Acamaya

New Orleans, US

• No.30 North America's 50 Best Restaurants 2026

Tucked away in a quiet residential pocket of New Orleans, Acamaya feels a million miles away from the neon, jazz bands and street parties of the neighbouring French Quarter – so if you're expecting a typical loud-and-proud Tex-Mex spot with salsa and chips on every table, you've come to the wrong place. This moodily lit restaurant from chef Ana Castro is serious about mariscos: hot and cold seafood plucked fresh from the Gulf and served with signature Mexico City flair. Order however you like – get a few plates to share, or suit yourself with a tostada or taco of your own. Whatever you do, though, don't miss the kitchen's defining dish, arroz negro. This crispy and creamy creation combines rice, squid, mussels and huitlacoche (a treasured, truffly kind of corn fungus) in every smoky bite. Pair it with a citrussy, spicy cocktail that leans heavy on agave spirits, and surrender to the south-of-the-border atmosphere.

Key Information

• Average price per person $80
• Dinner: Thurs – Mon
• 1 504 299 3477
• Visit Acamaya's Website

Location

3070 Dauphine Street, Bywater, New Orleans, Louisiana, LA 70117