Irish Channel Neighborhood Guide

Bound by Jackson Avenue and Delachaise, Magazine, and Tchoupitoulas streets, New Orleans’ Irish Channel is a quaint neighborhood named in honor of the wave of Irish immigrants who first settled there in the 1830s. Originally known for shotgun homes and working-class roots tied to local ports and breweries, today it remains residential with a thriving brewery scene and popular local hangouts and restaurants.

With restaurants, shopping, unique homes and lots of breweries, the Irish Channel is full of New Orleans charm. Browse the stops below for ideas and inspiration during your next trip. 

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WHERE TO EAT | WHERE TO DRINK | WHAT TO DO

Where to Eat in the Irish Channel

Enjoy a diverse range of cuisines at these local restaurants in the Channel.

Molly’s Rise and Shine

Start your day with a hearty breakfast from Molly’s Rise and Shine. Their unique menu puts a modern twist on classic breakfast fare. Try something savory and filling like the Grand Slam McMuffin or breakfast burrito, or opt for a lighter option like the roasted carrot yogurt. Whichever you choose, Molly’s is a great way to begin your day. 

Miss Shirley’s 

A beloved neighborhood spot for dim sum, Chinese-American classics, and lesser-known Cantonese specialties, Miss Shirley’s delivers comfort and flavor in equal measure. Don’t miss the short ribs and be sure to enjoy the complimentary potstickers and beignets that round out the experience. 

Atchafalaya

Ditching breakfast but down for brunch? Look no further than Atchafalaya. You can find sweet and savory New Orleanian brunch classics like shrimp & grits or chicken & waffles. Paired with their signature Bloody Mary and other specialty cocktails, you’ve got yourself the makings for a perfect mid-morning meal. 

Nanami Sushi Diner & Onigiri 

This neighborhood sushi spot keeps things fresh with fish flown in weekly from Japan and dishes made in-house. Order a hand roll or the crispy tuna rice, try the red snapper nigiri, and don’t skip dessert — the matcha cake is a standout. It’s BYOB, so grab a cold sake from nearby Breaux Mart and make a night of it. 

Banh Mi Boys

Banh Mi Boys is known city-wide for its inventive and delicious takes on bánh mì – a Vietnamese sub-style sandwich. Get a taste of NOLA’s Vietnamese culture and cuisine before continuing your tour of the Irish Channel.

Turkey and the Wolf

Named one of the 12 Best New Restaurants in America by Eater in 2017 and beloved by locals, Turkey and the Wolf is a must-try Irish Channel stop. Using fresh and local ingredients, Turkey and the Wolf creates wacky signature sandwiches and small plates perfect for a midday pick-me-up. 

Slim Goodies

Can’t get enough breakfast food? Slim Goodies Diner does all-day breakfast and lunch from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. on weekdays and 7 a.m. - 3 p.m. on weekends, and has been one of New Orleans’ top breakfast spots for almost a decade. Be sure to try something with Slim’s homemade crawfish étouffée like the Les Bon Temps Omelet or the Crabby Wife. 

Coquette 

Set in a charming 19th-century building, Coquette serves innovative Southern cuisine with an emphasis on seasonal, locally sourced ingredients and craft cocktails. It’s a perfect neighborhood spot for a romantic evening or special occasion. 

Where to Drink in the Irish Channel

Breweries, watering holes, and coffee shops: check out these Irish Channel drinking spots!

Parasol’s 

Your trip through the Irish Channel isn’t complete without a stop at Parasol’s, a legendary dive with a roast beef po-boy that is adored by many far and wide. The cheap drinks and beer draw in customers year-round, and they also make a great frozen Irish Coffee, which you can grab to go for a stroll around the neighborhood. 

Pete's Out in the Cold

Another classic Channel dive bar, Pete's is no frills but full of neighborhood personality. It's a true locals' haunt that has been open since 1931. Once you're buzzed in, you'll find friendly bartenders, inexpensive drinks, a jukebox, and a truly beautiful wooden bar. They also have a rotating schedule of food pop-ups, a great lil' covered back patio to enjoy year-round, and a self-proclaimed resident "bossy bar cat" named Foxy. 

Miel Brewery + Taproom

Miel is an independent microbrewery that prides itself on serving quality beer that is environmentally friendly. Stop by this pet-friendly establishment with your favorite pup, enjoy a brew on their sleek outdoor patio, and try out one of their rotating food pop-ups. 

Tchoup Yard

Frosés, margaritas, Moscow Mules and more - Tchoup Yard is a trendy Irish Channel bar filled with color and fun. With mostly outdoor seating it's the perfect place to go for a drink on a warm day. Outdoor games and bar snacks are available, and on those colder nights, cozy up next to one of the fire pits or portable heaters or enjoy the warmth of the interior bar with a helping of cheese fries. 

The Bulldog

With 48 beers on tap and a selection of more than 100 bottles, The Bulldog is a beer-lover's dream. Stop by for a pint and a burger, or enjoy a sunny afternoon on their dog-friendly patio that looks out over Magazine Street. 

Levee Baking Co.

Tucked away on the corner of Magazine and Ninth streets, Levee Baking Co.’s pastries are to die for. Croissants, cinnamon rolls and vegan cookies are our top picks from their menu. Jams and other local goods are sold along with coffee and tea.

The Vintage

Beignet bites, anyone? Choose from traditional beignets, seasonal beignets, fancy beignets, bubbles & beignets, and a whole host of savory options like flatbread pizzas and chicken wings. The Vintage is flanked with outdoor seating, adding to the truly Parisian experience. Order a cocktail from their vintage-inspired menu and watch the colorful traffic down Magazine Street.

Lower Coast 

Lower Coast celebrates the daily ritual of caffeine with its own house-roasted blends and a focus on thoughtfully crafted coffee. Alongside exceptional drinks — including a stellar matcha latte — you’ll find a boutique selection of local goods, artisanal crafts, and even gelato. 

NOLA Brewery & Taproom

NOLA Brewery is a Tchoupitoulas Street staple. Using their extensive beer, ale, and lager selection, guests can create custom tasting flights. Grab a slice from NOLA Pizza Co., their in-house pizzeria specializing in New York-style pies, and head to their outdoor patio and deck seating with views of the Mississippi to enjoy your brew.

Sports Drink 

Coffee by day, comedy by night — Sports Drink is a local favorite that’s been voted best coffee shop and best comedy venue in the city. Swing by for a coffee or sandwich during the day, then return after 7 p.m. for one of their nightly comedy shows. 

What to Do in the Irish Channel 

Magazine Street offers plenty of opportunities for shopping within the Irish Channel.

Antiques on Jackson

Whether you’re window shopping or planning to purchase, Antiques on Jackson is a fun stop to make. They specialize in extravagant and unique antiques and furnishings. Their collection is robust and awe-worthy. Stop by while strolling along Jackson Avenue.

Slow Down 

An artist-curated indie department store, Slow Down is filled with vintage clothing, sustainable fashion, books, art, and handcrafted goods. It’s a go-to for thoughtful gifts and secondhand finds. In the back, you’ll find Future Shock, a mini video rental shop open Friday-Monday offering a dose of nostalgia — and one of the few remaining video rental stores in the country. 

Le Bonbon Candy Shop

Step into a vibrant candy wonderland at Le Bonbon, a delight for kids and adults alike. The shelves are stocked with international chips and sweets, nostalgic favorites, trending treats, and toys. You’ll even find a little New Orleans flair — like beignet-flavored cotton candy — among the colorful displays. 

Zѐle NOLA

Get all your souvenir shopping done in one spot! Zѐle is a permanent indoor art market, filled with unique goods all made by local artists and entrepreneurs. From paintings, t-shirts, jewelry, candles, dish towels, and much more, you’re sure to find something special to commemorate your trip to New Orleans. 

Art Galleries

Whether you’re shopping or simply admiring, there’s no place like one of New Orleans’ many local art galleries. Two of the city’s beloved (and most colorful) local artists have galleries in the Irish channel: Terrance Osbourne and Becky Fos. See their unique views of the city and maybe take a piece home with you!

Funky Monkey

This local favorite combines boutique, second-hand, and costume shopping all in one place. Find a festive new wig, score a vintage band tee for your collection, or bring home a one-of-a-kind accessory to spice up your everyday wardrobe or your costume closet.