed bucket seats from old cars at the tables. The restaurant is known for its fried chicken and shrimp and grits, and while it doesn't have a full liquor license, there is plenty of cold Abita beer on hand.
Blue Bottle, one of the Bay Area's most beloved coffee purveyors, is known for its New Orleans-style iced coffee. Prepared with chicory, milk and sugar, it packs plenty of caffeine to revive you after a night of Cajun cuisine, cocktails and music.
