Lola’s Restaurant
3312 Esplanade Ave.
New Orleans, LA 70119
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A unique Faubourg St. John Restaurant with local art decorating the walls. This small, special place doesn’t take reservations. Try to arrive 15 to 30 minutes before opening time and wait in line. If you come later and there’s a mob, don’t be discouraged: Service is attentive and food comes quickly, so your wait shouldn’t be too long, though we’d either not bother on the weekends or bring a book.

They serve incredible Spanish dishes, from various paellas to starters such as garlic shrimp tapas and garlic soup. I recommend the seafood dishes. Don’t forget to bring cash!