Oyster poboy hit the mark. Hidden dive, NYC style place with real, unpretentious soul food. Recommended.
(5)
Ruby B.
Ok... Let me start by saying the food is delicious! I am eating it right now as I type this review. It was my first time ordering from here and as far as the food, I'm happy. I got a shrimp po-boy and the gumbo for $12.25 and you can tell they made it with love. They weren't skimpy on the shrimp and the gumbo looks like something your mom would make. Amazing. So why 3 stars? After spending 10 min on the phone with them giving directions and an address to my place of business, someone finally said they knew where I was. So the driver get's here and proceeds to yell at me about ordering one entree and that they don't deliver only one entree.... Mind you I asked if there was a minimum when I called before I even placed an order and was told there wasn't so why is the driver upset about this? And yelling at me at my place of business none the less!! He told me the cost was $12.25. I gave him a $20 and he asked me "How much do I owe you?" Ok even though I expect a delivery guy to be able to do simple math I proceeded to answer the question. "$7.75" And he still shorted me the $0.75. I ended up tipping him an extra $2 anyway just so he would hurry up and leave (Yes that would make it a 22% tip for driving only 1.7 miles to get to me) and no he didn't say thank you. Meanwhile he is still yelling at me saying I gave the wrong address because apparently they wrote Conti instead of Tonti even though I repeatedly said and spelled it out in phonetic alphabet (I'm a veteran). I even gave them directions and they still got it wrong. That didn't really upset me so much as the delivery guy yelling about delivery minimums and wrong addresses in my business lobby. Totally unprofessional. The food is great but I am not sure if I would order from here. Something about bad customer service that leaves a bad taste in your mouth even when the food is good.
(3)
John Z.
Tucked away in the Central Business District and apparently a local joint serving great poboys. Found down a nondescript alley, it was a true hole in the wall. I ordered the roast beef poboy with full dressing. Beware when fully dressed, there is a structure integrity issue. Also had a side of crab bisque. More impressed with the bisque than the poboy, mostly likely because it actually had real crab chunks.
(3)
DYANEL B.
I found Hobnobber's by accident during Mardi Gras. Conveniently close to our hotel which was on Poydras; Hobnobber's was only a few blocks away. It's a teeny tiny place for the number of guests waiting but I will say the wait was totally worth it and pricing was reasonable too. I love grits so visiting from out of state gave me the opportunity to remix my breakfast and lunch at the same time. GRITS with everything: catfish, country potatoes, omelettes...say bye, bye to your waistline. Vacationing is the best time to let your hair down! Why not do it with down home food that tastes great?
(4)
Rhonda E.
Dear Hobnobbers, Thank you for the very friendly bartender that quickly offered menus that would deliver food to us there, but we what were really hoping for was to find the restaurant and the food that so many people like. Unfortunately, your hours of when you serve food are not conspicuous on your yelp page so we made the mistake of walking all the way here and being disappointed. Perhaps we'll come again. You definitely have a really fun vibe going on.
(3)
Alan Z.
Now this is true southern cooking. Reasonable prices and large portions. They load it up on shrimp. If you looking for a family style home cookin food, this place is it.
(5)
Tina J.
Po boys and Gumbo...the combination just sounds so delightful and a must if you're visiting the Big Easy! So naturally, we looked up a place on Yelp and this was rated well and super close to our hotel. We almost missed this place as it's not like a typical store front. You have to go inside an alley like hallway to get to the main door of the restaurant. The interior is small and has a very mom and pop atmosphere. I got in line to order the fried shrimp po boy with gumbo soup combo and the hubby ordered the same but a fried oyster po boy instead. The portion size was HUGE. I had half a sandwich left and it made quite a delicious snack later in the day. The staff was friendly there were a bunch of locals as well.There is a bar side to this place but the restaurant part is only open till 2 in the afternoon, and the bar is open till 3am. The bar does not serve food from what I gather, so if you want to try this combo, you should come before 2pm. Overall, the food was great! If you're in the area, come check this place out! Get some yummy po boy and gumbo in your tummy!
(5)
Randall M.
When visiting New Orleans, at some point you really want a normal place to eat. A place not prominently listed on the "certified visitors map" found at your hotel. You want to go to a place where the locals go, that's a bit more relaxed, off the tourist path. Hobnobber's is a that place. Going about 9:00 for breakfast, we were greeted by a friendly gentleman who was sitting in outside. He escorted us to down a long, relatively dimly lit hallway covered in signage. He explained that Hobnobber's has two faces: the every-man's restaurant and the bar that doesn't close until the wee hours. At the end of that hallway was a relatively small space, the restaurant, with pictures of damage caused by Katrina and assorted pictures and signs, like one that said something like if you're grumpy, your bill is doubled. At first, you may not know what to make of the place but when you see the menu above the the ordering window, you then understand that this is a place for normal people - people who come to work downtown each day and just want an affordable, good meal. I had the #2 - which included two eggs, bacon, a biscuit and grits. The grits were properly cooked, solid, not watery or dry and swimming in butter. The biscuit was good, with a hint of Bisquick, which is fine. The meal wasn't fancy and it didn't scream "NOLA" - it was comforting and familiar. Initially, I was going to give Hobnobber's three stars because everything was solid, although not spectacular. I changed it to four stars because of the service. From the entrance to the exit, they try to make sure you're carried for - they aren't trying to take your money and give you a half-assed meal. Also, you get a solid breakfast for two plus coffee for around $23. Is it more expensive than fast food? Yes, but they make it worth it.
(4)
Mary-Amm D.
Besides the great food (we had the avocado salad, crab and corn bisque, mixed seafood poboy, and gumbo), we were welcomed as if we were home. The people are so nice!!! They helped us choose from the menu. We got the pleasure to sit and talk with Donald who was born and raised in NOLA. He's such a great spirit. We did not want to leave we had such a great time. And the food... simple tasty food. The portions are huge so come prepared. Overall great local experience.
(5)
Heidi C.
Amazing food experience!!! Found on yelp while on vacation in NO They were closing up, but we're so kind to feed the 4 famished ladies!!! While waiting for our meals, got a drink at the bar, a shot and a pint for 7.00 The crab shrimp cassarole was fantastic as well as the Mac n Cheese, potato salad. Friends had catfish po boys and said they were fantastic!!! The portions were huge not at all pricey. The most lovely, kind and generous owners! Will definitely go back on my next trip!!!
(5)
Christopher J.
Just stopped in for lunch with a couple co-workers. Well, 'stopped in' is inaccurate. We've been planning on coming in for almost a week. We had a hankering for one of the Thursday specials - Turkey Wings!!!! The baked turkey wing comes with healthy servings of cornbread dressing, peas, and yams. You also get the small salad and piece of bread. Add a drink and you're looking at a full thanksgiving meal for under $12!! The restaurant part is in the back. You can either walk through a dark bar or a creepy alley to get there. But I assure you it's safe and well worth it! They have a sign up in the alley that says "New Orleans's Best Kept Secret." I can't argue that claim.
(5)
Ashley M.
Great local food that we came across by accident. I had the cheesy grits with shrimp but also tried the catfish. All delicious! I will absolutely return!!
(5)
Sadie J.
Small hidden gem...will definitely go back..prices were great..wish it was open longer only 6am till 2pm..staff was friendly and awesome
(4)
Joy M.
Visiting New Orleans for a conference and checked out other yelp reviews for places close to my hotel and came across this. The place is a hole in the wall, no frills. But the food is good, the staff is friendly and I ordered more than I could handle. They will even deliver breakfast to you if you are close by. How can you beat that?
(4)
Dan K.
If u r looking for the authentic whole in the wall, then u found it. The hash browns tasted great and we're a bit spicy. Biscuits were very good. Seems like a lot of locals were there, and everyone was super friendly. And the price, well cheaper than anything else I have seen in the area. The portions were huge, so we ended up putin food in the boxes and gave to homeless people on the street. If we had microwave in the room, I would be considering taking home ;-).
Wow total surprise of not knowing about this cool dive bar in the CBD. I live on Carondelet Street in the Garden District so I gotta give some extra bonus points to places on my street. I haven't eaten here yet but this is a popular bar that somehow I've never heard about. The only thing I really didn't like about this bar is that they only have one unisex bathroom you have to get a key from the bartender to use. The crowd here is lively with an interesting variety of folks in here. I'm certainly going to have to check out this place more often and eventually get around to sampling the food.
(4)
Joe D.
Had breakfast here, it was cheap but not very good. A guy sits outside on the street and asks people to come in and eat, interesting. I did not go back, not a lot of variety for breakfast but the staff were friendly.
(2)
Kaitlyn N.
Some of best food we've ever had. We were staying off Canal and didn't want another touristy fancy restaurant. Hobnobbers is a hole in the wall that we found using yelp. They truly know what they are doing. We had the gumbo, shrimp po-boy, and crab cakes with mac and cheese. All of it was heavenly. Highly recommend this gem!
(5)
Tini M.
Okay.. Seriously?! why do these not exist EVERYWHERE?! when you are in the mood for some cookin' that so good you'll want to slap ya mama...this is where to go! The mac n' Cheese with chicken stir fry & shrimp and grits is a MUST. Just do it... and worry about calories later!
(5)
Aubrey H.
I live by one rule about good food: it has to be a divey place. The best, most authentic food I have ever eaten has always come from a hole in the wall. This place was no exception. It's been over 24 hours since I have eaten there and I am STILL craving their shrimp and grits. Perfectly cheesy, buttery, and loaded with shrimp. My boyfriend ordered the red beans and rice and the catfish. This man loves catfish. He swears by so many places that make catfish. And now, he swears that this is THE BEST catfish he has ever tasted. I believe it. Beyond the food, the staff were soooooo friendly. They wanted to make sure you got what you needed/wanted and that you were completely satisfied with your order. How many places this affordable really give a sh*t if you like your meal? They sat down and chatted with us about DC and even gave me a few recipe tips for making the red beans (shh, I'll never tell!) I will recommend this place to my friends who are getting married in NOLA in April & I will remember to bring tupperware down so that we can smuggle leftovers onto our flight. WOW WOW WOW, you will NOT be disappointed!!!
(5)
Mayra F.
Hole in the way spot was a huge surprise! Everything we tried was amazing. Shrimp and grits extremely flavorful, crabmeat and shrimp casserole delicious and gumbo was perfect blends of spices and meat. Can't wait to try again
(5)
J M.
Pictures definitely speak louder than words -- the stir fry chicken and baked macaroni is just as delicious as it always is! This place has been around forever and puts the comfort in comfort food! Also, serves delicious and fresh salads, seafood and more! Menu changes daily - fast, free delivery too! Can't beat the prices!
(5)
Paul E.
Best hidden place! Hot, fresh and great food. Service was excellent. Shrimp and cheese grits, a Louisiana boys dream come true!
(5)
LaToya G.
Heard about this place from a person on a street who jumped in our convo. Wanted breakfast and it was like a home cooked meal. I had pancakes, bacon, and eggs. It was good. They have lunch too. They close at 2 so get there but they deliver too. I'm a visitor
(3)
Yvette A.
Ok so the place is not fancy looking however we came here for food and got good food and good service. I give the alligator omelette a 10 out of 10!!! The buttermilk biscuits will throw you down! So fluffy OH MY GOD! I will definitely be back and I'm sad to leave
(5)
Kennen M.
All the other reviews were correct. This place is filled with nice people, good home cooked food at a great price. They also deliver to your hotel. We ate there 3 times in 2 days because of the food and price.
(4)
Crystal F.
Only giving 2 stars based on the attitude of the woman who answers the phone at this place. Heard that she is the owners wife so her attitude will never change but the food is definitely a 5 and their delivery guys are nice as can be.
(2)
Lisa W.
Not the cleanest looking place or healthiest and it's located in the back of a bar... but the food here was probably the most NOLA food that we came upon. It's very southern with their po boys and gumbo, and they also have the regular breakfast menu. It was the only place that was in distance to our hotel without trying to get through the crowd, or wait hours for the parade and wait at other places... We saw a lot of locals and they directed us to order the catfish po boy and some gumbo. And that's exactly what I did. I ordered the catfish po boy and the gumbo. The catfish po boy was really good, but it was so greasy for me... The gumbo was the best gumbo I had, it looked homemade and they included some crab claws and legs in there! I really enjoyed their gumbo. Again--a little on the salty side but I really think that's a NOLA thing. Lots of flavoring and salt and drench in oil. My BF got the eggs and bacon breakfast... the grits came yellow from all the butter they put in there. Pricing was really decent for the amount of food you get! We also got the bloody mary from the bar and it was waaaay too salty... but good from recovering from last night! You may have a heart attack or your cholesterol just sky-rocketed...but a little here and there of greasy food doesn't hurt...
(4)
Oooooo H.
I cannot say enough good things about this place. We came into the restaurant after they closed for a fundraiser and they were so kind to reopen the kitchen to serve my friends and I. The best customer service I've ever experienced with the men running this place. We had the crab bisque, mac and cheese, po-boys, crab casserole and potato salad and we were highly impressed. Everything was so fresh and flavorful! This place is a must!
(5)
Bernadette F.
This is literally the BEST KEPT SECRET in New Orleans. Thankfully we came across it early on in our vacation. According to my husband the GRITS are by far the best he's ever tasted! I personally have NEVER liked Grits but he was carrying on so much I had to give them a try and WOW were they GOOD!!!! My Son and his best friend loved everything they ate. Long story short, this place was SO GOOD we returned EVERY DAY until the end of our Vacation. Note: The atmosphere is very fun and interactive. The staff is FANTASTIC, DONALD especially. They greet everyone with a hearty smile and make you feel like you belong. We had a blast and interacted with just about everyone in the restaurant on a daily basis...customers included. I cannot say enough good things about this place! IT'S JUST WONDERFUL! REALLY!
(5)
Irnise F.
One of the workers were passing by as we walked by our hotel and told us to stop by. We were hungry for breakfast so we ran our errand and headed right to this spot. The customer service was excellent and the options were great for a good price. I ordered shrimp, grits, eggs and a biscuit. I took my food to go and opened up a box full of grease. The biscuit was good, but the butter had been poured on. The eggs were cooked perfectly. The grits were ok but the cheese was just on top of the grits instead of cooked into them. The shrimp were fine, but a little overwhelming when trying to enjoy everything at once. It wasn't too bad, but not a place I would run back to.
(3)
S. B.
Outstanding. Real food cooked with love! I ordered the shrimp and grits for breakfast and was served a heaping plate of perfect grits and deliciously spiced and beautifully cooked fresh shrimp. Great staff and sweet customers, too. If you come before the bar opens, be aware you have to enter the restaurant down the alley - it's not closed, even though it may look it from the street. This place is the real deal - when you're tired of the artifice on Bourbon Street or the stuffy formality of many of the restaurants, restore yourself with something delightful and authentic.
(5)
Augie R.
The place is definitely a bit of a hole in the wall--we walked in and almost walked right out since it looked more like a dive bar than a restaurant, but we are glad we didn't. The folks who work here are friendly and po' boy was absolutely delicious. You won't eat here for the ambiance, but good, cheap eats make it worth the visit.
(4)
Al T.
the best kept secret in new orleans!! breakfast is fresh and filling!! don't be put off be the decor. the staff is friendly and helpful. good food!!
(5)
Tommy M.
We found this place on a trip to New Orleans a few years ago. The food here is fantastic and the portions are big. It is very reasonable pricing especially for the amount you get. There's an older guy named "D" that helps clean tables and find you a seat. He is worth the visit alone. His Katrina story is fascinating. We have never had a bad experience here. We make it a priority to eat here every time we are in New Orleans. Usually more than once a trip. Their sign says "New Orleans best kept secret" and it's the truth. You will see a line a mile long outside of Mothers for more expensive food that doesn't taste nearly as good. Eat here now!
(5)
Mike C.
Don't be afraid. Restaurant is in the rear. Great shrimp & grits! Limit seating, they do a lot of takeout. Had a ham and cheese omelette with Too much ham - a good thing.
(4)
Jackie M.
Love this hidden gem. I always eat here when I visit NOLA!!! Good home cooked food!!!
(5)
Mike G.
I just read my original review and I must have been on Bourbon Street when I wrote it because it made no sense. So I will give this another try. We were walking out of our hotel which is right down the street planning on going to a different restaurant but there was a man sitting outside the door that started talking to us as we walk by. He was relentless on letting us know why we needed to come into his kitchen. I appreciated his passion and told my group that we were going. I had an alligator on lit with a side of grits and toast and it was awesome their pancakes look like something I've never seen I didn't try them but my wife and her friend we're saying they were top notch. But the prize was my friend had ordered shrimp and grits when he get up to get napkins we all still bites on his plate and concurred that they were off the hook. We went down the street grab some coffee from another location and decide to go back to the hotel and relax for a little bit since we were all in food coma. On the way back I stopped by and picked up some shrimp and grits to go. They were just as delightful later in the day. I recommend this restaurant to anyone.
(5)
Liz M.
Good food....good price! Breakfast was perfect size. Eggs cooked to perfection! I recommend you try it unless you want a fancy place. This one is not! But that was one of the things we particularly liked about Hobnobbers! :) just look for "Big Dog" out front. You will know him by his bark!!
(4)
Mark P.
What a dive. What fantastic food!!!!! Once in a while you stumble across this kind of place. The gumbo is ridiculous and the prices are very, very cheap. I can't recommend it enough. You have to try this place.
(5)
Tom H.
This place is a bar and it has a separate area to get a counter service meal. I can not speak to the bar but food is outstanding. I had the shrimp and grits. Everything looked good. Affordable and friendly. It only serves food until 2 PM.
(5)
Clayton L.
We had the fried catfish po-boy and the crab & corn bisque. The po-boy was just a fried catfish filet on French bread. And the crab & corn bisque had good flavor, but it was cold in spots. It was like they literally tossed frozen salad shrimp into a lukewarm soup. The price wasn't too expensive, but it certainly wasn't cheap. We walked away feeling largely unsatisfied.
(2)
Vennessa M.
Went in today for lunch. Got a ton of great food for very little $. Food was super tasty and the staff was very friendly.
(5)
Chris B.
It's ok. This place is a real dive. Expect lots of food but not no focus on quality. The shrimp and grits were instsnt lumpy grid and parts were raw. The shrimp is not deveined and wasn't appetizing. Po Boy was ok but tartar sauce was not good. The front bar is disgusting. The people are very nice.
(2)
John S.
After reading glowing reviews of staff and food, I was very disappointed by the customer service I received today. After placing a large order for delivery, one member of the group was very disappointed by the Grilled Shrimp and Avocado Salad. Notwithstanding a misunderstanding as to whether avocado was actually ordered, the "salad" itself consisted of very greasy shrimp swimming on a bed of wilted iceberg lettuce with a single tomato slice. Perhaps our mistake for not getting a poboy, but still... Staff was unsympathetic to our complaints and balked at us: "that's how we serve it here." Even after another staff member got on the phone and agreed to credit us for the order, you could still here the individual that originally answered the phone shouting in the background that she would not reimburse us. Ultimately, they agreed we could come in another time for a credit for another meal or have the same salad remade (which was established we didn't like and wouldn't be any better round 2 because "that's how we serve it here" ). Other members of our group were very pleased with their orders. Again, perhaps it was imprudent to order a salad here. Nevertheless, the rude customer service was totally uncalled for. Won't be returning for that alone.
(1)
Rachel D.
Love this little hole in the wall establishment. My bf and I came here on a Monday morning and were quickly greeted. He ordered pancakes and a side of fried chicken (they didn't have chicken and waffles). I ordered shrimp and grits with cheese. The food came out extremely fast and the portions were HUGE. My shrimp had an amazing flavor and his pancake were fluffy and full of flavor. He loved the fried chicken too. My grits were well-cooked and loaded with cheese. The staff was super friendly and accommodating. Not to mention it was cheap!! I definitely plan to make this place a regular when I return to NOLA.
(4)
Barbara J.
This is for Crystal review. I have been ordering food from Hobnobbers for the past 6 years. They have the best delivery serves.. I know when Cheryl is working there and taking my food order, the food is coming right. When we have business meeting lunches, I make sure i asks for her. They have been doing this for the past 28 years. She is the best. It sounds like Crystal didn't get her way and got her white shrimping boots upset.
(5)
Corey W.
Hole in the wall with good home cooked food and good service. If you are ok with getting your own silverware and eating on plastic plates, you will enjoy. If not, go somewhere else.The prices are reasonable and only a block or 2 from bourbon and canal. I would definitely come back again.
(5)
Brittney M.
Totally your typical hole in the wall joint with amazing food. I got the Oyster Po'Boy and Seafood Gumbo. You can taste the homemade goodness with every bite and the staff is great.
(5)
Bailey D.
We were in New Orleans for only two days and I was super disappointed that this place was closed our second day! Yes, it definitely looks like a hole in the wall, but the food is fabulous and the back area where the restaurant was seemed clean enough to me! The kitchen staff was very friendly and helpful, except the one lady back there who I think was just focused in getting her stuff done - she was the only one not very customer-service oriented. And, oh, the food! Okay, we only had shrimp po'boys and gumbo, but the French bread was delectable, the gumbo was fantastic, and it was a ton of food. When we first sat down with our food, I thought my husband and I could have shared a po'boy. Then I proceeded to clean my entire plate. It was not as expensive as other places where we got similar food that wasn't as good (Daisy Dukes, I'm looking at you!). To quote Rachel Ray, YUM-O.
(5)
Marta S.
The best little "hole on the wall" place. Will def...stop by next time for some more fish and grits.
(5)
Traci N.
The place was filthy and the huge roach I spotted on the way out didn't help my opinion any. The first thing I did when we left was to check which restaurant I read about that had the rave reviews because I was positive it wasn't this place! What a disappointment!!
(1)
Julia H.
This place is AWESOME. We decided to check it out even though it seemed kind of sketchy. The staff is sooooo friendly and even gave us free dirty rice on the house. The gumbo is spicy and delicious and the po'boys are classic. It is a true experience
(5)
Quintan T.
BEST BREAKFAST! Heard about this place from one of my friends. He bragged on and on about how good there food is. Mind you i never knew that a restaurant was inside. I always walked right passed this place thinking that it was just a bar. But to my surprise the food was awesome! i had the 2 eggs, grits, biscuit, bacon & a side of hash browns! The staff was really friendly and helpful. Definitely coming back!
(5)
Matt C.
This review is for the Bar. Been here a few times. They have a good / cheap happy hour specials. The patrons and bartenders that I've met here have always been very friendly. Another good dive bar in New Orleans.
(4)
Frankie C.
This place has a really fun bar scene with awesome bartenders and fun regulars. We went for bingo Tuesday night @7 and had a tasty hot toddy and alcoholic ginger beer that's to die for. Won some fun prizes.
(5)
Lisa B.
Order and pick up your food at the counter. Good basic home cooked breakfast. And lots of it! We will definitely be coming back to try the seafood!
(4)
Faye R.
A wonderful little hole in the wall through what could be a slightly shady hallway/ally. The staff was REALLY friendly and the food was DELICIOUS! I had bacon, eggs, and grits! warning: if you're on a diet or don't like butter this isn't the place for you, but I am neither of those things so it was a definite win!
(5)
Kelsey M.
Ate here for breakfast. Good prices and tasty food. Had the 2 eggs, biscuit, bacon, and hashbrowns. Biscuit was amazing! Bacon was on the thinner side but still had good flavor. Large portions but super nice people. Some of the best service we received in NOLA. Seemed like a true family establishment. My husband had a po' boy the day before and said it was amazing.
(4)
Jessica S.
Great place to go for breakfast. I was a little hesitant at first because you cannot see the restaurant from the road and have to go through a hallway to get to the place. Definitely seems like a popular spot amongst the locals. I felt like I was in the know coming here. The staff was friendly. I got my food real quick. I got the hash brown special. The hash browns were excellent! The meal left me rather full. All I could expect for the ideal breakfast.
(5)
L E.
The spot looks like it would not have anything good but looks are deceiving. The shrimp and grits were wonderful. The staff is super friendly. My hubby had the pancakes and hash browns. He is a pancake person. He said they were great. My friend had the catfish and said as it was good but could use more seasoning.
(5)
Hopus M.
I made a last minute change when I saw the "shrimp and crab casserole" on the white board. Bottom feeding shell fish are my favorite so I was sold! So they scooped the casserole out of the metal tray that was already sitting out and stuck it on a styrofoam plate along with the macaroni. Then they microwaved it for like 5 minutes. Once it came out I had to send it back to have it warmed up some more. (At this point I don't know why I didn't send it back for good!) After another warm up, the temperature was OK after I mixed the hot spots with the cold spots so I started eating the gray slop on my plate. It tasted alright! The taste was OK. But I constantly had to keep spitting out bits of shrimp tail - like 30 times... (again, why I kept going I don't know!) I threw it away and walked out after eating a quarter of the dish. Then I spent the rest of the day dreading what I had just eaten. The churning wouldn't stop (but maybe that was from Bourbon St the night before) and I had a plane to catch later that day. I lived to tell the tale, and the plane ride was thankfully uneventful. However, I can not eat shrimp anymore without thinking of spitting up tiny bits of shrimp tail. You've ruined me! My friend had some kind of chicken leg and he really liked it, so there you go. I would avoid sea food here!
(1)
Heath S.
Have to try the roast beef poboy it's stuffed with garlic and slow cooked to perfection..Just a phenomenal sandwich a must try..
(5)
Cris R.
I was referred to this place by someone working at Walgreens, and I am so glad they did! This is clearly a place favored by locals. It's truly a hole-in-the-wall that you might miss if you didn't know where it was. The food is home-cookin' at its finest! The biscuits are to die for. Go there! It's worth it!
(5)
Susan W.
A+ for trying to please their customers. The food was great, the staff even better!
(5)
Monique G.
Good food + good people = happy woman I wish I would have know about this place before my last day because I would have made a repeat trip. It's VERY laid back but that's ok with me. The Mac & Cheese is the BEST
(4)
Kareem G.
The best breakfast in New Orleans and the staff is just as amazing. Don't be afraid by the hallway, or the obscurity of the location, they're right across the way from Subway. You won't leave dissatisfied. They're open to 2pm, breakfast and lunch. Ordered the Hashbrown and Pancake special, spent less than $20 even with tipping! Each meal was delicious, I can't make a recommendation between the both. If you're with someone else, order both and share. They also offer all you can drink (coffee, soda, tee). If you need any tips on sightseeing or local areas you should visit, the staff is very knowledgeable and more than willing to share! How can you not love this place?
(5)
G C.
Go there now. Had breakfast of shrimp and grits which was amazing, and gumbo. Loved every bit of it
(4)
Toni J.
"Ya know ya hungry, ya gotta eat!" Was ushered in here for breakfast and loved every bite of it! Cheap prices and huge portions!
(4)
kelley s.
So disappointed. After reading the reviews we were expecting pretty good food. Not at all what we got. The grits are bland, biscuits hard, hash browns greasy, the bacon was cooked hours ago. Paul was very friendly and helpful. The ladies behind the counter were gruff and more interested in their phones. Might try it again for lunch just because of all the rave reviews. Will definitely take a pass on breakfast.
(2)
Brian H.
This place is filthy and, in the morning, smells like all the "Hobnobbing" from Bourbon St got washed right down he-ya. But what more do you want from your friendly, local dive bar? I highly recommend coming here during the day. The staff is welcoming and funny, you never know what will be on the teevee (once it was Tarsem Singh's "The Fall", another time, "Days of Our Lives") and at least one patron will be looking rougher than you. Also wins: best jukebox in the CBD (Central Business District). The drinks are cheap. Pull up a stool and stay awhile.
(5)
Yolanda S.
Found this place on Yelp while visiting the NOLA area. My husband and I ordered from this place 3 times during our visit. Good eats, very reasonably priced and friendly staff. When I return to the area, I will definitely visit this place for breakfast. Had a shrimp po' boy and gumbo for lunch my last day. It was filling but nothing extraordinary.
(4)
Dale R.
Hole in the wall but authentic poboys and just about the best gumbo anywhere. Don't let the looks deceive you, we'll worth it for good food and a true New Orleans feel. Small place but that only adds to the atmosphere, as do the guys working there.
(4)
Heather L.
Amazing hole in the wall. Don't let the shabby hallway and interior deter you. Amazing food, big portion, good coffee. More of a locals spot than tourist. My kinda place and no big crowds. Love it! Awesome breakfast.
(5)
MrGennao H.
I've only been to the restaurant section. The place is quaint and hospitable. Paul and cheryl(owners) with Donald, Janis and the other staff gives any guess to there place, the feel of returning to a loving family. The food is excellent, the prices are reasonable in a tourist area, and not all of the distraction of the Bourbon st. crowds.
(5)
Andrea R.
so much food for the price! had the grilled shrimp & cheesy grits, tasted delicious but so much grease! The staff were all so welcoming, would definitely recommend if you like a heavy southern style breakfast.
(4)
Catherine W.
Complete hole in the wall, but a hidden gem - food was excellent. Came here for lunch. Had the oyster po'boy and gumbo special. The gumbo portion was extremely generous, a full bowl. The best gumbo I've ever had. Staff was extremely friendly and helpful. Free refills on soda.
(5)
Dawn T.
Okay this place looks like a complete dive - but we were on a hunt for breakfast and this place did not disappoint. This is nothing fancy, but so tasty. Breakfast is served on paper plates - but with food this good - who cares! Try the spicy sausage - was my favorite - if you like a bit of a kick - get this for sure. The staff working could not have been nicer. Of course you have to get dessert with breakfast - LOL!!! So we also got a piece of peach cobbler to share - this was like I walked into my grandma's kitchen - yummy!!!! If you are in New Orleans - just make the stop - nothing fancy but good food!
(5)
Mimi J.
I was walking down Canal starving and looking for a quick place to eat breakfast my first morning in New Orleans. I was in a rush, but I just wasn't willing to lower myself to eat at McDonald's or IHOP. After a fruitless search up and down Canal, I was at the corner of Canal & Bourbon Street waiting for the light to change when I noticed I was standing next to a rather large man with a personality three times the size of his body who was extolling the virtues of his restaurant up a side street (Carondolet). He introduced himself as Big Dog and handed me a menu, which was full of yummy breakfast and lunch items at surprisingly affordable prices. It was a good thing he was willing to walk with me down to Hobnobbers (chit chatting all the way) because I'd never have found this place by myself and that would have been a crying shame. This place is beyond hole in the wall. Not only would you never wander in here by accident, it's almost impossible to find even when you know where you're going. Believe me, it's worth the effort. The menu was a little overwhelming, but Big Dog helped me navigate it and choose the gumbo and po-boy special. Wow! That's all I can say. The gumbo was REALLY GOOD, and had large pieces of sausage and other yummy things floating in it. The shrimp po-boy was on a great big roll that tasted like it was freshly baked and was light and airy. The shrimp were batter fried until crispy and the whole thing was "dressed", a term I learned meant that it had crisp and crunchy lettuce (and possibly tomato) inside. The sandwich was tasty and very filling, and the meal wasn't very expensive. I'm going to be honest, they have spent no money on ambience or decore, but then they don't pass those expenses along to you either, so that's a bonus! I was here on business and didn't make it back out of the hotel until Sunday night, at which time I raced down to Hobnobbers to try to have dinner only to be crushed to find it closed. :( I ended up eating dinner at the highly rated Acme Oyster Bar which was much certainly much fancier than Hobnobbers, but Hobnobber's gumbo was INFINITELY better tasting! I came back on Monday morning and had a real breakfast - a ham and cheese omelette with grits. My first thought on seeing the omelette was "There must be six eggs and half a pig in this thing!" It was big, thick, sitting up high and falling over both edges of the plate and generously filled with tender ham and a liberal dose of grated cheese. The grits filled every available inch of the plate that wasn't covered in omelette and were swimming in butter and even had some shredded cheese on top. I'm sure my arteries aren't thanking me for having breakfast there (I finished every mouthful leaving only remnants of the two slices of toast that were stacked on top of the omelette as there was no room left on the plate for them) but my tastebuds will be grateful for years If you want large quantities of food, tasty, perfectly seasoned, and prepared with love you've GOT to try this place while you're in New Orleans. If you're willing to pay more money for under-seasoned blah tasting food there are a hundred restaurants down Bourbon Street that will fit the bill. You choose. I've already made my choice!
(5)
Tina C.
Omg! What a hidden gem...rub away a little carbon, you got yourself a diamond. Best breakfast and friendliest staff ever. We went there, and bought the shirt. Prices, quality and quantity are phenomenal. Think you're close...well listen for their resident barker, Big Dog. He will take you right to it. Awesome! Hobnobbers for life!
(5)
Chris P.
Friendly folks. No frills, had a decent hash brown special, had quite a varied menu. Regular patrons were bringing in the customers telling all how good their food was. Would return to try their lunch menu. Entry to the place a little awkward but signs point the way.
(4)
Greg P.
As a native, I know many great places downtown/FQ, but had lunch here for the first time. Great hole in the wall place for lunch if your downtown. Definitely recommend and will be back to try their breakfast. Shrimp and merliton special was right on.
(4)
Mark A.
Summary: The best local joint in the area to get authentic New Orleans food! Details: This place is that hole-in-the-wall, obscure but awesome place you always here about. It's far from fancy on the inside, but don't let that detract you from the food and friendliness here. The people there are really great and they give you huge portions. We got the catfish and grits as a recommendation. The catfish was lightly fried and flaky on the inside. The biscuit was warm and fluffy. And the grits... were the best grits I've ever had, and I don't normally eat grits.
(5)
BigAlsCandy C.
Wow is about all I can say about this place. It is absolutely a dive but was one of the best places we visited while in NOLA. We stayed at a hotel just past this place and passed it a few times everyday on our way to bourbon street. One day there was a long line at a place just down the street while a guy was standing out in front of this place announcing how good the food was and soliciting folks to come on in. Thinking it was like the sleezy joints on Bourbon street and the fact that we were not hungry we kept walking. Later that day around lunch time we started looking for a place to eat. With it being a Ballgame weekend and New Years Day we were out of luck on finding a place with less than a 1 hour wait. On the way back to the hotel we walked into Hobnobbers and were really unsure what to expect. Again, all I can say is , WOW. what a dive,.... with the friendliest people you will find out there. Not sure what to order, I asked the guy and he said that I couldn't go wrong with the Po Boy and the Gumbo. He was spot on as the CUP of gumbo that I ordered had more meat and ingredients that most BOWLS ordered from other places. The gumbo was the best we had while in NOLA. You also have to try the tartar sauce served with the po boy. Oh my Goodness...... It was outstanding. I needed extra for my po Boy and then some for my fries. The server even said that he put it on his salad. It was home made with a Cajun kick. This place was a diamond in the rough and we will definitely put it on our regular places to eat when we visit NOLA.
(5)
Kelly G.
Hands down the best breakfast spot in NOLA! My hubby is a breakfast connoisseur & we needed a place that hit the spot. This was it. We asked some locals where they ate & boy are we glad we asked. The place is tiny, the sisters that cook were arguing about who makes the best biscuits & grits while serving up your order. It was like being at your Nanna's house. I ate the best grits, biscuits & peach cobbler & you will be ready to rumble if someone tries to get two bites instead of one of the banana pudding. Yes, its that good!! They delivered to our hotel so we had their food 2 days in a row. Portions are big, quality is great & the $$ will allow you to eat well & still have plenty of drinking money left over. No Fancy dress or reservations required. Just come hungry and you will not be sorry.
(5)
Ted W.
Great little place. Make sure you go to the entrance just to the east of the bar or you'll miss it. Friendly folks. Small place, breakfast is very good. Nothing "special" as far as local cuisine, just a great breakfast with generous portions. Great little place!
(4)
Edgar L.
This was our first lunch in New Orleans and it was the best! We were a bit scared to go in but one of the worker's was nice enough to invite us and walk us in. My partner and I both ordered the po'boy and gumbo special. I had the shrimp and he had the fried catfish. We both thought they were great! A huge po'boy and huge bowl of gumbo for $10.50!! They gumbo was great and had a lot of flavor. .shrimp, sausage, and crab legs. It was definitely a great start to our day.
(5)
Erica M.
Hands down the best breakfast I've had down here. The people were super engaging, actually had conversation with their customers. It's tucked away as a hidden jewel. Food was terrific! A bang for your buck.
(5)
Ben B.
Avoid this place! Our $5 breakfasts (x2) some how turned into a $18 tab. Very unorganized... You order in one window than pickup & pay from another (different people you order from and who cashes you out). When I questioned the cost the guy said it was for an extra egg (which was not even asked for). Further.... 2 other gentlemen who came in behind us had the exact same problem and they were locals! Nothing like spending your breakfast researching the menu to try to add up what you were just overcharged... Food.... Nothing special. Thin bacon, typical eggs, biscuit was OK, and the hash browns were dripping grease. I'm sure there are plenty of breakfast options in the area. This one happened to be near our hotel. I'd select a different one or make damn sure about the price at the time of ordering! This is the first time I've ever given 1 star. I try to see the best in every spot. Not even sure this place deserved any stars.
(1)
Bill B.
Walking in you say to yourself what the hell but it will quickly change you mind great food shrimp and grits off the chain and they give you plenty staff work there is real cool its a five star for sure.
(5)
Michael C.
Amazing. Wonder down the ally...its worth it
(5)
Stephanie K.
Straight up dive bar. No frills, cheap drinks, and a grimy pool table. Excellent. We didn't try the food, but the bartenders were very nice and the atmosphere is laid back.
(3)
Sanora A.
This place is a must come back to if i ever visit NOLA again. I didnt have anything to eat, we came for the pool table and we looked every where for it. The drinks were cheap, the music was awesome and the plays on the table were cheap. The food looked awesome, if we didn't have reservations elsewhere.
(5)
M H.
Paddy is the man. If your looking for a low key atmosphere this is the place. Perfect way to start the night before you head to bourbon. Where else can you get $2.00 long necks? Paddy thanks for taking care of my friends that came in town this weekend, we had a great time.
(4)
Jody P.
Great Bloody Mary's
(4)
Christine S.
I never liked grits until I had them here with cheese omlette. Prices are reasonable and place is very casual. Will def return.
(4)
Lott B.
Great food. Friendly staff. Small hole in the wall type place. Always make you feel at home. They always go the extra mile. It may sound like a cliche' , but you feel like family. Everybody has a crazy uncle Donald, and a grandmother like Miss Mary.
(5)
Mamie D.
A hole in the wall jewel!!! The gumbo, fried catfish and dirty rice very good. They will deliver to your hotel.
(5)
Vanessa E.
We were looking for a quick bite to eat before hopping in a cab to the airport this morning. The bell man at the hotel had mentioned this place around the corner from the hotel the previous morning. So we decided to check it out. You have to walk down this little hallway to get
(4)
Chris L.
We walked back and forth past Hobnobbers a few times before I checked the reviews in Yelp. The reviews didn't give us much to go on, so we decided to check it out. It is a dark and smokey dive. In the late Monday afternoon we were there, it wasn't too busy or crowded. There were three of four regulars at one end by the TV. One of them had his chin on his chest and his eyes were closed. "Hey. No sleeping", the very friendly (and sometimes pirate) bartender Betsy gently reminded the sleepy local. "I'm awake", he replied. Two other locals were arguing about intricacies of the rules of a football pool. Betsy brought us a couple of cheap draft Abita ambers, and regaled us with stories of her life. Very nice time. Betsy also mentioned we should come back for breakfast. It's served until 10:00 a.m., and according to Betsy, they deliver to hotels if you feel like sleeping in. So we came back two days later for breakfast. We entered through the bar. It was still dark and smokey. The locals asked us if we were looking for breakfast and directed to the restaurant through the door at the back of the bar. Apparently we should have entered through the door on the street to the right of the bar. "Did Big Dog send ya?", someone asked. Big Dog? We didn't exactly get any names on the way through the bar. "Yeah, sure" we said. We ordered through the window and found a seat at a table. "Woof!" Damn, that sounded like a real big dog in the hall we should have walked down next to the bar. Maybe that's what they are talking about. "Woof!" Out of the hall walked a big black guy. Big Dog, I assumed. The food was up. I picked it up at the window to the right. Huge plates of eggs, grits, bacon, biscuits, and toast. The coffee is in the urn by the door. My only complaint was when I came out of the bathroom, which is through the kitchen, I saw a 5 gallon saucepan full of quartered heads of cabbage in the hall by the bathroom door. A little too close for my comfort.
(4)
Victoria V.
This place is a great hidden treasure! We stayed at the Hilton Garden Inn just around the corner from this place and heard a guy yelling "You know you're hungry, come on in!" We took his advice and entered a mysterious dark hallway to the restaurant. It's fairly small inside and the service is a bit slow but man is the food delicious. I ordered the breakfast sandwich with a side of potatoes. It was SO good! Definitely not healthy but who worries about that while on vacation. My only complaint was that I was overcharged. Regardless, I'll be back the next time I'm in NOLA.
(5)
Natalie W.
Paddy, the bartender, was cool. He mixed me up a really good red snapper blend which I loved. The music was cool and it was a playlist from his ipod. There's one pool table there. (which was ran by me ^_^) Its a small, dark, hole in the wall, but it serves it's purpose as an after work drink while waiting on the streetcar ^_^
(5)
Jen S.
I'm a bit intimidated to compliment after reading those reviews but eff it... I'm going to anyway. We stumbled across this place from "Big Dog" outside our hotel. I can't speak of the bar because we ate lunch here but it was FABULOUS! For a spot literally downtown, the prices are INSANE. The staff was super sweet and friendly and generous with the portions. We shared a few different plates. Some stewed okra and catfish. My friends had fried chicken. We all loved it and our meals were like $6 each. I highly recommend this if you crave good Southern comfort food. It reminds me of like a "Mothers"... minus the wait and the hoopla. Not knocking Mother's by any means. Complimenting them both! Don't get it twisted, it is a hole in the wall, but worth a try ;)
(4)
J F.
Best gumbo ever....great price.......if you are an atmosphere junkie, go spend double the amount somewhere else for 1/2 the value...do not miss this place!
(5)
Gime More F.
Shrimp po-boy was good, bread was light and airy, shrimp were perfectly fried (most of them, think there were a few that didn't come out of the fryer from the previous order)and the gumbo was ok. Place was pretty much a dive with the food being better than expected looking at the surroundings... Just wish it was a little cleaner. Made me want to wash my hands and keep my eyes open for the little almonds with legs!
(3)
Marvin C.
We had breakfast delivered from here to our hotel. It was great! Lots if food and it was at a great price. No one could finish it all. So basically I fed my family of 4 a great breakfast in New Orleans for under $26.00!
(4)
Catherine B.
I love this place. The food is great, when I can get up early enough to actually get it. Normally I go there at night. Booze is wonderful, there's usually good conversation and if there isn't then you can always watch whatever's on tv. I always have fun here and try to make it in as often as possible. Paddy always takes great care me.
(5)
Kurt H.
Had the shrimp po-boy and gumbo lunch. Bread was fresh but the shrimp were just OK. I would have preferred a coarser, crunchier batter with more seasoning like pepper etc. Heck, sprinkle some Cajunland seasoning in the batter. The gumbo was just OK. It had sausage and shrimp but the roux was thin, runny and not overly rich like you'd expect. This place was recommended by some of the staff at The Hampton Inn. I asked for a local place (i.e. not Mothers!). I was a local many years ago and I don't think this a place I'd send people to as authentic.
(2)
Robin H.
Went here today for lunch food was great large portions and the staff was very nice will go back again on my next visit next year
(5)
F J.
they played the whole album "Night Ripper" twice... in a row. Wouldn't have been so bad, except this was last year... walked by this place again and it's still got the same music going. at least you know what you're getting.
(2)
Lester M.
I used to go to this place for lunch years ago when I worked downtown. I think I used to get the shrimp po-boy or the hot sausage sandwich. I was persuaded to go in this place by the large and loud hawker who stands on the sidewalk yelling at people to get breakfast at the place. Though a bit taken aback at being yelled at at 9am on a Saturday morning, I was early for a meeting downtown and was hungry so the obnoxious yelling guy was effective, as I had set my sights on a place further up the block until being pretty much accosted by the "Big Worm/Debo" look alike. This is about as close to a N.O. neighborhood diner you will get downtown or in the Quarters. The no frills wooden bench and tables, plastic plates, cups and eating utensils confirm the informal dining experience. I got the breakfast special with pancakes. You order and pick up from a window. it took a bit longer to get my food than i would have liked, but the food was hearty and plentiful and the price was reasonable. The pancakes were pretty awesome.
(3)
tatia g.
Was truly amused by the man that talked us to visiting "the best whole in the wall without the Bourbon St. prices". That was the best of it. The food was typical soul food, nothing amazing. Ordered the catfish, but received the pork chop. Accepted it because it looked tasty. The seasoning was good, but more fat than meat. You really can do better, there are too many options in N.O. to settle for this place.
(1)
J. D.
Jay, Thanks for the generous shots of Maker's. I tried to tip you well for them. Thanks for giving me a ride home two nights (mornings) in a row. With hindsight, I realize that I could probably barely stand up, much less figure out how to call a cab. Thanks for the great conversation. You're a fucking rad guy. Thanks for all the great tunes. Neil Young's "Roll Another Number (For the Road)" was the perfect anthem for my last night in the city. To everyone else: this joint is right across Canal from the foot of Bourbon St. and even though it's more subdued from the 24 hour frat party up the street, you won't find a better place to go for drink and good conversation anywhere.
(5)
Mardi C.
five stars for best dive at night? the bartenders play great music, and have fun. also at night you get to see all the rodents who live here. there's ben, gentle ben, ben gay, bend over, etc... . however, I know that by day, this kitchen is spotless, and the staff kicks butt... the poboys are great, and there really isn't anyplace in new orleans that doesn't have a rat.
Takes Reservations : No Delivery : Yes Take-out : Yes Accepts Credit Cards : Yes Good For : Breakfast, Brunch Parking : Street Bike Parking : Yes Wheelchair Accessible : Yes Good for Kids : Yes Good for Groups : Yes Attire : Casual Ambience : Divey Noise Level : Average Good For Dancing : No Alcohol : Full Bar Happy Hour : Yes Coat Check : No Smoking : Yes Outdoor Seating : No Wi-Fi : No Has TV : Yes Waiter Service : No Caters : No
John D.
Oyster poboy hit the mark. Hidden dive, NYC style place with real, unpretentious soul food. Recommended.
(5)Ruby B.
Ok... Let me start by saying the food is delicious! I am eating it right now as I type this review. It was my first time ordering from here and as far as the food, I'm happy. I got a shrimp po-boy and the gumbo for $12.25 and you can tell they made it with love. They weren't skimpy on the shrimp and the gumbo looks like something your mom would make. Amazing. So why 3 stars? After spending 10 min on the phone with them giving directions and an address to my place of business, someone finally said they knew where I was. So the driver get's here and proceeds to yell at me about ordering one entree and that they don't deliver only one entree.... Mind you I asked if there was a minimum when I called before I even placed an order and was told there wasn't so why is the driver upset about this? And yelling at me at my place of business none the less!! He told me the cost was $12.25. I gave him a $20 and he asked me "How much do I owe you?" Ok even though I expect a delivery guy to be able to do simple math I proceeded to answer the question. "$7.75" And he still shorted me the $0.75. I ended up tipping him an extra $2 anyway just so he would hurry up and leave (Yes that would make it a 22% tip for driving only 1.7 miles to get to me) and no he didn't say thank you. Meanwhile he is still yelling at me saying I gave the wrong address because apparently they wrote Conti instead of Tonti even though I repeatedly said and spelled it out in phonetic alphabet (I'm a veteran). I even gave them directions and they still got it wrong. That didn't really upset me so much as the delivery guy yelling about delivery minimums and wrong addresses in my business lobby. Totally unprofessional. The food is great but I am not sure if I would order from here. Something about bad customer service that leaves a bad taste in your mouth even when the food is good.
(3)John Z.
Tucked away in the Central Business District and apparently a local joint serving great poboys. Found down a nondescript alley, it was a true hole in the wall. I ordered the roast beef poboy with full dressing. Beware when fully dressed, there is a structure integrity issue. Also had a side of crab bisque. More impressed with the bisque than the poboy, mostly likely because it actually had real crab chunks.
(3)DYANEL B.
I found Hobnobber's by accident during Mardi Gras. Conveniently close to our hotel which was on Poydras; Hobnobber's was only a few blocks away. It's a teeny tiny place for the number of guests waiting but I will say the wait was totally worth it and pricing was reasonable too. I love grits so visiting from out of state gave me the opportunity to remix my breakfast and lunch at the same time. GRITS with everything: catfish, country potatoes, omelettes...say bye, bye to your waistline. Vacationing is the best time to let your hair down! Why not do it with down home food that tastes great?
(4)Rhonda E.
Dear Hobnobbers, Thank you for the very friendly bartender that quickly offered menus that would deliver food to us there, but we what were really hoping for was to find the restaurant and the food that so many people like. Unfortunately, your hours of when you serve food are not conspicuous on your yelp page so we made the mistake of walking all the way here and being disappointed. Perhaps we'll come again. You definitely have a really fun vibe going on.
(3)Alan Z.
Now this is true southern cooking. Reasonable prices and large portions. They load it up on shrimp. If you looking for a family style home cookin food, this place is it.
(5)Tina J.
Po boys and Gumbo...the combination just sounds so delightful and a must if you're visiting the Big Easy! So naturally, we looked up a place on Yelp and this was rated well and super close to our hotel. We almost missed this place as it's not like a typical store front. You have to go inside an alley like hallway to get to the main door of the restaurant. The interior is small and has a very mom and pop atmosphere. I got in line to order the fried shrimp po boy with gumbo soup combo and the hubby ordered the same but a fried oyster po boy instead. The portion size was HUGE. I had half a sandwich left and it made quite a delicious snack later in the day. The staff was friendly there were a bunch of locals as well.There is a bar side to this place but the restaurant part is only open till 2 in the afternoon, and the bar is open till 3am. The bar does not serve food from what I gather, so if you want to try this combo, you should come before 2pm. Overall, the food was great! If you're in the area, come check this place out! Get some yummy po boy and gumbo in your tummy!
(5)Randall M.
When visiting New Orleans, at some point you really want a normal place to eat. A place not prominently listed on the "certified visitors map" found at your hotel. You want to go to a place where the locals go, that's a bit more relaxed, off the tourist path. Hobnobber's is a that place. Going about 9:00 for breakfast, we were greeted by a friendly gentleman who was sitting in outside. He escorted us to down a long, relatively dimly lit hallway covered in signage. He explained that Hobnobber's has two faces: the every-man's restaurant and the bar that doesn't close until the wee hours. At the end of that hallway was a relatively small space, the restaurant, with pictures of damage caused by Katrina and assorted pictures and signs, like one that said something like if you're grumpy, your bill is doubled. At first, you may not know what to make of the place but when you see the menu above the the ordering window, you then understand that this is a place for normal people - people who come to work downtown each day and just want an affordable, good meal. I had the #2 - which included two eggs, bacon, a biscuit and grits. The grits were properly cooked, solid, not watery or dry and swimming in butter. The biscuit was good, with a hint of Bisquick, which is fine. The meal wasn't fancy and it didn't scream "NOLA" - it was comforting and familiar. Initially, I was going to give Hobnobber's three stars because everything was solid, although not spectacular. I changed it to four stars because of the service. From the entrance to the exit, they try to make sure you're carried for - they aren't trying to take your money and give you a half-assed meal. Also, you get a solid breakfast for two plus coffee for around $23. Is it more expensive than fast food? Yes, but they make it worth it.
(4)Mary-Amm D.
Besides the great food (we had the avocado salad, crab and corn bisque, mixed seafood poboy, and gumbo), we were welcomed as if we were home. The people are so nice!!! They helped us choose from the menu. We got the pleasure to sit and talk with Donald who was born and raised in NOLA. He's such a great spirit. We did not want to leave we had such a great time. And the food... simple tasty food. The portions are huge so come prepared. Overall great local experience.
(5)Heidi C.
Amazing food experience!!! Found on yelp while on vacation in NO They were closing up, but we're so kind to feed the 4 famished ladies!!! While waiting for our meals, got a drink at the bar, a shot and a pint for 7.00 The crab shrimp cassarole was fantastic as well as the Mac n Cheese, potato salad. Friends had catfish po boys and said they were fantastic!!! The portions were huge not at all pricey. The most lovely, kind and generous owners! Will definitely go back on my next trip!!!
(5)Christopher J.
Just stopped in for lunch with a couple co-workers. Well, 'stopped in' is inaccurate. We've been planning on coming in for almost a week. We had a hankering for one of the Thursday specials - Turkey Wings!!!! The baked turkey wing comes with healthy servings of cornbread dressing, peas, and yams. You also get the small salad and piece of bread. Add a drink and you're looking at a full thanksgiving meal for under $12!! The restaurant part is in the back. You can either walk through a dark bar or a creepy alley to get there. But I assure you it's safe and well worth it! They have a sign up in the alley that says "New Orleans's Best Kept Secret." I can't argue that claim.
(5)Ashley M.
Great local food that we came across by accident. I had the cheesy grits with shrimp but also tried the catfish. All delicious! I will absolutely return!!
(5)Sadie J.
Small hidden gem...will definitely go back..prices were great..wish it was open longer only 6am till 2pm..staff was friendly and awesome
(4)Joy M.
Visiting New Orleans for a conference and checked out other yelp reviews for places close to my hotel and came across this. The place is a hole in the wall, no frills. But the food is good, the staff is friendly and I ordered more than I could handle. They will even deliver breakfast to you if you are close by. How can you beat that?
(4)Dan K.
If u r looking for the authentic whole in the wall, then u found it. The hash browns tasted great and we're a bit spicy. Biscuits were very good. Seems like a lot of locals were there, and everyone was super friendly. And the price, well cheaper than anything else I have seen in the area. The portions were huge, so we ended up putin food in the boxes and gave to homeless people on the street. If we had microwave in the room, I would be considering taking home ;-).
(4)Spud Z.
This was a fun find this afternoon. I never knew this place existed. Once I saw mirliton and shrimp casserole on the menu, I had to give it a shot. This place is divey to be sure. Its menu is large and cheap and it seems to try to cater to everyone. I've been told the menu hasn't changed in years but the pricing has gone up a bit to accommodate inflation. It's still cheap as hell, y'all. I had the mirliton casserole, which I enjoyed. It seemed like it had two different types of shrimp in it, like perhaps one new batch was added to an old batch from a couple days prior or something-- because some of the shrimp tasted very bland (it had lost its texture) and yet some of it was very tasty. I loved the large chunks of mirliton mixed in with the almost puréed bits. The whole thing tasted exactly like what you'd find stuffed inside a mirliton at Jazz Fest. For $8, I had about 2 pounds and 8 servings worth. It came with a small "salad" (iceberg lettuce topped with ranch and a slice of not-so-fresh tomato), but the star of the show was their Mac and cheese. I loved it. White cheese and macaroni topped with yellow cheese and just absolutely doused in cracked black pepper. I highly recommend it. Get you some. Also: Today my coworker had the boneless chicken special and it looked great. He said it was quite tasty. The portion sizes were huge for the price. His plate was loaded with chicken and he had plenty for leftovers as well. For $16, the two of us got enough for at least 3 meals each.
(3)Shannon S.
Wow total surprise of not knowing about this cool dive bar in the CBD. I live on Carondelet Street in the Garden District so I gotta give some extra bonus points to places on my street. I haven't eaten here yet but this is a popular bar that somehow I've never heard about. The only thing I really didn't like about this bar is that they only have one unisex bathroom you have to get a key from the bartender to use. The crowd here is lively with an interesting variety of folks in here. I'm certainly going to have to check out this place more often and eventually get around to sampling the food.
(4)Joe D.
Had breakfast here, it was cheap but not very good. A guy sits outside on the street and asks people to come in and eat, interesting. I did not go back, not a lot of variety for breakfast but the staff were friendly.
(2)Kaitlyn N.
Some of best food we've ever had. We were staying off Canal and didn't want another touristy fancy restaurant. Hobnobbers is a hole in the wall that we found using yelp. They truly know what they are doing. We had the gumbo, shrimp po-boy, and crab cakes with mac and cheese. All of it was heavenly. Highly recommend this gem!
(5)Tini M.
Okay.. Seriously?! why do these not exist EVERYWHERE?! when you are in the mood for some cookin' that so good you'll want to slap ya mama...this is where to go! The mac n' Cheese with chicken stir fry & shrimp and grits is a MUST. Just do it... and worry about calories later!
(5)Aubrey H.
I live by one rule about good food: it has to be a divey place. The best, most authentic food I have ever eaten has always come from a hole in the wall. This place was no exception. It's been over 24 hours since I have eaten there and I am STILL craving their shrimp and grits. Perfectly cheesy, buttery, and loaded with shrimp. My boyfriend ordered the red beans and rice and the catfish. This man loves catfish. He swears by so many places that make catfish. And now, he swears that this is THE BEST catfish he has ever tasted. I believe it. Beyond the food, the staff were soooooo friendly. They wanted to make sure you got what you needed/wanted and that you were completely satisfied with your order. How many places this affordable really give a sh*t if you like your meal? They sat down and chatted with us about DC and even gave me a few recipe tips for making the red beans (shh, I'll never tell!) I will recommend this place to my friends who are getting married in NOLA in April & I will remember to bring tupperware down so that we can smuggle leftovers onto our flight. WOW WOW WOW, you will NOT be disappointed!!!
(5)Mayra F.
Hole in the way spot was a huge surprise! Everything we tried was amazing. Shrimp and grits extremely flavorful, crabmeat and shrimp casserole delicious and gumbo was perfect blends of spices and meat. Can't wait to try again
(5)J M.
Pictures definitely speak louder than words -- the stir fry chicken and baked macaroni is just as delicious as it always is! This place has been around forever and puts the comfort in comfort food! Also, serves delicious and fresh salads, seafood and more! Menu changes daily - fast, free delivery too! Can't beat the prices!
(5)Paul E.
Best hidden place! Hot, fresh and great food. Service was excellent. Shrimp and cheese grits, a Louisiana boys dream come true!
(5)LaToya G.
Heard about this place from a person on a street who jumped in our convo. Wanted breakfast and it was like a home cooked meal. I had pancakes, bacon, and eggs. It was good. They have lunch too. They close at 2 so get there but they deliver too. I'm a visitor
(3)Yvette A.
Ok so the place is not fancy looking however we came here for food and got good food and good service. I give the alligator omelette a 10 out of 10!!! The buttermilk biscuits will throw you down! So fluffy OH MY GOD! I will definitely be back and I'm sad to leave
(5)Kennen M.
All the other reviews were correct. This place is filled with nice people, good home cooked food at a great price. They also deliver to your hotel. We ate there 3 times in 2 days because of the food and price.
(4)Crystal F.
Only giving 2 stars based on the attitude of the woman who answers the phone at this place. Heard that she is the owners wife so her attitude will never change but the food is definitely a 5 and their delivery guys are nice as can be.
(2)Lisa W.
Not the cleanest looking place or healthiest and it's located in the back of a bar... but the food here was probably the most NOLA food that we came upon. It's very southern with their po boys and gumbo, and they also have the regular breakfast menu. It was the only place that was in distance to our hotel without trying to get through the crowd, or wait hours for the parade and wait at other places... We saw a lot of locals and they directed us to order the catfish po boy and some gumbo. And that's exactly what I did. I ordered the catfish po boy and the gumbo. The catfish po boy was really good, but it was so greasy for me... The gumbo was the best gumbo I had, it looked homemade and they included some crab claws and legs in there! I really enjoyed their gumbo. Again--a little on the salty side but I really think that's a NOLA thing. Lots of flavoring and salt and drench in oil. My BF got the eggs and bacon breakfast... the grits came yellow from all the butter they put in there. Pricing was really decent for the amount of food you get! We also got the bloody mary from the bar and it was waaaay too salty... but good from recovering from last night! You may have a heart attack or your cholesterol just sky-rocketed...but a little here and there of greasy food doesn't hurt...
(4)Oooooo H.
I cannot say enough good things about this place. We came into the restaurant after they closed for a fundraiser and they were so kind to reopen the kitchen to serve my friends and I. The best customer service I've ever experienced with the men running this place. We had the crab bisque, mac and cheese, po-boys, crab casserole and potato salad and we were highly impressed. Everything was so fresh and flavorful! This place is a must!
(5)Bernadette F.
This is literally the BEST KEPT SECRET in New Orleans. Thankfully we came across it early on in our vacation. According to my husband the GRITS are by far the best he's ever tasted! I personally have NEVER liked Grits but he was carrying on so much I had to give them a try and WOW were they GOOD!!!! My Son and his best friend loved everything they ate. Long story short, this place was SO GOOD we returned EVERY DAY until the end of our Vacation. Note: The atmosphere is very fun and interactive. The staff is FANTASTIC, DONALD especially. They greet everyone with a hearty smile and make you feel like you belong. We had a blast and interacted with just about everyone in the restaurant on a daily basis...customers included. I cannot say enough good things about this place! IT'S JUST WONDERFUL! REALLY!
(5)Irnise F.
One of the workers were passing by as we walked by our hotel and told us to stop by. We were hungry for breakfast so we ran our errand and headed right to this spot. The customer service was excellent and the options were great for a good price. I ordered shrimp, grits, eggs and a biscuit. I took my food to go and opened up a box full of grease. The biscuit was good, but the butter had been poured on. The eggs were cooked perfectly. The grits were ok but the cheese was just on top of the grits instead of cooked into them. The shrimp were fine, but a little overwhelming when trying to enjoy everything at once. It wasn't too bad, but not a place I would run back to.
(3)S. B.
Outstanding. Real food cooked with love! I ordered the shrimp and grits for breakfast and was served a heaping plate of perfect grits and deliciously spiced and beautifully cooked fresh shrimp. Great staff and sweet customers, too. If you come before the bar opens, be aware you have to enter the restaurant down the alley - it's not closed, even though it may look it from the street. This place is the real deal - when you're tired of the artifice on Bourbon Street or the stuffy formality of many of the restaurants, restore yourself with something delightful and authentic.
(5)Augie R.
The place is definitely a bit of a hole in the wall--we walked in and almost walked right out since it looked more like a dive bar than a restaurant, but we are glad we didn't. The folks who work here are friendly and po' boy was absolutely delicious. You won't eat here for the ambiance, but good, cheap eats make it worth the visit.
(4)Al T.
the best kept secret in new orleans!! breakfast is fresh and filling!! don't be put off be the decor. the staff is friendly and helpful. good food!!
(5)Tommy M.
We found this place on a trip to New Orleans a few years ago. The food here is fantastic and the portions are big. It is very reasonable pricing especially for the amount you get. There's an older guy named "D" that helps clean tables and find you a seat. He is worth the visit alone. His Katrina story is fascinating. We have never had a bad experience here. We make it a priority to eat here every time we are in New Orleans. Usually more than once a trip. Their sign says "New Orleans best kept secret" and it's the truth. You will see a line a mile long outside of Mothers for more expensive food that doesn't taste nearly as good. Eat here now!
(5)Mike C.
Don't be afraid. Restaurant is in the rear. Great shrimp & grits! Limit seating, they do a lot of takeout. Had a ham and cheese omelette with Too much ham - a good thing.
(4)Jackie M.
Love this hidden gem. I always eat here when I visit NOLA!!! Good home cooked food!!!
(5)Mike G.
I just read my original review and I must have been on Bourbon Street when I wrote it because it made no sense. So I will give this another try. We were walking out of our hotel which is right down the street planning on going to a different restaurant but there was a man sitting outside the door that started talking to us as we walk by. He was relentless on letting us know why we needed to come into his kitchen. I appreciated his passion and told my group that we were going. I had an alligator on lit with a side of grits and toast and it was awesome their pancakes look like something I've never seen I didn't try them but my wife and her friend we're saying they were top notch. But the prize was my friend had ordered shrimp and grits when he get up to get napkins we all still bites on his plate and concurred that they were off the hook. We went down the street grab some coffee from another location and decide to go back to the hotel and relax for a little bit since we were all in food coma. On the way back I stopped by and picked up some shrimp and grits to go. They were just as delightful later in the day. I recommend this restaurant to anyone.
(5)Liz M.
Good food....good price! Breakfast was perfect size. Eggs cooked to perfection! I recommend you try it unless you want a fancy place. This one is not! But that was one of the things we particularly liked about Hobnobbers! :) just look for "Big Dog" out front. You will know him by his bark!!
(4)Mark P.
What a dive. What fantastic food!!!!! Once in a while you stumble across this kind of place. The gumbo is ridiculous and the prices are very, very cheap. I can't recommend it enough. You have to try this place.
(5)Tom H.
This place is a bar and it has a separate area to get a counter service meal. I can not speak to the bar but food is outstanding. I had the shrimp and grits. Everything looked good. Affordable and friendly. It only serves food until 2 PM.
(5)Clayton L.
We had the fried catfish po-boy and the crab & corn bisque. The po-boy was just a fried catfish filet on French bread. And the crab & corn bisque had good flavor, but it was cold in spots. It was like they literally tossed frozen salad shrimp into a lukewarm soup. The price wasn't too expensive, but it certainly wasn't cheap. We walked away feeling largely unsatisfied.
(2)Vennessa M.
Went in today for lunch. Got a ton of great food for very little $. Food was super tasty and the staff was very friendly.
(5)Chris B.
It's ok. This place is a real dive. Expect lots of food but not no focus on quality. The shrimp and grits were instsnt lumpy grid and parts were raw. The shrimp is not deveined and wasn't appetizing. Po Boy was ok but tartar sauce was not good. The front bar is disgusting. The people are very nice.
(2)John S.
After reading glowing reviews of staff and food, I was very disappointed by the customer service I received today. After placing a large order for delivery, one member of the group was very disappointed by the Grilled Shrimp and Avocado Salad. Notwithstanding a misunderstanding as to whether avocado was actually ordered, the "salad" itself consisted of very greasy shrimp swimming on a bed of wilted iceberg lettuce with a single tomato slice. Perhaps our mistake for not getting a poboy, but still... Staff was unsympathetic to our complaints and balked at us: "that's how we serve it here." Even after another staff member got on the phone and agreed to credit us for the order, you could still here the individual that originally answered the phone shouting in the background that she would not reimburse us. Ultimately, they agreed we could come in another time for a credit for another meal or have the same salad remade (which was established we didn't like and wouldn't be any better round 2 because "that's how we serve it here" ). Other members of our group were very pleased with their orders. Again, perhaps it was imprudent to order a salad here. Nevertheless, the rude customer service was totally uncalled for. Won't be returning for that alone.
(1)Rachel D.
Love this little hole in the wall establishment. My bf and I came here on a Monday morning and were quickly greeted. He ordered pancakes and a side of fried chicken (they didn't have chicken and waffles). I ordered shrimp and grits with cheese. The food came out extremely fast and the portions were HUGE. My shrimp had an amazing flavor and his pancake were fluffy and full of flavor. He loved the fried chicken too. My grits were well-cooked and loaded with cheese. The staff was super friendly and accommodating. Not to mention it was cheap!! I definitely plan to make this place a regular when I return to NOLA.
(4)Barbara J.
This is for Crystal review. I have been ordering food from Hobnobbers for the past 6 years. They have the best delivery serves.. I know when Cheryl is working there and taking my food order, the food is coming right. When we have business meeting lunches, I make sure i asks for her. They have been doing this for the past 28 years. She is the best. It sounds like Crystal didn't get her way and got her white shrimping boots upset.
(5)Corey W.
Hole in the wall with good home cooked food and good service. If you are ok with getting your own silverware and eating on plastic plates, you will enjoy. If not, go somewhere else.The prices are reasonable and only a block or 2 from bourbon and canal. I would definitely come back again.
(5)Brittney M.
Totally your typical hole in the wall joint with amazing food. I got the Oyster Po'Boy and Seafood Gumbo. You can taste the homemade goodness with every bite and the staff is great.
(5)Bailey D.
We were in New Orleans for only two days and I was super disappointed that this place was closed our second day! Yes, it definitely looks like a hole in the wall, but the food is fabulous and the back area where the restaurant was seemed clean enough to me! The kitchen staff was very friendly and helpful, except the one lady back there who I think was just focused in getting her stuff done - she was the only one not very customer-service oriented. And, oh, the food! Okay, we only had shrimp po'boys and gumbo, but the French bread was delectable, the gumbo was fantastic, and it was a ton of food. When we first sat down with our food, I thought my husband and I could have shared a po'boy. Then I proceeded to clean my entire plate. It was not as expensive as other places where we got similar food that wasn't as good (Daisy Dukes, I'm looking at you!). To quote Rachel Ray, YUM-O.
(5)Marta S.
The best little "hole on the wall" place. Will def...stop by next time for some more fish and grits.
(5)Traci N.
The place was filthy and the huge roach I spotted on the way out didn't help my opinion any. The first thing I did when we left was to check which restaurant I read about that had the rave reviews because I was positive it wasn't this place! What a disappointment!!
(1)Julia H.
This place is AWESOME. We decided to check it out even though it seemed kind of sketchy. The staff is sooooo friendly and even gave us free dirty rice on the house. The gumbo is spicy and delicious and the po'boys are classic. It is a true experience
(5)Quintan T.
BEST BREAKFAST! Heard about this place from one of my friends. He bragged on and on about how good there food is. Mind you i never knew that a restaurant was inside. I always walked right passed this place thinking that it was just a bar. But to my surprise the food was awesome! i had the 2 eggs, grits, biscuit, bacon & a side of hash browns! The staff was really friendly and helpful. Definitely coming back!
(5)Matt C.
This review is for the Bar. Been here a few times. They have a good / cheap happy hour specials. The patrons and bartenders that I've met here have always been very friendly. Another good dive bar in New Orleans.
(4)Frankie C.
This place has a really fun bar scene with awesome bartenders and fun regulars. We went for bingo Tuesday night @7 and had a tasty hot toddy and alcoholic ginger beer that's to die for. Won some fun prizes.
(5)Lisa B.
Order and pick up your food at the counter. Good basic home cooked breakfast. And lots of it! We will definitely be coming back to try the seafood!
(4)Faye R.
A wonderful little hole in the wall through what could be a slightly shady hallway/ally. The staff was REALLY friendly and the food was DELICIOUS! I had bacon, eggs, and grits! warning: if you're on a diet or don't like butter this isn't the place for you, but I am neither of those things so it was a definite win!
(5)Kelsey M.
Ate here for breakfast. Good prices and tasty food. Had the 2 eggs, biscuit, bacon, and hashbrowns. Biscuit was amazing! Bacon was on the thinner side but still had good flavor. Large portions but super nice people. Some of the best service we received in NOLA. Seemed like a true family establishment. My husband had a po' boy the day before and said it was amazing.
(4)Jessica S.
Great place to go for breakfast. I was a little hesitant at first because you cannot see the restaurant from the road and have to go through a hallway to get to the place. Definitely seems like a popular spot amongst the locals. I felt like I was in the know coming here. The staff was friendly. I got my food real quick. I got the hash brown special. The hash browns were excellent! The meal left me rather full. All I could expect for the ideal breakfast.
(5)L E.
The spot looks like it would not have anything good but looks are deceiving. The shrimp and grits were wonderful. The staff is super friendly. My hubby had the pancakes and hash browns. He is a pancake person. He said they were great. My friend had the catfish and said as it was good but could use more seasoning.
(5)Hopus M.
I made a last minute change when I saw the "shrimp and crab casserole" on the white board. Bottom feeding shell fish are my favorite so I was sold! So they scooped the casserole out of the metal tray that was already sitting out and stuck it on a styrofoam plate along with the macaroni. Then they microwaved it for like 5 minutes. Once it came out I had to send it back to have it warmed up some more. (At this point I don't know why I didn't send it back for good!) After another warm up, the temperature was OK after I mixed the hot spots with the cold spots so I started eating the gray slop on my plate. It tasted alright! The taste was OK. But I constantly had to keep spitting out bits of shrimp tail - like 30 times... (again, why I kept going I don't know!) I threw it away and walked out after eating a quarter of the dish. Then I spent the rest of the day dreading what I had just eaten. The churning wouldn't stop (but maybe that was from Bourbon St the night before) and I had a plane to catch later that day. I lived to tell the tale, and the plane ride was thankfully uneventful. However, I can not eat shrimp anymore without thinking of spitting up tiny bits of shrimp tail. You've ruined me! My friend had some kind of chicken leg and he really liked it, so there you go. I would avoid sea food here!
(1)Heath S.
Have to try the roast beef poboy it's stuffed with garlic and slow cooked to perfection..Just a phenomenal sandwich a must try..
(5)Cris R.
I was referred to this place by someone working at Walgreens, and I am so glad they did! This is clearly a place favored by locals. It's truly a hole-in-the-wall that you might miss if you didn't know where it was. The food is home-cookin' at its finest! The biscuits are to die for. Go there! It's worth it!
(5)Susan W.
A+ for trying to please their customers. The food was great, the staff even better!
(5)Monique G.
Good food + good people = happy woman I wish I would have know about this place before my last day because I would have made a repeat trip. It's VERY laid back but that's ok with me. The Mac & Cheese is the BEST
(4)Kareem G.
The best breakfast in New Orleans and the staff is just as amazing. Don't be afraid by the hallway, or the obscurity of the location, they're right across the way from Subway. You won't leave dissatisfied. They're open to 2pm, breakfast and lunch. Ordered the Hashbrown and Pancake special, spent less than $20 even with tipping! Each meal was delicious, I can't make a recommendation between the both. If you're with someone else, order both and share. They also offer all you can drink (coffee, soda, tee). If you need any tips on sightseeing or local areas you should visit, the staff is very knowledgeable and more than willing to share! How can you not love this place?
(5)G C.
Go there now. Had breakfast of shrimp and grits which was amazing, and gumbo. Loved every bit of it
(4)Toni J.
"Ya know ya hungry, ya gotta eat!" Was ushered in here for breakfast and loved every bite of it! Cheap prices and huge portions!
(4)kelley s.
So disappointed. After reading the reviews we were expecting pretty good food. Not at all what we got. The grits are bland, biscuits hard, hash browns greasy, the bacon was cooked hours ago. Paul was very friendly and helpful. The ladies behind the counter were gruff and more interested in their phones. Might try it again for lunch just because of all the rave reviews. Will definitely take a pass on breakfast.
(2)Brian H.
This place is filthy and, in the morning, smells like all the "Hobnobbing" from Bourbon St got washed right down he-ya. But what more do you want from your friendly, local dive bar? I highly recommend coming here during the day. The staff is welcoming and funny, you never know what will be on the teevee (once it was Tarsem Singh's "The Fall", another time, "Days of Our Lives") and at least one patron will be looking rougher than you. Also wins: best jukebox in the CBD (Central Business District). The drinks are cheap. Pull up a stool and stay awhile.
(5)Yolanda S.
Found this place on Yelp while visiting the NOLA area. My husband and I ordered from this place 3 times during our visit. Good eats, very reasonably priced and friendly staff. When I return to the area, I will definitely visit this place for breakfast. Had a shrimp po' boy and gumbo for lunch my last day. It was filling but nothing extraordinary.
(4)Dale R.
Hole in the wall but authentic poboys and just about the best gumbo anywhere. Don't let the looks deceive you, we'll worth it for good food and a true New Orleans feel. Small place but that only adds to the atmosphere, as do the guys working there.
(4)Heather L.
Amazing hole in the wall. Don't let the shabby hallway and interior deter you. Amazing food, big portion, good coffee. More of a locals spot than tourist. My kinda place and no big crowds. Love it! Awesome breakfast.
(5)MrGennao H.
I've only been to the restaurant section. The place is quaint and hospitable. Paul and cheryl(owners) with Donald, Janis and the other staff gives any guess to there place, the feel of returning to a loving family. The food is excellent, the prices are reasonable in a tourist area, and not all of the distraction of the Bourbon st. crowds.
(5)Andrea R.
so much food for the price! had the grilled shrimp & cheesy grits, tasted delicious but so much grease! The staff were all so welcoming, would definitely recommend if you like a heavy southern style breakfast.
(4)Catherine W.
Complete hole in the wall, but a hidden gem - food was excellent. Came here for lunch. Had the oyster po'boy and gumbo special. The gumbo portion was extremely generous, a full bowl. The best gumbo I've ever had. Staff was extremely friendly and helpful. Free refills on soda.
(5)Dawn T.
Okay this place looks like a complete dive - but we were on a hunt for breakfast and this place did not disappoint. This is nothing fancy, but so tasty. Breakfast is served on paper plates - but with food this good - who cares! Try the spicy sausage - was my favorite - if you like a bit of a kick - get this for sure. The staff working could not have been nicer. Of course you have to get dessert with breakfast - LOL!!! So we also got a piece of peach cobbler to share - this was like I walked into my grandma's kitchen - yummy!!!! If you are in New Orleans - just make the stop - nothing fancy but good food!
(5)Mimi J.
I was walking down Canal starving and looking for a quick place to eat breakfast my first morning in New Orleans. I was in a rush, but I just wasn't willing to lower myself to eat at McDonald's or IHOP. After a fruitless search up and down Canal, I was at the corner of Canal & Bourbon Street waiting for the light to change when I noticed I was standing next to a rather large man with a personality three times the size of his body who was extolling the virtues of his restaurant up a side street (Carondolet). He introduced himself as Big Dog and handed me a menu, which was full of yummy breakfast and lunch items at surprisingly affordable prices. It was a good thing he was willing to walk with me down to Hobnobbers (chit chatting all the way) because I'd never have found this place by myself and that would have been a crying shame. This place is beyond hole in the wall. Not only would you never wander in here by accident, it's almost impossible to find even when you know where you're going. Believe me, it's worth the effort. The menu was a little overwhelming, but Big Dog helped me navigate it and choose the gumbo and po-boy special. Wow! That's all I can say. The gumbo was REALLY GOOD, and had large pieces of sausage and other yummy things floating in it. The shrimp po-boy was on a great big roll that tasted like it was freshly baked and was light and airy. The shrimp were batter fried until crispy and the whole thing was "dressed", a term I learned meant that it had crisp and crunchy lettuce (and possibly tomato) inside. The sandwich was tasty and very filling, and the meal wasn't very expensive. I'm going to be honest, they have spent no money on ambience or decore, but then they don't pass those expenses along to you either, so that's a bonus! I was here on business and didn't make it back out of the hotel until Sunday night, at which time I raced down to Hobnobbers to try to have dinner only to be crushed to find it closed. :( I ended up eating dinner at the highly rated Acme Oyster Bar which was much certainly much fancier than Hobnobbers, but Hobnobber's gumbo was INFINITELY better tasting! I came back on Monday morning and had a real breakfast - a ham and cheese omelette with grits. My first thought on seeing the omelette was "There must be six eggs and half a pig in this thing!" It was big, thick, sitting up high and falling over both edges of the plate and generously filled with tender ham and a liberal dose of grated cheese. The grits filled every available inch of the plate that wasn't covered in omelette and were swimming in butter and even had some shredded cheese on top. I'm sure my arteries aren't thanking me for having breakfast there (I finished every mouthful leaving only remnants of the two slices of toast that were stacked on top of the omelette as there was no room left on the plate for them) but my tastebuds will be grateful for years If you want large quantities of food, tasty, perfectly seasoned, and prepared with love you've GOT to try this place while you're in New Orleans. If you're willing to pay more money for under-seasoned blah tasting food there are a hundred restaurants down Bourbon Street that will fit the bill. You choose. I've already made my choice!
(5)Tina C.
Omg! What a hidden gem...rub away a little carbon, you got yourself a diamond. Best breakfast and friendliest staff ever. We went there, and bought the shirt. Prices, quality and quantity are phenomenal. Think you're close...well listen for their resident barker, Big Dog. He will take you right to it. Awesome! Hobnobbers for life!
(5)Chris P.
Friendly folks. No frills, had a decent hash brown special, had quite a varied menu. Regular patrons were bringing in the customers telling all how good their food was. Would return to try their lunch menu. Entry to the place a little awkward but signs point the way.
(4)Greg P.
As a native, I know many great places downtown/FQ, but had lunch here for the first time. Great hole in the wall place for lunch if your downtown. Definitely recommend and will be back to try their breakfast. Shrimp and merliton special was right on.
(4)Mark A.
Summary: The best local joint in the area to get authentic New Orleans food! Details: This place is that hole-in-the-wall, obscure but awesome place you always here about. It's far from fancy on the inside, but don't let that detract you from the food and friendliness here. The people there are really great and they give you huge portions. We got the catfish and grits as a recommendation. The catfish was lightly fried and flaky on the inside. The biscuit was warm and fluffy. And the grits... were the best grits I've ever had, and I don't normally eat grits.
(5)BigAlsCandy C.
Wow is about all I can say about this place. It is absolutely a dive but was one of the best places we visited while in NOLA. We stayed at a hotel just past this place and passed it a few times everyday on our way to bourbon street. One day there was a long line at a place just down the street while a guy was standing out in front of this place announcing how good the food was and soliciting folks to come on in. Thinking it was like the sleezy joints on Bourbon street and the fact that we were not hungry we kept walking. Later that day around lunch time we started looking for a place to eat. With it being a Ballgame weekend and New Years Day we were out of luck on finding a place with less than a 1 hour wait. On the way back to the hotel we walked into Hobnobbers and were really unsure what to expect. Again, all I can say is , WOW. what a dive,.... with the friendliest people you will find out there. Not sure what to order, I asked the guy and he said that I couldn't go wrong with the Po Boy and the Gumbo. He was spot on as the CUP of gumbo that I ordered had more meat and ingredients that most BOWLS ordered from other places. The gumbo was the best we had while in NOLA. You also have to try the tartar sauce served with the po boy. Oh my Goodness...... It was outstanding. I needed extra for my po Boy and then some for my fries. The server even said that he put it on his salad. It was home made with a Cajun kick. This place was a diamond in the rough and we will definitely put it on our regular places to eat when we visit NOLA.
(5)Kelly G.
Hands down the best breakfast spot in NOLA! My hubby is a breakfast connoisseur & we needed a place that hit the spot. This was it. We asked some locals where they ate & boy are we glad we asked. The place is tiny, the sisters that cook were arguing about who makes the best biscuits & grits while serving up your order. It was like being at your Nanna's house. I ate the best grits, biscuits & peach cobbler & you will be ready to rumble if someone tries to get two bites instead of one of the banana pudding. Yes, its that good!! They delivered to our hotel so we had their food 2 days in a row. Portions are big, quality is great & the $$ will allow you to eat well & still have plenty of drinking money left over. No Fancy dress or reservations required. Just come hungry and you will not be sorry.
(5)Ted W.
Great little place. Make sure you go to the entrance just to the east of the bar or you'll miss it. Friendly folks. Small place, breakfast is very good. Nothing "special" as far as local cuisine, just a great breakfast with generous portions. Great little place!
(4)Edgar L.
This was our first lunch in New Orleans and it was the best! We were a bit scared to go in but one of the worker's was nice enough to invite us and walk us in. My partner and I both ordered the po'boy and gumbo special. I had the shrimp and he had the fried catfish. We both thought they were great! A huge po'boy and huge bowl of gumbo for $10.50!! They gumbo was great and had a lot of flavor. .shrimp, sausage, and crab legs. It was definitely a great start to our day.
(5)Erica M.
Hands down the best breakfast I've had down here. The people were super engaging, actually had conversation with their customers. It's tucked away as a hidden jewel. Food was terrific! A bang for your buck.
(5)Ben B.
Avoid this place! Our $5 breakfasts (x2) some how turned into a $18 tab. Very unorganized... You order in one window than pickup & pay from another (different people you order from and who cashes you out). When I questioned the cost the guy said it was for an extra egg (which was not even asked for). Further.... 2 other gentlemen who came in behind us had the exact same problem and they were locals! Nothing like spending your breakfast researching the menu to try to add up what you were just overcharged... Food.... Nothing special. Thin bacon, typical eggs, biscuit was OK, and the hash browns were dripping grease. I'm sure there are plenty of breakfast options in the area. This one happened to be near our hotel. I'd select a different one or make damn sure about the price at the time of ordering! This is the first time I've ever given 1 star. I try to see the best in every spot. Not even sure this place deserved any stars.
(1)Bill B.
Walking in you say to yourself what the hell but it will quickly change you mind great food shrimp and grits off the chain and they give you plenty staff work there is real cool its a five star for sure.
(5)Michael C.
Amazing. Wonder down the ally...its worth it
(5)Stephanie K.
Straight up dive bar. No frills, cheap drinks, and a grimy pool table. Excellent. We didn't try the food, but the bartenders were very nice and the atmosphere is laid back.
(3)Sanora A.
This place is a must come back to if i ever visit NOLA again. I didnt have anything to eat, we came for the pool table and we looked every where for it. The drinks were cheap, the music was awesome and the plays on the table were cheap. The food looked awesome, if we didn't have reservations elsewhere.
(5)M H.
Paddy is the man. If your looking for a low key atmosphere this is the place. Perfect way to start the night before you head to bourbon. Where else can you get $2.00 long necks? Paddy thanks for taking care of my friends that came in town this weekend, we had a great time.
(4)Jody P.
Great Bloody Mary's
(4)Christine S.
I never liked grits until I had them here with cheese omlette. Prices are reasonable and place is very casual. Will def return.
(4)Lott B.
Great food. Friendly staff. Small hole in the wall type place. Always make you feel at home. They always go the extra mile. It may sound like a cliche' , but you feel like family. Everybody has a crazy uncle Donald, and a grandmother like Miss Mary.
(5)Mamie D.
A hole in the wall jewel!!! The gumbo, fried catfish and dirty rice very good. They will deliver to your hotel.
(5)Vanessa E.
We were looking for a quick bite to eat before hopping in a cab to the airport this morning. The bell man at the hotel had mentioned this place around the corner from the hotel the previous morning. So we decided to check it out. You have to walk down this little hallway to get
(4)Chris L.
We walked back and forth past Hobnobbers a few times before I checked the reviews in Yelp. The reviews didn't give us much to go on, so we decided to check it out. It is a dark and smokey dive. In the late Monday afternoon we were there, it wasn't too busy or crowded. There were three of four regulars at one end by the TV. One of them had his chin on his chest and his eyes were closed. "Hey. No sleeping", the very friendly (and sometimes pirate) bartender Betsy gently reminded the sleepy local. "I'm awake", he replied. Two other locals were arguing about intricacies of the rules of a football pool. Betsy brought us a couple of cheap draft Abita ambers, and regaled us with stories of her life. Very nice time. Betsy also mentioned we should come back for breakfast. It's served until 10:00 a.m., and according to Betsy, they deliver to hotels if you feel like sleeping in. So we came back two days later for breakfast. We entered through the bar. It was still dark and smokey. The locals asked us if we were looking for breakfast and directed to the restaurant through the door at the back of the bar. Apparently we should have entered through the door on the street to the right of the bar. "Did Big Dog send ya?", someone asked. Big Dog? We didn't exactly get any names on the way through the bar. "Yeah, sure" we said. We ordered through the window and found a seat at a table. "Woof!" Damn, that sounded like a real big dog in the hall we should have walked down next to the bar. Maybe that's what they are talking about. "Woof!" Out of the hall walked a big black guy. Big Dog, I assumed. The food was up. I picked it up at the window to the right. Huge plates of eggs, grits, bacon, biscuits, and toast. The coffee is in the urn by the door. My only complaint was when I came out of the bathroom, which is through the kitchen, I saw a 5 gallon saucepan full of quartered heads of cabbage in the hall by the bathroom door. A little too close for my comfort.
(4)Victoria V.
This place is a great hidden treasure! We stayed at the Hilton Garden Inn just around the corner from this place and heard a guy yelling "You know you're hungry, come on in!" We took his advice and entered a mysterious dark hallway to the restaurant. It's fairly small inside and the service is a bit slow but man is the food delicious. I ordered the breakfast sandwich with a side of potatoes. It was SO good! Definitely not healthy but who worries about that while on vacation. My only complaint was that I was overcharged. Regardless, I'll be back the next time I'm in NOLA.
(5)Natalie W.
Paddy, the bartender, was cool. He mixed me up a really good red snapper blend which I loved. The music was cool and it was a playlist from his ipod. There's one pool table there. (which was ran by me ^_^) Its a small, dark, hole in the wall, but it serves it's purpose as an after work drink while waiting on the streetcar ^_^
(5)Jen S.
I'm a bit intimidated to compliment after reading those reviews but eff it... I'm going to anyway. We stumbled across this place from "Big Dog" outside our hotel. I can't speak of the bar because we ate lunch here but it was FABULOUS! For a spot literally downtown, the prices are INSANE. The staff was super sweet and friendly and generous with the portions. We shared a few different plates. Some stewed okra and catfish. My friends had fried chicken. We all loved it and our meals were like $6 each. I highly recommend this if you crave good Southern comfort food. It reminds me of like a "Mothers"... minus the wait and the hoopla. Not knocking Mother's by any means. Complimenting them both! Don't get it twisted, it is a hole in the wall, but worth a try ;)
(4)J F.
Best gumbo ever....great price.......if you are an atmosphere junkie, go spend double the amount somewhere else for 1/2 the value...do not miss this place!
(5)Gime More F.
Shrimp po-boy was good, bread was light and airy, shrimp were perfectly fried (most of them, think there were a few that didn't come out of the fryer from the previous order)and the gumbo was ok. Place was pretty much a dive with the food being better than expected looking at the surroundings... Just wish it was a little cleaner. Made me want to wash my hands and keep my eyes open for the little almonds with legs!
(3)Marvin C.
We had breakfast delivered from here to our hotel. It was great! Lots if food and it was at a great price. No one could finish it all. So basically I fed my family of 4 a great breakfast in New Orleans for under $26.00!
(4)Catherine B.
I love this place. The food is great, when I can get up early enough to actually get it. Normally I go there at night. Booze is wonderful, there's usually good conversation and if there isn't then you can always watch whatever's on tv. I always have fun here and try to make it in as often as possible. Paddy always takes great care me.
(5)Kurt H.
Had the shrimp po-boy and gumbo lunch. Bread was fresh but the shrimp were just OK. I would have preferred a coarser, crunchier batter with more seasoning like pepper etc. Heck, sprinkle some Cajunland seasoning in the batter. The gumbo was just OK. It had sausage and shrimp but the roux was thin, runny and not overly rich like you'd expect. This place was recommended by some of the staff at The Hampton Inn. I asked for a local place (i.e. not Mothers!). I was a local many years ago and I don't think this a place I'd send people to as authentic.
(2)Robin H.
Went here today for lunch food was great large portions and the staff was very nice will go back again on my next visit next year
(5)F J.
they played the whole album "Night Ripper" twice... in a row. Wouldn't have been so bad, except this was last year... walked by this place again and it's still got the same music going. at least you know what you're getting.
(2)Lester M.
I used to go to this place for lunch years ago when I worked downtown. I think I used to get the shrimp po-boy or the hot sausage sandwich. I was persuaded to go in this place by the large and loud hawker who stands on the sidewalk yelling at people to get breakfast at the place. Though a bit taken aback at being yelled at at 9am on a Saturday morning, I was early for a meeting downtown and was hungry so the obnoxious yelling guy was effective, as I had set my sights on a place further up the block until being pretty much accosted by the "Big Worm/Debo" look alike. This is about as close to a N.O. neighborhood diner you will get downtown or in the Quarters. The no frills wooden bench and tables, plastic plates, cups and eating utensils confirm the informal dining experience. I got the breakfast special with pancakes. You order and pick up from a window. it took a bit longer to get my food than i would have liked, but the food was hearty and plentiful and the price was reasonable. The pancakes were pretty awesome.
(3)tatia g.
Was truly amused by the man that talked us to visiting "the best whole in the wall without the Bourbon St. prices". That was the best of it. The food was typical soul food, nothing amazing. Ordered the catfish, but received the pork chop. Accepted it because it looked tasty. The seasoning was good, but more fat than meat. You really can do better, there are too many options in N.O. to settle for this place.
(1)J. D.
Jay, Thanks for the generous shots of Maker's. I tried to tip you well for them. Thanks for giving me a ride home two nights (mornings) in a row. With hindsight, I realize that I could probably barely stand up, much less figure out how to call a cab. Thanks for the great conversation. You're a fucking rad guy. Thanks for all the great tunes. Neil Young's "Roll Another Number (For the Road)" was the perfect anthem for my last night in the city. To everyone else: this joint is right across Canal from the foot of Bourbon St. and even though it's more subdued from the 24 hour frat party up the street, you won't find a better place to go for drink and good conversation anywhere.
(5)Mardi C.
five stars for best dive at night? the bartenders play great music, and have fun. also at night you get to see all the rodents who live here. there's ben, gentle ben, ben gay, bend over, etc... . however, I know that by day, this kitchen is spotless, and the staff kicks butt... the poboys are great, and there really isn't anyplace in new orleans that doesn't have a rat.
(3)