It’s not new to call New Orleans one of the best food cities in the country. We’ve been planning trips to eat powdered-sugar-dusted beignets at Café du Monde and the iconic pecan-crusted gulf fish at Commander’s Palace for over 60 years. But in addition to Cajun, Creole, and soul food institutions, the city continues to welcome new spots serving inventive contemporary Mexican, West African, and Indian cuisines—all which play into the diverse, lively vibe of New Orleans.

Here, we break down the main neighborhoods, where to eat within them, and where to stay so that you don’t miss a single place to eat (and drink).

The Marigny down through the French Quarter

Start with grab-and-go pastries to savor while you stroll the quiet residential neighborhood of Marigny. A little walk to Ayu Bakehouse , especially in the early morning while most of the neighborhood is still dozing, is a great start to the day.…