4. Restaurants

Meals From The Heart Cafe

1100 N Peters St,Ste 13, New Orleans, LA, 70116
  • (504) 525-1953
  • Store is closed

Meals From The Heart Cafe Menu

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  • Craig W.

    Do not order online for delivery. I would have loved to eat food from Meals from the Heart while I was traveling in New Orleans for business. Two days in a row I placed orders online and never received the food. The first day, I waited for two hours and called to check the status. They were apparently still trying to fill the order. I had to cancel because I needed to leave for a meeting before they could deliver. Day 2 I placed another order online. After waiting for an hour and a half, I called to check the status. While they billed the credit card, they apparently never received the order. So two days in a row I tried but failed to order food from them. Both times they refunded the credit card (I believe, but it hasn't gone through yet) without giving me a hard time. But what I really wanted was to eat their food! Their disorganization is disheartening.

    (1)

  • Adam E.

    Meals from the Heart is a cute little spot in the French Market, with just a few stools at the counter. I was lucky enough to snag one of those stools around lunchtime and enjoyed a lovely, fresh lunch that energized me. The woman behind the counter (aka one of the owners) was super friendly and chatted with the folks beside us about the food. She's passionate about it, without being overwhelming. And I'm sure she would've chatted more with us if we weren't so busy stuffing our faces with that delicious food. It made me feel even better patronizing this restaurant, knowing that it's owned by someone so sincere and engaged on the front lines. I got the crab cake po boy and split it with my wife. We got half potatoes and half grilled veggies, because I get a little nervous about vegetables. Don't be like me, just get the veggies! They're nicely seasoned and you get a good variety of them. The potatoes were good too, but I think I actually liked the veggies better and that's saying something.The sandwich was filling without being heavy, and just superb. The remoulade that came with it was flavorful and just spicy enough to make the crabcake pop. Half a sandwich doesn't sound like enough food, but we were both happy with the portions and left full and satisfied.

    (5)

  • Nikki J.

    YES YES YES! True "NueArlands" experience. Mom-and-Pop owned counter, with great FRIENDLY service, and some of the healthiest most delicious foods I've had in NoLa. The crab cakes are probably the best I've ever had. The salad was fresh and Jambalaya was just the right amount of spicy. Great for lunch and on the go. Also, they have gluten free options which is rare in that area. I will be back!

    (5)

  • Donna D.

    What a little gem. We found this little place via and yelp and were tremendously surprised. The food and service was fantastic. Avarill who is front of house was so warm and accommodating. We had to try the famous crab cakes which were delicious. The cakes were light and highly tasty. I had the raw avocado and beet salad and it was so fresh tasting. My partner had the fish tacos and was impressed. I loved that there are gluten free options, all the produce is so fresh and the dressings are homemade without sugar. Highly recommend. We only wish we found this earlier.

    (5)

  • Yaz J.

    Visiting from NJ & we have diet restrictions. Everything was tasty, but healthy for you. Try the turkey apple sausage & crab po'boy! This place closes @ 5 PM, so get there early. Definitely try the vegan power drink - all good stuff, no junk! You don't have to be a little piggy while you are in NOLA. Eat healthy and have energy all day! FYI: walk up cafe inside the French Marketplace. Additional seating available. Vegetarian, vegan, gluten free, no pork, no junk

    (5)

  • Lindsay L.

    Tired of the heavy Southern food most places in NOLA offers? This place is great with healthy, gluten-free options located in the Frenchmen Street Corridor. I got the crab cake passion (crab cake on top of a bed of lettuce). They supplement it with a salad dressing and dipping sauce for the crab cake. I've gotta say it was one of the best crab cakes I've had. Cooked to perfect. Wanted to try the smoothies and pancakes too, but I was much too full! You can sit at the counter or take your food and find a table in the area.

    (4)

  • Martina-Realtor H.

    I would MOVE to NOLA just so I could eat here. Living in Houston I have access to a fair amount of healthy, vegan, vegetarian restaurants and NONE OF THEM CAN TOUCH THIS PLACE! ALL THEIR FOOD IS AMAZING! Everything I had Herr personally was AWESOME! And everything my friends had was RAVED ABOUT! NOLA is definitely known for their food but this place wins an award! Fresh, healthy food created with superb ingredients & an ingenious infusion of flavors & creativity. These people are truly culinary artists! Super friendly, warm and talented! My favorite restaurant in the entire country! This is one you MUST put on your to do list

    (5)

  • Lady G.

    Healthy food? Vegan pancakes? Smoothies? In NOLA? Yup. We'll be back for more of your great food.thanks.

    (5)

  • Mindy W.

    Counter seating in outdoor market, seating is limited but well worth it. People are SO friendly and food was delicious!

    (5)

  • Heather H.

    Great option in the French Market (note there are only maybe 6 stools at the counter and all other seating is in the general French Market table areas). Excellent gluten free crab cakes. Tasty black beans and rice. Wonderful staff and good French Quarter insights.

    (5)

  • Alicia M.

    The best gluten free meal I had in New Orleans! I got the crab cake po boy (GF) and it was so delicious They make everything fresh so it took about 15-20 minutes - well worth the wait

    (5)

  • Cindy T.

    My friends and I probably went to the French Market everyday that we were in NOLA, and on one of the days we were in a hurry to grab at early snack/dinner to-go. I yelped this place, and fellow yelpers gave it 5-stars, and a must-try for the crab cakes...so what do I do? I get the crab cake! I ended up with the poached egg w/ crab cake and english muffin to-go. Only thing I did right away was open up the box and set aside the english muffins, because I didn't want it to get soggy (anything soggy ruins the taste, of course) and good thing I did, because by the time we got back to our place, all the steam/heat made it less crunchy, but was edible. (Tip, eat it fresh while you can!) Probably one of the best crab cakes I've had. You can definitely taste the freshness of the crab in your mouth..and the poached egg was a delightful add on. I also grabbed a blue cheese salad at the stand next to it, (it wasn't enough to fill up a hungry girl), and complemented nicely together. Definitely give it a try while you can!

    (5)

  • Megan O.

    A genuine meal from a genuine staff. The crab cake po boy was delicious! Take advantage of the fresh squeezed juices too.

    (5)

  • Morgan B.

    Went here for lunch and got a mini-me black bean burger and the vegan power shake. It was definitely worth the fairly long wait. The food was made fresh and healthy, and I love the number of vegan and gluten-free options!

    (5)

  • Charles H.

    VIEUX CARRÉ HEALTHY: gluten free, vegan, no preservatives, & organic options; ALL NATURAL CRABCAKE, fruit, salad & housemade dressing, poached egg platter; KINDA PRICY & CASH ONLY but 10th meal fee card. Two years ago I went on a purification cleanse. It was VERY tough, but also the most singularly healthy and life style altering 21 days of my life. I particularly liked this program because it made sense (I'm a total INTP) and wasn't all crazy like a faddish diet. For 3 weeks I gave up foods that most cause adverse health effects: alcohol, caffeine, red meat, grains, dairy, sugar, and (hardest of all) preservatives. In short, you have to make everything from scratch, preferably using organic fruits, vegetables, chicken and fish. It's labor intensive. Hours are spent chopping, prepping and preparing soups, salsas, lentil chili (mmmmm), salad dressings, etc. But it changed my eating habits for good and I had the best bloodwork of my life. However, by Day 10 you just want to dine out and let someone else toil away in the kitchen. Alas, where to go? Especially in New Orleans. Meals from the Heart! Finally I've found a go-to healthy Quarter restaurant. Now I'm ready for my third cleanse: 2 January 2014... Uhhhhhh... well... sorta.... BUT I HAVEN'T BEEN BACK... The price point is pretty high as are most touristy places in the French Market. If I want a cheap nearby sandwich I head to "Mojo", or a cheap quality seafood lunch to "KPauls" for their brown bag.

    (3)

  • Kay A.

    I had the poached egg and crab cake with spinach salad. Delicious! Great option when looking for something more nutritious. Location allowed me to get this and take to table to join my friends who got food from other places.

    (5)

  • Vic G.

    One of the simplest meals one can have in a city as complex as NOLA. WOW - that was a statement. Simple sometimes is good. Well, on another day I would have said 'Simple is good - better - best - Period!!'. But let me get off this beating around the bush mode. Food you get here at MFTHC is for the simpler times, while in this very epicuriously rich a city. Remember my word - EPICUORIOUS. I realized NOLA has so much depth when it comes to spices and ingredients that encompass the collective dining experience. What this place gives you is a hassle free, fulfilling plate of meal that is not only delicious, but also very healthy. And let me not forget - rather inexpensive for what you get and how you get it too! If the above 3 paragraphs made any sense - read the next few lines - please, and do as you feel. - Read their simple menu - The options are very specific and exactly what you get - The taste is - again - simple yet deep and beautiful - It will act as an aphrodisiac for what you can go for, for the remainder of your time in NOLA - That's exactly how it worked for me (at least!) - (please refer the pics attached to this review to make even more sense of what I am trying to say here!) Last word - Enjoy!!

    (4)

  • Sarah S.

    Each time I visit New Orleans I make a point to eat here. The food is great and the service is even better. Whatever you order, add a crab cake. Trust me on this. This place is very aware of different dietary restrictions and does an excellent job of accommodating vegetarian, vegan, and gluten free diners. In a city full of fried food and roux, it's a real pleasure. If I had to come up with a complaint, it would be that everything is served on disposable ware. There likely isn't room in the back for a dish machine, but real plates and utensils would make the whole experience even better.

    (5)

  • Whitney K.

    I really enjoyed my food. I got the crab cake passion (salad). It's a small serving of mixed greens topped with. Delicious crab cake and the best salad dressing and remoulade sauce I've had so far. I paid $10 for it. Seemed high but it was delicious. I think it should have been $7 so..4 stars instead of 5. My friends got the crab po-boy and both enjoyed them. I will say, when we first read about it we agreed not to go...too boushie and who wants vegan and healthy food when you're in NOLA?! We thought we didn't, but then we did a free tour by foot food tour and David, our guide, informed us that this restaurant is consistently ranked top 10 week to week in NOLA... Specifically for their crab cakes. So we had lunch there, and were not disappointed!

    (4)

  • Jennifer C.

    Drinks: Vegan Power Shakes I decided to get a smoothie here instead of at frozen banana a few stalls down in the French Market, and I was quite disappointed with my decision. Despite the fact that this place might be more healthy, I was hoping for a more refreshing and icy consistency. With the dehydrating weather, the shake was too heavy to drink. The smoothie instantly got hot through the straw when it wasn't being consumed. Chunks of fruits weren't fully blended and got stuck in the straw or at the bottom of the cup. I wouldn't recommend the shake if you are looking for a refresher. The drink is more of a meal replacer. Two shakes came out to be $17.97. Quite steep for NOLA.

    (2)

  • Melissa M.

    During my NOLA stay, I had to factor in restaurants/cafes having Gluten-free options because one of my gfs has Celiac disease and actually has to eat GF. Although I read on many reviews (thanks Yelp) that some restaurants will accommodate GF customers and whip something up the kitchen, Meals from the Heart Cafe was labeled as a GF, Vegan place. The cafe is located in the French Market amidst all the hustle and bustle of tourists. They have about 5 or 6 stools for counter dining but they have tables and chairs a little further down in the market where anyone can sit so we just got our orders to-go. My GF gf had the Crab Cake Po Boy ($9) which came with Fresh Mixed Greens and Ripe Tom. Because I was a little Seafooded out from our prior meals, I ordered the Chicken Po Boy ($12) which came with a choice of grilled Potatoes or mixed vegetables. The person who took my order was sure to ask me and my gf if were GF, and since my friend was they were gonna give her the GF bun but since I'm not, they just gave me the regular bread. The people who worked here were very friendly and knowledgeable about the various gluten-free and vegan-related questions I heard customers asking. Because it was peak lunch time, our orders took a while to come out, but that's all good because it gave my gf time to check out their GF desserts. For around $3-$4 each, my gf got 2 dessert bars which she was really excited about because she said great tasting GF desserts are hard to come by. With the help of one of the workers there, she got the Twix and Jamaican brownie-like/fudge-like bars and I can def vouch for the Jamaican one that it was DELICIOUS! Kudos to you Meals from the Heart for making people like my gluten-free GF tummy-happy!!

    (4)

  • Sara M.

    Cute little stop in the French market for healthy food options-which there aren't many of in New Orleans, so after a night of heavy drinking and eating this was a welcome option. My group of 3 sat at the stools and ordered tilapia tacos, portobello mushroom burger, and bacon, all meals were great. We even got clementines as our appetizer instead of the traditional bread, a great touch. Quick service rounded out the experience! I didn't get the crab cake passion but it looks good!

    (4)

  • Kelvin C.

    You can tell the food is healthy. No dripping grease stains, butter leaks...etc. But is it worth your money? If you have high cholesterol, diabetes, high blood pressure, just had cardiac-arrest.... this place may be your god send (what are you doing in New Orleans anyway lol?). Food took about 35 minutes for us to receive which made me kind of angry since they quoted us 15 minutes. Crab cake passion: This was just okay and was pretty small. For ~$10...I don't know if this was worth it. I guess if you put things in perspective that they don't use butter and all that stuff, it's pretty good for being healthy. But I'll take a full fatty flavor crab cake anyday! Supposedly named the TOP crabcake in new orleans by my culinary tour guide, I came away unimpressed. Okra Gumbo: This was decent but at $12, this was pretty expensive. For the same price I had a Seafood Gumbo at Restaurant Revolution which had crab meat, shrimp, and lobster! So know what you're getting. If you want healthy New Orleans food come here but keep in mind that the flavor will not be as good. Bottomline: Food is tasty for being healthy but portions are small and expensive. 3.5 stars.

    (3)

  • Tbura B.

    Ingredients were no doubt very fresh. I got the crab cake and the Black bean soup with the combination juice. Delicious but kinda pricy for the portion of food. Worth to try but not often maybe. Great service!

    (4)

  • John G.

    Good pancakes and turkey bacon. My wife is gluten free so I often eat with her. The pancakes were really good! Just be prepared to sweat if it's hot outside because this places is in the open air market. I'd be back for sure - give it a look.

    (4)

  • JaspalandAman H.

    This was a last minute online find for a Sunday Brunch that could do take-outs. This is in the French Street Market- so parking is tough. It took me almost 10 mins to finally score a spot, which I parked for less than 5 mins. We ordered the Crab cake Passion PoBoy, Chicken tacos and Whole wheat Double stack pancakes to share. Everything was well presented, even in the styrofoam box. It all looks and tastes healthy. The lady at the counter(?owner) was very sweet and made sure my order was perfect. It took about 20 mins from online order to pickup ready. I will definitely go back to sit down eat while crowd watching.

    (4)

  • Colton S.

    Great service, an great food! What more could you ask for?! Make sure you try the black bean soup, it was amazing!!

    (5)

  • Michelle Y.

    I love the service here. The staff is super nice. Its part of the French Market, next to the flea market. I was waiting for my to-go order of Gumbo (It's PRETTTY good, but I definitely recommend going for their crab cakes), and they gave me TWO TANGERINES. I like these types of starters rather than free bread. It's a very healthy option and the crab cakes looked delicious. I wish I got that instead of the gumbo. Ask them for some spicy sauce for the gumbo. Gumbo is very filling though!

    (5)

  • Kandice O.

    Literally the best meal I've ever had! Crab cake and poach egg for breakfast Y.U.M. *Also complementary orange slices. Such a perfect location, just swing by on your way to/through the market you will not be disappointed.

    (5)

  • Danyang Y.

    Had pancakes for breakfast for two days! The staff is nice! Whole wheat pancakes are delicious! Two pieces are too much for me but I still finished them each time! Actually you can order one piece only.

    (4)

  • Ally B.

    This place is a lifesaver for those of us with celiac disease! And even better: they deliver. We stayed at a hotel in the French Quarter, and each morning, this wonderful food woke us up! I highly recommend their gluten-free blueberry pancakes, cheddar grits, and morning sandwich. We ordered each morning, and every bite was delicious. They also called us to check-in and make sure we were satisfied. Highly recommend!

    (5)

  • hew j.

    We were so glad to find this Gluten-free and healthy option amidst all the rich, heavy fare in NOLA. They provide fantastic service! We tried the veggie omelets, which were most eggcellent! They have a wide selection of both Gluten-free and vegan options. Looking forward to visiting again soon ;)

    (5)

  • zack s.

    Got there as they were opening up. Friendly staff that served us some fresh cut oranges while we waited on our breakfast. The coffee was superb! Ha ya I said superb because it was that good. The pancakes I got were so fluffy and made with fresh fruit and served with warm syrup. With in minutes this place was packed and the next day when we walked by... You guessed it.. It was busy! This was such a great way to start our first day in New Orleans. Can't wait to come back and visit again just so we can come eat breakfast here again. Can't believe how fluffy those vegan pancakes were!

    (5)

  • Alexandra S.

    Started my day with yummy breakfast. Situated in the French Market, this place has few stools along the counter. You can enjoy guilt-free options such as organic/vegan and/or gluten-free. Free Mandarin oranges were offered while you wait for the food. The Fruit Salad was invigorating. Seasonal fruits: bananas, blueberries, strawberries, raspberries, blackberries, pineapples and grapes. It also had chops of avocado with an option of walnuts. The medallion dressing and raspberry vinaigrette meshed well. Their famous Poached Egg and Crab Cake Passion on wheat English muffin was pretty good. The poached egg was a little overcooked and wasn't runny. The Crab Cake had a nice consistency and was loaded with crab meat. The hollandaise-like sauce accentuated the duo. The Fresh Squeezed Orange Juice with ginger was revitalizing. The staff was also nice and swift.

    (4)

  • Ashley T.

    Eating out with a wheat allergy is hard. Eating out in New Orleans (home of the "roux rolled in flour and deep fried everything" is terrifying. Especially when you've got places that tell you the white rice isn't gluten free because it is a carb or that the miso soy salmon doesn't have bread so it's GF. Nope. I digress- Meals from the heart was an oasis. I didn't catch the owner's (manager?) name, but he put me at ease. Honesty, I come from the philosophy that beggars can't be choosers - so I'm pretty tolerant of most GF food because it can't compare with "regular" food. But this place doesn't skimp on flavor. I ate a crab cake Po' boy and it was DELICIOUS. Like, actually delicious, like "regular" food delicious. I'm just sorry I couldn't try everything on the menu.

    (5)

  • Lupe V.

    Came back after a year! Still amazing. Excellent service and excellent food! Thank you. Best Crab Cake Po-boy!

    (5)

  • Anis A.

    If you like crab cakes then this place will give one of the healthiest tasting ones ever! I am no crab cake expert but in my experience they are either heavy in breading, deep fried to death or just crappy crab tasting. These guys use blue crab and they use a generous amount in their crab cake. They've sold over 73000 of them and I see why. I've explored more of their menu including their super vegan shake, fruit salad, tilapia tacos and poached egg. The vegan shake is my favorite with tons of fruits, flaxseed, almonds and other great ingredients. Oh and they cater to you gluten free peeps. Their food is fresh and tasty, that means a lot when you're on a diet and trying to live right. On a side note I went today for just a crab cake and shake and it tasted great but didn't look it ( I understand that they could break when flipping). Anyways, their customer service made sure to remedy the situation by going above and beyond. I definitely appreciate it and will be back every time I'm in town.

    (5)

  • Marscina K.

    I've been in New Orleans 4 days & this is the first healthy meal I've eaten. Salmon po boy & grilled red skinned potatoes absolutely delicious! Friendly service was also a plus.

    (5)

  • Treesa G.

    YUM. YUM YUM. This was absolutely the best vegan breakfast I've ever had. We got the blueberry banana pancakes and they couldn't not have been better. The perfect blend of hearty and sweet and so satisfying without making you feel far too weighed down. The apple sausages were also perfectly flavored with that real sausage texture. Don't let the paper plates and plasticware fool you, these people absolutely know what they're doing in the kitchen and we're lucky to have them in the French market. We also split a vegan shake (delicious) and took a vegan Jamaican brownie to go (suuuuuper sweet - it even hurt my teeth, ha - but for sure delicious). I will definitely return here on any future trips to New Orleans.

    (5)

  • gem m.

    This is one of the best places to eat in the French Quarter, with its fresh ingredients, amazing flavors, and warm hospitality. We couldn't get enough of their crab sandwich and I still dream about it two years later, knowing very well where my first stop will be when I return to New Orleans.

    (5)

  • Marija L.

    One of the rare healthy food spots in NOLA! Delicious,fresh,made to order food! Lot of gluten free,vegan options! You can sit at the counter and enjoy atmosphere of the busy French market:) Ladies are nice,and make sure you enjoy your food!!

    (5)

  • Kyla C.

    Oh my! This place is awesome! Located in The Riverwalk Market. This place is perfect for southern hospitality and awesome food! The people who worked here were so spot on. All of the food is made fresh to order. While in the area my husband really wanted to have gumbo, however, doesn't eat pork. He was going to sacrifice that fact for trying the gumbo. This place made it with turkey sausage! He loved it. I had the black bean soup! Oh my word.....so much flavor and vegan! Tons of vegan and gluten free options! Highly recommend!

    (5)

  • E M.

    All you vegan, gluten free and vegetarians out there, this is the place to get a great meal.... From the vegan shake....black bean burger also the black beans w/brown rice and avocado, everything here is delicious. The owner/manager James, answered all of my questions concerning the different dishes. Also, Rivia was very helpful in explaining how some of the dishes were made. The Cafe is located in the French Market so there's plenty of seating.... We had lunch there and also ordered dinner to go.. This Cafe is definitely worth a visit when in New Orleans!!!!

    (5)

  • Francesca T.

    This was the one of the few places in French market that had healthy/vegan options. We decided to come here for a quick bite to eat before we left nola in the morning. I didn't feel like eating anything heavy so I just ordered the oatmeal with almond milk, which also came with golden raisins, walnuts and brown sugar. My mum got the crab cake and poached egg on english muffins. She said her dish was average and my oatmeal was just alright. I also ordered the beet and avocado salad to go with a balsamic dressing. The beets had a really hard texture which I didn't like but I did like the broccoli and pumpkin seeds in there. I was glad to find a healthy option in this part of town but the food wasn't that great and it was a little overpriced considering how much/what you get.

    (3)

  • Stella M.

    I love their vegan power smoothie. It's not too sweet like all of the other smoothies you're going to find in the quarter and it is rich and thick, not like smoothies you get from traditional health juice and smoothie cafes.

    (4)

  • Darin M.

    Avocado and beet salad was huge, easily split with fresh spring greens cauliflower sunflower seeds and asparagus tips! Delicious sesame dressing on the side. Just what a body needs after drinking all weekend. The people are wonderful here, friendly and happy. Thanks for the fresh healthy alternative to refresh the batteries! Well worth the price!

    (5)

  • Lin G.

    One of those places you try to go to to detox from the horrifying things you've done to your body in the last 24/48/72 hours in New Orleans. Meals from the heart just sounds so damn right and wholesome. You sit on a lil stool inside the French Market and stare at the chubby girls drinking bloody mary at 1pm on the stools next to you with disdain. You didn't drink enough already biyaches? Just give me water or some JUICE. The crab cakes, while good, are no bigger than a fart stain and costs about $8. Not really worth it to me. The food came on disposable like plates giving you the impression it's all very fast and cheap. Except it's not. And I'd rather have a po'boy.

    (3)

  • Edward W.

    My friend found this place while we were wandering the French Market. It's located next to all the other food along the center pathway. I decided to order just the crab cakes since it's highly acclaimed on Yelp. For $7.50 per small piece, I was expecting a lot and I'm glad to say it's the best crab cake I've ever had. Usually, I can't taste any crab in the crab cake, but this one was packed with lots and lots of crab. Totally worth a try.

    (5)

  • Jenny T.

    I had the crab cake and poached egg dish. it came with a very delicious sauce with the crab cake. the combination of both was amazing! the best crab cake I've ever tried.. I had it every time I would visit the French Market & even had it to-go. the crab cake was stuffed with a lot of crab & it wasn't fried at all so it was healthy. the poached egg was great because it was a great combination with the whole dish. & the dressing that came along with the salad was great as well.

    (5)

  • Sunny L.

    On the 2nd day of our visit to NOLA, me and hubby went to the French Market. We stopped by this family run cafe and got hooked by those amazing food pics. Since gumbo is a must try tradition in NOLA,i ordered Okra Gumbo immediately. First gumbo and also the BEST gumbo ever!!! It is so flavorful and they mix different veggie, shrimp, sausage together. Yummy!! The only thing is if this dish is a bit less salty, that would be perfect!! I am going to go back and try some of their other food during rest of my trip here.

    (4)

  • Steph S.

    This place was wonderful! Food and service were both perfect! The man at the front was so friendly and helpful! He started us off with orange slices which were nice and yummy :) We both ordered the crab cake and poached egg english muffin. WOW! These crab cakes were the best I've ever had, and they were healthy! A must try place in the french quarter!

    (5)

  • Terence L.

    First time here.. Owner is friendly and the crab cakes is a must try! Sauce for the crab cakes are simply meant for it..

    (5)

  • Joleen Q.

    This was hands-down the best food that I had in New Orleans. I was so sad that I discovered this place on the my last full day here. There are so many choices in this farmers market but I was drawn to this place because of the high Yelp reviews. I was thankful for the pictures on the menu and I ended up ordering a Crabcake Benedict. It was delicious and fresh and even included a salad with a tasty dressing. It was a tad expensive and I probably weighted about 15 minutes but it was definitely worth it!

    (5)

  • Dustin S.

    Loved this place on my trip to New Orleans this week. I went twice in 3 days! If you are looking for a healthy delicious meal see Marilyn at Meals from the heart in NOLA!!

    (5)

  • Mel T.

    The crab cakes here ($7 each) are SO good. Whenever I go out and order a crab cake, I'm used to it being those frozen, Costco-like ones that have way too much salt and breadcrumbs. That is the complete opposite at Meals from the Heart Cafe. With every bite, you get jumbo lumps of the freshly-made crustacean. It's located in the French Market so it's a little easy to miss if you're just strolling through. Keep an eye out because you won't want to miss this!

    (5)

  • Tomomi U.

    I have been eating fried food throughout my stay and wanted something on the healthier side. After reading the review and visiting French Market, I decided to give it a try. Two ladies served me and they were really nice. They remembered my name instantly and made me feel at home. About the food - You get orange while you wait for the food! I ordered lemonade and crab cake passion. Both were very good! I loved the sauce for the crab cake. I liked their food so much that I took fresh made carrot juice with ginger to go. I will definitely visit the location again when I am in town.

    (4)

  • Karen B.

    This is a good place to eat if you are looking for something a little more light and healthy in the area. We had the crab cake and tilapia tacos, both were yummy. There are also many gluten free options on the menu.

    (5)

  • Honey G.

    The crab cake passion is Divine & the remoulade is the perfect accompaniment. I've also had the Gumbo and it is amazing!

    (5)

  • K E.

    I randomly stumbled upon this place while strolling through the French Market on a Thursday morning right before the venue opened. My fiance and I had just landed in NOLA and were on the search for some vegan breakfast options when we saw the sign for Meals From The Heart Cafe, offering both vegan and gluten free options. All meals here are made from scratch and thus take 15-20 minutes to prepare, but it is well worth the wait. We both tried the vegan pancakes which came with vegan butter, walnuts, fresh fruit, and maple syrup. The meal was fabulous and the staff was incredibly welcoming!

    (5)

  • Jin N.

    Simple and beautiful. Both the taste and the service. Food are freshly prepared, with low sodium, sugar but still absolutely delicious. Crab cakes po-boy! Woooot! Service was excellente too!!! Those who gave up on cafe du monde because of the queue and went ahead, this should be the stop!

    (5)

  • Nikolai Y.

    Finally found healthy & tasty option in the Quarter. Best crab cakes I've had this side of Baltimore. Friendly & fast service. Make sure you get there early.

    (5)

  • Phuong T.

    I was a little skeptical at first but we decided to order the crab cakes anyway. It was excellent. The customer service from the lady was fantastic

    (5)

  • Christian S.

    Great service, amazing friendly staff and wonderful food. Best GF pancakes I have had so far! Grab a crab cake too!

    (5)

  • Greg P.

    Our family has to eat Gluten-free, and finding a GF breakfast near the French Quarter that is not just eggs and ham was a challenge. When one searches "gluten free", many restaurants come up. But when I called to confirm, they often have no GF menu, limited GF-only options (like pancakes, meats, breads) and some had limited GF knowledge. Short answer...GF breakfasts are not easy in the Big Easy. Call the restaurant to be sure. Happily, Meals from the Heart Cafe was THE GF breakfast spot in New Orleans during our 4 days. They not only have a GF Menu, but they also have amazing GF-only items. Their Gluten-free pancakes were 5-star as were the Turkey Sausages and Portabella Mushrooms w/ rice. Our friend from NOLA who joined us gave the Gumbo 4-stars. The cafe has a counter in a stall at the French Market with plenty of seating nearby. Service was GF knowledgeable, attentive and the food came out of the kitchen quickly. Hopefully in time, more places will offer dedicated GF options, but until that happens, save time and just go to Meals from the Heart Cafe.

    (5)

  • Misty P.

    I highly recommend eating here! The food was fresh and delicious, and unquestionably gluten free! The owner was very knowledgable of the gluten free requirements. He was friendly and explained that the establishment started out as a heart healthy option, but found an easy adaptation to gluten free for many of their items after their first year. The food is delicious and oh so fresh! We really enjoyed the crab cake tacos and tilapia tacos. My husband ordered gumbo, too, but after only one of the crab cake tacos, I was satisfied. My daughter loves the gf brownie. Best news yet? They will ship the crab cakes and gumbo to YOU! AND THEY HAVE A GF KING CAKE! I didn't think I'd ever taste one again.

    (5)

  • Parker J.

    Hands down the best vegetarian / vegan lunch spot in the French Quarter. Fruit salad is way fresh and delicious. Good way to kick your hangover!

    (5)

  • Sarah M.

    Not only was this my first meal ever in NOLA but it was my birthday! Needless to say, I didn't have to tell them that to make it feel like they made my meal from their heart. Located in the French market area is this light of healthy and flavorful food with its roots still grounded in tradish NOLA cuisine. Before knowingly going strong at things like beignets by the dozens, I wanted to eat something fresh and nutritious and this is where I'll come to do it again. Sit at the counter and don't be intimidated you're facing the waiter. You'll be treated kindly and waited on promptly, but not overbearingly. The area is loud enough to where you can still have a conversation with someone next to you and not feel like you're sharing it with the whole counter. Everything is made to order so sit back and relax and LOVE that your meal is being made freshly. It won't take that long - maybe 10 minutes. In that time, drink some coffee and eat the complimentary clementine given to you. I had the roasted vegetable egg-white omelet with roasted potatoes. Every. single. bite. was. perfect. A 5 star meal is when you can scrape your plate clean. Mmm hmm. The omelet was fluffy, the vegetables were cooked perfectly and the avocado which topped was oh-so-fresh! The potatoes were seared and perfectly crunchy. Coffee was refillable and delightful and I was even granted the wish of a to-go cup when I left. Happy Birthday to me!

    (5)

  • Oolong T.

    I highly recommend coming here in the French Market if you're craving a crabcake! Their Crabcake Passion hit the spot and I really liked their organic tea half n half! Friendly people and comforting ambience. I will come back here to eat other items on their menu when I'm back in the area.

    (5)

  • Diana B.

    Staff was amazing, very helpful. The GF crab cake and poached egg was AMAZING. Would highly recommend this place!

    (5)

  • Deji M.

    My trip to New Orleans was almost 3 months ago, but do you know what I keep saying about it? Alcohol alcohol something-something alcohol something get a passion crab salad from Meals from the Heart STAT alcohol alcohol nudity beignet. I still get warm and fuzzy remembering it: Valerie G and I, sleep-deprived and fresh out of an early cooking class, having just seen LOUIS ARMSTRONG'S FIRST CORNET (I can't even), wandering about the French Market looking for a snack and random keepsakes. V found her food calling at one place, and I ordered here, at Meals from the Heart. And guess what? I got a little tangerine to eat while I waited for my order. Can you see my smile from where you're sitting? "Here you go sweetheart," the gal said, and handed me a tangerine. That's step 1 for becoming a saint, I'm pretty sure. And then my salad came out with two dressings and the most superb, cleanly prepared, fresh crab cake I have ever witnessed. Little to zero oil, so magnificently flavorful, no hateful celery implanted within: this is probably the best crab I have ever had. I'm still getting over how blissful that experience was. What a welcome break from the litany of alcohol mistake alcohol oily food alcohol I better start praying now. If I ever go back this is the first food spot on my list and I'm going to hug these gals. Imma do it!

    (5)

  • Ryne B.

    This place started off well with good, polite service but ended poorly with a long wait and bland food. I ordered fish tacos: tilapia with avocado and mixed greens - curious combination I wasn't really expecting but ok. It was bland, really bland. Then I looked up at the sign which reads something like "we use no salt or pork products". So this one is my fault. I'm sure this place appeals to others who need or enjoy dietary restrictions. Based on the other reviews, my experience is an outlier. So give this place a chance if you need a break from the usual New Orleans fare. Enjoy -

    (3)

  • Karen S.

    Awesomely delicious crab cakes. The remoulade was tops. Best cakes I've ever eaten and I grew up along the Chesapeake Bay. (And James was great.)

    (5)

  • Mario C.

    Had a meal here that was Outstanding! The Crab PoBoy was Excellent and tasted perfect. The Vegan Smoothie was delicious and a great energy boost. Great spot and must eat if you like good healthy food.

    (5)

  • Clara L.

    Had the crab cake po boy and it was nothing short of amazing. The crab cake all but melts in your mouth and the house made remoulade sauce is a great accompaniment as well. The staff are friendly and attentive and it definitely says something about the place if a small cafe like this has it's fair share of regulars coming back for more. Definitely a go-to in NOLA, and more so if you're in the FQ!

    (4)

  • Sunshine G.

    Amazing service from hearty folks. Their healthy food is so satisfying within the French Quarter. The omelettes are so tasty! Best one I've had :)

    (5)

  • Alyssa H.

    Positives- Friendly people, vegan friendly, and you get free oranges! Negatives- pretty much the rest. Paid 11 dollars for a salad that just fit on a paper plate... Definitely overpriced and not worth it!

    (3)

  • Joana O.

    I enjoyed my food so much! Literally the best crab cake po boy I've ever had! It has so much flavor and the remoulade sauce they make, is to die for! I would go back to New Orleans just to have this meal again!

    (5)

  • Ryan O.

    DO NOT OVERLOOK THIS PLACE! Looks like a small stall in the French Market, but probably the best meal we had while visiting NOLA! Had the crab cake po'boy and tilapia tacos and both were FABULOUS and worth the wait! Highly recommend!!! The staff is amazing as well!

    (5)

  • Celia C.

    Great healthy meal that is hard to find in NOLA. Friendly staff and awesome healty vegan smoothies, fresh squeezed juice, with gluten free entrees. Blue crab cake and microgreens salad was amazing. Vidalia onion salad dreasing was very good. I will return on my next visit to NOLA

    (4)

  • Esther B.

    Great vegan shake! Refreshing and good for you and so thick you need a spoon. Hard to find a seat in the market, but if you just get the vegan shake you can take a nice stroll.

    (5)

  • Tricia D.

    We had the gluten free Passion Crab Cakes and remoulade. By far the best we've ever had! The Green tea with honey was a bit too sweet but the service was super friendly.

    (4)

  • Sreelekha H.

    The okra gumbo and the crab cake were really good. The combination juice with ginger was really good too. The food took really long - we felt this was a common problem in most NOLA restaurants.

    (3)

  • Kayu T.

    Tried the Crab Passion. The photo hanging was on a normal sized plate and when I got mine in a 'to-go' box, it looked waaaaay smaller (a ton less salad than expected). The crab cake itself was very tasty and loaded with crab and not fillers. The sauce it came with was stellar too. The wait was long, but the staff are very nice and even offers fresh oranges while you wait. Overall- the food is great but not good for the value. My bill was $12+ and it looked like an appetizer for a child. Next time, I would skip the "passion" and just get 2 crab cakes on the side.

    (3)

  • Ritika K.

    This place is inside the French market. There is no doubt that the food is fresh and very healthy. However, it was not tasty. I had the famous crab cake po boy and did not like it at all. There was around a 15 minute wait for the food. I went with 8 friends and most of them did not enjoy what they had ordered. The potatoes that came as a side were undercooked. I would have given it 1 star but I am giving it 3 stars only because they use fresh ingredients.

    (3)

  • Monica H.

    We ate here after a culinary tour, so I was hungry after all the talk about the good food in NOLA. Basically this is a lunch counter style restaurant that prides itself on healthy eating in the French Market. My experience was as follows: - Excellent food. I had the crab cake po-boy. The crab was fresh and some of the best crab I've had. The bread was on a whole wheat bun which I loved - Great service. The staff was extremely friendly and went out of their way to make sure the customer's needs are taken care of - Small portions. While I understand and appreciate the concept of healthy eating, I think the portion sizes are quite small for the price that you pay - Long wait. Since the food is made fresh, it does take a while to get served. - Pricey. It's located in the French Market, so I'm sure that is why the prices were higher than expected. FYI - The food and drinks are served on plates plates and in paper cups Because the food and service were great, I will eat here again when visiting New Orleans.

    (4)

  • Daniel M.

    I ordered the pAncakes today, from last time I ordered them they have gone down in size, also no nut topping or powder sugar. Please go back to the other way. Thanks

    (3)

  • Elizabeth K.

    If you are gluten intolerant, have celiac or are vegan this is the place to go! I had the pancakes, and my husband had gumbo - both absolutely delicious and gluten free! Additionally, the menu is designed to be heart healthy as well. In addition to several gluten-free entrees, they had a number of gluten free dessert options. If you're like me, you know that's one of the hardest thing to find at a restaurant - at least in Louisiana. The only bad thing was that we went on a busy Saturday, and the wait time was pretty long. It's located in the historic French Market, which should have been a warning sign for wait times. We had to wait more than 20 minutes for our food, but believe me it was worth the wait! Definitely go, but I'd suggest going on a calmer day.

    (4)

  • Joshua W.

    One word....DELICIOUS!! I had the crab cake po'boy and it was incredible! Great location and the service was fantastic! My friend and I were able to get seats at the counter and the wait was minimal. She's vegan, so we came here based on previous reviews. I cannot recommend Meals From The Heart enough...fantastic!

    (5)

  • Calisse L.

    Came here for lunch. Want to make sure I eat clean while in NOLA. Had crab cakes with side salad & poached egg and wheat English Muffin. Very good & clean. Can't wait to come back in the morning for breakfast. Roland was very hospitable.

    (4)

  • Megan L.

    So good! They take care of dietary needs and are so considerate. The gf pancakes are very good and its so hard to find a gluten free crab cake anywhere but these with the sauces were delicious.

    (5)

  • Anh T.

    Wow! The yelp reviews here don't lie. The crab cake is amazing - it feels like a crab was emptied out crammed into a circular shape and seared. The cake was mostly crab and flavored extremely well. Though it is only 3.5 oz, I thoroughly enjoyed every bite. This place is not enough to make me full, however it was a snack worth eating.

    (5)

  • K V.

    As generally gluten free eaters, my husband and I always try to support gfree restaurants. This is especially true when pancakes are offered! Plus, with all the heavy food in New Orleans, Meals From the Heart Cafe sounded like a nice, lite treat. We had the gluten free blueberry pancakes and WOW! They were the best gluten free pancakes I've ever had. They were actually better than most pancakes, gluten free or otherwise. Cooked perfectly, fluffy, and with big, fresh blueberries. Plus, the real maple syrup added the perfect touch. Wish I could have taken some home. Also had the poached egg and crab cake passion sandwich. Again, delicious. Good portion too! Even the side salad was delicious with fresh, tasty vegetables. Location was also great. It's in the French Market with plenty of seating around. Although the pictures make it look like there are only a few seats at the bar, there are actually tables all over. Definitely worth the trip!

    (5)

  • Steve I.

    Wonderful staff who go out of their way to ensure your satisfaction! I have been here a few times and am always impressed with the staff and their hospitality. The menu has gluten-free items as well as vegetarian and vegan options. I really like their tilapia tacos, their gluten free blueberry pancakes, turkey-apple sausages, and their gumbo! There is a reason why this cafe is one of the highest rated places in the city :)

    (4)

  • Cindy M.

    Excellent spot in the farmers market. The gluten free pancakes were amazing, a must try!! I love trying new breakfast spots when I travel and this was a home run!!

    (5)

  • Kevin S.

    Best gluten free pancakes I've ever eaten. And at 1 pm to boot! Great people, fast service, and reasonable prices. Loved it. And I will be back.

    (5)

  • Tanya L.

    I am a fan of this place. Especially since it is very healthy and Gluten-Free. Don't expect it to be a big place. It is located at the market and there is approximately 8 chairs. We were pretty lucky that we did not have to wait. We immediately sat down and were greeted. To hold off our hunger they gave us two cuties oranges. Which helped out a lot since we were so hungry. Everything is freshly made. I ordered the Open-face vegetable two-egg omelet which is gluten free and I added cheddar cheese. It also came with avocados, spinach, tomatoes, green onions, and mushrooms. I tried the fresh Squeezed Carrot juice and it was AMAZING! What I loved most was chatting with the owner she was so nice and welcoming. Very informative about the food on the menu and bring gluten-free. I also tried a little bit of the crab cake and it was delicious!

    (4)

  • Stan D.

    It can be difficult for vegans and vegetarians to find variety to eat in New Orlean, but not with "Meals from the Heart" in the French Market. I was very pleased to find this option. My wife and I tried the Black Bean Burger, and found it to be very typical. It was slightly crisp on the outside, and almost "mashed potato" gooshy on the inside. I would have preferred better texture, but was, nonetheless, happy with this vegan option. And, if you want to, you can make it as decadent as you please by adding sauces, french fries, and cheese. Instead of fries, you can ask for vegetables, and you will get a nice variety of good, healthy treats. Even for the non-vegans and non-vegetarians, everything made at this place is made with health in mind, or at least as much health as you can get while still eating meat and fried treats. They don't use saturated fats, and menu items like the Black Bean Burger are made on-site. If it seems a bit busy, or there is no room at the counter to sit, don't worry. This is not a problem. The person behind the counter will take your order for you, clean off a table for you in the common area right behind the stand, and even bring your food over when it is ready. And, while you are waiting, you can walk across the street to bring back a $2.00 beer from Magnolias. This cafe stand in the French Market is a great option for anyone wanting to eat more healthy foods, but it is especially a Godsend for those choosing the vegan/vegetarian lifestyle who still like to party in New Orleans.

    (5)

  • Eli F.

    Best vegan pancakes and sausage (apple patties) I've ever had in my 8 years as a vegan.

    (5)

  • Wina G.

    Crab cake passion! Best crab cake I ever had- big chunks of crab meat. Served on a bed of mixed greens with homemade dressing. The sweet woman gave Satsuma tangerines while we waited for our food and it was sweet as well. Waited a bit for the food to come out - not for those in a hurry- but it was fresh and tasty. You had to maneuver the bar stools a bit as part of the ground was on a grate. Tip: put one set of legs on the edge of the grate and the other pair up on the cement. Treated like family- best food in the French Market.

    (5)

  • Melissa M.

    As the sign reads, "A healthier take out food option"! Just into the French Market, Meals From the Heart can be found with comfortable counter top seating as well as open air seating nearby. The menu is plentiful with selections that will suffice any time of day. I had the avocado and beet salad which was fresh, tasty and filling. My husband had the crab cake poboy. He's had his share of crab cakes and found this was the right portion. Served with two cakes inside French bread, he preferred to take it apart, but ate all the bread! Mission fulfilled.

    (5)

  • Cydney B.

    Huz (not gluten free) and I (gluten free) agreed that the crab cakes at this little counter in the French Market were the best we ever had. We tried it on salad, on po' boy and on breakfast sandwich with poached egg. The best crab cake ever. Green iced tea and magnificent and enormous fruit salad come with our highest recommendations too. Warning though ... Although the cafe delivers to the nearby hotels, the delivery charge is very high so better to pick up food yourself.

    (5)

  • Seems L.

    What made this place great were the two gracious women behind the counter and their attentiveness to make sure every customer was taken care of! It also helps that this place is great respite from all the fried food! The crab cakes were fresh and tasty as was the healthy beet and avocado salad. But what sticks out the most is one of the lovely ladies -Geraldine and our great conversation of books and her history in the civil rights movement. I hope she comes to visit us in BK!

    (4)

  • Bess F.

    I can't tell you how much I enjoyed The Heart Cafe while vacationing in New Orleans. The menu is unusual for NOLA standards offering a very healthy and delicious menu. And to top it off, the people who work there can't be any nicer. Also, really appreciated the clementines I was given, while waiting for my order.

    (5)

  • Andrew H.

    First off, the owners seem pretty friendly to return customers with frequent rewards cards, and also recommend patrons to give them high reviews on Yelp, which explains the high number of reviews here. They also advertise themselves as a healthy food joint but I honestly doubt they are much healthier than the average New Orleans joint. Unfortunately, I should only report my personal experiences. $17 for a crab cake po'boy? It must taste way more amazing than a generic $9 po'boy, right!? Nope. It must be huge with lots of crab meat! Nope. Lots of sides? Just tiny clementines. Well, the environment must be great! Nope, this is an outside little stand. You are under a tent but it's still painfully hot in the summer. I'm still wondering if I'm missing something but I feel this is only an average NOLA outdoor stand.

    (2)

  • Meg D.

    I tried their crab cake "passion" salad, which was excellent. But I really fell in love with the petite crawfish pies. The portion was just right for me....a filling snack, but not at all heavy. And I LOVED the flavors. They had a depth of flavor without being too rich. I rarely eat pie crust, but I gobbled every last bit of this one. YUM!

    (4)

  • Ellen P.

    This place is amazing. So accommodating and friendly! Highly recommend. Great for people with allergies

    (5)

  • Nic N.

    I have to admit that I was skeptical about a sandwich shop that serves gluten free Poboys...but, FEAR NOT! Get the crab cake Poboy and you are in for a heathly treat.

    (5)

  • N N.

    This place is a welcome retreat from the high grease, overly rich food of the Quarter. Marilyn and staff are wonderful - friendly and quick. (By the way, Sara M., NO pork products served! Hangover confusion, perhaps?! ) The open faced veggie omelette is easily split between 2. They also have a frequent diner card - we took advantage of that. REALLY lovely karma - and good for you! Enjoy...

    (5)

  • Beena Y.

    First time leaving a review but this place deserved it! We had three meals here across two days, vegan shake rocks and the chicken poboy was delish. Much needed clean food break on our travels. Can't wait for the melbourne franchise to open!

    (5)

  • Inês L.

    JUST READ TRACY T'S REVIEW. Okay, just kidding, I'll write one too! A few months later... but still memorable! So we walked by this place because we didn't realize it was right there. It's located in a cute little market and was a beautiful day. We sat down at the same time as a big family, so that could account for how long some things took but, regardless, very attentive. Melvin is a pretty smooth cat. Seriously, he's very sexy! Haha. He was very kind and accommodating, really took very good care of us and still made us laugh and we had a nice breakfast. She had eggs, sausage, toast and I had oatmeal and fruit, we both had coffee. Everything was fresh and delicious. Only downside: not enough seating. There's a lot of seating in the area but if (you're like me) and need 3094890385 refills of water and can I have some more napkins and some more syrup and some of this and that, then it can be annoying, for sure. Not really there fault, just something to note. I'm sure their others foods are tasty too so it's a worthwhile walk down there and through the market and stop for some coffee and a sandwich, tell Melvin we said hi!!!!!!!!

    (4)

  • Marisa B.

    This place is adorable, in every way that I personally consider something adorable. It is located in the French Market. It is likely more for carry out orders, and is housed in a tiny space, with a few stools that face you right up to "Bay 13" in the market. And in our case, we were instantly greeted by owner, Averill Lazard on our first visit. She was beyond helpful and customer oriented. And after our initial good experience, we returned the next day. Of course, she remembered me, & the fact that I was long overdue for some gluten free AND dairy free pancakes (something that seems to be impossible to find at most restaurants - you can get gluten free OR dairy free - but never both). And for those of you who CAN eat without restrictions - there is breakfast, lunch, AND dinner. Everything from crab cakes, Po'Boys & Gumbo, to salads, pancakes, grits, and even a vegan shake option. Be aware that this is a very small business, and meals are cooked to order. There were definitely regulars who called ahead with their orders, & came to pick up as we were waiting for our breakfast. I am suspecting this is the best route for most. But if you HAVE the time, sit down at a stool, and take in the positive energy. Ms. Lazard brought us each a delicious orange to snack on while we waited, & kept us engaged with inspiring and entertaining conversation. I look forward to going back to New Orleans specifically to visit Meals From the Heart. I obviously am motivated by the food, which is not only good- but safe for me to eat. But we were so impressed by the good energy and dedication to the customer experience, that we would go back JUST to be in that environment again - even sans the food. Averill and her team at Meals From the Heart really do represent that very description. They really DO serve and create FROM their hearts. I am so glad that my Yelp search for gluten free led me to this now new favorite spot in New Orleans.

    (4)

  • John F.

    We visited New Orleans for our anniversary in April 2014. My wife has Celiac and I am always searching for gluten free options, and in New Orleans with all the great food I hated not being able to share the cuisine with her. Then I found Meals From the Heart on yelp. My wife put off going there till the last day because it was in the French Market and looked like any ol flea market (we live in Orlando and dingy flea markets are everywhere on the tourist side of town). Boy was that a mistake! If we had come here the first day of our trip we would have eaten here at least once everyday there after. They have a long list of GF menu items, and absolutely fantastic pancakes. Even if you don't require a GF meal their GF and non GF food was fantastic, fairly priced, and healthy. Its refreshing to see a restraunt that has a healthy mission and story. Its rare to see a restraunt willing stand up for their belief's and say they dont, and won't serve french fries or soda. We will definitely return on our next trip.

    (5)

  • Jennifer L.

    So, you are in New Orleans and after just two days you have realized that all food is fried or in a gravy and every place has virtually the same menu, until you stumble across this place in the market. Fresh food made to order and fantastic customer service.

    (5)

  • Amelia J.

    I loved everything about this place. The meal itself was delicious-- I got the crab cake (80% lump crab meat!) and poached egg on an english muffin. It came with homemade remoulade sauce for the egg and crab cake and a side of greens with a homemade lemony dressing. It was FANTASTIC. I'd eat here again in a heartbeat. Easily rivaled the meals I got at fancier, far more expensive New Orleans seafood restaurants. The staff, however, is what totally makes this place. Wonderful, kind people with big smiles. It's a little tricky to find-- it's really a booth inside the farmer's market (there is a bar with chairs and seating is availably nearby, don't worry). Just look for the sign.

    (5)

  • Ravi D.

    Excellent service first of all. Its kinda take away buy still the owner was really entertaining. The whole wheat pancakes were awesome. The crab cake poboy and chicken poboy were good too but could've been better. The black bean gumbo was awesome. Will definitely recommend this place.

    (5)

  • Anna P.

    I have celiac disease and i had heard from Yelpin' friends that this place had gluten free po'boys. I went here and got a gluten free crab cake po'boy and it knocked my socks off. I had secretly hoped for gf french bread, but the bread they had sufficed. It hit the spot!

    (4)

  • Jeremy S.

    Delicious and healthy food in a town that is known for unhealthy options. Employees and the chef are warm and hospitable. This place is worth a trip to the French Market,

    (5)

  • Cove S.

    The 4.5 star average for this establishment was well reflected in the delicious food and friendly service I received on my visit. I came for breakfast with my partner on a warm June morning. We ordered the crab cake and poached egg along with the fruit bowl. Both were fantastic. The crab cake was moist inside and perfectly crisped outside. The sauces accompanying the meal were equally yummy. The fruit bowl had nice variety. Would definitely eat here again.

    (5)

  • Shannon F.

    Was excited to try a healthy breakfast alternative to Cafe du Monde. The ladies who work there are friendly, but expect a longer wait for orders that are vegan or gluten-free because they clean the grill between orders. We had the crab cake and poached egg and gluten-free blueberry pancakes with turkey bacon. The pancakes were good, the crab cakes was just ok. The turkey bacon was like hard rubber. And whatever you do, stay away from the coffee. Not altogether horrible, but I'd probably choose another spot if I was going to eat in the French Market again.

    (3)

  • Ari J.

    Fresh and tasty... Also, overpriced. It was nice to have a refreshing break from the deep fried poboys for a meal.. Had a beet and avocado salad topped with a single petite crab cake for $21.00! This place is a kiosk at a flea market, so while the salad was fresh, and the silver dollar of a crab cake "passion cake it's called and trademarked TM" was good.... The price was extravagant. And a poor value. The claim is that it is the best crab cake in New Orleans... If so, this is a call out to any Chesapeake Crabcake Monger! Other diners raved about the gluten free pan cakes @$14...

    (3)

  • Lieu T.

    Make this a must eat place on your list because the food is phenomenal. Got the crab cake and poached egg breakfast option and wished I hadn't waited until the last day to discover this place. The meals are made fresh to order. The crab cakes were the real deal. You can taste all that beautiful crab meat. It comes with an amazing roumalade sauce and a salad with Vidalia dressing that was sweet and oh so good. I would run, not walk, to eat here. What a gem of a place and the owners are delightful!

    (5)

  • Nina R.

    I still feel like I'm in heaven from the dreamiest breakfast ever. My husband and I each had a veggie omelet, and we split a blueberry pancake and a dreamy crab cake. I am ***salivating*** thinking about that crab cake. Everything we had was fantastic. The people that work there are so warm and friendly. I want to stay in NOLA longer just so I can have more breakfasts here! Plus, it's such a unique experience sitting at the counter in the French Market watching everyone set up for the busy day ahead.

    (5)

  • Laura W.

    From the customer service to their dedication to great healthy food it's a gem hidden inside the French Market.

    (5)

  • David L.

    The crab cake premium, gumbo, and vegan smoothie were excellent!! Very nice people and great food. Plus, the French Market is a cool place to explore!

    (5)

  • Rachel H.

    Yes, I came because of the reviews. And it was so worth it! Roland and his nephew James are charismatic and informative. And The Crab Cake Passion was delicious, healthy and filling. Such a fantastic alternative to the heavy, overindulgent meals that are found throughout the city. I will definitely be back.

    (5)

  • Sarah C.

    If you have food allergies like I do finding a crab cake poor boy that's made healthy is like winning the lotto. I'm from the west coast where we have an abundance of seafood. So I take my crab seriously. This hands down was the very best crab cake I've ever had in my life. Gluten free dairy free soy free which was moist, flavourful, and literally 95% freshly caught blue crab. The home made roumalade (forgive the spelling) was finger licking quality. I grew into adult allergies and this beat any crab cake I've ever had even before the gluten sensitivity. Even the unsweetened green iced tea was amazing. Not bitter and no need to sweeten. My husband had the chicken poor boy and sweetened iced tea with honey. He gave his meal an 8/10 my food I gave a 10/10. If I was struck by lightning and died right there I'd have died a blissful woman. The only reason that i gave it a 4 is that I would have loved to see the sandwich on gluten free bun instead of bread. Though even as I write this the crunch of toast was great against the moist cake. Do yourself a favour and eat there. It takes 15-20 minutes for your order to be up as they make it to order which is well worth it.

    (4)

  • Vickie S.

    This little stand was hopping. We got a seat at the counter, but the tables on the other side of the avenue walk of the French Market are available, too. The food was well-prepared and was a good hit of color and vitamins in a sugary, oily world. Not that the sugar and oil taste bad, of course. The english muffin and my veggie omelette were great, and my dad devoured his blueberry pancakes. The fruit on top was even perfectly fresh. I agree it isn't the cheapest place, but I also didn't balk at the price for the offerings or how much food you're served. The people-watching is superb while sitting, and the coffee is darn hot. When I asked for hot sauce, I was presented with three options (Crystal, Tabasco, and Sriracha). Overall, watching the place work and interacting with the man behind the counter made it clear their standout is their people.

    (4)

  • Ceciley P.

    We found this place via Yelp. It's in the French Market and the ambience isn't anything special, in fact, we actually considered going somewhere else when we initially walked up, but I'm so glad we didn't. After a lot of heavy & unhealthy foods, my body was craving something healthy. This was the perfect place. Everything is extremely fresh and healthy. The best part- you don't have to sacrifice taste. Everything is delicious! Beyond the food, the customer service was fabulous. The gentleman who served us (I wish I would have gotten his name) was a retired police officer. He was very kind and very intelligent. We really enjoyed visiting with him. We would love to hear him speak if he ever makes it out to San Diego!

    (5)

  • Brad C.

    Supper sweet family run operation. We stay just a block away whenever we visit New Orleans and pay them a visit at least once during our visit. Great healthy options for breakfast/brunch/lunch (not easy to come by in these parts). Show them some love.

    (4)

  • Jordana G.

    Best crab cake I ever ate. Wait staff was knowledgeable and charming. Very fun to eat at the counter and people watch. I strongly recommend.

    (5)

  • Ben P.

    This is, hands down, the best crab cake on planet earth. Once you eat one, it will become your standard of perfection by which you will judge all other crab cakes for the rest of your life. Period.

    (5)

  • Shardule S.

    I am a vegan / vegetarian and this place is incredible! Had the pancakes and the black bean burger. The gentleman serving let us know that the meals would be fresh and take a while to come because of that. However, I just browsed the neighboring hot sauce store for 15 minutes and voila, the meals were ready. My omnivore friends enjoyed their turkey bacon and other edible fare. The service is great, food is delicious, and price not all that bad. A definite hit for a casual breakfast / brunch.

    (5)

  • Kendra J.

    Great vegan food and friendly staff. The vegan pancakes are very good light and fluffy. I will be back again.

    (5)

  • Samara R.

    This was our first breakfast stop on our trip to NOLA, and we arrived just before 9am opening. I didn't know it would be an outside place (in the open market) and the metal grates were still down. I worried that we had picked wrong because it didn't look like much and I wasn't excited to eat outside. A few minutes later a man came out and started setting up with stools for the counter, placemats, signs, etc. finally, around 9:15 we were seated. Things went uphill from there. Ordered the vegan blueberry pancakes (perhaps my husband's favorite dish of the trip) and oatmeal. They brought out free clementines and our drinks. There was a little heater above us, which helped on a brisk morning. The counter quickly filled up with both regulars and visitors. The food came out and it was delicious. The owner then came out to socialize with us and the other customers, which was nice. I left full, happy, and glad we gave this place a chance. Hope others enjoy, especially since they have so many vegan options.

    (4)

  • Nicole C.

    This place deserves 5 stars for many reasons. 1. It's difficult trying to find places that are accommodating to a person who is GF, Vegan, etc. and their entire menu is flexible and well labelled to ensure you're getting what you want. 2. I got the GF blueberry pancakes and they were great. Came with fresh fruit, nuts, and syrup. A perfect portion. All for $10. 3. The service was great, it's a small little stand with about 6 chairs at a little bar but the man working was on top of serving and making sure we were happy and helped. 4. Real ingredients. Fresh food. Tasty and leaving me wanting to try more on the menu. I definitely recommend.

    (5)

  • Van N.

    Having the cravings for some good vegetarian food, yelp led me to this magical place.. Seriously, from the amazing service to their food, LIFE CHANGING! The service was amazing just constantly checking and making sure everything was good. Made me feel like I was at my grandparent's. As you decide on your meal, they give you free clementines in the process. Now if that doesn't already tell you how this place is then stop reading...........................................­...........JUST JOKING! Stay tuned! Food: Definitely took a little long, but with some patience and time planning on your day, you'll have the best quality yum yum in your tum tum. Food quality is great here! -Black bean soup w/ brown rice. - Omgosh, smelled so good and looked even better than the picture! The taste was just almost there..., but with the help of some hot sauce splashes it's quite delish. ( Oh, and rip the biscuits they put on the side into your soup or dip it! Really brings out the flavor! ) portion was definitely enough! - 8$ -Poached Crab Cake Passion.- really flavorful ! They offer their house made remoulade sauce to spread over the crab patty. All together just spread the sauce over the crab, top it off with the egg, more sauce spread, and then the bun..makes for a delish Crab sandwich heaven! This dish also came with a side salad and their house made salad dressing.. It's so good! - 12$ -Cheddar Grits. - definitely just good ole grits and cheddar cheese . Consistency was good and the portion was very nice as well. It came with a side of toast. 5$ -Coffee: I had 4-6 creamers and 1cup container and a half of sugar to get it perfect to my liking...I lo've sweets!- 3$. -Vegan Power Shake: DO IT! 16 oz of heaven! It's so good! Seriously, it was so yummy and thick It comes w/ a spoon. Simply amazing. Best shake I've ever had. Worth every penny. The best part of my morning! (my hubbub comes here literally 3x a week for the shakes!)- 7$ -Crab Po-Boy: I hadn't tried their crab po boy, but was definitely small when I looked over at my neighbors. They offered the same remoulade sauce spread as well for this entree. Looked about the same as the Crab Cake Passion entree just w/o the egg and a tad longer bread... 16$ is a tad pricey for how small it was, but crab season is crazy so I expected nothing less.. ~Altogether our bill was $32.33.. With a 10% off b/c as they got busy, our food were given to the wrong person. It's okay though!.. Service was super super friendly and very helpful! Worth paying for awesome quality food. Definitely will be back again! Yes, they accept credit cards. Parking: Parking is a pain in the morning since the French market only opens until 5M-F & 6Sat-Sun.. End up parking at the French market lot for 10$ Saturday morning, but you might get lucky and find parking on the side by the parking meters around late 3-4pm..(bring quarters!) I got to the cafe around 11am -12 ish... Only had 2 others eating their and 20 minutes later it was literally packed with people putting in their orders! No worries though, there are extra tables and chairs across from the counter. If you just wish to order something to go, you can place your order anytime before closing which is 5 on weekdays and 6 on weekends. Oh, and part of their counter is wheel chair accessible , so thoughtful! WEATHER .... okay....no brainer, but seriously though folks....Meals from the Heart is an outdoor cafe inside the French market which means.. Dress smart depending on the weather so that you'll be able to enjoy your meal & day..!

    (5)

  • Chloe M.

    Brought my vegan brother here b/c it's one of the few spots with options for him. Good food. Outdoor seating in the market....

    (4)

  • Todd T.

    Simple deli counter experience, and very good food. Crabcakes are the specialty. Vegetarian and vegan friendly and they don't serve any pork products. Very friendly service.

    (5)

  • Marisela S.

    I came here since it was a gluten free menu, and it delivered no doubt. Nice scenerie, I got the crab cake with a poached egg and coffee. And the sauce was delish as well that came with the crab cake, great find

    (5)

  • Erlend B.

    I had the crab cake passion (yummy sauce) and the black bean soup + vegan power shake. All great tasting ie. they use good ingredients. Hard to find a great healthy place to eat in New Orleans...people working here are cool also!

    (5)

  • Cynthia P.

    Excellent healthy food. Gluten free blueberry pancakes, vegan power shakes and crab cakes! Averil was so helpful, pleasant and interesting. We have lots of food allergies and they made it easy to order and eat! We liked it so much we had breakfast there three days in a row. Highly recommended

    (5)

  • Quynh N.

    Of all the little restaurants in The French Market, I have to say this restaurant is my favorite one. They serve good quality food and they're priced reasonably. It's a good place to grab a quick and healthy brunch. The Crab cake here is a must try. It is by far the best crab cake I have ever tasted. It's packed with a good amount of crabs that you can taste and smell with your eyes closed.

    (5)

  • Minh T.

    Went here based on yelp review. The crab cake is good but the bread is very greasy. On top of it, no food sanitation whatsoever when the same guy mops the floor and then cooks your food without washing his hands. Not worth coming back, same price as a sit in restaurant.

    (3)

  • Bob R.

    This the second time we have eaten here for lunch. The visits were almost exactly a year apart but our lunch this time matched our memories. I had the Fish Tacos made with grilled Tilapia and my wife had a Gluten Free option that I cannot remember but I do remember her being very happy. We also brought along another couple, one a vegan and the other a confirmed carnivore. They also had great things to say. Where can you go order food at basically a lunch counter, go find a table in the market, have them bring you the food and trust that you will come pay them when you are finished. If they opened up a sit down traditional place, I would give them 5 stars.

    (4)

  • Tina C.

    The service was great. The people who work there extremely nice and helpful. Food healthy and tasty. Nice break from the heavy rich foods that are so easy to find and ingest in this city!

    (4)

  • Lynda B.

    Wow, I was in New Orleans for the Jazz festival. I am a health food addict. The food in New Orleans is far from healthy, so I was never happier to come across this place. OMG, the food is utterly amazing. I am a native of California, so I'm pretty spoiled when it comes to organic/health food. I know my stuff in this arena. Meals from the Heart did not disappoint. Umm, my salad was amazing and the chicken I ordered for dinner was completely out of this world delicious. I wish LA had an organic restaurant that was this great! I sat at the counter and Marilyn one of the owners chatted it up with me. What a nice lady. I thoroughly enjoyed myself. I highly recommend this eatery while in the big easy. It's such a refreshing break from all the junk-food that is readily available.

    (5)

  • Ana V.

    Delicious food and very welcoming service. This little restaurant is a must see & eat in New Orleans!

    (5)

  • Natalya C.

    Pretty much the only healthy option you got at the French Market. Nothing fried. Fresh ingredients! I got a salad with a crab cake and i ate it in 2 seconds. Simply delicious! Next time i'm in NOLA i'm definitely coming back to the Heart Cafe!

    (4)

  • Andrew S.

    Amazing! The crab cake poboy was spot on and I love that they serve healthy sides instead of piling on fries.

    (5)

  • Sabrina M.

    Wow, I loved this place so much that I went there twice during my 4-day trip to NOLA. Appreciated the fact that the owners remembered me the second time I came...it was like Cheers! It was special to be treated so warmly. And everything I ate was delicious...the vegan smoothie, the veggie sausage patties, the blueberry pancakes. I will definitely return here the next time I'm in the Big Easy!

    (5)

  • kimnbob b.

    Everything we had was really nice. Got the roast beef with asiago on whole wheat, tuna on whole wheat with provolone, and hummus. Carried it back to our hotel to eat. It all transported very well. Wish I would have found this place earlier in our stay as I would have gone back. This place is located inside the French market.

    (5)

  • Brian L.

    Love the food! Great food and great environment. Perfect to take your loved one for a perfect meal.

    (5)

  • Kim N.

    I absolutely LOVED the service here - really warm and friendly. But I came for this famous crab cake I read so much about here on Yelp. Now, I do understand - many people have never had a great crab cake. By comparison, the Crab Cake Passion served here is probably the best they have ever had. But I come from a land of amazing seafood and I have had truly stellar crab cakes in the past. So to be honest, the crab cake here was just okay. Not bad, but far from the best I have ever had. Serious props for the healthy food options. If that is of interest to you, be sure to give this place a try.

    (3)

  • Julie G.

    I was in NOLA on a drunken rage vacation back in May. Typically I try to eat healthy vegan food because my body punishes me if I don't, so it was hard while in Nawlins to continue to eat this way, so I didn't. Because it's vacation. But I found this place through the magic of Yelp and I am so glad we did. The Po'Boy sandwich is actually unforgettable. I remember the noises I made in ecstasy every time I bit into it. And as I kept eating it I found myself sad that it was almost gone - kind of like when you're almost done reading a Harry Potter book. I also got the fish tacos and oh. My. God. Fish tacos just aren't the same now that I've eaten these fish tacos. Literally the best in my life - past and future. I already know. The food will always bring me back any time I am in Nawlins again. But what REALLY ensures I come back is the employees. They were so busy with annoying tourists who were weighing their options for way too long or trying to buy bottles of water without paying tax and if I was in their shoes I would be constantly screaming at people. But they didn't. They were incredibly nice, hospitable, and even told corny jokes. I didn't just like them, I wanted to invite them over for dinner (though I would be nervous my cooking would be gross compared to theirs). The second time we came back I told the guy how much we loved it so we walked all the way back for one more meal and he gave us a discount for coming back. I couldn't believe it! So anyway, make sure you give them a great tip because tourists are generally the worst and you don't want to be like that, and also and most importantly they deserve it. They are wonderful and the food is unforgettable. If I had more than $20 in my bank right now I would book a flight back to Nawlins just for their food. I'm not kidding (but I am kidding about my bank. I have at least $30 in there).

    (5)

  • Cece M.

    Not worth for the price. Even though it is a healthier choice, it is way too pricy for the things they serve. Crab cake passion, fruit salad, tilapia fish tacos and egg white omelet... They serve mediocre food. Nothing special. Not worth for trying. I'm sure you can find other healthy breakfast restaurant serve real good food.

    (2)

  • B B.

    Food is decent but the friendly staff is deceptive. Confirm your bill or you will be ripped off!

    (2)

  • Jessica S.

    Poached egg and crab cake passion. Just get it. I'm not even that big on crab cakes, but this was so delicious.

    (5)

  • John D.

    mediocre crab cake poboy!! ... disclaimer - I'm from Maryland and have been eating amazing crabs for decades so maybe I'm spoiled. I split this one and didn't even want to finish my half. the shrimp poboy at killer poboys that was in a whole different league, go there instead.

    (2)

  • Dean T.

    One of the best breakfast I've had, the crab cake and pouched egg was very good, this place will be a must on my next visit, would had love for it to be indoor

    (4)

  • Steve L.

    We were in the mood for a lunch that would be lighter on the belly, easier on the arteries, unique, and set in an el fresco environment. It didn't take long to hone our sights on Meals From the Heart. It was just a short walk from the CBD; we were there in less than 15 minutes, even with the throngs of slow moving folks that clogged the sidewalks along the way. We bellied up to the bar where an extremely friendly and helpful woman took our orders - Black Bean Maxi Burger and Crab Cake Passion. We stepped next door to grab a Sangria and an Abita Purple Haze; it was A-OK by MFTHC for us to purchase a beverage from another vendor. Very cool. Received the signature clementine as an appetizer; our dishes arrived after a short wait. The crab cake was quite possibly the best crab cake I've ever tasted - much, much better than those from the Baltimore area (I know - gasp!). The crab wasn't overly fishy tasting; it was packed and seared better than any other. Scallion and seasonings were perfectly balanced. The remoulade was amazing, and featured just a slight kick at the end. The black bean burger was delicious, even if the avocado was quite sparse. The burger's texture reminded me of a falafel; it was definitely homemade and tasty, so it doesn't much matter what it reminded us of - just do yourself a favor and get one. As we enjoyed our meal, I couldn't help but remark on how awesome and friendly the service was. The two folks working the counter were extremely pleasant, engaging, and fun. I'd go back just to visit with them, even if the food wasn't as great as it is. MFTHC = WIN Food = 4 stars Value = 3.75 stars Service = 5 stars MISC = 4 stars

    (4)

  • Valerie P.

    I had all but given up on finding healthier food options during my vacation in New Orleans, but Meals from the Heart saved the day! Multiple days, actually, because I loved the food so much that I ate here on two separate occasions. Meal #1 was the fruit salad, and I was SO impressed with both the portion size and the presentation. That thing was a work of art, and it tasted even better than it looked! I did allow myself to splurge a little for Meal #2, and tried the much raved about Crab Cake Passion, which is essentially a crab cake with a poached egg, wheat English muffin, and salad. SO GOOD. The woman behind the counter told me that their crab cake has won multiple awards, and I believe it! My only complaints, and I hesitate to even label them as such because I loved everything else about this place, is that they are cash only and service (like so many places in the south) can be slow. But if you aren't in a hurry and looking for a meal that isn't going to utterly destroy your arteries, I would recommend giving this place a shot!

    (5)

  • Arnez G.

    Excellent, freshly prepared from the heart! Highly recommend the Vegan Power Shake and the okra gumbo & brown rice!

    (5)

  • Jackie S.

    After spending half a day at the swamp tour, we had a late lunch at Meals from the Heart, which is located in the French Marketplace. They are known as "healthier take out food" since they use less oil, have no transfat, and don't use pork. We sat at the counter, but you could sit at the tables in the open dining area. I ordered the Maxi Black Bean Burger with veggies ($9). I loved the black bean burger! It looked like it was mixed with grains to hold up together. The bread was also soft. In addition, the veggies were so refreshing since our other dining experiences didn't have a lot of veggies. My hubby ordered the crab cake po boys with 1/2 potatoes and 1/2 veggies ($15). This was another winner! According to the waitress, the crab cakes are 90% crab cakes, so there wasn't a lot of breading. You could taste and see the chunks of crab. They were also a good size too! Even though we weren't in Boston, the crab cakes were awesome. The remoulade sauce had a good kick too it. Since we at the counter, we had great service from the workers. They were extremely friendly and had a calm ease to them. Cash only.

    (5)

  • cosette h.

    From the quality of food to quality of service this spot knocks it out of the park. With delicious options that are both healthy and hearty, Meals from the Heart sure has made an impression on me. Don't be intimidated or turned of by the sign boasting "healthy take out" and "no pork products," this stand is a place to frequent whenever never the French Market. Have the vegan smoothie and whole wheat panacakes. Everything is fresh and you feel great eating there and learning from the kindly staff.

    (5)

  • Joan F.

    We are traveling from California and finding it almost impossible to buy healthy food along the way. We stumbled onto Meals From The Heart in New Orleans in the French Quarter Market Place and ordered a green salad with fresh shredded beets, avocado slices, broccoli pieces and cauliflower pieces, pumpkin seeds and homemade balsamic dressing. I ate the entire salad making yum yum noises the entire time! I can honestly say I have never had a better healthy salad than this one! This restaurant seems to pride themselves in preparing and serving healthy food from a kitchen that is spotless. The owners theory is "if it looks clean then wash it again" a wonderful theory when you are serving food to the general public. I'm only sorry I won't be able to eat there again as we won't be in New Orleans long enough! However, if you are...don't miss this almost hidden gem! You won't be sorry!!

    (5)

  • Brennan M.

    Guys, it's a VEGAN place! In NOLA! Who ever heard of such a thing? Granted, they are famous for their crab-cakes which--unless I'm missing the concept--is not a vegan staple. But this is a great place to pack in the veggies before back-packing through the French Quarter.

    (4)

  • Elizabeth W.

    Excellent apple turkey sausage. Just the right amount of chunky apple. Hearty oatmeal was served with all the fixings. The carrot apple ginger juice had the richest color!

    (4)

  • Crystal P.

    This place represents New Orleans for their hospitality and good food. Found the place on yelp and I was excited to see that they had healthy options. It was Mardi Gras last night so my body need some freshness and their Vegetarian Protein Shake did just that! It is located in the heart of the French Market surrounded by all the freshest ingredients that everything they make is cooked to order. I enjoyed the hearty crab cakes filled with chunks of real crab meat and a perfectly poached egg! The side of turkey apple sausage made it all come together for a perfect breakfast after a long night of drinking! I was immediately recharged and ready for my day. This place also offers Vegan choices and Gluten free for those who request it! I would definitely recommend this spot and can't wait to come back!

    (5)

  • Casey B.

    Food was so good, we came back two more times before our trip was over. The vegan smoothie kept us fueled and cool, and the crab cake tacos couldn't be beat!!

    (5)

  • Robert A.

    Fresh food cooked perfectly and you feel great afterwards. The owner wasn't there, I think it was her brother that was running the joint and he was friendly. Gracious to share local information, and tell me more about the story behind the food. I'm glad the market has this gem.

    (5)

  • Ruth R.

    Amazing food for an amazing price for anyone looking for healthy cuisine with a Luisiana twist! My friend (who eats gluten-free) and I (vegetarian) stumbled upon this place in the French Market on our first day in NOLA. We were expecting to have trouble satisfying our hunger needs & dietary restrictions in the South, but, alas, healthy food does exist among deep fryers, alcohol, & copious amounts of meat! This place will be your jam. My friend ordered the crab cake (gf) and I got the black bean soup with rice and avocado (veg). Hands down some of the best food we enjoyed on our trip! Flavorful, fresh, and well-presented. The staff were very friendly. Shout out to the college guy who took our orders and served us orange slices while we waited. Talk about good customer service. (Hope you make it out to the Bay for grad school!) Now hurry up and open up a location in San Francisco! ;)

    (5)

  • Joe L.

    Meals From the Heart Cafe is an open air diner at the French Market. We sat at the counter and the staff was very attentive and the food was amazing! It has a very local "mom and pop shop feel". The food is served on paper plates w/ plastic silverware which didn't bother us especially since they have TONS of gluten free options! I had the poached-egg and crab cake passion. My wife had the egg-white open faced vegetable omelet. Both dishes were fantastic!

    (5)

  • Chris R.

    Shared the fish tacos and crab cake passion (crab cake salad). After eating in New Orleans for the past 4 day, this was the first healthy meal that didn't make me feel like dying. It was a truly refreshing meal with low oil, low sodium, and still full of flavor. And lastly, very friendly service :)

    (5)

  • Justine J.

    Amazingly friendly owner & staff... so great, helpful, kind, and obviously LOVE interacting with their customers. One of the only food stands in the French Market that had heat lamps... so nice on a chilly January morning! And the crab cakes... OH MAN. Go just for the crab cakes!!!

    (5)

  • Toni J.

    Never had a chance to try the food. We waited for a spot to sit at the counter and when we finally sat down, it took so long to get the counter lady to wait on us, we served ourselves our own water. It truly felt like we were invisible. I did enjoy listening to the ladies chat with each other. We finally did get our order taken, and waited for about 30 minutes. The counter person checked on our order, and said it would be up in 5 minutes. So we waited longer. Soon folks that order meals after we ordered ours were being called. After 50 minutes in total, sitting in the outdoor heat, I told her that we would have to leave. She stuck her head back in the kitchen and said it would be another 10 minutes. I understand that orders get mixed up, issues happen, but that was no offer of apology, and as a matter of fact she acted like it was our fault. This is a small stand and very unique. But it certainly was a poor experience.

    (2)

  • Rachel E.

    It's hard to find vegan food in this town, at least that was my experience BUT this place was fantastic! In the mix of the farmer's market, it's a fun experience and the food was amazing! Their vegan blueberry pancakes were delicious as well as their vegan shake! The staff were so friendly and sweet!!

    (5)

  • Jenna C.

    I wish it were a bit cheaper, but for the location and considering everything around it is not cheap, it makes sense. If you are like me and looking for anything healthy in this neighborhood you have found it here. You will not sacrifice taste and the flavors of New Orleans for health's sake. And with that being one of my personal life's missions, I was sold from bite one! First they give you a delicious tangerine while you wait for your order... sensible palate cleanser and so fragrant! The crabcakes are NOT to be missed!!! Served on a bed of delicious greens with housemade dressing and a tarter-like sauce. We also split a Vegan Pancake with maple syrup and fresh fruit! MMMMMMMM!!!!!! We will definitely be back.

    (5)

  • BethAnn H.

    Great GF crab cakes. No flour used in anything they make. Felt safe. I'll be back for their gf pancakes!!!

    (5)

  • Cece M.

    Yay for gluten free pancakes.

    (4)

  • Beverly A.

    Meals from the Heart has LOTS of healthier options compared most (if not all) places in NOLA. They have things like fruit bowls, salads (without the fried shrimp, crawfish, or whatever else..), Vegan shakes, etc. We got: - Crab cake with poached egg (crab cake passion is what they're known for so I def have to try it!): You get one crab cake that's you can tell is made fresh!.. on wheat muffins with one poached egg, and salad on the side. The portion was filling enough for me, but not too filling - just right. The crab cake was good, I'll have to try it in a sandwich or their other options if I ever return. - Whole wheat double stack pancakes: They came with strawberries, blueberries, and walnuts on top. You can tell they make it fresh, it's really good! They're located in the French Market, so seating is outdoor either at the bar or on patio tables, but don't worry both are covered for those hot/humid days! PS - they're CASH ONLY!

    (4)

  • Erin W.

    If you like fresh, healthy food, made with love, with a touch of N'awlins, especially gluten free options; do not think twice! Go here. They have the best gluten free pancakes besides the ones you have to make at home bc you have no other choice otherwise, and they are way better than that! It is located inside the french market, in the food/beverage service area. Smoothies are great too. Fruit bowl is well worth the money. My mother loved her crab cakes. I wish this place existed where I live bc I would go here many times a week! P.S. Your phone's GPS may lead you to the alley-way behind the place where the French Market Dumpsters exist. Don't fret cuz some nice gent taking out the trash there will see that you're not a local and guide you around to the more scenic front end of the joint!

    (5)

  • Tassia B.

    Just finished eating a crab cake po'boy that changed my life. Do not ask questions, just go there and ask for this: crab cake Passion po'boy with vegetables. Seriously... I think they put crack in the food. I am beyond stuffed and all I want to do is order more.

    (5)

  • Elena K.

    We sat down at the counter and were immediately welcomed with a huge smile and a few orange slices. Boom. Already made my day. We ordered the fruit salad (it comes with spring greens, it's not just fruit) and added feta, with a side of turkey bacon. Amazing. Perfect. Even my picky boyfriend loved it. This place is such a gem, and perfect for a refreshing meal or snack.

    (5)

  • Robert R.

    My girlfriend and I ate breakfast here during our recent trip to NO. The food was great but they were really busy so it took a great deal of time to get our food from the counter (about 45 minutes). We were in a bit of a hurry to get to a walking tour in the Treme so time was of the essence. The time we waited aside we both really loved what we ordered. The crab cakes are great and everything we ate tasted very fresh.

    (4)

  • Julianna S.

    Amazing Crab cakes, vegan pancakes, and a vegan milkshake - what more can I say? My hubs and I basically took a running/eating/drinking vacation in NOLA for our second anniversary. Everyday we ate a different amazing dining venue, except we went to Meals From the Heart Cafe twice, because 1. it's just that good, 2. it's fast and friendly, 3. it was well-suited for a delicious, but not heavy, post-run meal. It actually motivated me to get through our 7-miler, knowing vegan blueberry pancakes, with vegan butter, strawberries, maple syrup and nuts would be my great reward at the end. :D

    (5)

  • K M.

    Although this is a small fast food place, the wait can often be a while. The black bean burger and vegan smoothie are both excellent! A nice, healthy meal in a deep fried city.

    (5)

  • Andrea F.

    The pancakes with fruit were great, and the chopped nuts to put on top added great texture. The service was very friendly.

    (3)

  • Sandra L.

    The food here is excellent. This establishment serves food that's good for you. No msg, no fillers, nothing unhealthy. I saw a few people swinging by to order the vegan fruit smoothie. For me, I sat down and ordered the crab cake poached egg for brunch. We received complimentary Clementine tangerines as we waited. Crab cake passion and crab cake w/ poached egg is most popular and now I know why. Quick tip: for those who can't find this place, it's located inside the French Marketplace along the food areas.

    (5)

  • Paytrox G.

    Wonderfully healthy goodness with Cajun roots. Gluten aware, dairy aware. All good stuff.

    (5)

  • Akshata R.

    We found this place thanks to rigorous research about veggie food in Nawlins'. This treasure is tucked away inside the historic French Market. Tummy, hot red lentils and rice with fresh orange juice was the perfect comfort food I needed before strapping up to explore the Quarter. This is a little stall, so you sit on limited chairs facing the counter .. and watch the fresh food come by slowly as you soak in the chatter that can only be New Orleans :)

    (4)

  • Austria G.

    Amazing...simply amazing. I have food allergoes and was amazed to find this little gem inside the French Market. I got the Gluten Free Crab Cake Po'boy, and my husband (who doesnt have any allergies) got the fish tacos. I was in heaven (and I'm from MD so my crab cake standards are very high)...and my husband raved about his food too. Thank you so much for this healthy, delicious meal!

    (5)

  • Missy Q.

    Echoing other reviews, this is an excellent option for vegetarians, vegans, GF folk, or people who just want a break from the typical NOLA food. My mom and I are both healthy eaters and have found it very difficult to eat in NOLA--not that the food is bad, it's just not what we're used to being from up north, plus my mom doesn't eat shellfish and neither of us eats red meat! We were very pleased to stumble upon Meals From The Heart Cafe after a few days of difficult meals that left both of us feeling like we were missing out. She was excited to order a salmon poboy (the first we've seen with salmon) because she wanted to try the classic sandwich with a healthy, protein rich fish, and I got the crab cake poboy. We both breathed a sigh of delight at the sight of the fresh vegetables our sandwiches came with! I am from Baltimore and I definitely know what a good crab cake tastes like, and I disagree with other reviewers who say it wasn't that great or was too small--this was a good, healthy, flavorful crab cake, trust me! And I loved the bread (compared to all the other bread I have had in NOLA so far, which has been strangely bland to someone used to whole grain options). I also ordered a vegan power shake which was absolutely delicious and I would definitely recommend to anyone needing a natural burst of energy. Though it was busy, the man who waited on us was extremely friendly, kind, and professional. You can see right into the kitchen and see that it's incredibly clean and well-managed despite the fact that it's in a flea market. The only thing that could be a downside was the price--well, it was pricey! But considering it was literally the only healthy meal we've had since being here, I think it was worth it.

    (5)

  • Lindsay L.

    This place is actually IN the French market- it's a small stand with a few booth chairs. Look for the sign with the heart on a fork. Took us forever to find this place, but it was worth it. Woman helping us was so nice and service was great. Healthy food in New Orleans like this is hard to find!

    (5)

  • Miguel H.

    The lady taking orders was very friendly and respectful. Ordered the crab poboy + water = $19.58. A bit pricey but I was hoping it was worth it. The poboy was okay. Veggies were good. I was expecting something much better for the price paid. If I return, I will try something less expensive...

    (3)

  • Amanda B.

    Had the crab cake passion. It was light and refreshing. Also had a fresh orange carrot ginger juice. Love finding some healthy southern food. Cute bar/walk up seating area. The ladies were extremely friendly too.

    (5)

  • Wendy G.

    As you could tell from the pictures, both the veggie salad and fruit salad plates were AMAZING, in the sense of presentation and heathiness. BUT taste wise? I'm not so sure. Plus wait is usually long, and service falls short. More sincerity and efficiency pleeeeease.

    (4)

  • Ariana P.

    MFTHC is located in the middle of the french market. We sat at the counter-although there are tables available across the market walkway. Made our decision on breakfast with the help of two fabulous ladies who are the owners. We ordered Gluten free blueberry pancakes vegan apple sausage and a veggie omelet and each item was phenomenal. The customer service is top notch, the owners were a riot and kept us laughing until we departed. Many locals stopped by to pick up their 'usuals' while we sat, if I were a local I'd be here often as well. Will be a must for each visit to NOLA.

    (5)

  • Katie C.

    Healthy, yummy! Delicious homemade, healthy options. It's just a counter in the open air French market. Guys working there were great. Very hospitable and knowledgable about the local area. Salads. Sandwiches. Fish tacos. Smoothies and fresh squeezed juice. Will certainly return!

    (5)

  • chelsea j.

    I returned this trip again - and it was just as great as I remember. The owner is so nice, so friendly and always willing to chat about whatever you want - and to give you reccomendations and suggestions if you are looking for other places to go. Just keep in mind, Meals from the Heart is cash only! :)

    (5)

  • Itatsu S.

    Awesome! There's a reason why they have best crab cakes. When you can taste the crab and not even realize there is stuffing, that is a good sign in my eyes. The guys next to me kept raving about how tasty all the vegan food was.

    (5)

  • Erin H.

    Crab Cake Slider was fantastic! Possibly the best I have ever had. Fresh orange slices provided for free to beat the heat. Highly recommend this place for a quick bite.

    (5)

  • Laine A.

    Friendly people and delicious food. Great for celiacs. The gf pancakes were yummy and the oj is fresh squeezed. Located in an open air market near the quarter. Highly recommended!

    (5)

  • Jilliam J.

    The breakfast (veggie omelette and turkey-apple sausage) was beyond yummy! What made the meal crazy good was the service and delightful conversation from the owner. If you ever find yourself in NOLA, make it your business to visit Meals from the Heart Cafe. Your soul and belly will be happy.

    (5)

  • Marcin K.

    The owner is a funny,very nice person and really tries to make sure you'll have a good experience. Crab cakes along with their own dip is amazing. Everything is organic and high quality.

    (5)

  • Miranda P.

    Cook with your heart, think with your head, please. Ordered the black bean soup which was supposed to be topped with fresh slices of avocado, according to both their menu and the picture prominently displayed on the bar table. So you can understand my disappointment when my dish arrived sans my favorite green fruit. When I spoke up, the server seemed a bit surprised and paused for an awkwardly long time before explaining that their avocados were not ripe and he didn't know that until the dish was done. So, instead of offering a few dollars off the bill or asking me if I wanted something else as I think a normal, coherent server would do, he said that the produce stand a few paces down sold fresh avocado. Really? His next idea was to tell me to come back and order something tomorrow and he would leave a note to add extra avocado to whatever I wanted. I don't know what planet that makes sense on, but its not this one. BOTTOM LINE: Good food sometimes served incomplete, and awkward service.

    (2)

  • Emily H.

    Best crab cake sandwich in New Orleans. I love that we were given a few oranges while we waited. It's pretty big so share if you're not super hungry.

    (5)

  • Nicole V.

    I am a pescaterian and my mother and I are both pretty much health freaks. I was craving a good healthy meal and boy did we find it! The salad was fresh and the dressing was homemade and interesting. I am used to black bean burgers at restaurants lacking flavor because they are usually pre-packaged and frozen. This black bean burger actually had flavor. It was the best one I have ever had...what a gem of a place!

    (5)

  • Mike D.

    Very fresh. Very unique food. Ultra taste and good for you too. Fresh juices. Real food. Their vegan power shake will clean you up after a tough night in the Big Easy.

    (5)

  • Sam B.

    My party has come to the conclusion that it was the best breakfast we have had...and we have eaten at some pretty great places. Whole wheat pancakes seemed to be crafted by Jesus himself. Everything was fresh and yummy! Would totally recommend if you want a healthy break from all the fried food in New Orleans.

    (5)

  • Ana E.

    What a wonderful little spot in the heart of the French market! On our 3rd day here in New Orleans our stomachs are crying out loud for some fresh and healthy food and here we are,one of the very few "healthy spots" in town. The place is the Home of Crab Cake passion" and Ohhhh it's delicious. Perfectly seasoned and fried,moist and full of flavor one of the best I've ever had. Gluten-Free Blueberry Pancakes topped with fresh fruits,walnuts and organic maple syrup!yummmm The owner Marilyn is a sweetheart and makes sure everything is good! We will definitely return while on vacation!

    (5)

  • Marie S.

    One of the few places in NOLA that I returned to more than once. I don't think this food jives well with many in the South. I overheard people muttering about it being a "healthy" food option and immediately assuming it must be flavorless. Come here when you need a break from the heavy Cajun/American food options of New Orleans. It's nice to have a meal with some fresh greens and not sauce/salt laden food. It's family owned, they work hard, they take pride in what is served and I loved it. Pancakes, berry shake, omelettes, and portabella sandwich were all excellent! Vegetarian and gluten free options available for meals and a menu which is simple and clean. Cash only. Loved them! PS This restaurant is actually in the French Market booth area. It's not really a sit down restaurant. You pull up a bar stool to the counter and you have your meal. It's casual dining and a nice low time commitment place to eat.

    (5)

  • Lori D.

    I walked 3 miles in the French quarter to find something I could eat. Being mostly vegetarian and not eating fried or seafood meant I was completely outnumbered in the French Quarter. Finding this little gem in the French Market made me very happy. The service was wonderful and friendly, the food was stellar! I had the vegan shake which completed my "I'm in heaven" feeling! Must eat here if you are in the area!

    (5)

  • Aisha C.

    Egg and crabcake sandwich was great - tasty and filling. A little pricy at $12, but they do give you a clementine while you wait :) Service was attentive and friendly.

    (4)

  • Angela P.

    In a town awash in heavy fried food this place is a healthy beacon. As many have said before the crab cake passion is heavenly, as were all the other things we tried. Who knew such a great place could exist as a walk-up in the French Market? As if great, healthy, affordable food wasnt enough the people here are the definition of Southern Hospitality. The guy working the counter and the woman working in back (the chef/owner?) were a joy to talk to. I highly recommend this spot!

    (5)

  • Tori R.

    Great atmosphere as soon as you walk through the door you are greeted and seated, the fish tacos are amazing it took a little long to get my food but was defiantly worth the wait. Some of the best food I have tasted in the area

    (4)

  • Claire G.

    As the previous poster stated; best gf pancakes we've ever had!! What a treat to have so many great gluten free options, that are really well priced. The staff are wonderful!! Highly recommended, it's so worth the wait :)

    (5)

  • Nova N.

    Excellent food and excellent service. These people care about the food they serve. Great spot!

    (5)

  • Tammy H.

    If you are looking for something light and healthy with a punch of flavor, this is the place to go! We were walking around the French Market shopping in this hot and humid weather. Decided to stop here for lunch. Everything is organic and they have Vegan and Glutton free options. My boyfriend ordered the Crab-cake passion po-boy, I ordered the Tilapia fish tacos. I live in San Diego, why I ordered a fish taco when the bar is already set high is beyond me, but I was pleasantly surprised. First off, there are two tacos and they are HUGE! They are the size of a regular tortilla, not the small corn ones I am use to. And they are packed full of delicious fresh fish, fresh greens and avocado. The fish has a great seasoning to it and not salty at all. The Po-boy came with steamed vegetables. The bite I had was really good, but I was so in love with my fish tacos that I didn't have another bite...not to mention, my boyfriend really wasn't sharing. We ate right at the walk up bar, service was quick, food was quick and delicious! I left happy and very full, but not like I ate 4 slices of pizza and bent over full...good stuff!

    (4)

  • Dean M.

    After having beignets and shopping we were looking for something light and healthy. A stop at Meals From the Heart Cafe is just what we needed. We shared a Crab-cake Passion Salad with 2 crab-cakes. The salad was cool and fresh. The lemon dressing was perfectly refreshing. The crab-cakes were the best we ever had! Thanks for a healthy NOLA experience!

    (5)

  • Rachel C.

    This place is a gem! Between the friendly and cute uncle and nephew who take your order and the delicious food itself, I only wish I found this spot earlier in the week. The vegan gf pancakes were super and I loved the crab cake sandwich I had the day before. They also went above and beyond today when I placed an order for pancakes and the cute nephew delivered the pancakes on foot to my hotel so I would not miss my flight! Thanks!

    (5)

  • Sarah B.

    Holy delicious Batman! This place was a bit hard to find as we didn't originally realize it was in the market. But once we found it I couldn't have been happier. Great vegan and vegetarian options and even my omnivore friends found some great options to try. I had the black bean soup which had fresh avocado in it and came with brown rice and a roll, as well as a side of the vegan apple patties/sausage things. The soup was flavorful and warmed me nicely on a cold and rainy morning. The real stars I felt were the apple patties. My friends were amazed that they were so yummy and could not believe they were not made of meat! I thought they were delicious as well--a great mix of spices and subtle apple flavors. Highly recommend!

    (5)

  • Tracy T.

    Ines and I had breakfast here the first day, we def passed it at least once.....located in the French Market it's easy to miss. Most of the food places are set up like little bars with stools, once we figured it out we went back and had a seat. Melvin was manning the front. He was awesome. I don't think I've ever had anyone wait on me at a restaurant before that was so genuine and accommodating, such a nice guy. WE browsed the menu, this place is def not for tourists looking to bust their gut before 9am but I really appreciated the healthy, lighter approach to their menu at reasonable prices. Plus, they have vegetarian and vegan options which worked for our party of 2. I opted for 2 eggs over medium with toast, and apple stuffed turkey sausage. Ines got oatmeal and a fruit bowl. The food did take awhile to come out but the bar was also full of people and I'm pretty sure we all sat down just as the staff was arriving. Regardless everything pretty much came out for the entire group of customers at the same time. My eggs were good, no complaints, toast, and turkey sausage was also awesome. The fruit bowl Ines got was fresh and delicious and came with a side of raspberry vinaigrette that really made the flavors of everything pop. Note to self, add that on next time. This was probably one of the longest breakfasts I've had in a long time, first cuz the food took awhile, second cuz we're in NOLA and things just take longer than they do up here. Once I was done crawling out of my skin tho I relaxed and enjoyed. We even got to see an Easter parade happen while we ate. It's a cool little place to eat, you get to take in the atmosphere of the market while eating healthy good food and chatting with Melvin. If you're in NOLA go take a walk around the French Market, buy some crap you don't need, then stop and have a tasty bite at Meals from the Heart. And tell Melvin heyboohey.

    (4)

  • Amrita S.

    Being a vegetarian in the south is almost never fun, but the delicious black bean burger I had here was a delightful departure from the salads I've been nibbling for a week. Kudos to this cafe for standing out and being all around amazing.

    (5)

  • Ashley M.

    A treat for Gluten Free folks!! Was so excited to get GF gumbo and CRAB CAKES!! Wish I could go back over and over again!!!

    (5)

  • Andrea P.

    I came back here for a second time, and the food was just as amazing as a year ago. I was thrilled to be able to order a gluten free crab cake. The homemade dressing and spread was also to die for. This was hands down the best meal that I had in New Orleans. Try the carrot ginger juice when you're there. Just awesome.

    (5)

  • Adriana L.

    It is not every day that you stumble upon a little gem of a restaurant-but today I hit the jackpot as I strolled though the New Orleans Farmers market. Vegan. It caught my eye given most of what you get in the area tends to be deep fried and gumbo combos. I sat down and immediately felt good energy from the staff. I ordered their specialty and don't regret it: crab cake passion burst of flavor and perfection. I topped it off with their vegan power shake. Nutty and berry yumminess. Everything on the menu looks outstanding and look forward to my next trip to the area. Great service, fresh, healthy options...can't say enough.

    (5)

  • Rachel O.

    Come hear to escape the heart attack on a plate meals from everywhere else in the city. Come here to have decent food. But really come here for the company and the stories. This place is literally a little high top table with 5 stools in the middle of the market. The menu was small, but consisted of gluten free and low (insert bad food component) options. I went for the "Famous poached egg and crab passion" with a side of grits to share. Good food but come here really for the atmosphere. The people are so friendly and share great stories about life and the city. We were served by the retired brother cop. He talked our ear off in a good way.

    (4)

  • Tamara L.

    Stopped her in the French Market based on previous reviews. I had the crab sandwich with veggies. Friendly employees who gave us each a fresh tangerine after we ordered. My sandwich was served on a hearty wheat roll and the veggies were tender, not mushy with a nice seasoning.

    (4)

  • Rachael H.

    Healthy food to help you detox from the night before (but don't be fooled -- this was one of the best meals we ate in NOLA, and we ate everywhere). Crab cake with poached egg? Divine. And the gluten-free pancakes were extreme. I'd been supposed to share but while Lala was in the bathroom, I ate them all. No lie. Averill was charming and funny and absolutely no-nonsense. She was as good for the soul as the food was to our sad, abused, hungover bodies.

    (5)

  • Andrew F.

    Great place with healthy food and friendly people. I went to Meals From the Heart Cafe during my short 3 hours in New Orleans between driving in from Mobile and leaving out of MSY. in that time I was fortunate enough to be able to try two things here and talk to the chef and owner. I really love the idea of serving great tasting food that is healthy. They don't use a lot of oil, don't have pork or trans-fat. I agree with all these things and think the world needs to go in this direction, unfortunately for me many great restaurants still haven't figured out you can be healthy and taste good, but Meals From the Heart Cafe is different. My meal that I ate at their counter in the French Market was their fish tacos. The tilapia was perfectly cooked and seasoned and aside from a tiny bone everything was great. I wish there were onions on the tacos, and maybe a little bit of cheese, and obviously more avocado (there is no such thing as too much avocado), but the tacos were still really awesome, and everything was grilled, not fried. Taste and texture wise I could care less, they definitely got it right, but I didn't, I made a mess plowing through this amazing food. I forget what the tacos cost but it was under $13 and it was definitely worth every penny. I also ordered a chicken ceasar salad to go that I ate at the airport. The chef said the dressing was commercial but that it was the lesser of the evils. Whatever, I loved it. The bed of greens was not your typical romaine but rather mixed greens. The chicken was very good and seasoned and the croutons were not excellent but definitely somewhere in the very good range. I thoroughly enjoyed the salad and found it be worth the $13 price tag. Next time I'm in New Orleans I'll be back, but in the meantime I can only hope someone takes this concept to Denver, New York, and LA, the cities where I spend most of my time.

    (5)

  • Greg B.

    Healthy well-run small stand in the middle of the French Market. Fresh fruit and vegetables are unfortunately a rare commodity in New Orleans, but this place delivers. Only a few seats available so most orders are to go.

    (4)

  • Victoria H.

    Couldn't possibly be more fabulous: healthy, tasty, great service. I begged them to open in New York.

    (5)

  • Jennifer W.

    It just isn't a complete trip to New Orleans without a stop at this gem in the French Quarter Market. Fabulous crab cakes, delicious remoulade sauce, and everything is healthy! It's the perfect lunch stop. It's quaint with a few stools and is cash only. You will leave wanting more...be warned.

    (5)

  • Sigrid D.

    This was such a pleasant breakfast in the French Market. The staff is so, so nice. My kids had the whole wheat pancakes and ate them right up. They smelled so good!!! I had the crab cake passion with poached egg and my hubby had scrambled eggs with cheese. Everything was delicious and tasted so wholesome. It felt like eating in a home served by people who really cared that you loved your food. We might come back for seconds!!

    (4)

  • Kim H.

    Start your day here and the rest will be good! Thank you Avril for amazing food without the processed garbage!! Best omelets, power shakes and gumbo in town!

    (5)

  • Chelsea C.

    The best thing to eat in the French market with the kindest staff. So helpful and great fresh juices! Get the crab cake poached egg, you won't be sad! Also they give you a clementine while you wait, and that's sweet.

    (5)

  • Rebecca M.

    Crab Cake Passion: gluten free. These people know how to poach an egg. Yum!

    (4)

  • James C.

    High-priced healthy food. Food was excellent, but staff was rude and inattentive. Don't ask for a soft drink. They may have forgotten our food which just happened to be "coming right out" when we asked for a status update on why it was taking so long and others were getting their food before us. Another 5 minutes later it was ready. Wouldn't be my first choice at the French Market if visiting.

    (3)

  • Kelly K.

    Amazing vegan and gluten free options. The vegan-apple patties were the biggest hit! The gentleman serving us was adorably hospitable.

    (5)

  • Jenny L.

    I LOVE this place! It's located in the French Market. The service was extremely friendly- that southern hospitality. This place offers food that is on the more healthy side (compared to deep fried or other usual southern food at least). I got a fresh fruit bowl and blueberry whole wheat pancakes. My friend got the open faced crab cake omelet. EVERYTHING WAS AMAZING. This is one of the very very very few restaurants in the French Quarter that offered anything near a fruit...so it was very refreshing. If I could do it over again, I would order normal pancakes instead of blueberries because the blueberries were pretty sour, but overall still very tasty pancakes. The crab cakes are to die for. Super fresh, perfectly seasoned. If I discovered this place earlier on in my trip, I would have definitely returned over and over!

    (5)

  • Rutvi J.

    We were in New Orleans for two days and ended up going there for both days! They have a small but a very varied menu with some serious healthy options. The healthy vegan smoothie was really really good. I had the omelet one day and the burger the next, and both were fresh and yum. My boyfriend had the crab cakes both days, he was in love with them. We were full all the way till 4 both days. Apart from the food and service which was impeccable. The owners were really friendly chatting us up and love the touch of giving an orange like we get bread at an italian place!

    (5)

  • Parath C.

    Excellent service and truly food cooked with heart! Great selections for vegetarians and tasty!! My gf had the famous crab cakes and it out a big smile on her face :) The fresh oj was prefect. Also ordered the black bean chil - came with avocado my fav The vegan apple patties are way better than Morningstar Yum!!

    (5)

  • Olivia H.

    Best. Gluten-Free. Pancakes. Ever. I mean, I cannot say enough of these things. The night before we ate brunch here, I found out about them and I couldn't wait to get up the next morning to eat them. It was straight up like Christmas morning. And when I got there? Fluffy, soft, full of delicious, fat blueberries but not gluten. Om. And the guy working the counter said sometimes even people who aren't gluten free will come in and order them. I can't tell you how unheard of that is. The breakfast was delicious with lots of options for me, and brunch tends to be really hard on us glutards. However, because this place is basically a lunch counter in the Farmer's Market, I suggest it for small groups of people. 2 is ideal, although you can try and seek out a table for a larger lot, but I think sitting at the counter is part of the charm. If you're trying to avoid super-touristy areas, forget it - this place is smack in the middle of one of the most touristy spots you can find. It's loud and busy, parking is difficult, but I think it's worth it for the crazy good brunch action.

    (4)

  • Joanna D.

    If you are in New Orleans and looking for healthy food, you must visit this place! I have been here several times on two different visits to New Orleans, and it never disappoints. The service is exceptional- they truly care about what makes the customer happy and do their very best to accommodate every request. The owner and everyone else I have interacted with there is extremely friendly. The food is fresh and made from quality ingredients. Usually I came here for breakfast and had an omelette, a vegan power shake, and freshly squeezed orange juice- all absolutely delicious. My friend tried the crab cake passion and loved it. Since I don't eat gluten or the non- gluten options, they always substituted the bread with extra avocado on the side without a problem. This is a place I will go back to every time I visit New Orleans (especially now that I have my frequent-eater card). Meals From the Heart.... Thank you for existing. I wish we had you in Austin, Texas!

    (5)

  • Saleem M.

    The pancakes were standard, the poached egg and crab cake was awful. I think this place gets a ratings bump from vegetarian and vegan roots. People say the vegan shake is great, I did not venture in that territory. The service was disorganized, but that doesn't really matter much. In the end, the food was unsatisfying and did not feel from the heart at all. One ounce maple syrup packets and walnut crumbs are not exactly homemade.

    (1)

  • Terry T.

    Best crab cakes I have had in a long time and the cheapest meal on the trip. Great place to go.

    (5)

  • Ellen C.

    A much needed reprieve from the heavy food throughout the city. A healthy twist on some New Orleans treats. The food was excellent and the service was friendly. We had a great breakfast, highly recommended.

    (5)

  • Dahlia F.

    Great food & friendly staff, in the middle of the French Market. Visit #1 - I sat alone @ the counter & enjoyed a delish breakfast: Okra & shrimp gumbo & a yummy crab cake! Visit #2 - Next day, came back with my sis & friend & enjoyed the food again...Shrimp sausage? YUM! Can't beat consistency. :)

    (4)

  • María Elisa V.

    Just what we where looking for!!! Amazing breakfast, the freshed squezwed juices are great! We had the crab cake and poched eggs and the veggie omelet, we really loved this places. Business owners and the people that serves are very kind!

    (5)

  • Kassie M.

    Sigh, gluten free in New Orleans? This place is so amazing, and they are kind and understanding and make you feel like they really care about your totally annoying dietary restrictions. The food is made with love, and it tastes delicious! What a find!

    (5)

  • Jason P.

    Loved this little cafe! My partner and I are vegan and checked happycow.com extensively while in New Orleans to find good places to eat. This place is right in the middle of the French Market so it's so convenient if you're already down there browsing. We were thrilled to learn we could get vegan pancakes there and they were AMAZING. We did not eat at the bar, but at a cafe table some distance away. The employee brought our food to us and wiped off the tables - even though they do not belong to his business. "We can't have our customers eating an dirty tables" he said. Excellent service, food, and prices. Will definitely come back here when in NOLA again... I chose "loud" as the noise level - not that it's a bad thing, but it's literally in the middle of a bustling market so one should expect that it would be.

    (5)

  • Alan R.

    Amazing glutenfee pancakes... right in the middle of the French Quarter farmers market.... The food is wonderful, the people are just as wonderful, I'd like to go back for every meal

    (5)

  • Elysia S.

    How amazing after a week of debauchery to stumble upon this healthy and DELICIOUS gem! I had the gluten free crab cake with a poached egg and a lovely green salad. The rue in the gumbo is okra based, not flour. It's all so incredible! And my friend had the gluten free blueberry pancakes. It was all divine! They do have non-gluten free options too! Just come and eat the best crab cake in town! Very friendly family owned. We will return!

    (5)

  • Sandra H.

    I cant stop thinking about the crab cake poboy! Unfortunately I only got to experience 2 restaurants in all of NOLA but im so glad I found this place. It has to be probably one of the only places that offer vegan options and are cooked to order. This gem is located in the french market. The owner was so sweet and told me that she made all her own sauces. She even gave me a few slices of oranges while I waited for my food. She must have known I needed it...lol The sauces by the way were full of flavor and amazing. You left feeling fantastic and full of energy and not sluggish like you would after. and if you have ever been to the big easy you would know that you need a lot of energy! I will defiantly be back to NOLA and Meals from the Heart Cafe!

    (5)

  • Vanessa L.

    After a week of eating super salty and super fried food, Meals from the Heart Cafe was a health nut's dream come true and much needed break from the salt and oil. My group loved the crab cakes so much that we came back the next day and ordered it to go before flying back to Los Angeles! We were also huge fans of the vegan fruit smoothie (it's supposed to give you 3 hours of energy!) I'm sure if we had known about Meals from the Heart Cafe at the beginning of our trip, we would have come back all four days instead of only coming 2 out of the 4 days of our trip. We even came here immediately after eating lunch somewhere else in the French Quarter - nothing satisfied us like the crab cakes and we craved nothing like we craved the crab cakes. Sure, we only ordered the crab cakes from this location but I'm sure if all of the other food items were prepared the way the crab cakes were, you will enjoy anything you order here. Service is fantastic. My friend and I even got some free fruit/grape cups while waiting for our order.

    (5)

  • Debby S.

    Love this place! Healthy, healthy, healthy!! If you regularly eat a healthy diet, this place is a must considering the style of food custom in NOL. Ate here 3x in our 2 days stay in NOL. And still wanted to eat here again. I had the raw beet salad for lunch. It had pistachio nuts, avocado, field greens, julienne carrots......balsamic dressing on the side. Also tried the okra gumbo made with chicken, shrimp and turkey sausage. It was accompanied by toasted garlic bread on the side. YUM!!!The fruit salad is beautiful and delicious! Firm ripe fruit on a bed of greens. A berries sauce made with red wine was the side dressing. Their crab cakes are their featured item. I remembered reading the reviews of this place when researching where to eat in NOL. This didnt make my list to try only for reason i didnt want to make it a to-do to eat at a counter space at the farmers market. That was my misfortune. However, It was meant to be that I had a terrible breakfast elsewhere and was longing for something healthy. The fruit salad won me over. Day 2, we made a point to wait at the farmers market till they open at 9am when I had the crab cake and poached egg on English muffin and salad greens in the side. Accompanied by a remoulade sauce fir the crab cake and citrus dressing for the salad. My son had the apple turkey sausage and a smoothie. My husband had the fruit salad and a smoothie. Don't be fooled by the location and limited counter seating of 7. Nor the paper plates and plastic utensils. It is at the farmers market. The counter is granite. They are constantly checking in on you and cleaning up the space. Better than some restaurants we've been to. The price is reasonable for the quality. We had 2 full meals for 3 pp and the bill was about $46. We would eat there again if we were in NOL longer. We mentioned we will be back for lunch and I was given a frequent diner card. I mentioned that I found this place on yelp. I was told they were the first and only food vendor invited to set up business at the farmers market. I love this place, can you tell? I love that they want to offer healthy food in midst of the typical unhealthy food in NOL. I love that they are so proud of what they offer. I love that they make you feel like you are invited over to their home for a meal. I love the name "meals from the heart". It sure is!!!

    (5)

  • Patricia H.

    I never give 5 stars..but this place deserved it. The only reason I chose this place is because it was super clean and it had a travel Advisor certificate. In fact, was a little disappointed that it was "healthy eating". We had the gumbo and a half of fish sandwich each. I was in shock...it was fantastic. They give you little oranges to clean your palate. I can't wait to go back and go straight there. I was in NO for 5 days and discovered it on my last day....sigh. This place had the best food out of all the places I ate. I absolutely loved the staff....very friendly. Don't worry about the seating...there are chairs and tables just a few feet away from the restaurant. The only drawback is that you don't meet the staff and have a great conversation.

    (5)

  • Annie I.

    Had a great breakfast. Fresh ingredients and a friendly staff made for a pleasant start to our day. Many vegan and gluten-free options. The vegan po' boy was pretty much a roasted vegetable sandwich, but still very delicious and came with a nice side salad. The food takes a while to prepare because it's so fresh, so you might want to go somewhere else if you're in a hurry.

    (4)

  • Victoria C.

    Thank the LORD New Orleans has SOME place that serves healthy food! After meal after meal of deep-fried, battered, buttery food, my body was in major need of real fuel and nutrition. If you're in the heart of NOLA in and around the French Quarter, look no further than Meals from the Heart in the French Market. I came here for brunch on two occasions with my friend and we were reassured about the food after observing the petite, fit nature of the owner. That was a good sign. Everything on the menu is healthy and portion sides are reasonable (not OVERLY large). They offer only whole wheat products, egg whites, turkey bacon (instead of pork) and lots of fruits and veggies. They even have vegan shakes! The first time I came here I ordered the veggie-lite egg sandwich with turkey. So good, and just the right size. The next time I ate here I ordered the whole wheat pancakes with a side of turkey bacon. Oh man, these pancakes are SO good! Better than any pancakes I've ordered at restaurants in Seattle. I'm sure there has got to be a little bit of butter in the mix, but still. So wheaty, nutty, and melt-in-my-mouthy. I definitely recommend this place if you want to eat healthy in NOLA! Minus one star b/c cash only.

    (4)

  • Boris Y.

    This is my kind of place. I don't want nuttin' fancy, just good food. So they are famed for their crabcake passion, hence an easy decision on what to get. It was just a matter of how to get it packaged as one can get it part of a few dishes. I went with the po-boy and got their homemade tea. Loved both. Among the best po-boys I've ever had. Roll was very fresh, tea great, friendly service.

    (5)

  • Chef E.

    We dined here for the French Quarter Festival. Its a black owned establishment that looks out for your health.. We each had a different meal around the crabcake. I had a side of potatoes with mine which they said would come out after my crab cake... They forgot and I had to remind the staff about them. My father had the Crab Cake with poached egg (he didn't realize a poached egg was "runny") so that was pure comedy seeing him eat that--- but he did nonetheless and loved it. His girlfriend got the crab cake poboy--- it was here idea to eat here first! She loved it as well. This city known for its rich sauces, fried po-boys, stern drinks, and party mentality; gave me a pleasant find in this restaurant tucked in the beautiful FRENCH MARKET... When YOU are in the 1/4s this is a MUST EAT... Good Food! This place isn't marked up because of its status as a tourist trap that pumps crap out to you... Its delicious, warm, careful, textbook cookin' from the soul or in their case the HEART! I'll be back on the 9th...

    (4)

  • Mike O.

    Had GF pancakes very good. This is a small stand in the farmers market walked by it twice trying to find it. Also had the GF crab cake - while not what I was used before being GF (being from maryland) it was also very good. Definitely recommend for GF

    (5)

  • Kandyace W.

    The best crab cakes in New Orleans! xoxo

    (5)

  • Mo A.

    Its ultra difficult to get a delicious + healthy meal anywhere in the French quarter without shelling out a hefty buck. This place is excellent. It is in the open air market and you can step up to the counter or take your food and eat it at the nearby open market tables. The folks take their time making the food, but who cares when you can be enjoying a delicious bloodymary from the "organic banana" folks next door.

    (4)

  • Vivian F.

    Great fresh healthy food. Friendly service. We had breakfast there during our stay in New Orleans it was a wonderful treat. Highly recommend it.

    (4)

  • James C.

    My First stop during my trip down to New Orlean. The market was empty just after the hurricane, found this place on yelp with my girlfriend and sat down at the countertop for lunch. The service was very friendly and the food was good. We got the crab cakes with poached eggs and she got the crab cakes po boy. Overall the crab cakes were good, prices weren't cheap per say but the crab cakes were big, fluffy and full of meat. It was fresh and sweet. It came with a mayo based sauce with a side of salad. The salad had a very nice lemon vinaigrette. Overall a good find.

    (4)

  • Chris B.

    I was in Nola a month back and found this place my last day there (unfortunately) damn good food with some super friendly people working there. Got the gluten free pancakes with fruit and the vegan smoothie. Now, I was in Nola for about a week so just think of the hangover on my last day and now think that this breakfast sent me away back to the airport floating on a cloud. Whenever I make it back I'll definitely go back and try their dinners!

    (5)

  • Tze Shen G.

    Absolutely awesome crab cakes made fresh. Eggs were poached to perfection. Highly recommended.

    (5)

  • Jon F.

    This is a restaurant in the French Market and is unassuming. They have a few stools and that is about it. We came for breakfast and got the cheddar grits and the vegan blueberry pancakes. They were both very enjoyable and we enjoyed the service provided by Melvin as well. We would recommend it to anybody.

    (5)

  • Will C.

    Being a Californian vegetarian, it can be difficult, or impossible, to find food in N.O. Fortunately, Meals From the Heart Cafe is smack dab in the middle of the French Market. Despite getting a meal to go, my girlfriend and I received some of the best service either of us have experienced. We walked up to the counter and were met by very friendly service staff who treated us to clementine oranges while we waited. Our food was very delicious. All of the veggies were fresh, even the avocado was perfect. Their patties for their black bean burgers were house-made, and very flavorful! Overall, our experience was wonderful! Totally amazing to find many vegetarian options and wonderful service in the same restaurant!!!

    (5)

  • Aldo V.

    Yeah it's in a "farmers Market" and there are only about 6 seats outside this little side eatery - but oah my lord - can you say... CRAB CAKES!!!! Delicious! (and i don't eat crab)

    (4)

  • Melanie P.

    Their "crab cake passion" is simply incredible. It comes with a green salad with Vidalia onion dressing and the crab cake itself is just divine. They also give you a remoulade sauce to dip it in, all for the amazing price of $8.99. This was my second time eating here and I'll be back!! Service is exceptional, the staff really seem to enjoy what they're doing.

    (5)

  • Leslie M.

    Healthy home cooking. Best bet in the French Market.

    (5)

  • Carlos P.

    A healthier alternative to your traditional French Market/French Quarter food options. I had the Chicken Poboy with a side of steamed veggies. To be honest, it probably wouldn't resemble a traditional poboy, but I was pleased. The service is very good and pleasant, though the food may take a while to come out (we were offered fruit while we waited). Also, it is cash only.

    (4)

  • Kristian T.

    Ohhh yeaaah!!!!! The crab cake po-boy and crab cake passion is simply the best crab cake i ever bad. Would consider going to nola just to have moar ;-) fresh, fresh, fresh. food 5, staff 5

    (5)

  • Lauren Y.

    Oh what a find this place was! After 4 decadent days in NOLA my liver and arteries were rebelling so we decided to go healthy. I found Meals from the Heart online, and it was in the French Market where we were headed to that day anyway. My husband and I got the same meal: thier signature crab cake and poached egg dish. AMAZING! The crab cake had minimal (if any) breading and the egg was cooked perfectly (not easy to do with poaching). We shared an order of the (not toally healthy) cheesy grits and they were creamy, flavorful, and worth the calories. My husband got a side of the turkey sausage which tasted clean, zesty and homemade. The couple we were with ordered the turkey bacon and it was the first time it tasted....well, tasted like BACON! Nothing was greasy or heavy and we left satisfied but not in the "Thanksgiving Day Pain" we'd experienced earlier in the trip. Downside-service was a little slow. Half the meals came out together and the other half came out a good 15 minutes later. If you're travelling with people who don't mind lingering a little for good, healthy food, then you won't be disappointed!

    (4)

  • Dianna S.

    I went here with my sister based on Yelp reviews since we needed something healthier than what we'd been eating in New Orleans and it was delicious. I think it was the owner who was helping us, but she was wonderful and the food was incredible. The crab cakes were delicious and had barely any filler. The remoulade and the salad dressing were incredible. The people there are so friendly!! This place was really great!

    (5)

  • Jonathan S.

    Lots of reviewers have talked about how Meals from the Heart serves healthy food. That it does. However, Meals from the Heart serves delicious, well prepared, beautifully presented food that just happens to be healthy as well. In other words, you don't have to be a health-fad fanatic to enjoy eating here! A friend was visiting and wanted crab cakes. I'm allergic to shellfish so had no recommendations. Through a series of fortunate events we ended up at Meals from the Heart for brunch. It was a bit of a hunt to find the place. I was expecting a small bistro type place, Meals from the Heart is in the French Market in one of the food market stalls. It's a tiny place with counter service and 7 stools at the counter. I had the pancakes with a side of apple stuffed sausage and my friend had the crab cake passion. First the pancakes - they were some of the best pancakes I've had. Light. Fluffy. Topped with butter, maple syrup, and walnuts (all of which come on the side). Nicely presented with sliced strawberries and a sprinking of blueberries on top. I ate it all - usually I can only stomach 1/2 a serving of pancakes. The apple stuffed sausages were amazing. Turkey sausage mixed with chopped apple and other ingredients. Unlike most turkey sausage it was moist, flavorful, and meaty instead of being soggy, mealy, and unpalatable. My friend said her crab cake was one of the best she's ever had, hands down. It came perched atop a lovely salad of mixed greens. Finally, the coffee. We both had coffee. It was very very very good. New Orleans is a coffee city and I consider it a cardinal sin for a NOLA restaraunt to serve poor coffee. No dangers of that here! The service was courteous, quick, and attentive. An absolute rarity in New Orleans where the standard of service is so low that, well, most of the time you're just glad the server doesn't urinate on your table while screaming at you to be sure you leave a tip. Impeccable service is another major plus for Meals from the Heart! Finally, a word on the price - it's one of the best deals you'll find in the french quarter. The only thing you're going to find for less money in the quarter is a grease soaked napkin from a fast food joint.

    (5)

  • Cat F.

    Came here twice in one day! I had serious reservations about coming to NOLA with a sensitivity to gluten... so this café was such a great find, and in a great location. I had the pancakes for breakfast, and crabcake for lunch. It was filling and fresh, delicious and healthy! The service was personal, warm and friendly. I wish there were more locations across the city. My first trip to NOLA was amazing thanks to a place like this! Cheers and hope to be back!

    (5)

  • Laura S.

    Okay yes, this place has gluten free. And yes, the service was very friendly. But I was not impressed with the place as a whole. I ordered a sandwich on gf bread, and my boyfriend ordered tacos. Our order came out to almost $30 which I thought was ridiculous for the amount of food that we got. Also, this place is in the French Market, which means there is pretty much no where to sit. We also waited almost 45 minutes for our food that we ordered to go. Don't think I will be returning here.

    (2)

  • Amanda C.

    The owners of this place are so darn cute and that they alone are reason enough to visit. Though I don't have any food allergies and I'm not vegetarian, everyone knows that it's hard to find vegetarian food here, let alone vegan and gluten free options. This place has a bunch of options, though, for pretty standard tourist prices. My boyfriend got the omelette with an english muffin ($9.69?) while I had the mini black bean burger ($3.99) which comes with a single wedge of avocado and a little container of salsa and the cheddar grits ($4.75). The food takes a while to come out, but the warnings are everywhere on the menu so you shouldn't be surprised. My boyfriend liked his omlette but enjoyed the single bite I relinquished of my black bean burger more. That tiny thing was so surprisingly good! The outside was nice and crispy; it had some corneal in it or something and it was really flavorful. The grits were good, but could've used more salt. I didn't have the heart to tell them that, but felt better when the guy ordering gumbo next to me asked for salt also. They use low-sodium everything, so if you're used to salt you may want some. Super friendly, very willing to please and really yummy food. That makes for a good business in my book and I'd be happy to go back again.

    (4)

  • k k.

    Food: Wonderful! Their black bean burger was the best burger I've ever had! It was so good that I had to pick one up to go before I set out for the airport to go home. The full sized burger comes with a side of veggies, making it a nice and balanced meal. The portabella mushroom burger was really good too (my husband prefers the portabella mushroom over the black bean, but I prefer the black bean). The vegan protein smoothie is a must try. It was so delicious and so very good for you. Service: Great! The servers were friendly and we got complimentary oranges to munch on while we waited for our food. :) Price: Very reasonable for the quality that you get. There are not a whole lot of vegan options to choose from in New Orleans. This place is definitely worthy visiting!

    (5)

  • Wendy C.

    Best vegan pancakes ever. And I'm not even vegan!!!!

    (5)

  • Marian S.

    After 3 days at the French Quarter Festival eating unhealthy food, we happened upon Meals from the Heart. What a find! The service was friendly and helpful. I felt like the cousin who just dropped in. I had the marinated vegetable sandwich with mushrooms and my husband had the bean burger. They were both wonderful. There were too many vegetarian and vegan items on the menu, it was hard to decide, so we're going back tonight and tomorrow morning to try the whole wheat pancakes. There are plenty of options for carnivore too. I hear the crab cakes are the best. Don't let the small stand with about 6 stools in the middle of the market turn you off, you're going to love your food and your heart will thank you.

    (5)

  • Alison B.

    Healthy but wonderful NOLA food. We were traveling and craved healthy food, and this is like eating at home. Vegetarian and vegan options. I had Okra gumbo in brown rice, raw beet salad, and my friend said the best crab cakes ever. Fresh. Gluten free options. No pork. Eight-seat counter located in the French market.

    (5)

  • El T.

    Hmmmmmm the non gluten pancakes are just one of my go to dishes here... Fresh, cooked to order and healthy!

    (5)

  • Tere F.

    They have the best!! Vegan blueberry pancakes :) and vegan veggie apple sausage patties

    (5)

  • WiltonDrive A.

    This place was an interesting find. Not a typical restaurant but a counter with some stool within an open market. The food is marketed as heathly with low sodium, fat and no pork. If you are looking for a healthy alternative to normal NOLA food this would be a great place to try. They have no tables and only about 8 stools, no A/C so it might be hot. I should add that you can take your place to the open market tables but they are not dedicated to the counter service. The gumbo and crab cakes we had were good but not seasoned enough for my taste. The ice coffee was either old or a really-really dark blend. We enjoyed the friendly staff and the experience but it was not the NOLA lunch I was craving.

    (3)

  • Ran T.

    Nice little food stand in the French market. The owner is very friendly. Asked her what her recommendations are if you are new to New Orleans. Then try to the crab cake, it's actually mostly crab! Try the okra gumbo if you don't mind okra and want something that's not greasy (I know that's hard to do in New Orleans). It's not cheap, but food in general is not cheap in New Orleans. For two entries, you probably would spend around $25 with tip. But good food is good food and it's nice that you can sit down and have a warm meal after you have been walking in the city all day.

    (4)

  • Jaime M.

    The food was delicious and much healthier than we found in the rest of the Quarter. The crab cakes are amazing, whether in the "Passion" or in the crab cake and vegetable omelette. One of the best meals to be found in the French Quarter! The service was friendly and fun to top it all off!

    (5)

  • April H.

    This a great alternative to everything fried. The food and the service were top notch. My only complaint isn't really a complaint but dessert options would be wonderful.

    (5)

  • Gaz H.

    Two accommodating and friendly ladies run this breakfast/lunch counter in the French Market. They're very attentive to diners' dietary preferences and generally it's a friendly, happy place. The pancakes and oatmeal we enjoyed had a bit too much cinnamon for my taste, but that's a personal preference thing. The "vegan power shake" was a very tasty fruit concoction. Overall, the food was good, without being transcendent.

    (3)

  • Amy H.

    Just went here yesterday with my friends. The service was very good. We waited about 15 minutes for our food. I ordered the Veggie Lite (egg whites, peppers, onions, tomatoes, avocado, and spinach) on a whole wheat English muffin. This was probably the best egg sandwich I have ever had. It is a light, healthy meal to start your day with.

    (4)

  • Hope C.

    Not the best crabcake ever but it's a strong third place. My crabcake came on a bed of greens and the salad dressing was the highlight of my meal. I think next time I ll try the crabcake po-boy instead. If you are searching for healthier options to dine at this would be the place.

    (3)

  • Ziran Z.

    My girlfriend and I had breakfast at Meals from the Heart. Although we have not had crabcake anywhere else in Louisiana, they were the best crabcakes we've ever had eaten. I am personally not a fan of poached eggs, but my girlfriend, who likes poached eggs, tells me that they were cooked perfectly. The server was also extremely friendly, and continued talking to us about Louisiana while we were waiting on our food. We would definitely return here if we visited New Orleans again.

    (5)

  • Cassandra H.

    Gluten free pancakes and cold, juicy orange slices. Friendly staff that joke around with you like you're a regular. Sandwiches looked fresh and healthy and delicious. I'm trudging back through the heat to go here again this week. Will sweat for damn good food.

    (5)

  • Marius G.

    Great food, but terrible and slow service.

    (2)

  • Shawn C.

    Okay so the vegan selection is not huge. Be warned. But they have vegan blueberry pancakes and a bad ass smoothie with flax seeds, vanilla extract, and a shit ton 'o berries. Also it's in a cool outdoor market that reminds me of Europe, or you know, Dayton Ohio. Anyway point = awesome. And the people who run the joint are really nice.

    (4)

  • Michelle T.

    Lovely little stand in the Farmer's Market. Saw the signs saying they serve healthy food, can do veg*n food, had good Yelp reviews, and were voted best crab cakes. Having recently had the beignets at the Cafe du Monde, I was really looking forward to getting something healthier, so we gave it a try. The people working there were friendly and nice. I ended up getting the crab cake passion, and my dining companion got a crab cake with poached egg. The man there said he'd bring the food over to us when it was ready. The crab cake was really good--lots of good crab meat, not greasy or salty, spiced just right. It was served on top of a nice salad, and there was a good salad dressing in a plastic container so that I could add as much as I wanted. There was also some sauce for the crab in another little plastic container. They also gave each of us a clementine mandarin! Yummy! The man came by a little later to see if we liked the food. We ate our lunches while listening to the musicians performing there for the market. Very cool! They had this sign in front of the shop saying they'd sold 40,313 crab cakes so far. Guess they'll have to increase that to 40,315 now. Haha.

    (4)

  • Ann K.

    I love this place. I had a whole day to hang out in NOLA this past weekend after a Saturday wedding. So I headed out to the French Market, and found this cute little stand that has vegan options. As soon as I sat down, I got about 2 oz of grapes to munch on while I wait for my food. I ordered a white bean and kale soup with brown rice, which was served with chopped tomatoes and scallions. It was incredibly filling and tasty. I also ordered a mini vegan black bean burger with avocados and salsa, which again, was so yummy. The only thing is that I wish they would have dijon mustard instead of French's. But overall, delicious. I think it's family owned and everyone was friendly and warm. :)

    (5)

  • Sara P.

    Came here looking for a great po boy. Got the crab cake po boy, which after reading the reviews on it, the po boy tasted very mediocre not as superb as everyone else makes it sound to be! The crab cakes at NOLA to me were better. My boyfriend got the "okra" gumbo, which had too much rice in it , had no flavor and also didn't have okra. The gumbo the locals pointed us to was much more inexpensive and taste so much better! First and last for us.

    (2)

  • Scott L.

    A yelp find, food was great as was the service! Yum!

    (5)

  • Kellysue H.

    Best lunch in NOLA. After eating so much heavy food all week it was wonderful to find this little hidden gem. They serve vegan and vegetarian food as well. The crab cakes were Amazing as well as the black beans soup. The lady working the counter was lovely and you felt like you were sitting at her table at home.

    (5)

  • Joey A.

    Great food, tilapia po boy was awesome. Same with crab cakes. Roland is very nice as well.

    (5)

  • Jim G.

    Meals from then Heart was awesome. Great healthy food. Great tasting vegan items not just the token vegetarian items. The vegan apple patties were excellent. Taste like sausage patties! Great friendly service. My wife had the crab Excellent! Heart healthy and vegan two concepts not readily available in this great city. They take traditional local fare and serve it up healthy and great tasting! We will return!

    (5)

  • Kelsey G.

    Let me start off by saying they have THE BEST smoothie I have ever had, homemade or store bought. Vegan, flavorful, and so filling it complimented our meal like nothing before. Not the most ideal location for a local but great for a small business looking to reach the French Market goers. The mini-black bean burger was delightful but the grits tasted like instant; not what you would expect from a health focused, Southern cafe. Overall, Meals from the Heart was a great Sunday venture with friendly faces!

    (3)

  • Lynne S.

    Excellent gluten free and heart healthy menu! Homemade food, wonderful service and friendly atmosphere. We enjoyed 2 meals and will definitely return.

    (5)

  • Fay S.

    My friend and I traveled to Louisiana to do some nature photography and spent a day in New Orleans. It was a Sunday morning and we were looking for a bite to eat. Being tourists, we headed for Cafe du Monde but found the line snaking into the street. Little did we know that a treasure of a little place (Meals from the Heart Cafe) was a short walk from there in the French Market. We arrived as they were opening and received a warm welcome. I delighted to find they had a veggie omelet in an English muffin and a myriad of hot tea to choose from. Not only was breakfast delicious (and healthy), but the two gals who ran the place were absolutely delightful and felt like old friends by the time we said our farewells. We could not have had a better introduction to New Orleans than this. It is the people you meet along the way that makes travel so memorable and you truly touched my heart with your welcoming and friendly attitude. I thank you for the good food and the comraderie. Bon Appetit!

    (4)

  • Del R.

    Soooooooooooooooooo yummy. I had a typical breakfast omelet and pancakes there. The BEST! this lady rules and knows what she's doing! And, she is way sweet. I would certainly go back to this joint!

    (4)

  • Karim B.

    Great healthy food in the French quarter. Had the black bean burger which was delicious and the smoothie. Great way to recover after a long run.

    (5)

  • Madame Pamita M.

    I'm from Los Angeles, and I'm used to eating fairly "clean". Of course, when you're in New Orleans, you're going to eat all the amazing food, but the fried/butter thing gets to you after a while. Thank you Meals From the Heart for offering something that is fresh, green and also tastes amazing! I had the crab cake on a salad and it was fantastic! You can just taste the love that goes into what they do! Thanks for making a truly delicious, reasonably priced and memorable meal!

    (5)

  • Irwin S.

    HEART, what an appropriate word to have in the name of your cafe. You cared about my physical heart with your cooking that keeps me healthy with low fat, low salt, and no trans fat food. I can go to New Orleans and eat and enjoy (!) New Orleans food and have a happy, calm stomach that will help my heart have a long run. What delicious crab cakes, gumbo, and whole wheat pancakes. YUM!!! Every day I was visiting New Orleans I appreciated eating with you. You cared about my emotional heart with your personal interactions, your giving nature, and your heart felt rapport. Your spirit of dedication to your community(s) is both recognized and inspiring. Thank you. Frank P.

    (5)

  • Steve G.

    Looking for healthy food and friendly people? This is the place. My wife and I shared a poached egg and crab cake on a whole wheat English muffin, whole wheat pancakes, and turkey apple sausage, all were delicious. We will be back again soon!

    (5)

  • Nancy D.

    I decided to give this place a try because of its high Yelp ratings. I came here with my breakfast companion and did not have to wait long for a seat at the 4-stool counter. I had a bowl of black beans and my breakfast companion had the 2-egg omelette. If I recall correctly, we waited about 15 minutes for our order to come out, but in the meantime we had a most friendly chat with the owner's father, who was staffing the counter that morning. He is a friendly, knowledgeable fellow who was able to give recommendations about where to eat, what to see, etc., in New Orleans. I had asked him where I could find a good bowl of yakamein, and his honest answer was that it probably wouldn't be safe to do so. He told us about how his daughter had perfected healthy Cajun cooking and something about how the 2-egg omelette required maybe a teaspoon of cooking oil to make---wow! My breakfast companion enjoyed his omelette, and he normally grumbles about how heart-smart food tastes "too healthy." I enjoyed my bowl of black beans; it was very filling too. Would I come back to Meals from the Heart? You bet, especially after a week of eating nothing but barbecued meat, grits, and super hearty foods.

    (4)

  • Angel W.

    Stopped here based on yelp reviews. It was early in the day, so I didn't want to overindulge too soon. I enjoyed a yummy mini black bean burger, while my boyfriend had the incredibly delicious crabcake passion, served on a bed of greens. I also had the "vegan power shake" which was tasty and really hit the spot. It was piled high above the rim of the cup and easily could have been a meal on its own. I was a little turned off by the fact that it tasted like soft serve ice cream, which I wasn't expecting, but I suppose that is due to the vanilla flavoring (the ingredients are listed on a sign). The waiter was very friendly and served us blood orange while we waited. I definitely recommend stopping here for a healthy meal to keep you going and not put you to sleep.

    (4)

  • Jon W.

    What a wonderful surprise it was to stumble on this gem of a place as we were exploring the French Market in NOLA. Had the crabcake salad and it was amazing! We will definitely stop by again before we leave the city!

    (5)

  • John W.

    I don't know if it is because this place is in NOLA and fruit can be grown year-round here or if the owner has lost her mind, but the fruit salad at this place is HUGE. I just don't know how she makes money selling this much fruit for the price of the salad. The fact that this place exists in NOLA at all is amazing, but the quality is legit.

    (5)

  • Steve D.

    My wife has celiac disease and she has been here 3 days in a row. I had the crab cake po' boy yesterday and the crab cakes were as good as you can get. She had blueberry pancakes, okra gumbo and brown rice and a vegetable plate.

    (5)

  • Tom M.

    We found this place online---what a great find. We were in New Orleans for a long weekend and ate here twice. Meals from the Heart is just a counter with a 5-6 barstools in the middle of the French Market.. Don't let the appearance fool you--they are serious about providing great healthy food. The crabcakes, both the gluten free and the regular, were terrific. Flavorful and full of crab. The gluten free pancakes were also outstanding. The cheese grits were just ok. Melvin, the counter service provider, is also value add to the experience---a true delight to chat with.

    (4)

  • Dave M.

    Great and clearly-marked vegan menu options. I had the maxi black bean burger with a side of vegetables and the vegan power shake. The burger is huge and comes with nice spring mix greens on it. Veggies on the side were good- broccoli, snap peas, carrots, & squash I think. Shake was awesome, it's big and made with fruit and non-dairy milks. My non-vegan friends liked their food as well (fish tacos & crab cakes iirc), also it's in the market so there are plenty of other options nearby if people you're with want to eat something different.

    (5)

  • Carolyn R.

    It was so wonderful to have gluten free blueberry pancakes in the French Quarter. They have lots of other dishes including gluten free gumbo. I thought the prices were good for gluten free and I highly recommend if you want a good, causal gluten free meal in New Orleans that you give them a try.

    (5)

  • Andrew C.

    The staff is quite nice, and the food is healthy and tasty. A health-conscious restaurant is a rare find in the French Quarter, so kudos for the effort! While the food is great, the ambience is lackluster- the restaurant is in a market, and you have to sit at a bar. It's a great place to grab a quick bite, but don't expect anything more.

    (4)

  • Susan C.

    Friendly service! The crab & poached egg sandwich is a messy, yummy treat!! Love this place! This is a guy that gives a damn about the food he sells and not just another French Market hawker.

    (4)

  • Shruti M.

    Ok I really wanted to like the food here more. The owner was a sweetheart and I really enjoyed talking to him. I ordered the fish tacos: I thought it was a little bland, although the fish was well cooked. IT could have used some more salsa, or some more unique flavor. I could definitely tell that all the ingredients were very fresh, and I would give this place another shot next time I'm visiting NOLA!

    (3)

  • Gigi M.

    Healthy and loaded with flavor..If you like the crabcakes, you should try the crawfish pies..WOW!!

    (5)

  • David G.

    Amazing vegan blueberry pancakes. Never had better even before I became vegan. Highly recommended! Plus the service was as warm and friendly as it gets.

    (5)

  • Janice J.

    Vegan energy smoothie (banana, blueberries, raspberries, flaxseed, walnuts, coconut and almond milk) was refreshing and just what I needed after walking around in humid heat at the French Market. Owners are really hospitable and love Californian health nuts! Bit pricey ($7), but didn't mind cause the owners were sweet!!!

    (5)

  • Erin K.

    Unbelievable! The crab cake passion was delicious and the staff was friendly and warm. Definitely returning soon

    (5)

  • Kaitlin Z.

    04/09/12 Husband and I made another trip to New Orleans last week and I was a frequent visitor here. He would get the vegan shake every trip and I would order some much needed veggies. I ordered rice and veggies (a few times) which was not bland as I assumed it may be. I wish I got her name (I believe she is the owner/cook) would come out to the front and chat with us during our visits. Even though their business seems to be growing rapidly she made the time to chat with us and provide great food. Everything is consistently delicious!

    (5)

  • Allison M.

    BEST. CRABCAKE. EVER. Seriously. This was a beautifully crafted, moist and tender, absolutely delicious crab-a-rific crabcake. The staff of the restaurant were happy to see us - friendly and helpful. While we waited, a sliced orange was given to us to 'kick start our appetite'. My husband and I each got the crabcake and poached eggs, which came atop a wheat english muffin, along side a green salad. The remoulade was fantastic - thick and perfectly seasoned. A perfect 10. Check them out!

    (5)

  • Gina S.

    Loved this friendly healthy little place... Great service, nice atmosphere and very reasonable prices for New Orleans....

    (5)

  • Peggy L.

    I can't can't believe how good it was, yummy as you would think since I pretty much went every single day n ate for breakfast n lunch!!! O boy the Vegan Shake was sooo good and had all the necessary nutritions and crab meat totally real and made with love and care which equals delicious. SO FRESH. FISH TACOS I LOVE. Had black bean soup n black bean burger because they kept not having it yet so we keep going n guess we got to them hehe n they were able to make it on the day before we left to go back home. N the poached eggs are so happily good! This is a MUST GOO....THE PANCAKES MUST EAT, just rightly crispy on the outside and so good n healthy n delicious. Smiless all the way around to the food n ppl working there.

    (5)

  • Robert M.

    Beautiful food from warm and friendly people. Crab Cake Passion was prepared perfect. Light crispy crunch, succulent tender inside, not mushy at all. Served on a bed of fresh crisp organic greens with awesome sauces. Try this place if you want a fresh alternative with the creole flair.

    (5)

  • M L.

    My husband and I live in Southern California, and eat a clean diet, with lots of vegetables and no red meat or pork. I looked at dozens of restaurant menus online, and ate at 2 of the best and most famous restaurants in NOLA, and we were always limited to maybe one dishes on the menu. After 2 days in NOLA, we only were able to order an all vegetable side that was NOT fried or loaded with cheese or butter once. (NOTE: Ordering fish "Simply grilled" in NOLA means its still likely means there is butter added to the oil.) We walked about 15 min to get to Meals from the Heart to try their lunch, and it was well worth every minute. After reading all of the Yelp reviews, I was looking forward to trying the Crab Cake Passion, but was so excited to see that they offer a gluten-free version! I tried that, and the Raw Avocado and Beet Salad. My husband had the Black Bean Soup as well as the salad. First off, the gluten-free Crab Cake was awesome! The owner keeps a hand counted running tally daily of the total number of crab cakes sold since they have been in business for the last 4 years (her brother showed it to us). The numbers speak for themselves! Although there is also very little filler, regardless, nothing about the crab cake tasted gluten-free! The Raw Avocado and Beet Salad was amazing! I don't usually like raw beets, broccoli, asparagus, carrots or cauliflower, but these veggies were agreat! They almost tasted blanched - but whatever they were, it was awesome! I don't eat avocados, but my husband loves them, and thought they were perfectly ripe and had great flavor. Overall the veggies tasted like they were grown in an organic garden. The Black Bean Soup looked great, and also tasted great! There was very low sodium in it (which is a theme of the establishment). For the price, my husband thought it was a nice sized portion and the best meal he had in NOLA! As a nice little treat, the owner gives you a Cutie (clementine orange) as well. Such a sweet touch! Just as their name implies, it was clear that all the food was cooked from scratch and by hand, carefully (and the owner and her brother confirmed this). Our only regret is that we didn't have time to eat there for a 2nd or 3rd time on our trip! The only thing I would make sure that you know before you go is that this isn't a formal restaurant. They are a vendor with kind of a booth set up at the French Quarter Farmers Market (see the picture posted). Don't get me wrong, not a negative thing, it was clean and cozy, and had a few seats so you can sit and eat at the counter, which we loved because we could talk to the owner and her brother. The Farmers Market does have a seating area with tables and chairs nearby as well - so that's an option too. That said, they also specialize in take out too.

    (5)

  • Anthony S.

    Great lunch today. My wife is gluten free and Melvin made sure she was well taken care of. My chicken po boy was very flavorful with well sessoned chicken and healthy fixins on a whole wheat roll. The remlaude sauce wa s perfect with just the right amount of spice. A "must eat"

    (5)

  • Daniel K.

    The owner is a very friendly lady! Treated my daughter to her own pancake when I ordered mine. They were excellent with the nuts and maple syrup. The crab cake was very good, although I like them with lump crab and extra crispy on the outside. But would definitely go again for the great value and wonderful service.

    (4)

  • Wendy K.

    There is a sign at this establishment that says something to the affect of, "Warning: This may be the only healthy meal you'll have in the French Quarter." I certainly didn't go everywhere in the French Quarter, but I definitely made the rounds, ate at a fair number of restaurants, and I can safely say that the healthiest meal I even saw on a menu (save for garden salads) was at Meals From the Heart Cafe. I had the multi-grain pancakes, which were nutty and moist, two hearty slices of turkey bacon and some fruit (the cup was a bit small) and the girl I was with had an egg white breakfast sandwich as well as the above sides. The man who was working that day was friendly and served us well, and I think the entire meal cost less than $15 for two people! We sat in the shade at a table in the French Market right across from the Cafe's ordering counter, which provided a quiet atmosphere and great people-watching opportunities, and afterward, we walked back to our hotel, passing shops and galleries on the way. Thank you, Meals From the Heart, for the only healthy meal I had while in New Orleans!

    (4)

  • Jacquelyn K.

    The French Market - where Meals From the Heart Cafe is located - has definitely undergone a shift in its redevelopment post-Katrina. The Farmer's Market portion, which used to be a dirty, cramped repository for every kind of hot sauce you could imagine, has been transitioned into a number of small eateries and gourmet cocktail venues, with bar-style seating lining one side of the long concourse. And, while the old configuration had a certain amount of "je ne c'est quoi," I think the new eateries and drink spots are an interesting addition. I came across Meals From the Heart after seeing the line at Cafe du Monde, which stretched down the block. I mean, I love beignets as much as the next person, but not THAT much. The menu at MFtH was simple, but appealing. Since it was breakfast, I went with the one-egg veggie and cheese omelet on an English Muffin, which came out piping hot and chock full of tastiness. The omelet had chives, mushrooms, tomatoes - all delicious and fresh - and sandwiched between a whole wheat English muffin. The rest of the menu was really intriguing, particularly the "Mini-Me Black Bean Burger" w/salsa, spinach, tomatoes, and feta cheese and the "Crab Cake Passion" a lumb crab cake topped with house-made lemon remoulade. Mmmmm! This is definitely a welcome respite amidst all the heavy food you can find in the Quarter!

    (4)

  • Shannon N.

    The crab cake passion was yummy and so affordable! Staff was very kind and accommodating. Would eat here again and again.

    (5)

  • Leeah K.

    SO GOOD! We stumbled upon this place while browsing French Market and boy am I glad we ate here. I had the crab cake po boy and it was delicious. The crab cakes were fabulous, the bread was fresh, and the remoulade was tasty. It comes with your choice of grilled potatoes or grilled veggies; I got the veggies and they were yummy and fresh. The staff working the counter are super friendly and they even gave us orange slices to munch on while we waited for our food. I would definitely go again.

    (5)

  • Chris L.

    Much like God, if Meals From the Heart didn't exist, it would be necessary to invent it. This is for our coastal visitors and trend-conscious locals who believe that eliminating unhealthy (i.e., flavorful) items from their diets will make them immortal. After all, we all know how difficult it can be to find food in the Quarter that won't make your doctor throw his hands up in resignation screaming, "I give up! Just kill yourself, then! See if I care!" Personally, I think health-food restaurants are kind of like church. If it makes you feel better about yourself, go right ahead. Most of my diet, while not consisting mostly of junk food, is decidedly not "health nut oriented." But every now and then, even one such as I must take a break from butter, fat, and oil (The tasty holy trinity), and this, dear carrot munchers, is the place to take that break. Their Crab Cake Passion is absolutely delicious, but if you plan on getting full, you should probably get two or three orders or the Double Crab Cake Passion Po-Boy on whole wheat French bread, which I haven't tried yet, but it would have to be awesome. Unfortunately, it's a $15 (before tax and tip) sandwich. So, today's pick was the brown rice and vegetables with chicken plate. Perhaps I'm a bit biased as my mother (health food fan) used to make this exact same dinner when I was a kid. The small chicken breast halves (It's ok. There were two of them.) and the rice were seasoned with herbs reminiscent of Tuscan food, which was a good touch adding a greater depth to the flavor. Sure, it wasn't as good as it would have been with butter/oil, but whaddayagonnado? The vegetable side, which consisted of broccoli (natch), carrots, green and yellow squash, and asparagus (awesome combo), was certainly good, though a tad undercooked to my taste. Actually, the entire meal was A-OK, but I have to admit, I missed the butter. That may have gotten a genuine genuflection out of me. Sorry, San Francisco visitors. The primary issue I have with this health-conscious eatery is the price. With no drink save tap water, this meal, with tax and tip came to $16. We need to alter the price designation for this place. It definitely qualifies as a "$$" place. And since the ambience is non-existent (It's in the middle of the French Market.), and since the food is prepared simply, saving tons on unhealthy yet expensive ingredients, the price should be lower. Also, they should take plastic, yet they don't. But what do ya expect? It's in the French Market. However, for you healthy eaters with disposable cash, this place makes you feel oh so clean. And as we all know, cleanliness is next to godliness. Amen.

    (3)

  • stacey C.

    Loved this place! The crab cake passion was really yummy and healthy, my bf had the crab cake po boy which had 2 nice crab cakes on there and came with some awesome steamed veggies. The guy behind the counter was just a pleasure to talk to and such an awesome guy. His sister ?? I believe , she is the cook, she does an awesome job! Like everyone else mentioned, it is such a healthy, lite option when you are in New Orleans. Will definitely go back next time I am in N.O. and have already recommended it to my mom and dad who will be visiting in July!

    (5)

  • Kiran V.

    Wonderful food and service! I never thought I would be able to enjoy a poboy again now that I can't have gluten, but I got such a sweet surprise to find out they had gluten free bread. Talapia poboy = delicious.

    (5)

  • Elysia N.

    A stall in the middle of the French Market, Meals From the Heart Cafe is unassuming, but surprisingly good. The ingredients are fresh, the preparation is simple, straightforward and delicious, and the portion sizes are reasonable -- in stark contrast to the oversized trend in the rest of this city. The owner is health- and heart-conscious, and a long-time nutritionist. She took the time to explain her approach to food, and to accommodate my 93-year-old grandmother, who was in a wheelchair. Because of its small size, they sometimes struggled to keep up with orders (we, a party of four, came close to overwhelming the kitchen). But overall, the service was warm, efficient, friendly, and individualized. I would definitely recommend this restaurant to others visiting New Orleans, and I would come here again.

    (5)

  • Thor Z.

    Cheap and good!

    (5)

  • Sheri D.

    My Passion is for crabcakes and this fantastic resturant satisfiies to the max. Such a nice spot in the busy French Market with a very plesant staff. I enjoyed myself totally and will return for what I hope will be many, many meals.

    (5)

  • Sunny K.

    On my last trip to NOLA, we stayed in Faubourg Marigny and each morning I'd walk down to the French Market. This was hands down my favorite breakfast spot. Not much else to add to what's already been said by others in terms of it being refreshingly healthy, and the warmth & friendliness of the proprieters, but it's more than that. You can feel the love they put into the food, and that ain't easy to come by. Sure, they have limitations on beverages & ambience, but open your eyes people, it's the French Market and you are in New Orleans. Relax, and enjoy.

    (4)

  • R N.

    Fresh, honest food.. We had the portobello sandwich and salad, both excellent.

    (5)

  • Nadeem R.

    Awesome healthy food in New Orleans...I got the crab cake and poached eggs...my wife got the tilapia tacos...but the treat of the meal was the turkey apple sausage...it was amazing...the service was A+...It is located inside The French Market so the seating is limited but there are plenty of tables to sit at in the market area...great place to eat healthy after clogging a few arteries on your NOLA trip.

    (5)

  • Angelique H.

    OMG!II Best healthy meal i have had in New Orleans in three years! Vegan and turkey options, Grilled chicken and the best black bean burger i have had ever. Hands down. You have to go!

    (5)

  • Katie M.

    I went to New Orleans for vacation last summer and as a vegetarian who doesn't eat meat or fish--New Orleans is a hard place to find a veg meal! My mom and I just decided to stop on a whim while walking towards the french market and I was SOO glad we did. Hands down best black bean burger i've ever had, it had a mango salsa on top and avocado. I've been a vegetarian for 15 years so i've eaten quite a few veggie burgers in my time and this is the BEST. My mom order the turkey burger mini and enjoyed that as well. Slightly pricey but in my opinion worth the cost. If you're looking for a good healthy meal in NOLA, this is the place to stop. Vegetarian or not, you won't be sorry!

    (5)

  • SarahJayn K.

    I had the maxi black bean burger here with a side of vegetables. Very fresh, very reasonable. The staff was friendly. A good stop for lunch.

    (4)

  • Bea G.

    I read about this restaurant on Yelp. I was looking for something healthy close to the quarter. The reviews were right. The crab cakes were amazing! I enjoyed speaking with the server who was the owner's brother and a retired NOPD officer. Along with great conversation, I enjoyed a great meal. As others have said, it's not the cheapest meal you can get in the quarter, but that wasn't what I was looking for. If it is, you should grab a slice of pizza and a huge ass beer from a hole in the wall and be on your merry way. I was looking for something delicious, fresh and healthy, and that's what I got. I got the crab cake poboy and a coffee for $20 (not including tip). I would go back and would recommend this place to anyone. This is a counter service place - good for takeout or a few in a party. Probably only has 5-6 barstools. I didn't have to wait, but it would be worth the wait if there is one. If you have a group or kids with you, get takeout and find a nice spot somewhere nearby to enjoy your great meal!

    (4)

  • Bethany S.

    I'm so glad I stumbled upon this place while tooling around in the French Market. As much as I love all the fattening, artery-clogging food that New Orleans has to offer, there are times when I want a meal that clocks in under 2000 calories. Luckily, Meals From the Heart has delicious food so you don't have to sacrifice flavor and you leave feeling full, not disgusting. The crab cake salad was excellent.

    (4)

  • Emily N.

    Delicious, healthy food in the French Quarter. I enjoyed the fish tacos, which were zesty with an emphasis on the fresh spinach and flavorful citrus. My companion had the vegan black bean burger, which he enjoyed. All in all, a cute and friendly establishment with healthful ingredients and generous portions. I will return.

    (4)

  • Andrew C.

    Make sure to eat breakfast here at least once during your stay. It's right in the middle of the French Market with open air seating -- great atmosphere to watch people go by. Very friendly service. The crab cakes and poached egg on English muffins were fantastic. You may have to wait a bit for your food, but it's worth it.

    (5)

  • Melinda L.

    Healthy AND scrumptious in The Big Easy?! You bet!! This place is hands down one of the best places to eat even for non-gluten intolerant friends. It's not fancy but the quality of the food overrides the need for ambiance. I'm gluten intolerant so it's a little hard finding good options to eat in this city full of beignets and roux. They also have vegetarian and vegan options which for me (a big meat eater) were extraordinary! The raw beet and avocado salad was very filling. The freshly made honey balsamic dressing to go with it was sweet and tangy. And the pistachios on top provided a nice, salty accompaniment. The gluten free pancakes were a wonderful treat since I've never found a restaurant that makes them. You can have a choice of fresh fruit in the batter or on top of your stack (or both of course!) They are known for their crab cake cake passion. These little gems are made with fresh crab and were to die for! They were by far the best I and my friends had ever had. If you are gluten intolerant this place is a must on your list of places to eat in Nola. Your non-GF friends won't mind eating here either!

    (5)

  • Angelina R.

    amazing healthy NOLA style food which is hard to find out here. Crab cakes and black bean soup... mmmm

    (5)

  • Fay H.

    I was very excited to find this place in the French Market of all places. They have an excellent vegan black bean burger that is homemade.

    (5)

  • Nancy M.

    I loved this place! New Orleans is full of delicious food, but it's often deep fried and/or loaded with heavy sauces. Vegetables are often MIA -- unless you count french fries or potato chips as a part of that food group. Meals from the Heart Cafe is totally different. Mixed green salads, roasted veggies, even vegetarian burgers. And great seafood options like their crab cake passion and salmon po' boy. They serve healthy breakfast options all day too, so there is something for everybody. And when we were there, they gave everybody Satsuma tangerines with their meals. Conveniently located in the French Market, reasonable prices, and your meal is cooked to order. Plus the women who own this place are delightful. You can enjoy an interesting conversation while waiting for your to-go food or while you dine at their counter. Do not miss this place -- tasty, healthy options in the sea of food that is the French Quarter, but be advised that they close at 6pm, so plan accordingly.

    (5)

  • Eric W.

    For me, a restaurant with awareness of gluten-intollerance needs is essential. MftH is a welcome oasis in a city where it seems almost everything is fried. The staff is quite aware of "special needs" and have already highlighted vegan and GF items on the menu, plus they seem quite willing to mix up exactly what you'd like. This is "real" food, not greasy or frozen or packaged, and it's made to order--so you may have to wait a few minutes, but it's worth it.

    (4)

  • Donya M.

    The BEST crab cake and the BEST gumbo (and I ate a lot of gumbo) this past week in NOLA.

    (5)

  • Mary S.

    Great healthy meal. Delicious Talapia Po Boy and Crab Cake Passion meal. I definitely recommend this French Quarter Eatery.

    (5)

  • Levi C.

    Eat here! It will knock your socks off. Vegan friendly, but the meat dishes do not suffer because of it. The food is so good that I actually enjoyed the cooked spinach in my friends omelet, which I have never liked in any form in my entire life. The coffee was also pretty delicious, which is highly unusual in this city, even at coffee shops. The service was friendly, informative, and entertaining. Oh, and you can smoke since it's technically out doors. Best breakfast I've had in a long time.

    (5)

  • Pat M.

    On my first visit to New Orleans last week, during my four day stay, I visited Meals from the Heart Cafe twice for lunch because the first crab cake was so delicious! The presentation is beautiful and the sauces/dressing are really tasty. The crab cakes are made to order, grilled rather than fried, and absolutely scrumptious. New Orleans has lots of great food for reasonable prices; this is a prime example. And the people behind the counter, who might be the owners, are super friendly and accommodating.

    (5)

  • Red T.

    Delicious and affordable vegetarian in the Quarter!!! The black bean burgers are really tasty. The turkey burgers and crab cakes are also amazing. The people are kind and friendly--everytime!

    (5)

  • Jo M.

    I was so pleased to find a breakfast without fried food! My veggie & egg English muffin was awesome. As was my oatmeal. Hubby had their wheat pancakes & gave it a solid 7.5. The coffee was not incredibly strong, but very good.

    (4)

  • Amanda H.

    After days of unhealthy food, this was a godsend. Great, tasty, healthy breakfast food and wonderful service. I had an egg white omelet on an English muffin with veggies and turkey and if was filling and NOT greasy or fatty. I wish there were more options like this in the French Quarter!

    (4)

  • Bonnie W.

    Love this place! The Crab cake was literally the best I have ever had! And Marilyn is a sweetheart...hope I got her name right...I am going back again. We were lucky to have gone there first. The other restaurants have a lot to live up to after such a welcoming and authentic treat!

    (5)

  • Jessah A.

    Very nice people! And great food!! Healthy, totally not like every other place in this town of New Orleans, where food is soo over fried and not that great at all!!.. I ordered the salmon plate with steamed vegetables, and got a side of toasted buttery biscuit, ( I guess the bread part was not so healthy, but it was delicious!!) It wasn't busy so the register person offered me a little vegan smoothy drink, which I thought was very nice of him, free of charge. He was very helpful with telling us what are good places to see while out trip there. I would love to come back here and try their other fish dishes. :)

    (4)

  • Alejandra J.

    I was hoping to find a place with "clean", healthy, and tasty food. Meals from the heart was perfect. The black bean burger and crab cake are mouth watering. We left full and satisfied!

    (5)

  • E R.

    OUTSTANDING, especially for vegetarians!! It's awfully hard to find a meatless meal in New Orleans. Even the seafood dishes tend to contain sausage. And if you're lucky enough to find a meatless meal, it's usually dull or drowning in butter/cream/oil. A delicious healthy meal, with green veggies is a rare find... but I found it. Near the end of my recent N'awlins vacation, I discovered the Meals From the Heart Cafe at the French Market. Wish I'd discovered it on my first day. Chef Marilyn is not only a culinary talent, she's a charming woman, if you can catch her taking a break from the kitchen. Whether you're a vegetarian, pescatarian, or just don't want to end your trip to the Big Easy with a trip to the ER from all that grease, treat yourself to a few meals at this terrific little cafe.

    (5)

  • EJ M.

    Tried the turkey burger. It tasted okay, but was pretty dry. But it was a good healthy alternative to the fried foods in the market. Service was a bit scattered.

    (3)

  • Celia S.

    Really great HEALTHY breakfast and lunch place in the French Market located in the French Quarter of New Orleans. Whole wheat english muffins, egg white omelette options, oatmeal, veggies. These ladies are truly lovely women who care about their community and want to make a difference in the health of New Orleans. They are eager to make the customer happy and will work with dietary restrictions. They have po boy sandwiches that are NOT fried, they have brown rice and they have black bean burgers!! They even have soy milk! If you want a taste of local New Orleans, they even have a crab dish. Great, healthy food that will balance out the Begniets from Cafe Du Monde down the street!

    (5)

  • David D.

    This is a great place to eat in the French Market. (Look for Bay 13) The crab cakes are worth the extra walk down to the market. The Crab Cake Passion were prepared great, with a light crunch on the outside, without extra fillers on the inside, just crab. Plus I liked how we were served fresh cut oranges slices while we waited for our meal, especially refreshing on a hot day. One of the best places we tried in the French Quarter, a fresh alternative!

    (5)

  • miss e.

    So I found out quickly how much of a challenge it is to eat a healthy breakfast in New Orleans. I was so pleased to find this small gem of a restaurant in the open air French Market, thanks to Yelp. I enjoyed the veggie omelet 'cooked in extra virgin olive oil' says the proud waitress (owner?). The crab cake was mouth watering too. High quality food, good prices, quick and friendly service.

    (5)

  • Lindsey S.

    Such nice people, delicious food, and a wonderful break from the UNhealthy deliciousness we had been previously enjoying!! I love New Orleans and a well-cooked meal (the two go hand-in-hand, obviously), and this place is so great. The owners are really great people who care a lot about each and every customer, making you feel right at home (and I'm shy, and don't always enjoy "chatting" with waiters, etc, but these guys were so great. I really felt like I was a member of the family!). Anyway, my husband and I both highly recommend it.

    (5)

  • Peretz D.

    My family and I enjoyed eating here. I particularly remember the good coffee and the cleanliness of the place.

    (4)

  • Connie M.

    I have been eating Ms. Doucette's food for a long time starting with festivals and the crawfish pies. When my friend from Ohio comes down she HAS to have the crab cake delight. The people who work there are nice and as authentic as New Orleans gets and especially Ms. Doucette who has humored us on a non busy day looking at all our grandchildrens photos and hearing our family stories. BUT the real attraction is the excellent and healthy food that is fresh and made from scratch daily! The best crab cakes I have ever eaten anywhere!

    (5)

  • Meredith D.

    Friendly service. Excellent Food (even had vegan options clearly labeled). Good prices. Filling and healthy. If they had more vegan options I'd have been there several more times before I left.

    (5)

  • Erfan M.

    A good alternative if you need a break from all the fried food. The black bean burger was homemade and delicious.

    (5)

  • Sunny L.

    On the 2nd day of our visit to NOLA, me and hubby went to the French Market. We stopped by this family run cafe and got hooked by those amazing food pics. Since gumbo is a must try tradition in NOLA,i ordered Okra Gumbo immediately. First gumbo and also the BEST gumbo ever!!! It is so flavorful and they mix different veggie, shrimp, sausage together. Yummy!! The only thing is if this dish is a bit less salty, that would be perfect!! I am going to go back and try some of their other food during rest of my trip here.

    (4)

  • Steph S.

    This place was wonderful! Food and service were both perfect! The man at the front was so friendly and helpful! He started us off with orange slices which were nice and yummy :) We both ordered the crab cake and poached egg english muffin. WOW! These crab cakes were the best I've ever had, and they were healthy! A must try place in the french quarter!

    (5)

  • Terence L.

    First time here.. Owner is friendly and the crab cakes is a must try! Sauce for the crab cakes are simply meant for it..

    (5)

  • Joleen Q.

    This was hands-down the best food that I had in New Orleans. I was so sad that I discovered this place on the my last full day here. There are so many choices in this farmers market but I was drawn to this place because of the high Yelp reviews. I was thankful for the pictures on the menu and I ended up ordering a Crabcake Benedict. It was delicious and fresh and even included a salad with a tasty dressing. It was a tad expensive and I probably weighted about 15 minutes but it was definitely worth it!

    (5)

  • Dustin S.

    Loved this place on my trip to New Orleans this week. I went twice in 3 days! If you are looking for a healthy delicious meal see Marilyn at Meals from the heart in NOLA!!

    (5)

  • Mel T.

    The crab cakes here ($7 each) are SO good. Whenever I go out and order a crab cake, I'm used to it being those frozen, Costco-like ones that have way too much salt and breadcrumbs. That is the complete opposite at Meals from the Heart Cafe. With every bite, you get jumbo lumps of the freshly-made crustacean. It's located in the French Market so it's a little easy to miss if you're just strolling through. Keep an eye out because you won't want to miss this!

    (5)

  • Mario C.

    Had a meal here that was Outstanding! The Crab PoBoy was Excellent and tasted perfect. The Vegan Smoothie was delicious and a great energy boost. Great spot and must eat if you like good healthy food.

    (5)

  • Clara L.

    Had the crab cake po boy and it was nothing short of amazing. The crab cake all but melts in your mouth and the house made remoulade sauce is a great accompaniment as well. The staff are friendly and attentive and it definitely says something about the place if a small cafe like this has it's fair share of regulars coming back for more. Definitely a go-to in NOLA, and more so if you're in the FQ!

    (4)

  • Sunshine G.

    Amazing service from hearty folks. Their healthy food is so satisfying within the French Quarter. The omelettes are so tasty! Best one I've had :)

    (5)

  • Alyssa H.

    Positives- Friendly people, vegan friendly, and you get free oranges! Negatives- pretty much the rest. Paid 11 dollars for a salad that just fit on a paper plate... Definitely overpriced and not worth it!

    (3)

  • Joana O.

    I enjoyed my food so much! Literally the best crab cake po boy I've ever had! It has so much flavor and the remoulade sauce they make, is to die for! I would go back to New Orleans just to have this meal again!

    (5)

  • Ryan O.

    DO NOT OVERLOOK THIS PLACE! Looks like a small stall in the French Market, but probably the best meal we had while visiting NOLA! Had the crab cake po'boy and tilapia tacos and both were FABULOUS and worth the wait! Highly recommend!!! The staff is amazing as well!

    (5)

  • Greg P.

    Our family has to eat Gluten-free, and finding a GF breakfast near the French Quarter that is not just eggs and ham was a challenge. When one searches "gluten free", many restaurants come up. But when I called to confirm, they often have no GF menu, limited GF-only options (like pancakes, meats, breads) and some had limited GF knowledge. Short answer...GF breakfasts are not easy in the Big Easy. Call the restaurant to be sure. Happily, Meals from the Heart Cafe was THE GF breakfast spot in New Orleans during our 4 days. They not only have a GF Menu, but they also have amazing GF-only items. Their Gluten-free pancakes were 5-star as were the Turkey Sausages and Portabella Mushrooms w/ rice. Our friend from NOLA who joined us gave the Gumbo 4-stars. The cafe has a counter in a stall at the French Market with plenty of seating nearby. Service was GF knowledgeable, attentive and the food came out of the kitchen quickly. Hopefully in time, more places will offer dedicated GF options, but until that happens, save time and just go to Meals from the Heart Cafe.

    (5)

  • Misty P.

    I highly recommend eating here! The food was fresh and delicious, and unquestionably gluten free! The owner was very knowledgable of the gluten free requirements. He was friendly and explained that the establishment started out as a heart healthy option, but found an easy adaptation to gluten free for many of their items after their first year. The food is delicious and oh so fresh! We really enjoyed the crab cake tacos and tilapia tacos. My husband ordered gumbo, too, but after only one of the crab cake tacos, I was satisfied. My daughter loves the gf brownie. Best news yet? They will ship the crab cakes and gumbo to YOU! AND THEY HAVE A GF KING CAKE! I didn't think I'd ever taste one again.

    (5)

  • Parker J.

    Hands down the best vegetarian / vegan lunch spot in the French Quarter. Fruit salad is way fresh and delicious. Good way to kick your hangover!

    (5)

  • Sarah M.

    Not only was this my first meal ever in NOLA but it was my birthday! Needless to say, I didn't have to tell them that to make it feel like they made my meal from their heart. Located in the French market area is this light of healthy and flavorful food with its roots still grounded in tradish NOLA cuisine. Before knowingly going strong at things like beignets by the dozens, I wanted to eat something fresh and nutritious and this is where I'll come to do it again. Sit at the counter and don't be intimidated you're facing the waiter. You'll be treated kindly and waited on promptly, but not overbearingly. The area is loud enough to where you can still have a conversation with someone next to you and not feel like you're sharing it with the whole counter. Everything is made to order so sit back and relax and LOVE that your meal is being made freshly. It won't take that long - maybe 10 minutes. In that time, drink some coffee and eat the complimentary clementine given to you. I had the roasted vegetable egg-white omelet with roasted potatoes. Every. single. bite. was. perfect. A 5 star meal is when you can scrape your plate clean. Mmm hmm. The omelet was fluffy, the vegetables were cooked perfectly and the avocado which topped was oh-so-fresh! The potatoes were seared and perfectly crunchy. Coffee was refillable and delightful and I was even granted the wish of a to-go cup when I left. Happy Birthday to me!

    (5)

  • Celia C.

    Great healthy meal that is hard to find in NOLA. Friendly staff and awesome healty vegan smoothies, fresh squeezed juice, with gluten free entrees. Blue crab cake and microgreens salad was amazing. Vidalia onion salad dreasing was very good. I will return on my next visit to NOLA

    (4)

  • Esther B.

    Great vegan shake! Refreshing and good for you and so thick you need a spoon. Hard to find a seat in the market, but if you just get the vegan shake you can take a nice stroll.

    (5)

  • Tricia D.

    We had the gluten free Passion Crab Cakes and remoulade. By far the best we've ever had! The Green tea with honey was a bit too sweet but the service was super friendly.

    (4)

  • Sreelekha H.

    The okra gumbo and the crab cake were really good. The combination juice with ginger was really good too. The food took really long - we felt this was a common problem in most NOLA restaurants.

    (3)

  • Kayu T.

    Tried the Crab Passion. The photo hanging was on a normal sized plate and when I got mine in a 'to-go' box, it looked waaaaay smaller (a ton less salad than expected). The crab cake itself was very tasty and loaded with crab and not fillers. The sauce it came with was stellar too. The wait was long, but the staff are very nice and even offers fresh oranges while you wait. Overall- the food is great but not good for the value. My bill was $12+ and it looked like an appetizer for a child. Next time, I would skip the "passion" and just get 2 crab cakes on the side.

    (3)

  • Ritika K.

    This place is inside the French market. There is no doubt that the food is fresh and very healthy. However, it was not tasty. I had the famous crab cake po boy and did not like it at all. There was around a 15 minute wait for the food. I went with 8 friends and most of them did not enjoy what they had ordered. The potatoes that came as a side were undercooked. I would have given it 1 star but I am giving it 3 stars only because they use fresh ingredients.

    (3)

  • Monica H.

    We ate here after a culinary tour, so I was hungry after all the talk about the good food in NOLA. Basically this is a lunch counter style restaurant that prides itself on healthy eating in the French Market. My experience was as follows: - Excellent food. I had the crab cake po-boy. The crab was fresh and some of the best crab I've had. The bread was on a whole wheat bun which I loved - Great service. The staff was extremely friendly and went out of their way to make sure the customer's needs are taken care of - Small portions. While I understand and appreciate the concept of healthy eating, I think the portion sizes are quite small for the price that you pay - Long wait. Since the food is made fresh, it does take a while to get served. - Pricey. It's located in the French Market, so I'm sure that is why the prices were higher than expected. FYI - The food and drinks are served on plates plates and in paper cups Because the food and service were great, I will eat here again when visiting New Orleans.

    (4)

  • Daniel M.

    I ordered the pAncakes today, from last time I ordered them they have gone down in size, also no nut topping or powder sugar. Please go back to the other way. Thanks

    (3)

  • Elizabeth K.

    If you are gluten intolerant, have celiac or are vegan this is the place to go! I had the pancakes, and my husband had gumbo - both absolutely delicious and gluten free! Additionally, the menu is designed to be heart healthy as well. In addition to several gluten-free entrees, they had a number of gluten free dessert options. If you're like me, you know that's one of the hardest thing to find at a restaurant - at least in Louisiana. The only bad thing was that we went on a busy Saturday, and the wait time was pretty long. It's located in the historic French Market, which should have been a warning sign for wait times. We had to wait more than 20 minutes for our food, but believe me it was worth the wait! Definitely go, but I'd suggest going on a calmer day.

    (4)

  • Joshua W.

    One word....DELICIOUS!! I had the crab cake po'boy and it was incredible! Great location and the service was fantastic! My friend and I were able to get seats at the counter and the wait was minimal. She's vegan, so we came here based on previous reviews. I cannot recommend Meals From The Heart enough...fantastic!

    (5)

  • Calisse L.

    Came here for lunch. Want to make sure I eat clean while in NOLA. Had crab cakes with side salad & poached egg and wheat English Muffin. Very good & clean. Can't wait to come back in the morning for breakfast. Roland was very hospitable.

    (4)

  • Megan L.

    So good! They take care of dietary needs and are so considerate. The gf pancakes are very good and its so hard to find a gluten free crab cake anywhere but these with the sauces were delicious.

    (5)

  • Anh T.

    Wow! The yelp reviews here don't lie. The crab cake is amazing - it feels like a crab was emptied out crammed into a circular shape and seared. The cake was mostly crab and flavored extremely well. Though it is only 3.5 oz, I thoroughly enjoyed every bite. This place is not enough to make me full, however it was a snack worth eating.

    (5)

  • K V.

    As generally gluten free eaters, my husband and I always try to support gfree restaurants. This is especially true when pancakes are offered! Plus, with all the heavy food in New Orleans, Meals From the Heart Cafe sounded like a nice, lite treat. We had the gluten free blueberry pancakes and WOW! They were the best gluten free pancakes I've ever had. They were actually better than most pancakes, gluten free or otherwise. Cooked perfectly, fluffy, and with big, fresh blueberries. Plus, the real maple syrup added the perfect touch. Wish I could have taken some home. Also had the poached egg and crab cake passion sandwich. Again, delicious. Good portion too! Even the side salad was delicious with fresh, tasty vegetables. Location was also great. It's in the French Market with plenty of seating around. Although the pictures make it look like there are only a few seats at the bar, there are actually tables all over. Definitely worth the trip!

    (5)

  • Steve I.

    Wonderful staff who go out of their way to ensure your satisfaction! I have been here a few times and am always impressed with the staff and their hospitality. The menu has gluten-free items as well as vegetarian and vegan options. I really like their tilapia tacos, their gluten free blueberry pancakes, turkey-apple sausages, and their gumbo! There is a reason why this cafe is one of the highest rated places in the city :)

    (4)

  • Cindy M.

    Excellent spot in the farmers market. The gluten free pancakes were amazing, a must try!! I love trying new breakfast spots when I travel and this was a home run!!

    (5)

  • Kevin S.

    Best gluten free pancakes I've ever eaten. And at 1 pm to boot! Great people, fast service, and reasonable prices. Loved it. And I will be back.

    (5)

  • Nina R.

    I still feel like I'm in heaven from the dreamiest breakfast ever. My husband and I each had a veggie omelet, and we split a blueberry pancake and a dreamy crab cake. I am ***salivating*** thinking about that crab cake. Everything we had was fantastic. The people that work there are so warm and friendly. I want to stay in NOLA longer just so I can have more breakfasts here! Plus, it's such a unique experience sitting at the counter in the French Market watching everyone set up for the busy day ahead.

    (5)

  • Tanya L.

    I am a fan of this place. Especially since it is very healthy and Gluten-Free. Don't expect it to be a big place. It is located at the market and there is approximately 8 chairs. We were pretty lucky that we did not have to wait. We immediately sat down and were greeted. To hold off our hunger they gave us two cuties oranges. Which helped out a lot since we were so hungry. Everything is freshly made. I ordered the Open-face vegetable two-egg omelet which is gluten free and I added cheddar cheese. It also came with avocados, spinach, tomatoes, green onions, and mushrooms. I tried the fresh Squeezed Carrot juice and it was AMAZING! What I loved most was chatting with the owner she was so nice and welcoming. Very informative about the food on the menu and bring gluten-free. I also tried a little bit of the crab cake and it was delicious!

    (4)

  • Jeremy S.

    Delicious and healthy food in a town that is known for unhealthy options. Employees and the chef are warm and hospitable. This place is worth a trip to the French Market,

    (5)

  • Cove S.

    The 4.5 star average for this establishment was well reflected in the delicious food and friendly service I received on my visit. I came for breakfast with my partner on a warm June morning. We ordered the crab cake and poached egg along with the fruit bowl. Both were fantastic. The crab cake was moist inside and perfectly crisped outside. The sauces accompanying the meal were equally yummy. The fruit bowl had nice variety. Would definitely eat here again.

    (5)

  • Shannon F.

    Was excited to try a healthy breakfast alternative to Cafe du Monde. The ladies who work there are friendly, but expect a longer wait for orders that are vegan or gluten-free because they clean the grill between orders. We had the crab cake and poached egg and gluten-free blueberry pancakes with turkey bacon. The pancakes were good, the crab cakes was just ok. The turkey bacon was like hard rubber. And whatever you do, stay away from the coffee. Not altogether horrible, but I'd probably choose another spot if I was going to eat in the French Market again.

    (3)

  • Ari J.

    Fresh and tasty... Also, overpriced. It was nice to have a refreshing break from the deep fried poboys for a meal.. Had a beet and avocado salad topped with a single petite crab cake for $21.00! This place is a kiosk at a flea market, so while the salad was fresh, and the silver dollar of a crab cake "passion cake it's called and trademarked TM" was good.... The price was extravagant. And a poor value. The claim is that it is the best crab cake in New Orleans... If so, this is a call out to any Chesapeake Crabcake Monger! Other diners raved about the gluten free pan cakes @$14...

    (3)

  • Lieu T.

    Make this a must eat place on your list because the food is phenomenal. Got the crab cake and poached egg breakfast option and wished I hadn't waited until the last day to discover this place. The meals are made fresh to order. The crab cakes were the real deal. You can taste all that beautiful crab meat. It comes with an amazing roumalade sauce and a salad with Vidalia dressing that was sweet and oh so good. I would run, not walk, to eat here. What a gem of a place and the owners are delightful!

    (5)

  • Laura W.

    From the customer service to their dedication to great healthy food it's a gem hidden inside the French Market.

    (5)

  • David L.

    The crab cake premium, gumbo, and vegan smoothie were excellent!! Very nice people and great food. Plus, the French Market is a cool place to explore!

    (5)

  • Rachel H.

    Yes, I came because of the reviews. And it was so worth it! Roland and his nephew James are charismatic and informative. And The Crab Cake Passion was delicious, healthy and filling. Such a fantastic alternative to the heavy, overindulgent meals that are found throughout the city. I will definitely be back.

    (5)

  • Sarah C.

    If you have food allergies like I do finding a crab cake poor boy that's made healthy is like winning the lotto. I'm from the west coast where we have an abundance of seafood. So I take my crab seriously. This hands down was the very best crab cake I've ever had in my life. Gluten free dairy free soy free which was moist, flavourful, and literally 95% freshly caught blue crab. The home made roumalade (forgive the spelling) was finger licking quality. I grew into adult allergies and this beat any crab cake I've ever had even before the gluten sensitivity. Even the unsweetened green iced tea was amazing. Not bitter and no need to sweeten. My husband had the chicken poor boy and sweetened iced tea with honey. He gave his meal an 8/10 my food I gave a 10/10. If I was struck by lightning and died right there I'd have died a blissful woman. The only reason that i gave it a 4 is that I would have loved to see the sandwich on gluten free bun instead of bread. Though even as I write this the crunch of toast was great against the moist cake. Do yourself a favour and eat there. It takes 15-20 minutes for your order to be up as they make it to order which is well worth it.

    (4)

  • Vickie S.

    This little stand was hopping. We got a seat at the counter, but the tables on the other side of the avenue walk of the French Market are available, too. The food was well-prepared and was a good hit of color and vitamins in a sugary, oily world. Not that the sugar and oil taste bad, of course. The english muffin and my veggie omelette were great, and my dad devoured his blueberry pancakes. The fruit on top was even perfectly fresh. I agree it isn't the cheapest place, but I also didn't balk at the price for the offerings or how much food you're served. The people-watching is superb while sitting, and the coffee is darn hot. When I asked for hot sauce, I was presented with three options (Crystal, Tabasco, and Sriracha). Overall, watching the place work and interacting with the man behind the counter made it clear their standout is their people.

    (4)

  • Ceciley P.

    We found this place via Yelp. It's in the French Market and the ambience isn't anything special, in fact, we actually considered going somewhere else when we initially walked up, but I'm so glad we didn't. After a lot of heavy & unhealthy foods, my body was craving something healthy. This was the perfect place. Everything is extremely fresh and healthy. The best part- you don't have to sacrifice taste. Everything is delicious! Beyond the food, the customer service was fabulous. The gentleman who served us (I wish I would have gotten his name) was a retired police officer. He was very kind and very intelligent. We really enjoyed visiting with him. We would love to hear him speak if he ever makes it out to San Diego!

    (5)

  • Brad C.

    Supper sweet family run operation. We stay just a block away whenever we visit New Orleans and pay them a visit at least once during our visit. Great healthy options for breakfast/brunch/lunch (not easy to come by in these parts). Show them some love.

    (4)

  • Jordana G.

    Best crab cake I ever ate. Wait staff was knowledgeable and charming. Very fun to eat at the counter and people watch. I strongly recommend.

    (5)

  • Ben P.

    This is, hands down, the best crab cake on planet earth. Once you eat one, it will become your standard of perfection by which you will judge all other crab cakes for the rest of your life. Period.

    (5)

  • Shardule S.

    I am a vegan / vegetarian and this place is incredible! Had the pancakes and the black bean burger. The gentleman serving let us know that the meals would be fresh and take a while to come because of that. However, I just browsed the neighboring hot sauce store for 15 minutes and voila, the meals were ready. My omnivore friends enjoyed their turkey bacon and other edible fare. The service is great, food is delicious, and price not all that bad. A definite hit for a casual breakfast / brunch.

    (5)

  • Kendra J.

    Great vegan food and friendly staff. The vegan pancakes are very good light and fluffy. I will be back again.

    (5)

  • Samara R.

    This was our first breakfast stop on our trip to NOLA, and we arrived just before 9am opening. I didn't know it would be an outside place (in the open market) and the metal grates were still down. I worried that we had picked wrong because it didn't look like much and I wasn't excited to eat outside. A few minutes later a man came out and started setting up with stools for the counter, placemats, signs, etc. finally, around 9:15 we were seated. Things went uphill from there. Ordered the vegan blueberry pancakes (perhaps my husband's favorite dish of the trip) and oatmeal. They brought out free clementines and our drinks. There was a little heater above us, which helped on a brisk morning. The counter quickly filled up with both regulars and visitors. The food came out and it was delicious. The owner then came out to socialize with us and the other customers, which was nice. I left full, happy, and glad we gave this place a chance. Hope others enjoy, especially since they have so many vegan options.

    (4)

  • Van N.

    Having the cravings for some good vegetarian food, yelp led me to this magical place.. Seriously, from the amazing service to their food, LIFE CHANGING! The service was amazing just constantly checking and making sure everything was good. Made me feel like I was at my grandparent's. As you decide on your meal, they give you free clementines in the process. Now if that doesn't already tell you how this place is then stop reading...........................................­...........JUST JOKING! Stay tuned! Food: Definitely took a little long, but with some patience and time planning on your day, you'll have the best quality yum yum in your tum tum. Food quality is great here! -Black bean soup w/ brown rice. - Omgosh, smelled so good and looked even better than the picture! The taste was just almost there..., but with the help of some hot sauce splashes it's quite delish. ( Oh, and rip the biscuits they put on the side into your soup or dip it! Really brings out the flavor! ) portion was definitely enough! - 8$ -Poached Crab Cake Passion.- really flavorful ! They offer their house made remoulade sauce to spread over the crab patty. All together just spread the sauce over the crab, top it off with the egg, more sauce spread, and then the bun..makes for a delish Crab sandwich heaven! This dish also came with a side salad and their house made salad dressing.. It's so good! - 12$ -Cheddar Grits. - definitely just good ole grits and cheddar cheese . Consistency was good and the portion was very nice as well. It came with a side of toast. 5$ -Coffee: I had 4-6 creamers and 1cup container and a half of sugar to get it perfect to my liking...I lo've sweets!- 3$. -Vegan Power Shake: DO IT! 16 oz of heaven! It's so good! Seriously, it was so yummy and thick It comes w/ a spoon. Simply amazing. Best shake I've ever had. Worth every penny. The best part of my morning! (my hubbub comes here literally 3x a week for the shakes!)- 7$ -Crab Po-Boy: I hadn't tried their crab po boy, but was definitely small when I looked over at my neighbors. They offered the same remoulade sauce spread as well for this entree. Looked about the same as the Crab Cake Passion entree just w/o the egg and a tad longer bread... 16$ is a tad pricey for how small it was, but crab season is crazy so I expected nothing less.. ~Altogether our bill was $32.33.. With a 10% off b/c as they got busy, our food were given to the wrong person. It's okay though!.. Service was super super friendly and very helpful! Worth paying for awesome quality food. Definitely will be back again! Yes, they accept credit cards. Parking: Parking is a pain in the morning since the French market only opens until 5M-F & 6Sat-Sun.. End up parking at the French market lot for 10$ Saturday morning, but you might get lucky and find parking on the side by the parking meters around late 3-4pm..(bring quarters!) I got to the cafe around 11am -12 ish... Only had 2 others eating their and 20 minutes later it was literally packed with people putting in their orders! No worries though, there are extra tables and chairs across from the counter. If you just wish to order something to go, you can place your order anytime before closing which is 5 on weekdays and 6 on weekends. Oh, and part of their counter is wheel chair accessible , so thoughtful! WEATHER .... okay....no brainer, but seriously though folks....Meals from the Heart is an outdoor cafe inside the French market which means.. Dress smart depending on the weather so that you'll be able to enjoy your meal & day..!

    (5)

  • Chloe M.

    Brought my vegan brother here b/c it's one of the few spots with options for him. Good food. Outdoor seating in the market....

    (4)

  • Nicole C.

    This place deserves 5 stars for many reasons. 1. It's difficult trying to find places that are accommodating to a person who is GF, Vegan, etc. and their entire menu is flexible and well labelled to ensure you're getting what you want. 2. I got the GF blueberry pancakes and they were great. Came with fresh fruit, nuts, and syrup. A perfect portion. All for $10. 3. The service was great, it's a small little stand with about 6 chairs at a little bar but the man working was on top of serving and making sure we were happy and helped. 4. Real ingredients. Fresh food. Tasty and leaving me wanting to try more on the menu. I definitely recommend.

    (5)

  • Todd T.

    Simple deli counter experience, and very good food. Crabcakes are the specialty. Vegetarian and vegan friendly and they don't serve any pork products. Very friendly service.

    (5)

  • Tomomi U.

    I have been eating fried food throughout my stay and wanted something on the healthier side. After reading the review and visiting French Market, I decided to give it a try. Two ladies served me and they were really nice. They remembered my name instantly and made me feel at home. About the food - You get orange while you wait for the food! I ordered lemonade and crab cake passion. Both were very good! I loved the sauce for the crab cake. I liked their food so much that I took fresh made carrot juice with ginger to go. I will definitely visit the location again when I am in town.

    (4)

  • Karen B.

    This is a good place to eat if you are looking for something a little more light and healthy in the area. We had the crab cake and tilapia tacos, both were yummy. There are also many gluten free options on the menu.

    (5)

  • Honey G.

    The crab cake passion is Divine & the remoulade is the perfect accompaniment. I've also had the Gumbo and it is amazing!

    (5)

  • K E.

    I randomly stumbled upon this place while strolling through the French Market on a Thursday morning right before the venue opened. My fiance and I had just landed in NOLA and were on the search for some vegan breakfast options when we saw the sign for Meals From The Heart Cafe, offering both vegan and gluten free options. All meals here are made from scratch and thus take 15-20 minutes to prepare, but it is well worth the wait. We both tried the vegan pancakes which came with vegan butter, walnuts, fresh fruit, and maple syrup. The meal was fabulous and the staff was incredibly welcoming!

    (5)

  • Jin N.

    Simple and beautiful. Both the taste and the service. Food are freshly prepared, with low sodium, sugar but still absolutely delicious. Crab cakes po-boy! Woooot! Service was excellente too!!! Those who gave up on cafe du monde because of the queue and went ahead, this should be the stop!

    (5)

  • Nikolai Y.

    Finally found healthy & tasty option in the Quarter. Best crab cakes I've had this side of Baltimore. Friendly & fast service. Make sure you get there early.

    (5)

  • Phuong T.

    I was a little skeptical at first but we decided to order the crab cakes anyway. It was excellent. The customer service from the lady was fantastic

    (5)

  • Christian S.

    Great service, amazing friendly staff and wonderful food. Best GF pancakes I have had so far! Grab a crab cake too!

    (5)

  • Donna D.

    What a little gem. We found this little place via and yelp and were tremendously surprised. The food and service was fantastic. Avarill who is front of house was so warm and accommodating. We had to try the famous crab cakes which were delicious. The cakes were light and highly tasty. I had the raw avocado and beet salad and it was so fresh tasting. My partner had the fish tacos and was impressed. I loved that there are gluten free options, all the produce is so fresh and the dressings are homemade without sugar. Highly recommend. We only wish we found this earlier.

    (5)

  • Yaz J.

    Visiting from NJ & we have diet restrictions. Everything was tasty, but healthy for you. Try the turkey apple sausage & crab po'boy! This place closes @ 5 PM, so get there early. Definitely try the vegan power drink - all good stuff, no junk! You don't have to be a little piggy while you are in NOLA. Eat healthy and have energy all day! FYI: walk up cafe inside the French Marketplace. Additional seating available. Vegetarian, vegan, gluten free, no pork, no junk

    (5)

  • Lindsay L.

    Tired of the heavy Southern food most places in NOLA offers? This place is great with healthy, gluten-free options located in the Frenchmen Street Corridor. I got the crab cake passion (crab cake on top of a bed of lettuce). They supplement it with a salad dressing and dipping sauce for the crab cake. I've gotta say it was one of the best crab cakes I've had. Cooked to perfect. Wanted to try the smoothies and pancakes too, but I was much too full! You can sit at the counter or take your food and find a table in the area.

    (4)

  • Martina-Realtor H.

    I would MOVE to NOLA just so I could eat here. Living in Houston I have access to a fair amount of healthy, vegan, vegetarian restaurants and NONE OF THEM CAN TOUCH THIS PLACE! ALL THEIR FOOD IS AMAZING! Everything I had Herr personally was AWESOME! And everything my friends had was RAVED ABOUT! NOLA is definitely known for their food but this place wins an award! Fresh, healthy food created with superb ingredients & an ingenious infusion of flavors & creativity. These people are truly culinary artists! Super friendly, warm and talented! My favorite restaurant in the entire country! This is one you MUST put on your to do list

    (5)

  • Lady G.

    Healthy food? Vegan pancakes? Smoothies? In NOLA? Yup. We'll be back for more of your great food.thanks.

    (5)

  • Mindy W.

    Counter seating in outdoor market, seating is limited but well worth it. People are SO friendly and food was delicious!

    (5)

  • Heather H.

    Great option in the French Market (note there are only maybe 6 stools at the counter and all other seating is in the general French Market table areas). Excellent gluten free crab cakes. Tasty black beans and rice. Wonderful staff and good French Quarter insights.

    (5)

  • Cindy T.

    My friends and I probably went to the French Market everyday that we were in NOLA, and on one of the days we were in a hurry to grab at early snack/dinner to-go. I yelped this place, and fellow yelpers gave it 5-stars, and a must-try for the crab cakes...so what do I do? I get the crab cake! I ended up with the poached egg w/ crab cake and english muffin to-go. Only thing I did right away was open up the box and set aside the english muffins, because I didn't want it to get soggy (anything soggy ruins the taste, of course) and good thing I did, because by the time we got back to our place, all the steam/heat made it less crunchy, but was edible. (Tip, eat it fresh while you can!) Probably one of the best crab cakes I've had. You can definitely taste the freshness of the crab in your mouth..and the poached egg was a delightful add on. I also grabbed a blue cheese salad at the stand next to it, (it wasn't enough to fill up a hungry girl), and complemented nicely together. Definitely give it a try while you can!

    (5)

  • Megan O.

    A genuine meal from a genuine staff. The crab cake po boy was delicious! Take advantage of the fresh squeezed juices too.

    (5)

  • Morgan B.

    Went here for lunch and got a mini-me black bean burger and the vegan power shake. It was definitely worth the fairly long wait. The food was made fresh and healthy, and I love the number of vegan and gluten-free options!

    (5)

  • Charles H.

    VIEUX CARRÉ HEALTHY: gluten free, vegan, no preservatives, & organic options; ALL NATURAL CRABCAKE, fruit, salad & housemade dressing, poached egg platter; KINDA PRICY & CASH ONLY but 10th meal fee card. Two years ago I went on a purification cleanse. It was VERY tough, but also the most singularly healthy and life style altering 21 days of my life. I particularly liked this program because it made sense (I'm a total INTP) and wasn't all crazy like a faddish diet. For 3 weeks I gave up foods that most cause adverse health effects: alcohol, caffeine, red meat, grains, dairy, sugar, and (hardest of all) preservatives. In short, you have to make everything from scratch, preferably using organic fruits, vegetables, chicken and fish. It's labor intensive. Hours are spent chopping, prepping and preparing soups, salsas, lentil chili (mmmmm), salad dressings, etc. But it changed my eating habits for good and I had the best bloodwork of my life. However, by Day 10 you just want to dine out and let someone else toil away in the kitchen. Alas, where to go? Especially in New Orleans. Meals from the Heart! Finally I've found a go-to healthy Quarter restaurant. Now I'm ready for my third cleanse: 2 January 2014... Uhhhhhh... well... sorta.... BUT I HAVEN'T BEEN BACK... The price point is pretty high as are most touristy places in the French Market. If I want a cheap nearby sandwich I head to "Mojo", or a cheap quality seafood lunch to "KPauls" for their brown bag.

    (3)

  • Kay A.

    I had the poached egg and crab cake with spinach salad. Delicious! Great option when looking for something more nutritious. Location allowed me to get this and take to table to join my friends who got food from other places.

    (5)

  • Oolong T.

    I highly recommend coming here in the French Market if you're craving a crabcake! Their Crabcake Passion hit the spot and I really liked their organic tea half n half! Friendly people and comforting ambience. I will come back here to eat other items on their menu when I'm back in the area.

    (5)

  • Diana B.

    Staff was amazing, very helpful. The GF crab cake and poached egg was AMAZING. Would highly recommend this place!

    (5)

  • Deji M.

    My trip to New Orleans was almost 3 months ago, but do you know what I keep saying about it? Alcohol alcohol something-something alcohol something get a passion crab salad from Meals from the Heart STAT alcohol alcohol nudity beignet. I still get warm and fuzzy remembering it: Valerie G and I, sleep-deprived and fresh out of an early cooking class, having just seen LOUIS ARMSTRONG'S FIRST CORNET (I can't even), wandering about the French Market looking for a snack and random keepsakes. V found her food calling at one place, and I ordered here, at Meals from the Heart. And guess what? I got a little tangerine to eat while I waited for my order. Can you see my smile from where you're sitting? "Here you go sweetheart," the gal said, and handed me a tangerine. That's step 1 for becoming a saint, I'm pretty sure. And then my salad came out with two dressings and the most superb, cleanly prepared, fresh crab cake I have ever witnessed. Little to zero oil, so magnificently flavorful, no hateful celery implanted within: this is probably the best crab I have ever had. I'm still getting over how blissful that experience was. What a welcome break from the litany of alcohol mistake alcohol oily food alcohol I better start praying now. If I ever go back this is the first food spot on my list and I'm going to hug these gals. Imma do it!

    (5)

  • Ryne B.

    This place started off well with good, polite service but ended poorly with a long wait and bland food. I ordered fish tacos: tilapia with avocado and mixed greens - curious combination I wasn't really expecting but ok. It was bland, really bland. Then I looked up at the sign which reads something like "we use no salt or pork products". So this one is my fault. I'm sure this place appeals to others who need or enjoy dietary restrictions. Based on the other reviews, my experience is an outlier. So give this place a chance if you need a break from the usual New Orleans fare. Enjoy -

    (3)

  • Karen S.

    Awesomely delicious crab cakes. The remoulade was tops. Best cakes I've ever eaten and I grew up along the Chesapeake Bay. (And James was great.)

    (5)

  • Stan D.

    It can be difficult for vegans and vegetarians to find variety to eat in New Orlean, but not with "Meals from the Heart" in the French Market. I was very pleased to find this option. My wife and I tried the Black Bean Burger, and found it to be very typical. It was slightly crisp on the outside, and almost "mashed potato" gooshy on the inside. I would have preferred better texture, but was, nonetheless, happy with this vegan option. And, if you want to, you can make it as decadent as you please by adding sauces, french fries, and cheese. Instead of fries, you can ask for vegetables, and you will get a nice variety of good, healthy treats. Even for the non-vegans and non-vegetarians, everything made at this place is made with health in mind, or at least as much health as you can get while still eating meat and fried treats. They don't use saturated fats, and menu items like the Black Bean Burger are made on-site. If it seems a bit busy, or there is no room at the counter to sit, don't worry. This is not a problem. The person behind the counter will take your order for you, clean off a table for you in the common area right behind the stand, and even bring your food over when it is ready. And, while you are waiting, you can walk across the street to bring back a $2.00 beer from Magnolias. This cafe stand in the French Market is a great option for anyone wanting to eat more healthy foods, but it is especially a Godsend for those choosing the vegan/vegetarian lifestyle who still like to party in New Orleans.

    (5)

  • Eli F.

    Best vegan pancakes and sausage (apple patties) I've ever had in my 8 years as a vegan.

    (5)

  • Wina G.

    Crab cake passion! Best crab cake I ever had- big chunks of crab meat. Served on a bed of mixed greens with homemade dressing. The sweet woman gave Satsuma tangerines while we waited for our food and it was sweet as well. Waited a bit for the food to come out - not for those in a hurry- but it was fresh and tasty. You had to maneuver the bar stools a bit as part of the ground was on a grate. Tip: put one set of legs on the edge of the grate and the other pair up on the cement. Treated like family- best food in the French Market.

    (5)

  • Melissa M.

    As the sign reads, "A healthier take out food option"! Just into the French Market, Meals From the Heart can be found with comfortable counter top seating as well as open air seating nearby. The menu is plentiful with selections that will suffice any time of day. I had the avocado and beet salad which was fresh, tasty and filling. My husband had the crab cake poboy. He's had his share of crab cakes and found this was the right portion. Served with two cakes inside French bread, he preferred to take it apart, but ate all the bread! Mission fulfilled.

    (5)

  • Cydney B.

    Huz (not gluten free) and I (gluten free) agreed that the crab cakes at this little counter in the French Market were the best we ever had. We tried it on salad, on po' boy and on breakfast sandwich with poached egg. The best crab cake ever. Green iced tea and magnificent and enormous fruit salad come with our highest recommendations too. Warning though ... Although the cafe delivers to the nearby hotels, the delivery charge is very high so better to pick up food yourself.

    (5)

  • Seems L.

    What made this place great were the two gracious women behind the counter and their attentiveness to make sure every customer was taken care of! It also helps that this place is great respite from all the fried food! The crab cakes were fresh and tasty as was the healthy beet and avocado salad. But what sticks out the most is one of the lovely ladies -Geraldine and our great conversation of books and her history in the civil rights movement. I hope she comes to visit us in BK!

    (4)

  • Bess F.

    I can't tell you how much I enjoyed The Heart Cafe while vacationing in New Orleans. The menu is unusual for NOLA standards offering a very healthy and delicious menu. And to top it off, the people who work there can't be any nicer. Also, really appreciated the clementines I was given, while waiting for my order.

    (5)

  • Andrew H.

    First off, the owners seem pretty friendly to return customers with frequent rewards cards, and also recommend patrons to give them high reviews on Yelp, which explains the high number of reviews here. They also advertise themselves as a healthy food joint but I honestly doubt they are much healthier than the average New Orleans joint. Unfortunately, I should only report my personal experiences. $17 for a crab cake po'boy? It must taste way more amazing than a generic $9 po'boy, right!? Nope. It must be huge with lots of crab meat! Nope. Lots of sides? Just tiny clementines. Well, the environment must be great! Nope, this is an outside little stand. You are under a tent but it's still painfully hot in the summer. I'm still wondering if I'm missing something but I feel this is only an average NOLA outdoor stand.

    (2)

  • Meg D.

    I tried their crab cake "passion" salad, which was excellent. But I really fell in love with the petite crawfish pies. The portion was just right for me....a filling snack, but not at all heavy. And I LOVED the flavors. They had a depth of flavor without being too rich. I rarely eat pie crust, but I gobbled every last bit of this one. YUM!

    (4)

  • Ellen P.

    This place is amazing. So accommodating and friendly! Highly recommend. Great for people with allergies

    (5)

  • Nic N.

    I have to admit that I was skeptical about a sandwich shop that serves gluten free Poboys...but, FEAR NOT! Get the crab cake Poboy and you are in for a heathly treat.

    (5)

  • N N.

    This place is a welcome retreat from the high grease, overly rich food of the Quarter. Marilyn and staff are wonderful - friendly and quick. (By the way, Sara M., NO pork products served! Hangover confusion, perhaps?! ) The open faced veggie omelette is easily split between 2. They also have a frequent diner card - we took advantage of that. REALLY lovely karma - and good for you! Enjoy...

    (5)

  • Beena Y.

    First time leaving a review but this place deserved it! We had three meals here across two days, vegan shake rocks and the chicken poboy was delish. Much needed clean food break on our travels. Can't wait for the melbourne franchise to open!

    (5)

  • Inês L.

    JUST READ TRACY T'S REVIEW. Okay, just kidding, I'll write one too! A few months later... but still memorable! So we walked by this place because we didn't realize it was right there. It's located in a cute little market and was a beautiful day. We sat down at the same time as a big family, so that could account for how long some things took but, regardless, very attentive. Melvin is a pretty smooth cat. Seriously, he's very sexy! Haha. He was very kind and accommodating, really took very good care of us and still made us laugh and we had a nice breakfast. She had eggs, sausage, toast and I had oatmeal and fruit, we both had coffee. Everything was fresh and delicious. Only downside: not enough seating. There's a lot of seating in the area but if (you're like me) and need 3094890385 refills of water and can I have some more napkins and some more syrup and some of this and that, then it can be annoying, for sure. Not really there fault, just something to note. I'm sure their others foods are tasty too so it's a worthwhile walk down there and through the market and stop for some coffee and a sandwich, tell Melvin we said hi!!!!!!!!

    (4)

  • Marisa B.

    This place is adorable, in every way that I personally consider something adorable. It is located in the French Market. It is likely more for carry out orders, and is housed in a tiny space, with a few stools that face you right up to "Bay 13" in the market. And in our case, we were instantly greeted by owner, Averill Lazard on our first visit. She was beyond helpful and customer oriented. And after our initial good experience, we returned the next day. Of course, she remembered me, & the fact that I was long overdue for some gluten free AND dairy free pancakes (something that seems to be impossible to find at most restaurants - you can get gluten free OR dairy free - but never both). And for those of you who CAN eat without restrictions - there is breakfast, lunch, AND dinner. Everything from crab cakes, Po'Boys & Gumbo, to salads, pancakes, grits, and even a vegan shake option. Be aware that this is a very small business, and meals are cooked to order. There were definitely regulars who called ahead with their orders, & came to pick up as we were waiting for our breakfast. I am suspecting this is the best route for most. But if you HAVE the time, sit down at a stool, and take in the positive energy. Ms. Lazard brought us each a delicious orange to snack on while we waited, & kept us engaged with inspiring and entertaining conversation. I look forward to going back to New Orleans specifically to visit Meals From the Heart. I obviously am motivated by the food, which is not only good- but safe for me to eat. But we were so impressed by the good energy and dedication to the customer experience, that we would go back JUST to be in that environment again - even sans the food. Averill and her team at Meals From the Heart really do represent that very description. They really DO serve and create FROM their hearts. I am so glad that my Yelp search for gluten free led me to this now new favorite spot in New Orleans.

    (4)

  • John F.

    We visited New Orleans for our anniversary in April 2014. My wife has Celiac and I am always searching for gluten free options, and in New Orleans with all the great food I hated not being able to share the cuisine with her. Then I found Meals From the Heart on yelp. My wife put off going there till the last day because it was in the French Market and looked like any ol flea market (we live in Orlando and dingy flea markets are everywhere on the tourist side of town). Boy was that a mistake! If we had come here the first day of our trip we would have eaten here at least once everyday there after. They have a long list of GF menu items, and absolutely fantastic pancakes. Even if you don't require a GF meal their GF and non GF food was fantastic, fairly priced, and healthy. Its refreshing to see a restraunt that has a healthy mission and story. Its rare to see a restraunt willing stand up for their belief's and say they dont, and won't serve french fries or soda. We will definitely return on our next trip.

    (5)

  • Jennifer L.

    So, you are in New Orleans and after just two days you have realized that all food is fried or in a gravy and every place has virtually the same menu, until you stumble across this place in the market. Fresh food made to order and fantastic customer service.

    (5)

  • Amelia J.

    I loved everything about this place. The meal itself was delicious-- I got the crab cake (80% lump crab meat!) and poached egg on an english muffin. It came with homemade remoulade sauce for the egg and crab cake and a side of greens with a homemade lemony dressing. It was FANTASTIC. I'd eat here again in a heartbeat. Easily rivaled the meals I got at fancier, far more expensive New Orleans seafood restaurants. The staff, however, is what totally makes this place. Wonderful, kind people with big smiles. It's a little tricky to find-- it's really a booth inside the farmer's market (there is a bar with chairs and seating is availably nearby, don't worry). Just look for the sign.

    (5)

  • Ravi D.

    Excellent service first of all. Its kinda take away buy still the owner was really entertaining. The whole wheat pancakes were awesome. The crab cake poboy and chicken poboy were good too but could've been better. The black bean gumbo was awesome. Will definitely recommend this place.

    (5)

  • Anna P.

    I have celiac disease and i had heard from Yelpin' friends that this place had gluten free po'boys. I went here and got a gluten free crab cake po'boy and it knocked my socks off. I had secretly hoped for gf french bread, but the bread they had sufficed. It hit the spot!

    (4)

  • Lynda B.

    Wow, I was in New Orleans for the Jazz festival. I am a health food addict. The food in New Orleans is far from healthy, so I was never happier to come across this place. OMG, the food is utterly amazing. I am a native of California, so I'm pretty spoiled when it comes to organic/health food. I know my stuff in this arena. Meals from the Heart did not disappoint. Umm, my salad was amazing and the chicken I ordered for dinner was completely out of this world delicious. I wish LA had an organic restaurant that was this great! I sat at the counter and Marilyn one of the owners chatted it up with me. What a nice lady. I thoroughly enjoyed myself. I highly recommend this eatery while in the big easy. It's such a refreshing break from all the junk-food that is readily available.

    (5)

  • Ana V.

    Delicious food and very welcoming service. This little restaurant is a must see & eat in New Orleans!

    (5)

  • Natalya C.

    Pretty much the only healthy option you got at the French Market. Nothing fried. Fresh ingredients! I got a salad with a crab cake and i ate it in 2 seconds. Simply delicious! Next time i'm in NOLA i'm definitely coming back to the Heart Cafe!

    (4)

  • Andrew S.

    Amazing! The crab cake poboy was spot on and I love that they serve healthy sides instead of piling on fries.

    (5)

  • Sabrina M.

    Wow, I loved this place so much that I went there twice during my 4-day trip to NOLA. Appreciated the fact that the owners remembered me the second time I came...it was like Cheers! It was special to be treated so warmly. And everything I ate was delicious...the vegan smoothie, the veggie sausage patties, the blueberry pancakes. I will definitely return here the next time I'm in the Big Easy!

    (5)

  • kimnbob b.

    Everything we had was really nice. Got the roast beef with asiago on whole wheat, tuna on whole wheat with provolone, and hummus. Carried it back to our hotel to eat. It all transported very well. Wish I would have found this place earlier in our stay as I would have gone back. This place is located inside the French market.

    (5)

  • Brian L.

    Love the food! Great food and great environment. Perfect to take your loved one for a perfect meal.

    (5)

  • Marisela S.

    I came here since it was a gluten free menu, and it delivered no doubt. Nice scenerie, I got the crab cake with a poached egg and coffee. And the sauce was delish as well that came with the crab cake, great find

    (5)

  • Erlend B.

    I had the crab cake passion (yummy sauce) and the black bean soup + vegan power shake. All great tasting ie. they use good ingredients. Hard to find a great healthy place to eat in New Orleans...people working here are cool also!

    (5)

  • Julie G.

    I was in NOLA on a drunken rage vacation back in May. Typically I try to eat healthy vegan food because my body punishes me if I don't, so it was hard while in Nawlins to continue to eat this way, so I didn't. Because it's vacation. But I found this place through the magic of Yelp and I am so glad we did. The Po'Boy sandwich is actually unforgettable. I remember the noises I made in ecstasy every time I bit into it. And as I kept eating it I found myself sad that it was almost gone - kind of like when you're almost done reading a Harry Potter book. I also got the fish tacos and oh. My. God. Fish tacos just aren't the same now that I've eaten these fish tacos. Literally the best in my life - past and future. I already know. The food will always bring me back any time I am in Nawlins again. But what REALLY ensures I come back is the employees. They were so busy with annoying tourists who were weighing their options for way too long or trying to buy bottles of water without paying tax and if I was in their shoes I would be constantly screaming at people. But they didn't. They were incredibly nice, hospitable, and even told corny jokes. I didn't just like them, I wanted to invite them over for dinner (though I would be nervous my cooking would be gross compared to theirs). The second time we came back I told the guy how much we loved it so we walked all the way back for one more meal and he gave us a discount for coming back. I couldn't believe it! So anyway, make sure you give them a great tip because tourists are generally the worst and you don't want to be like that, and also and most importantly they deserve it. They are wonderful and the food is unforgettable. If I had more than $20 in my bank right now I would book a flight back to Nawlins just for their food. I'm not kidding (but I am kidding about my bank. I have at least $30 in there).

    (5)

  • Cece M.

    Not worth for the price. Even though it is a healthier choice, it is way too pricy for the things they serve. Crab cake passion, fruit salad, tilapia fish tacos and egg white omelet... They serve mediocre food. Nothing special. Not worth for trying. I'm sure you can find other healthy breakfast restaurant serve real good food.

    (2)

  • B B.

    Food is decent but the friendly staff is deceptive. Confirm your bill or you will be ripped off!

    (2)

  • Jessica S.

    Poached egg and crab cake passion. Just get it. I'm not even that big on crab cakes, but this was so delicious.

    (5)

  • John D.

    mediocre crab cake poboy!! ... disclaimer - I'm from Maryland and have been eating amazing crabs for decades so maybe I'm spoiled. I split this one and didn't even want to finish my half. the shrimp poboy at killer poboys that was in a whole different league, go there instead.

    (2)

  • Dean T.

    One of the best breakfast I've had, the crab cake and pouched egg was very good, this place will be a must on my next visit, would had love for it to be indoor

    (4)

  • Cynthia P.

    Excellent healthy food. Gluten free blueberry pancakes, vegan power shakes and crab cakes! Averil was so helpful, pleasant and interesting. We have lots of food allergies and they made it easy to order and eat! We liked it so much we had breakfast there three days in a row. Highly recommended

    (5)

  • Quynh N.

    Of all the little restaurants in The French Market, I have to say this restaurant is my favorite one. They serve good quality food and they're priced reasonably. It's a good place to grab a quick and healthy brunch. The Crab cake here is a must try. It is by far the best crab cake I have ever tasted. It's packed with a good amount of crabs that you can taste and smell with your eyes closed.

    (5)

  • Minh T.

    Went here based on yelp review. The crab cake is good but the bread is very greasy. On top of it, no food sanitation whatsoever when the same guy mops the floor and then cooks your food without washing his hands. Not worth coming back, same price as a sit in restaurant.

    (3)

  • Bob R.

    This the second time we have eaten here for lunch. The visits were almost exactly a year apart but our lunch this time matched our memories. I had the Fish Tacos made with grilled Tilapia and my wife had a Gluten Free option that I cannot remember but I do remember her being very happy. We also brought along another couple, one a vegan and the other a confirmed carnivore. They also had great things to say. Where can you go order food at basically a lunch counter, go find a table in the market, have them bring you the food and trust that you will come pay them when you are finished. If they opened up a sit down traditional place, I would give them 5 stars.

    (4)

  • Tina C.

    The service was great. The people who work there extremely nice and helpful. Food healthy and tasty. Nice break from the heavy rich foods that are so easy to find and ingest in this city!

    (4)

  • Craig W.

    Do not order online for delivery. I would have loved to eat food from Meals from the Heart while I was traveling in New Orleans for business. Two days in a row I placed orders online and never received the food. The first day, I waited for two hours and called to check the status. They were apparently still trying to fill the order. I had to cancel because I needed to leave for a meeting before they could deliver. Day 2 I placed another order online. After waiting for an hour and a half, I called to check the status. While they billed the credit card, they apparently never received the order. So two days in a row I tried but failed to order food from them. Both times they refunded the credit card (I believe, but it hasn't gone through yet) without giving me a hard time. But what I really wanted was to eat their food! Their disorganization is disheartening.

    (1)

  • Adam E.

    Meals from the Heart is a cute little spot in the French Market, with just a few stools at the counter. I was lucky enough to snag one of those stools around lunchtime and enjoyed a lovely, fresh lunch that energized me. The woman behind the counter (aka one of the owners) was super friendly and chatted with the folks beside us about the food. She's passionate about it, without being overwhelming. And I'm sure she would've chatted more with us if we weren't so busy stuffing our faces with that delicious food. It made me feel even better patronizing this restaurant, knowing that it's owned by someone so sincere and engaged on the front lines. I got the crab cake po boy and split it with my wife. We got half potatoes and half grilled veggies, because I get a little nervous about vegetables. Don't be like me, just get the veggies! They're nicely seasoned and you get a good variety of them. The potatoes were good too, but I think I actually liked the veggies better and that's saying something.The sandwich was filling without being heavy, and just superb. The remoulade that came with it was flavorful and just spicy enough to make the crabcake pop. Half a sandwich doesn't sound like enough food, but we were both happy with the portions and left full and satisfied.

    (5)

  • Nikki J.

    YES YES YES! True "NueArlands" experience. Mom-and-Pop owned counter, with great FRIENDLY service, and some of the healthiest most delicious foods I've had in NoLa. The crab cakes are probably the best I've ever had. The salad was fresh and Jambalaya was just the right amount of spicy. Great for lunch and on the go. Also, they have gluten free options which is rare in that area. I will be back!

    (5)

  • Arnez G.

    Excellent, freshly prepared from the heart! Highly recommend the Vegan Power Shake and the okra gumbo & brown rice!

    (5)

  • Jackie S.

    After spending half a day at the swamp tour, we had a late lunch at Meals from the Heart, which is located in the French Marketplace. They are known as "healthier take out food" since they use less oil, have no transfat, and don't use pork. We sat at the counter, but you could sit at the tables in the open dining area. I ordered the Maxi Black Bean Burger with veggies ($9). I loved the black bean burger! It looked like it was mixed with grains to hold up together. The bread was also soft. In addition, the veggies were so refreshing since our other dining experiences didn't have a lot of veggies. My hubby ordered the crab cake po boys with 1/2 potatoes and 1/2 veggies ($15). This was another winner! According to the waitress, the crab cakes are 90% crab cakes, so there wasn't a lot of breading. You could taste and see the chunks of crab. They were also a good size too! Even though we weren't in Boston, the crab cakes were awesome. The remoulade sauce had a good kick too it. Since we at the counter, we had great service from the workers. They were extremely friendly and had a calm ease to them. Cash only.

    (5)

  • cosette h.

    From the quality of food to quality of service this spot knocks it out of the park. With delicious options that are both healthy and hearty, Meals from the Heart sure has made an impression on me. Don't be intimidated or turned of by the sign boasting "healthy take out" and "no pork products," this stand is a place to frequent whenever never the French Market. Have the vegan smoothie and whole wheat panacakes. Everything is fresh and you feel great eating there and learning from the kindly staff.

    (5)

  • Joan F.

    We are traveling from California and finding it almost impossible to buy healthy food along the way. We stumbled onto Meals From The Heart in New Orleans in the French Quarter Market Place and ordered a green salad with fresh shredded beets, avocado slices, broccoli pieces and cauliflower pieces, pumpkin seeds and homemade balsamic dressing. I ate the entire salad making yum yum noises the entire time! I can honestly say I have never had a better healthy salad than this one! This restaurant seems to pride themselves in preparing and serving healthy food from a kitchen that is spotless. The owners theory is "if it looks clean then wash it again" a wonderful theory when you are serving food to the general public. I'm only sorry I won't be able to eat there again as we won't be in New Orleans long enough! However, if you are...don't miss this almost hidden gem! You won't be sorry!!

    (5)

  • Brennan M.

    Guys, it's a VEGAN place! In NOLA! Who ever heard of such a thing? Granted, they are famous for their crab-cakes which--unless I'm missing the concept--is not a vegan staple. But this is a great place to pack in the veggies before back-packing through the French Quarter.

    (4)

  • Elizabeth W.

    Excellent apple turkey sausage. Just the right amount of chunky apple. Hearty oatmeal was served with all the fixings. The carrot apple ginger juice had the richest color!

    (4)

  • Crystal P.

    This place represents New Orleans for their hospitality and good food. Found the place on yelp and I was excited to see that they had healthy options. It was Mardi Gras last night so my body need some freshness and their Vegetarian Protein Shake did just that! It is located in the heart of the French Market surrounded by all the freshest ingredients that everything they make is cooked to order. I enjoyed the hearty crab cakes filled with chunks of real crab meat and a perfectly poached egg! The side of turkey apple sausage made it all come together for a perfect breakfast after a long night of drinking! I was immediately recharged and ready for my day. This place also offers Vegan choices and Gluten free for those who request it! I would definitely recommend this spot and can't wait to come back!

    (5)

  • Casey B.

    Food was so good, we came back two more times before our trip was over. The vegan smoothie kept us fueled and cool, and the crab cake tacos couldn't be beat!!

    (5)

  • Robert A.

    Fresh food cooked perfectly and you feel great afterwards. The owner wasn't there, I think it was her brother that was running the joint and he was friendly. Gracious to share local information, and tell me more about the story behind the food. I'm glad the market has this gem.

    (5)

  • Ruth R.

    Amazing food for an amazing price for anyone looking for healthy cuisine with a Luisiana twist! My friend (who eats gluten-free) and I (vegetarian) stumbled upon this place in the French Market on our first day in NOLA. We were expecting to have trouble satisfying our hunger needs & dietary restrictions in the South, but, alas, healthy food does exist among deep fryers, alcohol, & copious amounts of meat! This place will be your jam. My friend ordered the crab cake (gf) and I got the black bean soup with rice and avocado (veg). Hands down some of the best food we enjoyed on our trip! Flavorful, fresh, and well-presented. The staff were very friendly. Shout out to the college guy who took our orders and served us orange slices while we waited. Talk about good customer service. (Hope you make it out to the Bay for grad school!) Now hurry up and open up a location in San Francisco! ;)

    (5)

  • Joe L.

    Meals From the Heart Cafe is an open air diner at the French Market. We sat at the counter and the staff was very attentive and the food was amazing! It has a very local "mom and pop shop feel". The food is served on paper plates w/ plastic silverware which didn't bother us especially since they have TONS of gluten free options! I had the poached-egg and crab cake passion. My wife had the egg-white open faced vegetable omelet. Both dishes were fantastic!

    (5)

  • Chris R.

    Shared the fish tacos and crab cake passion (crab cake salad). After eating in New Orleans for the past 4 day, this was the first healthy meal that didn't make me feel like dying. It was a truly refreshing meal with low oil, low sodium, and still full of flavor. And lastly, very friendly service :)

    (5)

  • Kim N.

    I absolutely LOVED the service here - really warm and friendly. But I came for this famous crab cake I read so much about here on Yelp. Now, I do understand - many people have never had a great crab cake. By comparison, the Crab Cake Passion served here is probably the best they have ever had. But I come from a land of amazing seafood and I have had truly stellar crab cakes in the past. So to be honest, the crab cake here was just okay. Not bad, but far from the best I have ever had. Serious props for the healthy food options. If that is of interest to you, be sure to give this place a try.

    (3)

  • Justine J.

    Amazingly friendly owner & staff... so great, helpful, kind, and obviously LOVE interacting with their customers. One of the only food stands in the French Market that had heat lamps... so nice on a chilly January morning! And the crab cakes... OH MAN. Go just for the crab cakes!!!

    (5)

  • Toni J.

    Never had a chance to try the food. We waited for a spot to sit at the counter and when we finally sat down, it took so long to get the counter lady to wait on us, we served ourselves our own water. It truly felt like we were invisible. I did enjoy listening to the ladies chat with each other. We finally did get our order taken, and waited for about 30 minutes. The counter person checked on our order, and said it would be up in 5 minutes. So we waited longer. Soon folks that order meals after we ordered ours were being called. After 50 minutes in total, sitting in the outdoor heat, I told her that we would have to leave. She stuck her head back in the kitchen and said it would be another 10 minutes. I understand that orders get mixed up, issues happen, but that was no offer of apology, and as a matter of fact she acted like it was our fault. This is a small stand and very unique. But it certainly was a poor experience.

    (2)

  • Rachel E.

    It's hard to find vegan food in this town, at least that was my experience BUT this place was fantastic! In the mix of the farmer's market, it's a fun experience and the food was amazing! Their vegan blueberry pancakes were delicious as well as their vegan shake! The staff were so friendly and sweet!!

    (5)

  • Jenna C.

    I wish it were a bit cheaper, but for the location and considering everything around it is not cheap, it makes sense. If you are like me and looking for anything healthy in this neighborhood you have found it here. You will not sacrifice taste and the flavors of New Orleans for health's sake. And with that being one of my personal life's missions, I was sold from bite one! First they give you a delicious tangerine while you wait for your order... sensible palate cleanser and so fragrant! The crabcakes are NOT to be missed!!! Served on a bed of delicious greens with housemade dressing and a tarter-like sauce. We also split a Vegan Pancake with maple syrup and fresh fruit! MMMMMMMM!!!!!! We will definitely be back.

    (5)

  • BethAnn H.

    Great GF crab cakes. No flour used in anything they make. Felt safe. I'll be back for their gf pancakes!!!

    (5)

  • Cece M.

    Yay for gluten free pancakes.

    (4)

  • Beverly A.

    Meals from the Heart has LOTS of healthier options compared most (if not all) places in NOLA. They have things like fruit bowls, salads (without the fried shrimp, crawfish, or whatever else..), Vegan shakes, etc. We got: - Crab cake with poached egg (crab cake passion is what they're known for so I def have to try it!): You get one crab cake that's you can tell is made fresh!.. on wheat muffins with one poached egg, and salad on the side. The portion was filling enough for me, but not too filling - just right. The crab cake was good, I'll have to try it in a sandwich or their other options if I ever return. - Whole wheat double stack pancakes: They came with strawberries, blueberries, and walnuts on top. You can tell they make it fresh, it's really good! They're located in the French Market, so seating is outdoor either at the bar or on patio tables, but don't worry both are covered for those hot/humid days! PS - they're CASH ONLY!

    (4)

  • Erin W.

    If you like fresh, healthy food, made with love, with a touch of N'awlins, especially gluten free options; do not think twice! Go here. They have the best gluten free pancakes besides the ones you have to make at home bc you have no other choice otherwise, and they are way better than that! It is located inside the french market, in the food/beverage service area. Smoothies are great too. Fruit bowl is well worth the money. My mother loved her crab cakes. I wish this place existed where I live bc I would go here many times a week! P.S. Your phone's GPS may lead you to the alley-way behind the place where the French Market Dumpsters exist. Don't fret cuz some nice gent taking out the trash there will see that you're not a local and guide you around to the more scenic front end of the joint!

    (5)

  • Tassia B.

    Just finished eating a crab cake po'boy that changed my life. Do not ask questions, just go there and ask for this: crab cake Passion po'boy with vegetables. Seriously... I think they put crack in the food. I am beyond stuffed and all I want to do is order more.

    (5)

  • Elena K.

    We sat down at the counter and were immediately welcomed with a huge smile and a few orange slices. Boom. Already made my day. We ordered the fruit salad (it comes with spring greens, it's not just fruit) and added feta, with a side of turkey bacon. Amazing. Perfect. Even my picky boyfriend loved it. This place is such a gem, and perfect for a refreshing meal or snack.

    (5)

  • Robert R.

    My girlfriend and I ate breakfast here during our recent trip to NO. The food was great but they were really busy so it took a great deal of time to get our food from the counter (about 45 minutes). We were in a bit of a hurry to get to a walking tour in the Treme so time was of the essence. The time we waited aside we both really loved what we ordered. The crab cakes are great and everything we ate tasted very fresh.

    (4)

  • Julianna S.

    Amazing Crab cakes, vegan pancakes, and a vegan milkshake - what more can I say? My hubs and I basically took a running/eating/drinking vacation in NOLA for our second anniversary. Everyday we ate a different amazing dining venue, except we went to Meals From the Heart Cafe twice, because 1. it's just that good, 2. it's fast and friendly, 3. it was well-suited for a delicious, but not heavy, post-run meal. It actually motivated me to get through our 7-miler, knowing vegan blueberry pancakes, with vegan butter, strawberries, maple syrup and nuts would be my great reward at the end. :D

    (5)

  • K M.

    Although this is a small fast food place, the wait can often be a while. The black bean burger and vegan smoothie are both excellent! A nice, healthy meal in a deep fried city.

    (5)

  • Andrea F.

    The pancakes with fruit were great, and the chopped nuts to put on top added great texture. The service was very friendly.

    (3)

  • Sandra L.

    The food here is excellent. This establishment serves food that's good for you. No msg, no fillers, nothing unhealthy. I saw a few people swinging by to order the vegan fruit smoothie. For me, I sat down and ordered the crab cake poached egg for brunch. We received complimentary Clementine tangerines as we waited. Crab cake passion and crab cake w/ poached egg is most popular and now I know why. Quick tip: for those who can't find this place, it's located inside the French Marketplace along the food areas.

    (5)

  • Paytrox G.

    Wonderfully healthy goodness with Cajun roots. Gluten aware, dairy aware. All good stuff.

    (5)

  • Missy Q.

    Echoing other reviews, this is an excellent option for vegetarians, vegans, GF folk, or people who just want a break from the typical NOLA food. My mom and I are both healthy eaters and have found it very difficult to eat in NOLA--not that the food is bad, it's just not what we're used to being from up north, plus my mom doesn't eat shellfish and neither of us eats red meat! We were very pleased to stumble upon Meals From The Heart Cafe after a few days of difficult meals that left both of us feeling like we were missing out. She was excited to order a salmon poboy (the first we've seen with salmon) because she wanted to try the classic sandwich with a healthy, protein rich fish, and I got the crab cake poboy. We both breathed a sigh of delight at the sight of the fresh vegetables our sandwiches came with! I am from Baltimore and I definitely know what a good crab cake tastes like, and I disagree with other reviewers who say it wasn't that great or was too small--this was a good, healthy, flavorful crab cake, trust me! And I loved the bread (compared to all the other bread I have had in NOLA so far, which has been strangely bland to someone used to whole grain options). I also ordered a vegan power shake which was absolutely delicious and I would definitely recommend to anyone needing a natural burst of energy. Though it was busy, the man who waited on us was extremely friendly, kind, and professional. You can see right into the kitchen and see that it's incredibly clean and well-managed despite the fact that it's in a flea market. The only thing that could be a downside was the price--well, it was pricey! But considering it was literally the only healthy meal we've had since being here, I think it was worth it.

    (5)

  • Lindsay L.

    This place is actually IN the French market- it's a small stand with a few booth chairs. Look for the sign with the heart on a fork. Took us forever to find this place, but it was worth it. Woman helping us was so nice and service was great. Healthy food in New Orleans like this is hard to find!

    (5)

  • Miguel H.

    The lady taking orders was very friendly and respectful. Ordered the crab poboy + water = $19.58. A bit pricey but I was hoping it was worth it. The poboy was okay. Veggies were good. I was expecting something much better for the price paid. If I return, I will try something less expensive...

    (3)

  • Amanda B.

    Had the crab cake passion. It was light and refreshing. Also had a fresh orange carrot ginger juice. Love finding some healthy southern food. Cute bar/walk up seating area. The ladies were extremely friendly too.

    (5)

  • Wendy G.

    As you could tell from the pictures, both the veggie salad and fruit salad plates were AMAZING, in the sense of presentation and heathiness. BUT taste wise? I'm not so sure. Plus wait is usually long, and service falls short. More sincerity and efficiency pleeeeease.

    (4)

  • Akshata R.

    We found this place thanks to rigorous research about veggie food in Nawlins'. This treasure is tucked away inside the historic French Market. Tummy, hot red lentils and rice with fresh orange juice was the perfect comfort food I needed before strapping up to explore the Quarter. This is a little stall, so you sit on limited chairs facing the counter .. and watch the fresh food come by slowly as you soak in the chatter that can only be New Orleans :)

    (4)

  • Austria G.

    Amazing...simply amazing. I have food allergoes and was amazed to find this little gem inside the French Market. I got the Gluten Free Crab Cake Po'boy, and my husband (who doesnt have any allergies) got the fish tacos. I was in heaven (and I'm from MD so my crab cake standards are very high)...and my husband raved about his food too. Thank you so much for this healthy, delicious meal!

    (5)

  • Ariana P.

    MFTHC is located in the middle of the french market. We sat at the counter-although there are tables available across the market walkway. Made our decision on breakfast with the help of two fabulous ladies who are the owners. We ordered Gluten free blueberry pancakes vegan apple sausage and a veggie omelet and each item was phenomenal. The customer service is top notch, the owners were a riot and kept us laughing until we departed. Many locals stopped by to pick up their 'usuals' while we sat, if I were a local I'd be here often as well. Will be a must for each visit to NOLA.

    (5)

  • Katie C.

    Healthy, yummy! Delicious homemade, healthy options. It's just a counter in the open air French market. Guys working there were great. Very hospitable and knowledgable about the local area. Salads. Sandwiches. Fish tacos. Smoothies and fresh squeezed juice. Will certainly return!

    (5)

  • chelsea j.

    I returned this trip again - and it was just as great as I remember. The owner is so nice, so friendly and always willing to chat about whatever you want - and to give you reccomendations and suggestions if you are looking for other places to go. Just keep in mind, Meals from the Heart is cash only! :)

    (5)

  • Itatsu S.

    Awesome! There's a reason why they have best crab cakes. When you can taste the crab and not even realize there is stuffing, that is a good sign in my eyes. The guys next to me kept raving about how tasty all the vegan food was.

    (5)

  • Steve L.

    We were in the mood for a lunch that would be lighter on the belly, easier on the arteries, unique, and set in an el fresco environment. It didn't take long to hone our sights on Meals From the Heart. It was just a short walk from the CBD; we were there in less than 15 minutes, even with the throngs of slow moving folks that clogged the sidewalks along the way. We bellied up to the bar where an extremely friendly and helpful woman took our orders - Black Bean Maxi Burger and Crab Cake Passion. We stepped next door to grab a Sangria and an Abita Purple Haze; it was A-OK by MFTHC for us to purchase a beverage from another vendor. Very cool. Received the signature clementine as an appetizer; our dishes arrived after a short wait. The crab cake was quite possibly the best crab cake I've ever tasted - much, much better than those from the Baltimore area (I know - gasp!). The crab wasn't overly fishy tasting; it was packed and seared better than any other. Scallion and seasonings were perfectly balanced. The remoulade was amazing, and featured just a slight kick at the end. The black bean burger was delicious, even if the avocado was quite sparse. The burger's texture reminded me of a falafel; it was definitely homemade and tasty, so it doesn't much matter what it reminded us of - just do yourself a favor and get one. As we enjoyed our meal, I couldn't help but remark on how awesome and friendly the service was. The two folks working the counter were extremely pleasant, engaging, and fun. I'd go back just to visit with them, even if the food wasn't as great as it is. MFTHC = WIN Food = 4 stars Value = 3.75 stars Service = 5 stars MISC = 4 stars

    (4)

  • Valerie P.

    I had all but given up on finding healthier food options during my vacation in New Orleans, but Meals from the Heart saved the day! Multiple days, actually, because I loved the food so much that I ate here on two separate occasions. Meal #1 was the fruit salad, and I was SO impressed with both the portion size and the presentation. That thing was a work of art, and it tasted even better than it looked! I did allow myself to splurge a little for Meal #2, and tried the much raved about Crab Cake Passion, which is essentially a crab cake with a poached egg, wheat English muffin, and salad. SO GOOD. The woman behind the counter told me that their crab cake has won multiple awards, and I believe it! My only complaints, and I hesitate to even label them as such because I loved everything else about this place, is that they are cash only and service (like so many places in the south) can be slow. But if you aren't in a hurry and looking for a meal that isn't going to utterly destroy your arteries, I would recommend giving this place a shot!

    (5)

  • Erin H.

    Crab Cake Slider was fantastic! Possibly the best I have ever had. Fresh orange slices provided for free to beat the heat. Highly recommend this place for a quick bite.

    (5)

  • Laine A.

    Friendly people and delicious food. Great for celiacs. The gf pancakes were yummy and the oj is fresh squeezed. Located in an open air market near the quarter. Highly recommended!

    (5)

  • Jilliam J.

    The breakfast (veggie omelette and turkey-apple sausage) was beyond yummy! What made the meal crazy good was the service and delightful conversation from the owner. If you ever find yourself in NOLA, make it your business to visit Meals from the Heart Cafe. Your soul and belly will be happy.

    (5)

  • Marcin K.

    The owner is a funny,very nice person and really tries to make sure you'll have a good experience. Crab cakes along with their own dip is amazing. Everything is organic and high quality.

    (5)

  • Miranda P.

    Cook with your heart, think with your head, please. Ordered the black bean soup which was supposed to be topped with fresh slices of avocado, according to both their menu and the picture prominently displayed on the bar table. So you can understand my disappointment when my dish arrived sans my favorite green fruit. When I spoke up, the server seemed a bit surprised and paused for an awkwardly long time before explaining that their avocados were not ripe and he didn't know that until the dish was done. So, instead of offering a few dollars off the bill or asking me if I wanted something else as I think a normal, coherent server would do, he said that the produce stand a few paces down sold fresh avocado. Really? His next idea was to tell me to come back and order something tomorrow and he would leave a note to add extra avocado to whatever I wanted. I don't know what planet that makes sense on, but its not this one. BOTTOM LINE: Good food sometimes served incomplete, and awkward service.

    (2)

  • Emily H.

    Best crab cake sandwich in New Orleans. I love that we were given a few oranges while we waited. It's pretty big so share if you're not super hungry.

    (5)

  • Nicole V.

    I am a pescaterian and my mother and I are both pretty much health freaks. I was craving a good healthy meal and boy did we find it! The salad was fresh and the dressing was homemade and interesting. I am used to black bean burgers at restaurants lacking flavor because they are usually pre-packaged and frozen. This black bean burger actually had flavor. It was the best one I have ever had...what a gem of a place!

    (5)

  • Mike D.

    Very fresh. Very unique food. Ultra taste and good for you too. Fresh juices. Real food. Their vegan power shake will clean you up after a tough night in the Big Easy.

    (5)

  • Sam B.

    My party has come to the conclusion that it was the best breakfast we have had...and we have eaten at some pretty great places. Whole wheat pancakes seemed to be crafted by Jesus himself. Everything was fresh and yummy! Would totally recommend if you want a healthy break from all the fried food in New Orleans.

    (5)

  • Ana E.

    What a wonderful little spot in the heart of the French market! On our 3rd day here in New Orleans our stomachs are crying out loud for some fresh and healthy food and here we are,one of the very few "healthy spots" in town. The place is the Home of Crab Cake passion" and Ohhhh it's delicious. Perfectly seasoned and fried,moist and full of flavor one of the best I've ever had. Gluten-Free Blueberry Pancakes topped with fresh fruits,walnuts and organic maple syrup!yummmm The owner Marilyn is a sweetheart and makes sure everything is good! We will definitely return while on vacation!

    (5)

  • Marie S.

    One of the few places in NOLA that I returned to more than once. I don't think this food jives well with many in the South. I overheard people muttering about it being a "healthy" food option and immediately assuming it must be flavorless. Come here when you need a break from the heavy Cajun/American food options of New Orleans. It's nice to have a meal with some fresh greens and not sauce/salt laden food. It's family owned, they work hard, they take pride in what is served and I loved it. Pancakes, berry shake, omelettes, and portabella sandwich were all excellent! Vegetarian and gluten free options available for meals and a menu which is simple and clean. Cash only. Loved them! PS This restaurant is actually in the French Market booth area. It's not really a sit down restaurant. You pull up a bar stool to the counter and you have your meal. It's casual dining and a nice low time commitment place to eat.

    (5)

  • Lori D.

    I walked 3 miles in the French quarter to find something I could eat. Being mostly vegetarian and not eating fried or seafood meant I was completely outnumbered in the French Quarter. Finding this little gem in the French Market made me very happy. The service was wonderful and friendly, the food was stellar! I had the vegan shake which completed my "I'm in heaven" feeling! Must eat here if you are in the area!

    (5)

  • Aisha C.

    Egg and crabcake sandwich was great - tasty and filling. A little pricy at $12, but they do give you a clementine while you wait :) Service was attentive and friendly.

    (4)

  • Angela P.

    In a town awash in heavy fried food this place is a healthy beacon. As many have said before the crab cake passion is heavenly, as were all the other things we tried. Who knew such a great place could exist as a walk-up in the French Market? As if great, healthy, affordable food wasnt enough the people here are the definition of Southern Hospitality. The guy working the counter and the woman working in back (the chef/owner?) were a joy to talk to. I highly recommend this spot!

    (5)

  • Tori R.

    Great atmosphere as soon as you walk through the door you are greeted and seated, the fish tacos are amazing it took a little long to get my food but was defiantly worth the wait. Some of the best food I have tasted in the area

    (4)

  • Tammy H.

    If you are looking for something light and healthy with a punch of flavor, this is the place to go! We were walking around the French Market shopping in this hot and humid weather. Decided to stop here for lunch. Everything is organic and they have Vegan and Glutton free options. My boyfriend ordered the Crab-cake passion po-boy, I ordered the Tilapia fish tacos. I live in San Diego, why I ordered a fish taco when the bar is already set high is beyond me, but I was pleasantly surprised. First off, there are two tacos and they are HUGE! They are the size of a regular tortilla, not the small corn ones I am use to. And they are packed full of delicious fresh fish, fresh greens and avocado. The fish has a great seasoning to it and not salty at all. The Po-boy came with steamed vegetables. The bite I had was really good, but I was so in love with my fish tacos that I didn't have another bite...not to mention, my boyfriend really wasn't sharing. We ate right at the walk up bar, service was quick, food was quick and delicious! I left happy and very full, but not like I ate 4 slices of pizza and bent over full...good stuff!

    (4)

  • Dean M.

    After having beignets and shopping we were looking for something light and healthy. A stop at Meals From the Heart Cafe is just what we needed. We shared a Crab-cake Passion Salad with 2 crab-cakes. The salad was cool and fresh. The lemon dressing was perfectly refreshing. The crab-cakes were the best we ever had! Thanks for a healthy NOLA experience!

    (5)

  • Rachel C.

    This place is a gem! Between the friendly and cute uncle and nephew who take your order and the delicious food itself, I only wish I found this spot earlier in the week. The vegan gf pancakes were super and I loved the crab cake sandwich I had the day before. They also went above and beyond today when I placed an order for pancakes and the cute nephew delivered the pancakes on foot to my hotel so I would not miss my flight! Thanks!

    (5)

  • Sarah B.

    Holy delicious Batman! This place was a bit hard to find as we didn't originally realize it was in the market. But once we found it I couldn't have been happier. Great vegan and vegetarian options and even my omnivore friends found some great options to try. I had the black bean soup which had fresh avocado in it and came with brown rice and a roll, as well as a side of the vegan apple patties/sausage things. The soup was flavorful and warmed me nicely on a cold and rainy morning. The real stars I felt were the apple patties. My friends were amazed that they were so yummy and could not believe they were not made of meat! I thought they were delicious as well--a great mix of spices and subtle apple flavors. Highly recommend!

    (5)

  • Tracy T.

    Ines and I had breakfast here the first day, we def passed it at least once.....located in the French Market it's easy to miss. Most of the food places are set up like little bars with stools, once we figured it out we went back and had a seat. Melvin was manning the front. He was awesome. I don't think I've ever had anyone wait on me at a restaurant before that was so genuine and accommodating, such a nice guy. WE browsed the menu, this place is def not for tourists looking to bust their gut before 9am but I really appreciated the healthy, lighter approach to their menu at reasonable prices. Plus, they have vegetarian and vegan options which worked for our party of 2. I opted for 2 eggs over medium with toast, and apple stuffed turkey sausage. Ines got oatmeal and a fruit bowl. The food did take awhile to come out but the bar was also full of people and I'm pretty sure we all sat down just as the staff was arriving. Regardless everything pretty much came out for the entire group of customers at the same time. My eggs were good, no complaints, toast, and turkey sausage was also awesome. The fruit bowl Ines got was fresh and delicious and came with a side of raspberry vinaigrette that really made the flavors of everything pop. Note to self, add that on next time. This was probably one of the longest breakfasts I've had in a long time, first cuz the food took awhile, second cuz we're in NOLA and things just take longer than they do up here. Once I was done crawling out of my skin tho I relaxed and enjoyed. We even got to see an Easter parade happen while we ate. It's a cool little place to eat, you get to take in the atmosphere of the market while eating healthy good food and chatting with Melvin. If you're in NOLA go take a walk around the French Market, buy some crap you don't need, then stop and have a tasty bite at Meals from the Heart. And tell Melvin heyboohey.

    (4)

  • Amrita S.

    Being a vegetarian in the south is almost never fun, but the delicious black bean burger I had here was a delightful departure from the salads I've been nibbling for a week. Kudos to this cafe for standing out and being all around amazing.

    (5)

  • Ashley M.

    A treat for Gluten Free folks!! Was so excited to get GF gumbo and CRAB CAKES!! Wish I could go back over and over again!!!

    (5)

  • Andrea P.

    I came back here for a second time, and the food was just as amazing as a year ago. I was thrilled to be able to order a gluten free crab cake. The homemade dressing and spread was also to die for. This was hands down the best meal that I had in New Orleans. Try the carrot ginger juice when you're there. Just awesome.

    (5)

  • Adriana L.

    It is not every day that you stumble upon a little gem of a restaurant-but today I hit the jackpot as I strolled though the New Orleans Farmers market. Vegan. It caught my eye given most of what you get in the area tends to be deep fried and gumbo combos. I sat down and immediately felt good energy from the staff. I ordered their specialty and don't regret it: crab cake passion burst of flavor and perfection. I topped it off with their vegan power shake. Nutty and berry yumminess. Everything on the menu looks outstanding and look forward to my next trip to the area. Great service, fresh, healthy options...can't say enough.

    (5)

  • Claire G.

    As the previous poster stated; best gf pancakes we've ever had!! What a treat to have so many great gluten free options, that are really well priced. The staff are wonderful!! Highly recommended, it's so worth the wait :)

    (5)

  • Nova N.

    Excellent food and excellent service. These people care about the food they serve. Great spot!

    (5)

  • Rachel O.

    Come hear to escape the heart attack on a plate meals from everywhere else in the city. Come here to have decent food. But really come here for the company and the stories. This place is literally a little high top table with 5 stools in the middle of the market. The menu was small, but consisted of gluten free and low (insert bad food component) options. I went for the "Famous poached egg and crab passion" with a side of grits to share. Good food but come here really for the atmosphere. The people are so friendly and share great stories about life and the city. We were served by the retired brother cop. He talked our ear off in a good way.

    (4)

  • Tamara L.

    Stopped her in the French Market based on previous reviews. I had the crab sandwich with veggies. Friendly employees who gave us each a fresh tangerine after we ordered. My sandwich was served on a hearty wheat roll and the veggies were tender, not mushy with a nice seasoning.

    (4)

  • Rachael H.

    Healthy food to help you detox from the night before (but don't be fooled -- this was one of the best meals we ate in NOLA, and we ate everywhere). Crab cake with poached egg? Divine. And the gluten-free pancakes were extreme. I'd been supposed to share but while Lala was in the bathroom, I ate them all. No lie. Averill was charming and funny and absolutely no-nonsense. She was as good for the soul as the food was to our sad, abused, hungover bodies.

    (5)

  • Chelsea C.

    The best thing to eat in the French market with the kindest staff. So helpful and great fresh juices! Get the crab cake poached egg, you won't be sad! Also they give you a clementine while you wait, and that's sweet.

    (5)

  • Rebecca M.

    Crab Cake Passion: gluten free. These people know how to poach an egg. Yum!

    (4)

  • James C.

    High-priced healthy food. Food was excellent, but staff was rude and inattentive. Don't ask for a soft drink. They may have forgotten our food which just happened to be "coming right out" when we asked for a status update on why it was taking so long and others were getting their food before us. Another 5 minutes later it was ready. Wouldn't be my first choice at the French Market if visiting.

    (3)

  • Andrew F.

    Great place with healthy food and friendly people. I went to Meals From the Heart Cafe during my short 3 hours in New Orleans between driving in from Mobile and leaving out of MSY. in that time I was fortunate enough to be able to try two things here and talk to the chef and owner. I really love the idea of serving great tasting food that is healthy. They don't use a lot of oil, don't have pork or trans-fat. I agree with all these things and think the world needs to go in this direction, unfortunately for me many great restaurants still haven't figured out you can be healthy and taste good, but Meals From the Heart Cafe is different. My meal that I ate at their counter in the French Market was their fish tacos. The tilapia was perfectly cooked and seasoned and aside from a tiny bone everything was great. I wish there were onions on the tacos, and maybe a little bit of cheese, and obviously more avocado (there is no such thing as too much avocado), but the tacos were still really awesome, and everything was grilled, not fried. Taste and texture wise I could care less, they definitely got it right, but I didn't, I made a mess plowing through this amazing food. I forget what the tacos cost but it was under $13 and it was definitely worth every penny. I also ordered a chicken ceasar salad to go that I ate at the airport. The chef said the dressing was commercial but that it was the lesser of the evils. Whatever, I loved it. The bed of greens was not your typical romaine but rather mixed greens. The chicken was very good and seasoned and the croutons were not excellent but definitely somewhere in the very good range. I thoroughly enjoyed the salad and found it be worth the $13 price tag. Next time I'm in New Orleans I'll be back, but in the meantime I can only hope someone takes this concept to Denver, New York, and LA, the cities where I spend most of my time.

    (5)

  • Greg B.

    Healthy well-run small stand in the middle of the French Market. Fresh fruit and vegetables are unfortunately a rare commodity in New Orleans, but this place delivers. Only a few seats available so most orders are to go.

    (4)

  • Victoria H.

    Couldn't possibly be more fabulous: healthy, tasty, great service. I begged them to open in New York.

    (5)

  • Jennifer W.

    It just isn't a complete trip to New Orleans without a stop at this gem in the French Quarter Market. Fabulous crab cakes, delicious remoulade sauce, and everything is healthy! It's the perfect lunch stop. It's quaint with a few stools and is cash only. You will leave wanting more...be warned.

    (5)

  • Sigrid D.

    This was such a pleasant breakfast in the French Market. The staff is so, so nice. My kids had the whole wheat pancakes and ate them right up. They smelled so good!!! I had the crab cake passion with poached egg and my hubby had scrambled eggs with cheese. Everything was delicious and tasted so wholesome. It felt like eating in a home served by people who really cared that you loved your food. We might come back for seconds!!

    (4)

  • Kim H.

    Start your day here and the rest will be good! Thank you Avril for amazing food without the processed garbage!! Best omelets, power shakes and gumbo in town!

    (5)

  • Jenny L.

    I LOVE this place! It's located in the French Market. The service was extremely friendly- that southern hospitality. This place offers food that is on the more healthy side (compared to deep fried or other usual southern food at least). I got a fresh fruit bowl and blueberry whole wheat pancakes. My friend got the open faced crab cake omelet. EVERYTHING WAS AMAZING. This is one of the very very very few restaurants in the French Quarter that offered anything near a fruit...so it was very refreshing. If I could do it over again, I would order normal pancakes instead of blueberries because the blueberries were pretty sour, but overall still very tasty pancakes. The crab cakes are to die for. Super fresh, perfectly seasoned. If I discovered this place earlier on in my trip, I would have definitely returned over and over!

    (5)

  • Rutvi J.

    We were in New Orleans for two days and ended up going there for both days! They have a small but a very varied menu with some serious healthy options. The healthy vegan smoothie was really really good. I had the omelet one day and the burger the next, and both were fresh and yum. My boyfriend had the crab cakes both days, he was in love with them. We were full all the way till 4 both days. Apart from the food and service which was impeccable. The owners were really friendly chatting us up and love the touch of giving an orange like we get bread at an italian place!

    (5)

  • Jason P.

    Loved this little cafe! My partner and I are vegan and checked happycow.com extensively while in New Orleans to find good places to eat. This place is right in the middle of the French Market so it's so convenient if you're already down there browsing. We were thrilled to learn we could get vegan pancakes there and they were AMAZING. We did not eat at the bar, but at a cafe table some distance away. The employee brought our food to us and wiped off the tables - even though they do not belong to his business. "We can't have our customers eating an dirty tables" he said. Excellent service, food, and prices. Will definitely come back here when in NOLA again... I chose "loud" as the noise level - not that it's a bad thing, but it's literally in the middle of a bustling market so one should expect that it would be.

    (5)

  • Alan R.

    Amazing glutenfee pancakes... right in the middle of the French Quarter farmers market.... The food is wonderful, the people are just as wonderful, I'd like to go back for every meal

    (5)

  • Elysia S.

    How amazing after a week of debauchery to stumble upon this healthy and DELICIOUS gem! I had the gluten free crab cake with a poached egg and a lovely green salad. The rue in the gumbo is okra based, not flour. It's all so incredible! And my friend had the gluten free blueberry pancakes. It was all divine! They do have non-gluten free options too! Just come and eat the best crab cake in town! Very friendly family owned. We will return!

    (5)

  • Sandra H.

    I cant stop thinking about the crab cake poboy! Unfortunately I only got to experience 2 restaurants in all of NOLA but im so glad I found this place. It has to be probably one of the only places that offer vegan options and are cooked to order. This gem is located in the french market. The owner was so sweet and told me that she made all her own sauces. She even gave me a few slices of oranges while I waited for my food. She must have known I needed it...lol The sauces by the way were full of flavor and amazing. You left feeling fantastic and full of energy and not sluggish like you would after. and if you have ever been to the big easy you would know that you need a lot of energy! I will defiantly be back to NOLA and Meals from the Heart Cafe!

    (5)

  • Vanessa L.

    After a week of eating super salty and super fried food, Meals from the Heart Cafe was a health nut's dream come true and much needed break from the salt and oil. My group loved the crab cakes so much that we came back the next day and ordered it to go before flying back to Los Angeles! We were also huge fans of the vegan fruit smoothie (it's supposed to give you 3 hours of energy!) I'm sure if we had known about Meals from the Heart Cafe at the beginning of our trip, we would have come back all four days instead of only coming 2 out of the 4 days of our trip. We even came here immediately after eating lunch somewhere else in the French Quarter - nothing satisfied us like the crab cakes and we craved nothing like we craved the crab cakes. Sure, we only ordered the crab cakes from this location but I'm sure if all of the other food items were prepared the way the crab cakes were, you will enjoy anything you order here. Service is fantastic. My friend and I even got some free fruit/grape cups while waiting for our order.

    (5)

  • Kelly K.

    Amazing vegan and gluten free options. The vegan-apple patties were the biggest hit! The gentleman serving us was adorably hospitable.

    (5)

  • Victoria C.

    Thank the LORD New Orleans has SOME place that serves healthy food! After meal after meal of deep-fried, battered, buttery food, my body was in major need of real fuel and nutrition. If you're in the heart of NOLA in and around the French Quarter, look no further than Meals from the Heart in the French Market. I came here for brunch on two occasions with my friend and we were reassured about the food after observing the petite, fit nature of the owner. That was a good sign. Everything on the menu is healthy and portion sides are reasonable (not OVERLY large). They offer only whole wheat products, egg whites, turkey bacon (instead of pork) and lots of fruits and veggies. They even have vegan shakes! The first time I came here I ordered the veggie-lite egg sandwich with turkey. So good, and just the right size. The next time I ate here I ordered the whole wheat pancakes with a side of turkey bacon. Oh man, these pancakes are SO good! Better than any pancakes I've ordered at restaurants in Seattle. I'm sure there has got to be a little bit of butter in the mix, but still. So wheaty, nutty, and melt-in-my-mouthy. I definitely recommend this place if you want to eat healthy in NOLA! Minus one star b/c cash only.

    (4)

  • Debby S.

    Love this place! Healthy, healthy, healthy!! If you regularly eat a healthy diet, this place is a must considering the style of food custom in NOL. Ate here 3x in our 2 days stay in NOL. And still wanted to eat here again. I had the raw beet salad for lunch. It had pistachio nuts, avocado, field greens, julienne carrots......balsamic dressing on the side. Also tried the okra gumbo made with chicken, shrimp and turkey sausage. It was accompanied by toasted garlic bread on the side. YUM!!!The fruit salad is beautiful and delicious! Firm ripe fruit on a bed of greens. A berries sauce made with red wine was the side dressing. Their crab cakes are their featured item. I remembered reading the reviews of this place when researching where to eat in NOL. This didnt make my list to try only for reason i didnt want to make it a to-do to eat at a counter space at the farmers market. That was my misfortune. However, It was meant to be that I had a terrible breakfast elsewhere and was longing for something healthy. The fruit salad won me over. Day 2, we made a point to wait at the farmers market till they open at 9am when I had the crab cake and poached egg on English muffin and salad greens in the side. Accompanied by a remoulade sauce fir the crab cake and citrus dressing for the salad. My son had the apple turkey sausage and a smoothie. My husband had the fruit salad and a smoothie. Don't be fooled by the location and limited counter seating of 7. Nor the paper plates and plastic utensils. It is at the farmers market. The counter is granite. They are constantly checking in on you and cleaning up the space. Better than some restaurants we've been to. The price is reasonable for the quality. We had 2 full meals for 3 pp and the bill was about $46. We would eat there again if we were in NOL longer. We mentioned we will be back for lunch and I was given a frequent diner card. I mentioned that I found this place on yelp. I was told they were the first and only food vendor invited to set up business at the farmers market. I love this place, can you tell? I love that they want to offer healthy food in midst of the typical unhealthy food in NOL. I love that they are so proud of what they offer. I love that they make you feel like you are invited over to their home for a meal. I love the name "meals from the heart". It sure is!!!

    (5)

  • Patricia H.

    I never give 5 stars..but this place deserved it. The only reason I chose this place is because it was super clean and it had a travel Advisor certificate. In fact, was a little disappointed that it was "healthy eating". We had the gumbo and a half of fish sandwich each. I was in shock...it was fantastic. They give you little oranges to clean your palate. I can't wait to go back and go straight there. I was in NO for 5 days and discovered it on my last day....sigh. This place had the best food out of all the places I ate. I absolutely loved the staff....very friendly. Don't worry about the seating...there are chairs and tables just a few feet away from the restaurant. The only drawback is that you don't meet the staff and have a great conversation.

    (5)

  • Annie I.

    Had a great breakfast. Fresh ingredients and a friendly staff made for a pleasant start to our day. Many vegan and gluten-free options. The vegan po' boy was pretty much a roasted vegetable sandwich, but still very delicious and came with a nice side salad. The food takes a while to prepare because it's so fresh, so you might want to go somewhere else if you're in a hurry.

    (4)

  • Boris Y.

    This is my kind of place. I don't want nuttin' fancy, just good food. So they are famed for their crabcake passion, hence an easy decision on what to get. It was just a matter of how to get it packaged as one can get it part of a few dishes. I went with the po-boy and got their homemade tea. Loved both. Among the best po-boys I've ever had. Roll was very fresh, tea great, friendly service.

    (5)

  • Chef E.

    We dined here for the French Quarter Festival. Its a black owned establishment that looks out for your health.. We each had a different meal around the crabcake. I had a side of potatoes with mine which they said would come out after my crab cake... They forgot and I had to remind the staff about them. My father had the Crab Cake with poached egg (he didn't realize a poached egg was "runny") so that was pure comedy seeing him eat that--- but he did nonetheless and loved it. His girlfriend got the crab cake poboy--- it was here idea to eat here first! She loved it as well. This city known for its rich sauces, fried po-boys, stern drinks, and party mentality; gave me a pleasant find in this restaurant tucked in the beautiful FRENCH MARKET... When YOU are in the 1/4s this is a MUST EAT... Good Food! This place isn't marked up because of its status as a tourist trap that pumps crap out to you... Its delicious, warm, careful, textbook cookin' from the soul or in their case the HEART! I'll be back on the 9th...

    (4)

  • Mike O.

    Had GF pancakes very good. This is a small stand in the farmers market walked by it twice trying to find it. Also had the GF crab cake - while not what I was used before being GF (being from maryland) it was also very good. Definitely recommend for GF

    (5)

  • Kandyace W.

    The best crab cakes in New Orleans! xoxo

    (5)

  • Kassie M.

    Sigh, gluten free in New Orleans? This place is so amazing, and they are kind and understanding and make you feel like they really care about your totally annoying dietary restrictions. The food is made with love, and it tastes delicious! What a find!

    (5)

  • Mo A.

    Its ultra difficult to get a delicious + healthy meal anywhere in the French quarter without shelling out a hefty buck. This place is excellent. It is in the open air market and you can step up to the counter or take your food and eat it at the nearby open market tables. The folks take their time making the food, but who cares when you can be enjoying a delicious bloodymary from the "organic banana" folks next door.

    (4)

  • Vivian F.

    Great fresh healthy food. Friendly service. We had breakfast there during our stay in New Orleans it was a wonderful treat. Highly recommend it.

    (4)

  • James C.

    My First stop during my trip down to New Orlean. The market was empty just after the hurricane, found this place on yelp with my girlfriend and sat down at the countertop for lunch. The service was very friendly and the food was good. We got the crab cakes with poached eggs and she got the crab cakes po boy. Overall the crab cakes were good, prices weren't cheap per say but the crab cakes were big, fluffy and full of meat. It was fresh and sweet. It came with a mayo based sauce with a side of salad. The salad had a very nice lemon vinaigrette. Overall a good find.

    (4)

  • Chris B.

    I was in Nola a month back and found this place my last day there (unfortunately) damn good food with some super friendly people working there. Got the gluten free pancakes with fruit and the vegan smoothie. Now, I was in Nola for about a week so just think of the hangover on my last day and now think that this breakfast sent me away back to the airport floating on a cloud. Whenever I make it back I'll definitely go back and try their dinners!

    (5)

  • Tze Shen G.

    Absolutely awesome crab cakes made fresh. Eggs were poached to perfection. Highly recommended.

    (5)

  • Jon F.

    This is a restaurant in the French Market and is unassuming. They have a few stools and that is about it. We came for breakfast and got the cheddar grits and the vegan blueberry pancakes. They were both very enjoyable and we enjoyed the service provided by Melvin as well. We would recommend it to anybody.

    (5)

  • Will C.

    Being a Californian vegetarian, it can be difficult, or impossible, to find food in N.O. Fortunately, Meals From the Heart Cafe is smack dab in the middle of the French Market. Despite getting a meal to go, my girlfriend and I received some of the best service either of us have experienced. We walked up to the counter and were met by very friendly service staff who treated us to clementine oranges while we waited. Our food was very delicious. All of the veggies were fresh, even the avocado was perfect. Their patties for their black bean burgers were house-made, and very flavorful! Overall, our experience was wonderful! Totally amazing to find many vegetarian options and wonderful service in the same restaurant!!!

    (5)

  • Aldo V.

    Yeah it's in a "farmers Market" and there are only about 6 seats outside this little side eatery - but oah my lord - can you say... CRAB CAKES!!!! Delicious! (and i don't eat crab)

    (4)

  • Melanie P.

    Their "crab cake passion" is simply incredible. It comes with a green salad with Vidalia onion dressing and the crab cake itself is just divine. They also give you a remoulade sauce to dip it in, all for the amazing price of $8.99. This was my second time eating here and I'll be back!! Service is exceptional, the staff really seem to enjoy what they're doing.

    (5)

  • Leslie M.

    Healthy home cooking. Best bet in the French Market.

    (5)

  • Carlos P.

    A healthier alternative to your traditional French Market/French Quarter food options. I had the Chicken Poboy with a side of steamed veggies. To be honest, it probably wouldn't resemble a traditional poboy, but I was pleased. The service is very good and pleasant, though the food may take a while to come out (we were offered fruit while we waited). Also, it is cash only.

    (4)

  • Kristian T.

    Ohhh yeaaah!!!!! The crab cake po-boy and crab cake passion is simply the best crab cake i ever bad. Would consider going to nola just to have moar ;-) fresh, fresh, fresh. food 5, staff 5

    (5)

  • Lauren Y.

    Oh what a find this place was! After 4 decadent days in NOLA my liver and arteries were rebelling so we decided to go healthy. I found Meals from the Heart online, and it was in the French Market where we were headed to that day anyway. My husband and I got the same meal: thier signature crab cake and poached egg dish. AMAZING! The crab cake had minimal (if any) breading and the egg was cooked perfectly (not easy to do with poaching). We shared an order of the (not toally healthy) cheesy grits and they were creamy, flavorful, and worth the calories. My husband got a side of the turkey sausage which tasted clean, zesty and homemade. The couple we were with ordered the turkey bacon and it was the first time it tasted....well, tasted like BACON! Nothing was greasy or heavy and we left satisfied but not in the "Thanksgiving Day Pain" we'd experienced earlier in the trip. Downside-service was a little slow. Half the meals came out together and the other half came out a good 15 minutes later. If you're travelling with people who don't mind lingering a little for good, healthy food, then you won't be disappointed!

    (4)

  • Laura S.

    Okay yes, this place has gluten free. And yes, the service was very friendly. But I was not impressed with the place as a whole. I ordered a sandwich on gf bread, and my boyfriend ordered tacos. Our order came out to almost $30 which I thought was ridiculous for the amount of food that we got. Also, this place is in the French Market, which means there is pretty much no where to sit. We also waited almost 45 minutes for our food that we ordered to go. Don't think I will be returning here.

    (2)

  • Dianna S.

    I went here with my sister based on Yelp reviews since we needed something healthier than what we'd been eating in New Orleans and it was delicious. I think it was the owner who was helping us, but she was wonderful and the food was incredible. The crab cakes were delicious and had barely any filler. The remoulade and the salad dressing were incredible. The people there are so friendly!! This place was really great!

    (5)

  • Alison B.

    Healthy but wonderful NOLA food. We were traveling and craved healthy food, and this is like eating at home. Vegetarian and vegan options. I had Okra gumbo in brown rice, raw beet salad, and my friend said the best crab cakes ever. Fresh. Gluten free options. No pork. Eight-seat counter located in the French market.

    (5)

  • Jonathan S.

    Lots of reviewers have talked about how Meals from the Heart serves healthy food. That it does. However, Meals from the Heart serves delicious, well prepared, beautifully presented food that just happens to be healthy as well. In other words, you don't have to be a health-fad fanatic to enjoy eating here! A friend was visiting and wanted crab cakes. I'm allergic to shellfish so had no recommendations. Through a series of fortunate events we ended up at Meals from the Heart for brunch. It was a bit of a hunt to find the place. I was expecting a small bistro type place, Meals from the Heart is in the French Market in one of the food market stalls. It's a tiny place with counter service and 7 stools at the counter. I had the pancakes with a side of apple stuffed sausage and my friend had the crab cake passion. First the pancakes - they were some of the best pancakes I've had. Light. Fluffy. Topped with butter, maple syrup, and walnuts (all of which come on the side). Nicely presented with sliced strawberries and a sprinking of blueberries on top. I ate it all - usually I can only stomach 1/2 a serving of pancakes. The apple stuffed sausages were amazing. Turkey sausage mixed with chopped apple and other ingredients. Unlike most turkey sausage it was moist, flavorful, and meaty instead of being soggy, mealy, and unpalatable. My friend said her crab cake was one of the best she's ever had, hands down. It came perched atop a lovely salad of mixed greens. Finally, the coffee. We both had coffee. It was very very very good. New Orleans is a coffee city and I consider it a cardinal sin for a NOLA restaraunt to serve poor coffee. No dangers of that here! The service was courteous, quick, and attentive. An absolute rarity in New Orleans where the standard of service is so low that, well, most of the time you're just glad the server doesn't urinate on your table while screaming at you to be sure you leave a tip. Impeccable service is another major plus for Meals from the Heart! Finally, a word on the price - it's one of the best deals you'll find in the french quarter. The only thing you're going to find for less money in the quarter is a grease soaked napkin from a fast food joint.

    (5)

  • Cat F.

    Came here twice in one day! I had serious reservations about coming to NOLA with a sensitivity to gluten... so this café was such a great find, and in a great location. I had the pancakes for breakfast, and crabcake for lunch. It was filling and fresh, delicious and healthy! The service was personal, warm and friendly. I wish there were more locations across the city. My first trip to NOLA was amazing thanks to a place like this! Cheers and hope to be back!

    (5)

  • El T.

    Hmmmmmm the non gluten pancakes are just one of my go to dishes here... Fresh, cooked to order and healthy!

    (5)

  • Tere F.

    They have the best!! Vegan blueberry pancakes :) and vegan veggie apple sausage patties

    (5)

  • Amanda C.

    The owners of this place are so darn cute and that they alone are reason enough to visit. Though I don't have any food allergies and I'm not vegetarian, everyone knows that it's hard to find vegetarian food here, let alone vegan and gluten free options. This place has a bunch of options, though, for pretty standard tourist prices. My boyfriend got the omelette with an english muffin ($9.69?) while I had the mini black bean burger ($3.99) which comes with a single wedge of avocado and a little container of salsa and the cheddar grits ($4.75). The food takes a while to come out, but the warnings are everywhere on the menu so you shouldn't be surprised. My boyfriend liked his omlette but enjoyed the single bite I relinquished of my black bean burger more. That tiny thing was so surprisingly good! The outside was nice and crispy; it had some corneal in it or something and it was really flavorful. The grits were good, but could've used more salt. I didn't have the heart to tell them that, but felt better when the guy ordering gumbo next to me asked for salt also. They use low-sodium everything, so if you're used to salt you may want some. Super friendly, very willing to please and really yummy food. That makes for a good business in my book and I'd be happy to go back again.

    (4)

  • k k.

    Food: Wonderful! Their black bean burger was the best burger I've ever had! It was so good that I had to pick one up to go before I set out for the airport to go home. The full sized burger comes with a side of veggies, making it a nice and balanced meal. The portabella mushroom burger was really good too (my husband prefers the portabella mushroom over the black bean, but I prefer the black bean). The vegan protein smoothie is a must try. It was so delicious and so very good for you. Service: Great! The servers were friendly and we got complimentary oranges to munch on while we waited for our food. :) Price: Very reasonable for the quality that you get. There are not a whole lot of vegan options to choose from in New Orleans. This place is definitely worthy visiting!

    (5)

  • Wendy C.

    Best vegan pancakes ever. And I'm not even vegan!!!!

    (5)

  • Marian S.

    After 3 days at the French Quarter Festival eating unhealthy food, we happened upon Meals from the Heart. What a find! The service was friendly and helpful. I felt like the cousin who just dropped in. I had the marinated vegetable sandwich with mushrooms and my husband had the bean burger. They were both wonderful. There were too many vegetarian and vegan items on the menu, it was hard to decide, so we're going back tonight and tomorrow morning to try the whole wheat pancakes. There are plenty of options for carnivore too. I hear the crab cakes are the best. Don't let the small stand with about 6 stools in the middle of the market turn you off, you're going to love your food and your heart will thank you.

    (5)

  • WiltonDrive A.

    This place was an interesting find. Not a typical restaurant but a counter with some stool within an open market. The food is marketed as heathly with low sodium, fat and no pork. If you are looking for a healthy alternative to normal NOLA food this would be a great place to try. They have no tables and only about 8 stools, no A/C so it might be hot. I should add that you can take your place to the open market tables but they are not dedicated to the counter service. The gumbo and crab cakes we had were good but not seasoned enough for my taste. The ice coffee was either old or a really-really dark blend. We enjoyed the friendly staff and the experience but it was not the NOLA lunch I was craving.

    (3)

  • Ran T.

    Nice little food stand in the French market. The owner is very friendly. Asked her what her recommendations are if you are new to New Orleans. Then try to the crab cake, it's actually mostly crab! Try the okra gumbo if you don't mind okra and want something that's not greasy (I know that's hard to do in New Orleans). It's not cheap, but food in general is not cheap in New Orleans. For two entries, you probably would spend around $25 with tip. But good food is good food and it's nice that you can sit down and have a warm meal after you have been walking in the city all day.

    (4)

  • Jaime M.

    The food was delicious and much healthier than we found in the rest of the Quarter. The crab cakes are amazing, whether in the "Passion" or in the crab cake and vegetable omelette. One of the best meals to be found in the French Quarter! The service was friendly and fun to top it all off!

    (5)

  • April H.

    This a great alternative to everything fried. The food and the service were top notch. My only complaint isn't really a complaint but dessert options would be wonderful.

    (5)

  • Gaz H.

    Two accommodating and friendly ladies run this breakfast/lunch counter in the French Market. They're very attentive to diners' dietary preferences and generally it's a friendly, happy place. The pancakes and oatmeal we enjoyed had a bit too much cinnamon for my taste, but that's a personal preference thing. The "vegan power shake" was a very tasty fruit concoction. Overall, the food was good, without being transcendent.

    (3)

  • Amy H.

    Just went here yesterday with my friends. The service was very good. We waited about 15 minutes for our food. I ordered the Veggie Lite (egg whites, peppers, onions, tomatoes, avocado, and spinach) on a whole wheat English muffin. This was probably the best egg sandwich I have ever had. It is a light, healthy meal to start your day with.

    (4)

  • Hope C.

    Not the best crabcake ever but it's a strong third place. My crabcake came on a bed of greens and the salad dressing was the highlight of my meal. I think next time I ll try the crabcake po-boy instead. If you are searching for healthier options to dine at this would be the place.

    (3)

  • Ziran Z.

    My girlfriend and I had breakfast at Meals from the Heart. Although we have not had crabcake anywhere else in Louisiana, they were the best crabcakes we've ever had eaten. I am personally not a fan of poached eggs, but my girlfriend, who likes poached eggs, tells me that they were cooked perfectly. The server was also extremely friendly, and continued talking to us about Louisiana while we were waiting on our food. We would definitely return here if we visited New Orleans again.

    (5)

  • Cassandra H.

    Gluten free pancakes and cold, juicy orange slices. Friendly staff that joke around with you like you're a regular. Sandwiches looked fresh and healthy and delicious. I'm trudging back through the heat to go here again this week. Will sweat for damn good food.

    (5)

  • Marius G.

    Great food, but terrible and slow service.

    (2)

  • Shawn C.

    Okay so the vegan selection is not huge. Be warned. But they have vegan blueberry pancakes and a bad ass smoothie with flax seeds, vanilla extract, and a shit ton 'o berries. Also it's in a cool outdoor market that reminds me of Europe, or you know, Dayton Ohio. Anyway point = awesome. And the people who run the joint are really nice.

    (4)

  • Parath C.

    Excellent service and truly food cooked with heart! Great selections for vegetarians and tasty!! My gf had the famous crab cakes and it out a big smile on her face :) The fresh oj was prefect. Also ordered the black bean chil - came with avocado my fav The vegan apple patties are way better than Morningstar Yum!!

    (5)

  • Olivia H.

    Best. Gluten-Free. Pancakes. Ever. I mean, I cannot say enough of these things. The night before we ate brunch here, I found out about them and I couldn't wait to get up the next morning to eat them. It was straight up like Christmas morning. And when I got there? Fluffy, soft, full of delicious, fat blueberries but not gluten. Om. And the guy working the counter said sometimes even people who aren't gluten free will come in and order them. I can't tell you how unheard of that is. The breakfast was delicious with lots of options for me, and brunch tends to be really hard on us glutards. However, because this place is basically a lunch counter in the Farmer's Market, I suggest it for small groups of people. 2 is ideal, although you can try and seek out a table for a larger lot, but I think sitting at the counter is part of the charm. If you're trying to avoid super-touristy areas, forget it - this place is smack in the middle of one of the most touristy spots you can find. It's loud and busy, parking is difficult, but I think it's worth it for the crazy good brunch action.

    (4)

  • Joanna D.

    If you are in New Orleans and looking for healthy food, you must visit this place! I have been here several times on two different visits to New Orleans, and it never disappoints. The service is exceptional- they truly care about what makes the customer happy and do their very best to accommodate every request. The owner and everyone else I have interacted with there is extremely friendly. The food is fresh and made from quality ingredients. Usually I came here for breakfast and had an omelette, a vegan power shake, and freshly squeezed orange juice- all absolutely delicious. My friend tried the crab cake passion and loved it. Since I don't eat gluten or the non- gluten options, they always substituted the bread with extra avocado on the side without a problem. This is a place I will go back to every time I visit New Orleans (especially now that I have my frequent-eater card). Meals From the Heart.... Thank you for existing. I wish we had you in Austin, Texas!

    (5)

  • Saleem M.

    The pancakes were standard, the poached egg and crab cake was awful. I think this place gets a ratings bump from vegetarian and vegan roots. People say the vegan shake is great, I did not venture in that territory. The service was disorganized, but that doesn't really matter much. In the end, the food was unsatisfying and did not feel from the heart at all. One ounce maple syrup packets and walnut crumbs are not exactly homemade.

    (1)

  • Terry T.

    Best crab cakes I have had in a long time and the cheapest meal on the trip. Great place to go.

    (5)

  • Ellen C.

    A much needed reprieve from the heavy food throughout the city. A healthy twist on some New Orleans treats. The food was excellent and the service was friendly. We had a great breakfast, highly recommended.

    (5)

  • Dahlia F.

    Great food & friendly staff, in the middle of the French Market. Visit #1 - I sat alone @ the counter & enjoyed a delish breakfast: Okra & shrimp gumbo & a yummy crab cake! Visit #2 - Next day, came back with my sis & friend & enjoyed the food again...Shrimp sausage? YUM! Can't beat consistency. :)

    (4)

  • María Elisa V.

    Just what we where looking for!!! Amazing breakfast, the freshed squezwed juices are great! We had the crab cake and poched eggs and the veggie omelet, we really loved this places. Business owners and the people that serves are very kind!

    (5)

  • Madame Pamita M.

    I'm from Los Angeles, and I'm used to eating fairly "clean". Of course, when you're in New Orleans, you're going to eat all the amazing food, but the fried/butter thing gets to you after a while. Thank you Meals From the Heart for offering something that is fresh, green and also tastes amazing! I had the crab cake on a salad and it was fantastic! You can just taste the love that goes into what they do! Thanks for making a truly delicious, reasonably priced and memorable meal!

    (5)

  • Irwin S.

    HEART, what an appropriate word to have in the name of your cafe. You cared about my physical heart with your cooking that keeps me healthy with low fat, low salt, and no trans fat food. I can go to New Orleans and eat and enjoy (!) New Orleans food and have a happy, calm stomach that will help my heart have a long run. What delicious crab cakes, gumbo, and whole wheat pancakes. YUM!!! Every day I was visiting New Orleans I appreciated eating with you. You cared about my emotional heart with your personal interactions, your giving nature, and your heart felt rapport. Your spirit of dedication to your community(s) is both recognized and inspiring. Thank you. Frank P.

    (5)

  • Steve G.

    Looking for healthy food and friendly people? This is the place. My wife and I shared a poached egg and crab cake on a whole wheat English muffin, whole wheat pancakes, and turkey apple sausage, all were delicious. We will be back again soon!

    (5)

  • Nancy D.

    I decided to give this place a try because of its high Yelp ratings. I came here with my breakfast companion and did not have to wait long for a seat at the 4-stool counter. I had a bowl of black beans and my breakfast companion had the 2-egg omelette. If I recall correctly, we waited about 15 minutes for our order to come out, but in the meantime we had a most friendly chat with the owner's father, who was staffing the counter that morning. He is a friendly, knowledgeable fellow who was able to give recommendations about where to eat, what to see, etc., in New Orleans. I had asked him where I could find a good bowl of yakamein, and his honest answer was that it probably wouldn't be safe to do so. He told us about how his daughter had perfected healthy Cajun cooking and something about how the 2-egg omelette required maybe a teaspoon of cooking oil to make---wow! My breakfast companion enjoyed his omelette, and he normally grumbles about how heart-smart food tastes "too healthy." I enjoyed my bowl of black beans; it was very filling too. Would I come back to Meals from the Heart? You bet, especially after a week of eating nothing but barbecued meat, grits, and super hearty foods.

    (4)

  • Angel W.

    Stopped here based on yelp reviews. It was early in the day, so I didn't want to overindulge too soon. I enjoyed a yummy mini black bean burger, while my boyfriend had the incredibly delicious crabcake passion, served on a bed of greens. I also had the "vegan power shake" which was tasty and really hit the spot. It was piled high above the rim of the cup and easily could have been a meal on its own. I was a little turned off by the fact that it tasted like soft serve ice cream, which I wasn't expecting, but I suppose that is due to the vanilla flavoring (the ingredients are listed on a sign). The waiter was very friendly and served us blood orange while we waited. I definitely recommend stopping here for a healthy meal to keep you going and not put you to sleep.

    (4)

  • Jon W.

    What a wonderful surprise it was to stumble on this gem of a place as we were exploring the French Market in NOLA. Had the crabcake salad and it was amazing! We will definitely stop by again before we leave the city!

    (5)

  • John W.

    I don't know if it is because this place is in NOLA and fruit can be grown year-round here or if the owner has lost her mind, but the fruit salad at this place is HUGE. I just don't know how she makes money selling this much fruit for the price of the salad. The fact that this place exists in NOLA at all is amazing, but the quality is legit.

    (5)

  • Steve D.

    My wife has celiac disease and she has been here 3 days in a row. I had the crab cake po' boy yesterday and the crab cakes were as good as you can get. She had blueberry pancakes, okra gumbo and brown rice and a vegetable plate.

    (5)

  • Kelsey G.

    Let me start off by saying they have THE BEST smoothie I have ever had, homemade or store bought. Vegan, flavorful, and so filling it complimented our meal like nothing before. Not the most ideal location for a local but great for a small business looking to reach the French Market goers. The mini-black bean burger was delightful but the grits tasted like instant; not what you would expect from a health focused, Southern cafe. Overall, Meals from the Heart was a great Sunday venture with friendly faces!

    (3)

  • Lynne S.

    Excellent gluten free and heart healthy menu! Homemade food, wonderful service and friendly atmosphere. We enjoyed 2 meals and will definitely return.

    (5)

  • Tom M.

    We found this place online---what a great find. We were in New Orleans for a long weekend and ate here twice. Meals from the Heart is just a counter with a 5-6 barstools in the middle of the French Market.. Don't let the appearance fool you--they are serious about providing great healthy food. The crabcakes, both the gluten free and the regular, were terrific. Flavorful and full of crab. The gluten free pancakes were also outstanding. The cheese grits were just ok. Melvin, the counter service provider, is also value add to the experience---a true delight to chat with.

    (4)

  • Dave M.

    Great and clearly-marked vegan menu options. I had the maxi black bean burger with a side of vegetables and the vegan power shake. The burger is huge and comes with nice spring mix greens on it. Veggies on the side were good- broccoli, snap peas, carrots, & squash I think. Shake was awesome, it's big and made with fruit and non-dairy milks. My non-vegan friends liked their food as well (fish tacos & crab cakes iirc), also it's in the market so there are plenty of other options nearby if people you're with want to eat something different.

    (5)

  • Carolyn R.

    It was so wonderful to have gluten free blueberry pancakes in the French Quarter. They have lots of other dishes including gluten free gumbo. I thought the prices were good for gluten free and I highly recommend if you want a good, causal gluten free meal in New Orleans that you give them a try.

    (5)

  • Andrew C.

    The staff is quite nice, and the food is healthy and tasty. A health-conscious restaurant is a rare find in the French Quarter, so kudos for the effort! While the food is great, the ambience is lackluster- the restaurant is in a market, and you have to sit at a bar. It's a great place to grab a quick bite, but don't expect anything more.

    (4)

  • Susan C.

    Friendly service! The crab & poached egg sandwich is a messy, yummy treat!! Love this place! This is a guy that gives a damn about the food he sells and not just another French Market hawker.

    (4)

  • Shruti M.

    Ok I really wanted to like the food here more. The owner was a sweetheart and I really enjoyed talking to him. I ordered the fish tacos: I thought it was a little bland, although the fish was well cooked. IT could have used some more salsa, or some more unique flavor. I could definitely tell that all the ingredients were very fresh, and I would give this place another shot next time I'm visiting NOLA!

    (3)

  • Gigi M.

    Healthy and loaded with flavor..If you like the crabcakes, you should try the crawfish pies..WOW!!

    (5)

  • David G.

    Amazing vegan blueberry pancakes. Never had better even before I became vegan. Highly recommended! Plus the service was as warm and friendly as it gets.

    (5)

  • Janice J.

    Vegan energy smoothie (banana, blueberries, raspberries, flaxseed, walnuts, coconut and almond milk) was refreshing and just what I needed after walking around in humid heat at the French Market. Owners are really hospitable and love Californian health nuts! Bit pricey ($7), but didn't mind cause the owners were sweet!!!

    (5)

  • Erin K.

    Unbelievable! The crab cake passion was delicious and the staff was friendly and warm. Definitely returning soon

    (5)

  • Kaitlin Z.

    04/09/12 Husband and I made another trip to New Orleans last week and I was a frequent visitor here. He would get the vegan shake every trip and I would order some much needed veggies. I ordered rice and veggies (a few times) which was not bland as I assumed it may be. I wish I got her name (I believe she is the owner/cook) would come out to the front and chat with us during our visits. Even though their business seems to be growing rapidly she made the time to chat with us and provide great food. Everything is consistently delicious!

    (5)

  • Allison M.

    BEST. CRABCAKE. EVER. Seriously. This was a beautifully crafted, moist and tender, absolutely delicious crab-a-rific crabcake. The staff of the restaurant were happy to see us - friendly and helpful. While we waited, a sliced orange was given to us to 'kick start our appetite'. My husband and I each got the crabcake and poached eggs, which came atop a wheat english muffin, along side a green salad. The remoulade was fantastic - thick and perfectly seasoned. A perfect 10. Check them out!

    (5)

  • M L.

    My husband and I live in Southern California, and eat a clean diet, with lots of vegetables and no red meat or pork. I looked at dozens of restaurant menus online, and ate at 2 of the best and most famous restaurants in NOLA, and we were always limited to maybe one dishes on the menu. After 2 days in NOLA, we only were able to order an all vegetable side that was NOT fried or loaded with cheese or butter once. (NOTE: Ordering fish "Simply grilled" in NOLA means its still likely means there is butter added to the oil.) We walked about 15 min to get to Meals from the Heart to try their lunch, and it was well worth every minute. After reading all of the Yelp reviews, I was looking forward to trying the Crab Cake Passion, but was so excited to see that they offer a gluten-free version! I tried that, and the Raw Avocado and Beet Salad. My husband had the Black Bean Soup as well as the salad. First off, the gluten-free Crab Cake was awesome! The owner keeps a hand counted running tally daily of the total number of crab cakes sold since they have been in business for the last 4 years (her brother showed it to us). The numbers speak for themselves! Although there is also very little filler, regardless, nothing about the crab cake tasted gluten-free! The Raw Avocado and Beet Salad was amazing! I don't usually like raw beets, broccoli, asparagus, carrots or cauliflower, but these veggies were agreat! They almost tasted blanched - but whatever they were, it was awesome! I don't eat avocados, but my husband loves them, and thought they were perfectly ripe and had great flavor. Overall the veggies tasted like they were grown in an organic garden. The Black Bean Soup looked great, and also tasted great! There was very low sodium in it (which is a theme of the establishment). For the price, my husband thought it was a nice sized portion and the best meal he had in NOLA! As a nice little treat, the owner gives you a Cutie (clementine orange) as well. Such a sweet touch! Just as their name implies, it was clear that all the food was cooked from scratch and by hand, carefully (and the owner and her brother confirmed this). Our only regret is that we didn't have time to eat there for a 2nd or 3rd time on our trip! The only thing I would make sure that you know before you go is that this isn't a formal restaurant. They are a vendor with kind of a booth set up at the French Quarter Farmers Market (see the picture posted). Don't get me wrong, not a negative thing, it was clean and cozy, and had a few seats so you can sit and eat at the counter, which we loved because we could talk to the owner and her brother. The Farmers Market does have a seating area with tables and chairs nearby as well - so that's an option too. That said, they also specialize in take out too.

    (5)

  • Wendy K.

    There is a sign at this establishment that says something to the affect of, "Warning: This may be the only healthy meal you'll have in the French Quarter." I certainly didn't go everywhere in the French Quarter, but I definitely made the rounds, ate at a fair number of restaurants, and I can safely say that the healthiest meal I even saw on a menu (save for garden salads) was at Meals From the Heart Cafe. I had the multi-grain pancakes, which were nutty and moist, two hearty slices of turkey bacon and some fruit (the cup was a bit small) and the girl I was with had an egg white breakfast sandwich as well as the above sides. The man who was working that day was friendly and served us well, and I think the entire meal cost less than $15 for two people! We sat in the shade at a table in the French Market right across from the Cafe's ordering counter, which provided a quiet atmosphere and great people-watching opportunities, and afterward, we walked back to our hotel, passing shops and galleries on the way. Thank you, Meals From the Heart, for the only healthy meal I had while in New Orleans!

    (4)

  • Jacquelyn K.

    The French Market - where Meals From the Heart Cafe is located - has definitely undergone a shift in its redevelopment post-Katrina. The Farmer's Market portion, which used to be a dirty, cramped repository for every kind of hot sauce you could imagine, has been transitioned into a number of small eateries and gourmet cocktail venues, with bar-style seating lining one side of the long concourse. And, while the old configuration had a certain amount of "je ne c'est quoi," I think the new eateries and drink spots are an interesting addition. I came across Meals From the Heart after seeing the line at Cafe du Monde, which stretched down the block. I mean, I love beignets as much as the next person, but not THAT much. The menu at MFtH was simple, but appealing. Since it was breakfast, I went with the one-egg veggie and cheese omelet on an English Muffin, which came out piping hot and chock full of tastiness. The omelet had chives, mushrooms, tomatoes - all delicious and fresh - and sandwiched between a whole wheat English muffin. The rest of the menu was really intriguing, particularly the "Mini-Me Black Bean Burger" w/salsa, spinach, tomatoes, and feta cheese and the "Crab Cake Passion" a lumb crab cake topped with house-made lemon remoulade. Mmmmm! This is definitely a welcome respite amidst all the heavy food you can find in the Quarter!

    (4)

  • Shannon N.

    The crab cake passion was yummy and so affordable! Staff was very kind and accommodating. Would eat here again and again.

    (5)

  • Leeah K.

    SO GOOD! We stumbled upon this place while browsing French Market and boy am I glad we ate here. I had the crab cake po boy and it was delicious. The crab cakes were fabulous, the bread was fresh, and the remoulade was tasty. It comes with your choice of grilled potatoes or grilled veggies; I got the veggies and they were yummy and fresh. The staff working the counter are super friendly and they even gave us orange slices to munch on while we waited for our food. I would definitely go again.

    (5)

  • Chris L.

    Much like God, if Meals From the Heart didn't exist, it would be necessary to invent it. This is for our coastal visitors and trend-conscious locals who believe that eliminating unhealthy (i.e., flavorful) items from their diets will make them immortal. After all, we all know how difficult it can be to find food in the Quarter that won't make your doctor throw his hands up in resignation screaming, "I give up! Just kill yourself, then! See if I care!" Personally, I think health-food restaurants are kind of like church. If it makes you feel better about yourself, go right ahead. Most of my diet, while not consisting mostly of junk food, is decidedly not "health nut oriented." But every now and then, even one such as I must take a break from butter, fat, and oil (The tasty holy trinity), and this, dear carrot munchers, is the place to take that break. Their Crab Cake Passion is absolutely delicious, but if you plan on getting full, you should probably get two or three orders or the Double Crab Cake Passion Po-Boy on whole wheat French bread, which I haven't tried yet, but it would have to be awesome. Unfortunately, it's a $15 (before tax and tip) sandwich. So, today's pick was the brown rice and vegetables with chicken plate. Perhaps I'm a bit biased as my mother (health food fan) used to make this exact same dinner when I was a kid. The small chicken breast halves (It's ok. There were two of them.) and the rice were seasoned with herbs reminiscent of Tuscan food, which was a good touch adding a greater depth to the flavor. Sure, it wasn't as good as it would have been with butter/oil, but whaddayagonnado? The vegetable side, which consisted of broccoli (natch), carrots, green and yellow squash, and asparagus (awesome combo), was certainly good, though a tad undercooked to my taste. Actually, the entire meal was A-OK, but I have to admit, I missed the butter. That may have gotten a genuine genuflection out of me. Sorry, San Francisco visitors. The primary issue I have with this health-conscious eatery is the price. With no drink save tap water, this meal, with tax and tip came to $16. We need to alter the price designation for this place. It definitely qualifies as a "$$" place. And since the ambience is non-existent (It's in the middle of the French Market.), and since the food is prepared simply, saving tons on unhealthy yet expensive ingredients, the price should be lower. Also, they should take plastic, yet they don't. But what do ya expect? It's in the French Market. However, for you healthy eaters with disposable cash, this place makes you feel oh so clean. And as we all know, cleanliness is next to godliness. Amen.

    (3)

  • stacey C.

    Loved this place! The crab cake passion was really yummy and healthy, my bf had the crab cake po boy which had 2 nice crab cakes on there and came with some awesome steamed veggies. The guy behind the counter was just a pleasure to talk to and such an awesome guy. His sister ?? I believe , she is the cook, she does an awesome job! Like everyone else mentioned, it is such a healthy, lite option when you are in New Orleans. Will definitely go back next time I am in N.O. and have already recommended it to my mom and dad who will be visiting in July!

    (5)

  • Anthony S.

    Great lunch today. My wife is gluten free and Melvin made sure she was well taken care of. My chicken po boy was very flavorful with well sessoned chicken and healthy fixins on a whole wheat roll. The remlaude sauce wa s perfect with just the right amount of spice. A "must eat"

    (5)

  • Daniel K.

    The owner is a very friendly lady! Treated my daughter to her own pancake when I ordered mine. They were excellent with the nuts and maple syrup. The crab cake was very good, although I like them with lump crab and extra crispy on the outside. But would definitely go again for the great value and wonderful service.

    (4)

  • Gina S.

    Loved this friendly healthy little place... Great service, nice atmosphere and very reasonable prices for New Orleans....

    (5)

  • Peggy L.

    I can't can't believe how good it was, yummy as you would think since I pretty much went every single day n ate for breakfast n lunch!!! O boy the Vegan Shake was sooo good and had all the necessary nutritions and crab meat totally real and made with love and care which equals delicious. SO FRESH. FISH TACOS I LOVE. Had black bean soup n black bean burger because they kept not having it yet so we keep going n guess we got to them hehe n they were able to make it on the day before we left to go back home. N the poached eggs are so happily good! This is a MUST GOO....THE PANCAKES MUST EAT, just rightly crispy on the outside and so good n healthy n delicious. Smiless all the way around to the food n ppl working there.

    (5)

  • Robert M.

    Beautiful food from warm and friendly people. Crab Cake Passion was prepared perfect. Light crispy crunch, succulent tender inside, not mushy at all. Served on a bed of fresh crisp organic greens with awesome sauces. Try this place if you want a fresh alternative with the creole flair.

    (5)

  • Kiran V.

    Wonderful food and service! I never thought I would be able to enjoy a poboy again now that I can't have gluten, but I got such a sweet surprise to find out they had gluten free bread. Talapia poboy = delicious.

    (5)

  • Elysia N.

    A stall in the middle of the French Market, Meals From the Heart Cafe is unassuming, but surprisingly good. The ingredients are fresh, the preparation is simple, straightforward and delicious, and the portion sizes are reasonable -- in stark contrast to the oversized trend in the rest of this city. The owner is health- and heart-conscious, and a long-time nutritionist. She took the time to explain her approach to food, and to accommodate my 93-year-old grandmother, who was in a wheelchair. Because of its small size, they sometimes struggled to keep up with orders (we, a party of four, came close to overwhelming the kitchen). But overall, the service was warm, efficient, friendly, and individualized. I would definitely recommend this restaurant to others visiting New Orleans, and I would come here again.

    (5)

  • Thor Z.

    Cheap and good!

    (5)

  • Sheri D.

    My Passion is for crabcakes and this fantastic resturant satisfiies to the max. Such a nice spot in the busy French Market with a very plesant staff. I enjoyed myself totally and will return for what I hope will be many, many meals.

    (5)

  • Sunny K.

    On my last trip to NOLA, we stayed in Faubourg Marigny and each morning I'd walk down to the French Market. This was hands down my favorite breakfast spot. Not much else to add to what's already been said by others in terms of it being refreshingly healthy, and the warmth & friendliness of the proprieters, but it's more than that. You can feel the love they put into the food, and that ain't easy to come by. Sure, they have limitations on beverages & ambience, but open your eyes people, it's the French Market and you are in New Orleans. Relax, and enjoy.

    (4)

  • R N.

    Fresh, honest food.. We had the portobello sandwich and salad, both excellent.

    (5)

  • Nadeem R.

    Awesome healthy food in New Orleans...I got the crab cake and poached eggs...my wife got the tilapia tacos...but the treat of the meal was the turkey apple sausage...it was amazing...the service was A+...It is located inside The French Market so the seating is limited but there are plenty of tables to sit at in the market area...great place to eat healthy after clogging a few arteries on your NOLA trip.

    (5)

  • Angelique H.

    OMG!II Best healthy meal i have had in New Orleans in three years! Vegan and turkey options, Grilled chicken and the best black bean burger i have had ever. Hands down. You have to go!

    (5)

  • Katie M.

    I went to New Orleans for vacation last summer and as a vegetarian who doesn't eat meat or fish--New Orleans is a hard place to find a veg meal! My mom and I just decided to stop on a whim while walking towards the french market and I was SOO glad we did. Hands down best black bean burger i've ever had, it had a mango salsa on top and avocado. I've been a vegetarian for 15 years so i've eaten quite a few veggie burgers in my time and this is the BEST. My mom order the turkey burger mini and enjoyed that as well. Slightly pricey but in my opinion worth the cost. If you're looking for a good healthy meal in NOLA, this is the place to stop. Vegetarian or not, you won't be sorry!

    (5)

  • SarahJayn K.

    I had the maxi black bean burger here with a side of vegetables. Very fresh, very reasonable. The staff was friendly. A good stop for lunch.

    (4)

  • Bea G.

    I read about this restaurant on Yelp. I was looking for something healthy close to the quarter. The reviews were right. The crab cakes were amazing! I enjoyed speaking with the server who was the owner's brother and a retired NOPD officer. Along with great conversation, I enjoyed a great meal. As others have said, it's not the cheapest meal you can get in the quarter, but that wasn't what I was looking for. If it is, you should grab a slice of pizza and a huge ass beer from a hole in the wall and be on your merry way. I was looking for something delicious, fresh and healthy, and that's what I got. I got the crab cake poboy and a coffee for $20 (not including tip). I would go back and would recommend this place to anyone. This is a counter service place - good for takeout or a few in a party. Probably only has 5-6 barstools. I didn't have to wait, but it would be worth the wait if there is one. If you have a group or kids with you, get takeout and find a nice spot somewhere nearby to enjoy your great meal!

    (4)

  • Bethany S.

    I'm so glad I stumbled upon this place while tooling around in the French Market. As much as I love all the fattening, artery-clogging food that New Orleans has to offer, there are times when I want a meal that clocks in under 2000 calories. Luckily, Meals From the Heart has delicious food so you don't have to sacrifice flavor and you leave feeling full, not disgusting. The crab cake salad was excellent.

    (4)

  • Melinda L.

    Healthy AND scrumptious in The Big Easy?! You bet!! This place is hands down one of the best places to eat even for non-gluten intolerant friends. It's not fancy but the quality of the food overrides the need for ambiance. I'm gluten intolerant so it's a little hard finding good options to eat in this city full of beignets and roux. They also have vegetarian and vegan options which for me (a big meat eater) were extraordinary! The raw beet and avocado salad was very filling. The freshly made honey balsamic dressing to go with it was sweet and tangy. And the pistachios on top provided a nice, salty accompaniment. The gluten free pancakes were a wonderful treat since I've never found a restaurant that makes them. You can have a choice of fresh fruit in the batter or on top of your stack (or both of course!) They are known for their crab cake cake passion. These little gems are made with fresh crab and were to die for! They were by far the best I and my friends had ever had. If you are gluten intolerant this place is a must on your list of places to eat in Nola. Your non-GF friends won't mind eating here either!

    (5)

  • Angelina R.

    amazing healthy NOLA style food which is hard to find out here. Crab cakes and black bean soup... mmmm

    (5)

  • Fay H.

    I was very excited to find this place in the French Market of all places. They have an excellent vegan black bean burger that is homemade.

    (5)

  • Scott L.

    A yelp find, food was great as was the service! Yum!

    (5)

  • Nancy M.

    I loved this place! New Orleans is full of delicious food, but it's often deep fried and/or loaded with heavy sauces. Vegetables are often MIA -- unless you count french fries or potato chips as a part of that food group. Meals from the Heart Cafe is totally different. Mixed green salads, roasted veggies, even vegetarian burgers. And great seafood options like their crab cake passion and salmon po' boy. They serve healthy breakfast options all day too, so there is something for everybody. And when we were there, they gave everybody Satsuma tangerines with their meals. Conveniently located in the French Market, reasonable prices, and your meal is cooked to order. Plus the women who own this place are delightful. You can enjoy an interesting conversation while waiting for your to-go food or while you dine at their counter. Do not miss this place -- tasty, healthy options in the sea of food that is the French Quarter, but be advised that they close at 6pm, so plan accordingly.

    (5)

  • Michelle T.

    Lovely little stand in the Farmer's Market. Saw the signs saying they serve healthy food, can do veg*n food, had good Yelp reviews, and were voted best crab cakes. Having recently had the beignets at the Cafe du Monde, I was really looking forward to getting something healthier, so we gave it a try. The people working there were friendly and nice. I ended up getting the crab cake passion, and my dining companion got a crab cake with poached egg. The man there said he'd bring the food over to us when it was ready. The crab cake was really good--lots of good crab meat, not greasy or salty, spiced just right. It was served on top of a nice salad, and there was a good salad dressing in a plastic container so that I could add as much as I wanted. There was also some sauce for the crab in another little plastic container. They also gave each of us a clementine mandarin! Yummy! The man came by a little later to see if we liked the food. We ate our lunches while listening to the musicians performing there for the market. Very cool! They had this sign in front of the shop saying they'd sold 40,313 crab cakes so far. Guess they'll have to increase that to 40,315 now. Haha.

    (4)

  • Ann K.

    I love this place. I had a whole day to hang out in NOLA this past weekend after a Saturday wedding. So I headed out to the French Market, and found this cute little stand that has vegan options. As soon as I sat down, I got about 2 oz of grapes to munch on while I wait for my food. I ordered a white bean and kale soup with brown rice, which was served with chopped tomatoes and scallions. It was incredibly filling and tasty. I also ordered a mini vegan black bean burger with avocados and salsa, which again, was so yummy. The only thing is that I wish they would have dijon mustard instead of French's. But overall, delicious. I think it's family owned and everyone was friendly and warm. :)

    (5)

  • Sara P.

    Came here looking for a great po boy. Got the crab cake po boy, which after reading the reviews on it, the po boy tasted very mediocre not as superb as everyone else makes it sound to be! The crab cakes at NOLA to me were better. My boyfriend got the "okra" gumbo, which had too much rice in it , had no flavor and also didn't have okra. The gumbo the locals pointed us to was much more inexpensive and taste so much better! First and last for us.

    (2)

  • Kellysue H.

    Best lunch in NOLA. After eating so much heavy food all week it was wonderful to find this little hidden gem. They serve vegan and vegetarian food as well. The crab cakes were Amazing as well as the black beans soup. The lady working the counter was lovely and you felt like you were sitting at her table at home.

    (5)

  • Joey A.

    Great food, tilapia po boy was awesome. Same with crab cakes. Roland is very nice as well.

    (5)

  • Jim G.

    Meals from then Heart was awesome. Great healthy food. Great tasting vegan items not just the token vegetarian items. The vegan apple patties were excellent. Taste like sausage patties! Great friendly service. My wife had the crab Excellent! Heart healthy and vegan two concepts not readily available in this great city. They take traditional local fare and serve it up healthy and great tasting! We will return!

    (5)

  • Fay S.

    My friend and I traveled to Louisiana to do some nature photography and spent a day in New Orleans. It was a Sunday morning and we were looking for a bite to eat. Being tourists, we headed for Cafe du Monde but found the line snaking into the street. Little did we know that a treasure of a little place (Meals from the Heart Cafe) was a short walk from there in the French Market. We arrived as they were opening and received a warm welcome. I delighted to find they had a veggie omelet in an English muffin and a myriad of hot tea to choose from. Not only was breakfast delicious (and healthy), but the two gals who ran the place were absolutely delightful and felt like old friends by the time we said our farewells. We could not have had a better introduction to New Orleans than this. It is the people you meet along the way that makes travel so memorable and you truly touched my heart with your welcoming and friendly attitude. I thank you for the good food and the comraderie. Bon Appetit!

    (4)

  • Del R.

    Soooooooooooooooooo yummy. I had a typical breakfast omelet and pancakes there. The BEST! this lady rules and knows what she's doing! And, she is way sweet. I would certainly go back to this joint!

    (4)

  • Karim B.

    Great healthy food in the French quarter. Had the black bean burger which was delicious and the smoothie. Great way to recover after a long run.

    (5)

  • Emily N.

    Delicious, healthy food in the French Quarter. I enjoyed the fish tacos, which were zesty with an emphasis on the fresh spinach and flavorful citrus. My companion had the vegan black bean burger, which he enjoyed. All in all, a cute and friendly establishment with healthful ingredients and generous portions. I will return.

    (4)

  • Andrew C.

    Make sure to eat breakfast here at least once during your stay. It's right in the middle of the French Market with open air seating -- great atmosphere to watch people go by. Very friendly service. The crab cakes and poached egg on English muffins were fantastic. You may have to wait a bit for your food, but it's worth it.

    (5)

  • Mary S.

    Great healthy meal. Delicious Talapia Po Boy and Crab Cake Passion meal. I definitely recommend this French Quarter Eatery.

    (5)

  • Levi C.

    Eat here! It will knock your socks off. Vegan friendly, but the meat dishes do not suffer because of it. The food is so good that I actually enjoyed the cooked spinach in my friends omelet, which I have never liked in any form in my entire life. The coffee was also pretty delicious, which is highly unusual in this city, even at coffee shops. The service was friendly, informative, and entertaining. Oh, and you can smoke since it's technically out doors. Best breakfast I've had in a long time.

    (5)

  • Pat M.

    On my first visit to New Orleans last week, during my four day stay, I visited Meals from the Heart Cafe twice for lunch because the first crab cake was so delicious! The presentation is beautiful and the sauces/dressing are really tasty. The crab cakes are made to order, grilled rather than fried, and absolutely scrumptious. New Orleans has lots of great food for reasonable prices; this is a prime example. And the people behind the counter, who might be the owners, are super friendly and accommodating.

    (5)

  • Red T.

    Delicious and affordable vegetarian in the Quarter!!! The black bean burgers are really tasty. The turkey burgers and crab cakes are also amazing. The people are kind and friendly--everytime!

    (5)

  • Jo M.

    I was so pleased to find a breakfast without fried food! My veggie & egg English muffin was awesome. As was my oatmeal. Hubby had their wheat pancakes & gave it a solid 7.5. The coffee was not incredibly strong, but very good.

    (4)

  • Amanda H.

    After days of unhealthy food, this was a godsend. Great, tasty, healthy breakfast food and wonderful service. I had an egg white omelet on an English muffin with veggies and turkey and if was filling and NOT greasy or fatty. I wish there were more options like this in the French Quarter!

    (4)

  • Bonnie W.

    Love this place! The Crab cake was literally the best I have ever had! And Marilyn is a sweetheart...hope I got her name right...I am going back again. We were lucky to have gone there first. The other restaurants have a lot to live up to after such a welcoming and authentic treat!

    (5)

  • Jessah A.

    Very nice people! And great food!! Healthy, totally not like every other place in this town of New Orleans, where food is soo over fried and not that great at all!!.. I ordered the salmon plate with steamed vegetables, and got a side of toasted buttery biscuit, ( I guess the bread part was not so healthy, but it was delicious!!) It wasn't busy so the register person offered me a little vegan smoothy drink, which I thought was very nice of him, free of charge. He was very helpful with telling us what are good places to see while out trip there. I would love to come back here and try their other fish dishes. :)

    (4)

  • Alejandra J.

    I was hoping to find a place with "clean", healthy, and tasty food. Meals from the heart was perfect. The black bean burger and crab cake are mouth watering. We left full and satisfied!

    (5)

  • E R.

    OUTSTANDING, especially for vegetarians!! It's awfully hard to find a meatless meal in New Orleans. Even the seafood dishes tend to contain sausage. And if you're lucky enough to find a meatless meal, it's usually dull or drowning in butter/cream/oil. A delicious healthy meal, with green veggies is a rare find... but I found it. Near the end of my recent N'awlins vacation, I discovered the Meals From the Heart Cafe at the French Market. Wish I'd discovered it on my first day. Chef Marilyn is not only a culinary talent, she's a charming woman, if you can catch her taking a break from the kitchen. Whether you're a vegetarian, pescatarian, or just don't want to end your trip to the Big Easy with a trip to the ER from all that grease, treat yourself to a few meals at this terrific little cafe.

    (5)

  • EJ M.

    Tried the turkey burger. It tasted okay, but was pretty dry. But it was a good healthy alternative to the fried foods in the market. Service was a bit scattered.

    (3)

  • Celia S.

    Really great HEALTHY breakfast and lunch place in the French Market located in the French Quarter of New Orleans. Whole wheat english muffins, egg white omelette options, oatmeal, veggies. These ladies are truly lovely women who care about their community and want to make a difference in the health of New Orleans. They are eager to make the customer happy and will work with dietary restrictions. They have po boy sandwiches that are NOT fried, they have brown rice and they have black bean burgers!! They even have soy milk! If you want a taste of local New Orleans, they even have a crab dish. Great, healthy food that will balance out the Begniets from Cafe Du Monde down the street!

    (5)

  • David D.

    This is a great place to eat in the French Market. (Look for Bay 13) The crab cakes are worth the extra walk down to the market. The Crab Cake Passion were prepared great, with a light crunch on the outside, without extra fillers on the inside, just crab. Plus I liked how we were served fresh cut oranges slices while we waited for our meal, especially refreshing on a hot day. One of the best places we tried in the French Quarter, a fresh alternative!

    (5)

  • miss e.

    So I found out quickly how much of a challenge it is to eat a healthy breakfast in New Orleans. I was so pleased to find this small gem of a restaurant in the open air French Market, thanks to Yelp. I enjoyed the veggie omelet 'cooked in extra virgin olive oil' says the proud waitress (owner?). The crab cake was mouth watering too. High quality food, good prices, quick and friendly service.

    (5)

  • Lindsey S.

    Such nice people, delicious food, and a wonderful break from the UNhealthy deliciousness we had been previously enjoying!! I love New Orleans and a well-cooked meal (the two go hand-in-hand, obviously), and this place is so great. The owners are really great people who care a lot about each and every customer, making you feel right at home (and I'm shy, and don't always enjoy "chatting" with waiters, etc, but these guys were so great. I really felt like I was a member of the family!). Anyway, my husband and I both highly recommend it.

    (5)

  • Peretz D.

    My family and I enjoyed eating here. I particularly remember the good coffee and the cleanliness of the place.

    (4)

  • Connie M.

    I have been eating Ms. Doucette's food for a long time starting with festivals and the crawfish pies. When my friend from Ohio comes down she HAS to have the crab cake delight. The people who work there are nice and as authentic as New Orleans gets and especially Ms. Doucette who has humored us on a non busy day looking at all our grandchildrens photos and hearing our family stories. BUT the real attraction is the excellent and healthy food that is fresh and made from scratch daily! The best crab cakes I have ever eaten anywhere!

    (5)

  • Meredith D.

    Friendly service. Excellent Food (even had vegan options clearly labeled). Good prices. Filling and healthy. If they had more vegan options I'd have been there several more times before I left.

    (5)

  • Erfan M.

    A good alternative if you need a break from all the fried food. The black bean burger was homemade and delicious.

    (5)

  • Eric W.

    For me, a restaurant with awareness of gluten-intollerance needs is essential. MftH is a welcome oasis in a city where it seems almost everything is fried. The staff is quite aware of "special needs" and have already highlighted vegan and GF items on the menu, plus they seem quite willing to mix up exactly what you'd like. This is "real" food, not greasy or frozen or packaged, and it's made to order--so you may have to wait a few minutes, but it's worth it.

    (4)

  • Donya M.

    The BEST crab cake and the BEST gumbo (and I ate a lot of gumbo) this past week in NOLA.

    (5)

  • Alicia M.

    The best gluten free meal I had in New Orleans! I got the crab cake po boy (GF) and it was so delicious They make everything fresh so it took about 15-20 minutes - well worth the wait

    (5)

  • Vic G.

    One of the simplest meals one can have in a city as complex as NOLA. WOW - that was a statement. Simple sometimes is good. Well, on another day I would have said 'Simple is good - better - best - Period!!'. But let me get off this beating around the bush mode. Food you get here at MFTHC is for the simpler times, while in this very epicuriously rich a city. Remember my word - EPICUORIOUS. I realized NOLA has so much depth when it comes to spices and ingredients that encompass the collective dining experience. What this place gives you is a hassle free, fulfilling plate of meal that is not only delicious, but also very healthy. And let me not forget - rather inexpensive for what you get and how you get it too! If the above 3 paragraphs made any sense - read the next few lines - please, and do as you feel. - Read their simple menu - The options are very specific and exactly what you get - The taste is - again - simple yet deep and beautiful - It will act as an aphrodisiac for what you can go for, for the remainder of your time in NOLA - That's exactly how it worked for me (at least!) - (please refer the pics attached to this review to make even more sense of what I am trying to say here!) Last word - Enjoy!!

    (4)

  • Sarah S.

    Each time I visit New Orleans I make a point to eat here. The food is great and the service is even better. Whatever you order, add a crab cake. Trust me on this. This place is very aware of different dietary restrictions and does an excellent job of accommodating vegetarian, vegan, and gluten free diners. In a city full of fried food and roux, it's a real pleasure. If I had to come up with a complaint, it would be that everything is served on disposable ware. There likely isn't room in the back for a dish machine, but real plates and utensils would make the whole experience even better.

    (5)

  • Whitney K.

    I really enjoyed my food. I got the crab cake passion (salad). It's a small serving of mixed greens topped with. Delicious crab cake and the best salad dressing and remoulade sauce I've had so far. I paid $10 for it. Seemed high but it was delicious. I think it should have been $7 so..4 stars instead of 5. My friends got the crab po-boy and both enjoyed them. I will say, when we first read about it we agreed not to go...too boushie and who wants vegan and healthy food when you're in NOLA?! We thought we didn't, but then we did a free tour by foot food tour and David, our guide, informed us that this restaurant is consistently ranked top 10 week to week in NOLA... Specifically for their crab cakes. So we had lunch there, and were not disappointed!

    (4)

  • Jennifer C.

    Drinks: Vegan Power Shakes I decided to get a smoothie here instead of at frozen banana a few stalls down in the French Market, and I was quite disappointed with my decision. Despite the fact that this place might be more healthy, I was hoping for a more refreshing and icy consistency. With the dehydrating weather, the shake was too heavy to drink. The smoothie instantly got hot through the straw when it wasn't being consumed. Chunks of fruits weren't fully blended and got stuck in the straw or at the bottom of the cup. I wouldn't recommend the shake if you are looking for a refresher. The drink is more of a meal replacer. Two shakes came out to be $17.97. Quite steep for NOLA.

    (2)

  • Tbura B.

    Ingredients were no doubt very fresh. I got the crab cake and the Black bean soup with the combination juice. Delicious but kinda pricy for the portion of food. Worth to try but not often maybe. Great service!

    (4)

  • John G.

    Good pancakes and turkey bacon. My wife is gluten free so I often eat with her. The pancakes were really good! Just be prepared to sweat if it's hot outside because this places is in the open air market. I'd be back for sure - give it a look.

    (4)

  • JaspalandAman H.

    This was a last minute online find for a Sunday Brunch that could do take-outs. This is in the French Street Market- so parking is tough. It took me almost 10 mins to finally score a spot, which I parked for less than 5 mins. We ordered the Crab cake Passion PoBoy, Chicken tacos and Whole wheat Double stack pancakes to share. Everything was well presented, even in the styrofoam box. It all looks and tastes healthy. The lady at the counter(?owner) was very sweet and made sure my order was perfect. It took about 20 mins from online order to pickup ready. I will definitely go back to sit down eat while crowd watching.

    (4)

  • Melissa M.

    During my NOLA stay, I had to factor in restaurants/cafes having Gluten-free options because one of my gfs has Celiac disease and actually has to eat GF. Although I read on many reviews (thanks Yelp) that some restaurants will accommodate GF customers and whip something up the kitchen, Meals from the Heart Cafe was labeled as a GF, Vegan place. The cafe is located in the French Market amidst all the hustle and bustle of tourists. They have about 5 or 6 stools for counter dining but they have tables and chairs a little further down in the market where anyone can sit so we just got our orders to-go. My GF gf had the Crab Cake Po Boy ($9) which came with Fresh Mixed Greens and Ripe Tom. Because I was a little Seafooded out from our prior meals, I ordered the Chicken Po Boy ($12) which came with a choice of grilled Potatoes or mixed vegetables. The person who took my order was sure to ask me and my gf if were GF, and since my friend was they were gonna give her the GF bun but since I'm not, they just gave me the regular bread. The people who worked here were very friendly and knowledgeable about the various gluten-free and vegan-related questions I heard customers asking. Because it was peak lunch time, our orders took a while to come out, but that's all good because it gave my gf time to check out their GF desserts. For around $3-$4 each, my gf got 2 dessert bars which she was really excited about because she said great tasting GF desserts are hard to come by. With the help of one of the workers there, she got the Twix and Jamaican brownie-like/fudge-like bars and I can def vouch for the Jamaican one that it was DELICIOUS! Kudos to you Meals from the Heart for making people like my gluten-free GF tummy-happy!!

    (4)

  • Sara M.

    Cute little stop in the French market for healthy food options-which there aren't many of in New Orleans, so after a night of heavy drinking and eating this was a welcome option. My group of 3 sat at the stools and ordered tilapia tacos, portobello mushroom burger, and bacon, all meals were great. We even got clementines as our appetizer instead of the traditional bread, a great touch. Quick service rounded out the experience! I didn't get the crab cake passion but it looks good!

    (4)

  • Kelvin C.

    You can tell the food is healthy. No dripping grease stains, butter leaks...etc. But is it worth your money? If you have high cholesterol, diabetes, high blood pressure, just had cardiac-arrest.... this place may be your god send (what are you doing in New Orleans anyway lol?). Food took about 35 minutes for us to receive which made me kind of angry since they quoted us 15 minutes. Crab cake passion: This was just okay and was pretty small. For ~$10...I don't know if this was worth it. I guess if you put things in perspective that they don't use butter and all that stuff, it's pretty good for being healthy. But I'll take a full fatty flavor crab cake anyday! Supposedly named the TOP crabcake in new orleans by my culinary tour guide, I came away unimpressed. Okra Gumbo: This was decent but at $12, this was pretty expensive. For the same price I had a Seafood Gumbo at Restaurant Revolution which had crab meat, shrimp, and lobster! So know what you're getting. If you want healthy New Orleans food come here but keep in mind that the flavor will not be as good. Bottomline: Food is tasty for being healthy but portions are small and expensive. 3.5 stars.

    (3)

  • Colton S.

    Great service, an great food! What more could you ask for?! Make sure you try the black bean soup, it was amazing!!

    (5)

  • Michelle Y.

    I love the service here. The staff is super nice. Its part of the French Market, next to the flea market. I was waiting for my to-go order of Gumbo (It's PRETTTY good, but I definitely recommend going for their crab cakes), and they gave me TWO TANGERINES. I like these types of starters rather than free bread. It's a very healthy option and the crab cakes looked delicious. I wish I got that instead of the gumbo. Ask them for some spicy sauce for the gumbo. Gumbo is very filling though!

    (5)

  • Kandice O.

    Literally the best meal I've ever had! Crab cake and poach egg for breakfast Y.U.M. *Also complementary orange slices. Such a perfect location, just swing by on your way to/through the market you will not be disappointed.

    (5)

  • Danyang Y.

    Had pancakes for breakfast for two days! The staff is nice! Whole wheat pancakes are delicious! Two pieces are too much for me but I still finished them each time! Actually you can order one piece only.

    (4)

  • Ally B.

    This place is a lifesaver for those of us with celiac disease! And even better: they deliver. We stayed at a hotel in the French Quarter, and each morning, this wonderful food woke us up! I highly recommend their gluten-free blueberry pancakes, cheddar grits, and morning sandwich. We ordered each morning, and every bite was delicious. They also called us to check-in and make sure we were satisfied. Highly recommend!

    (5)

  • hew j.

    We were so glad to find this Gluten-free and healthy option amidst all the rich, heavy fare in NOLA. They provide fantastic service! We tried the veggie omelets, which were most eggcellent! They have a wide selection of both Gluten-free and vegan options. Looking forward to visiting again soon ;)

    (5)

  • zack s.

    Got there as they were opening up. Friendly staff that served us some fresh cut oranges while we waited on our breakfast. The coffee was superb! Ha ya I said superb because it was that good. The pancakes I got were so fluffy and made with fresh fruit and served with warm syrup. With in minutes this place was packed and the next day when we walked by... You guessed it.. It was busy! This was such a great way to start our first day in New Orleans. Can't wait to come back and visit again just so we can come eat breakfast here again. Can't believe how fluffy those vegan pancakes were!

    (5)

  • Alexandra S.

    Started my day with yummy breakfast. Situated in the French Market, this place has few stools along the counter. You can enjoy guilt-free options such as organic/vegan and/or gluten-free. Free Mandarin oranges were offered while you wait for the food. The Fruit Salad was invigorating. Seasonal fruits: bananas, blueberries, strawberries, raspberries, blackberries, pineapples and grapes. It also had chops of avocado with an option of walnuts. The medallion dressing and raspberry vinaigrette meshed well. Their famous Poached Egg and Crab Cake Passion on wheat English muffin was pretty good. The poached egg was a little overcooked and wasn't runny. The Crab Cake had a nice consistency and was loaded with crab meat. The hollandaise-like sauce accentuated the duo. The Fresh Squeezed Orange Juice with ginger was revitalizing. The staff was also nice and swift.

    (4)

  • Ashley T.

    Eating out with a wheat allergy is hard. Eating out in New Orleans (home of the "roux rolled in flour and deep fried everything" is terrifying. Especially when you've got places that tell you the white rice isn't gluten free because it is a carb or that the miso soy salmon doesn't have bread so it's GF. Nope. I digress- Meals from the heart was an oasis. I didn't catch the owner's (manager?) name, but he put me at ease. Honesty, I come from the philosophy that beggars can't be choosers - so I'm pretty tolerant of most GF food because it can't compare with "regular" food. But this place doesn't skimp on flavor. I ate a crab cake Po' boy and it was DELICIOUS. Like, actually delicious, like "regular" food delicious. I'm just sorry I couldn't try everything on the menu.

    (5)

  • Anis A.

    If you like crab cakes then this place will give one of the healthiest tasting ones ever! I am no crab cake expert but in my experience they are either heavy in breading, deep fried to death or just crappy crab tasting. These guys use blue crab and they use a generous amount in their crab cake. They've sold over 73000 of them and I see why. I've explored more of their menu including their super vegan shake, fruit salad, tilapia tacos and poached egg. The vegan shake is my favorite with tons of fruits, flaxseed, almonds and other great ingredients. Oh and they cater to you gluten free peeps. Their food is fresh and tasty, that means a lot when you're on a diet and trying to live right. On a side note I went today for just a crab cake and shake and it tasted great but didn't look it ( I understand that they could break when flipping). Anyways, their customer service made sure to remedy the situation by going above and beyond. I definitely appreciate it and will be back every time I'm in town.

    (5)

  • Marscina K.

    I've been in New Orleans 4 days & this is the first healthy meal I've eaten. Salmon po boy & grilled red skinned potatoes absolutely delicious! Friendly service was also a plus.

    (5)

  • Treesa G.

    YUM. YUM YUM. This was absolutely the best vegan breakfast I've ever had. We got the blueberry banana pancakes and they couldn't not have been better. The perfect blend of hearty and sweet and so satisfying without making you feel far too weighed down. The apple sausages were also perfectly flavored with that real sausage texture. Don't let the paper plates and plasticware fool you, these people absolutely know what they're doing in the kitchen and we're lucky to have them in the French market. We also split a vegan shake (delicious) and took a vegan Jamaican brownie to go (suuuuuper sweet - it even hurt my teeth, ha - but for sure delicious). I will definitely return here on any future trips to New Orleans.

    (5)

  • gem m.

    This is one of the best places to eat in the French Quarter, with its fresh ingredients, amazing flavors, and warm hospitality. We couldn't get enough of their crab sandwich and I still dream about it two years later, knowing very well where my first stop will be when I return to New Orleans.

    (5)

  • Marija L.

    One of the rare healthy food spots in NOLA! Delicious,fresh,made to order food! Lot of gluten free,vegan options! You can sit at the counter and enjoy atmosphere of the busy French market:) Ladies are nice,and make sure you enjoy your food!!

    (5)

  • Kyla C.

    Oh my! This place is awesome! Located in The Riverwalk Market. This place is perfect for southern hospitality and awesome food! The people who worked here were so spot on. All of the food is made fresh to order. While in the area my husband really wanted to have gumbo, however, doesn't eat pork. He was going to sacrifice that fact for trying the gumbo. This place made it with turkey sausage! He loved it. I had the black bean soup! Oh my word.....so much flavor and vegan! Tons of vegan and gluten free options! Highly recommend!

    (5)

  • Lupe V.

    Came back after a year! Still amazing. Excellent service and excellent food! Thank you. Best Crab Cake Po-boy!

    (5)

  • E M.

    All you vegan, gluten free and vegetarians out there, this is the place to get a great meal.... From the vegan shake....black bean burger also the black beans w/brown rice and avocado, everything here is delicious. The owner/manager James, answered all of my questions concerning the different dishes. Also, Rivia was very helpful in explaining how some of the dishes were made. The Cafe is located in the French Market so there's plenty of seating.... We had lunch there and also ordered dinner to go.. This Cafe is definitely worth a visit when in New Orleans!!!!

    (5)

  • Francesca T.

    This was the one of the few places in French market that had healthy/vegan options. We decided to come here for a quick bite to eat before we left nola in the morning. I didn't feel like eating anything heavy so I just ordered the oatmeal with almond milk, which also came with golden raisins, walnuts and brown sugar. My mum got the crab cake and poached egg on english muffins. She said her dish was average and my oatmeal was just alright. I also ordered the beet and avocado salad to go with a balsamic dressing. The beets had a really hard texture which I didn't like but I did like the broccoli and pumpkin seeds in there. I was glad to find a healthy option in this part of town but the food wasn't that great and it was a little overpriced considering how much/what you get.

    (3)

  • Stella M.

    I love their vegan power smoothie. It's not too sweet like all of the other smoothies you're going to find in the quarter and it is rich and thick, not like smoothies you get from traditional health juice and smoothie cafes.

    (4)

  • Darin M.

    Avocado and beet salad was huge, easily split with fresh spring greens cauliflower sunflower seeds and asparagus tips! Delicious sesame dressing on the side. Just what a body needs after drinking all weekend. The people are wonderful here, friendly and happy. Thanks for the fresh healthy alternative to refresh the batteries! Well worth the price!

    (5)

  • Lin G.

    One of those places you try to go to to detox from the horrifying things you've done to your body in the last 24/48/72 hours in New Orleans. Meals from the heart just sounds so damn right and wholesome. You sit on a lil stool inside the French Market and stare at the chubby girls drinking bloody mary at 1pm on the stools next to you with disdain. You didn't drink enough already biyaches? Just give me water or some JUICE. The crab cakes, while good, are no bigger than a fart stain and costs about $8. Not really worth it to me. The food came on disposable like plates giving you the impression it's all very fast and cheap. Except it's not. And I'd rather have a po'boy.

    (3)

  • Edward W.

    My friend found this place while we were wandering the French Market. It's located next to all the other food along the center pathway. I decided to order just the crab cakes since it's highly acclaimed on Yelp. For $7.50 per small piece, I was expecting a lot and I'm glad to say it's the best crab cake I've ever had. Usually, I can't taste any crab in the crab cake, but this one was packed with lots and lots of crab. Totally worth a try.

    (5)

  • Jenny T.

    I had the crab cake and poached egg dish. it came with a very delicious sauce with the crab cake. the combination of both was amazing! the best crab cake I've ever tried.. I had it every time I would visit the French Market & even had it to-go. the crab cake was stuffed with a lot of crab & it wasn't fried at all so it was healthy. the poached egg was great because it was a great combination with the whole dish. & the dressing that came along with the salad was great as well.

    (5)

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Map

Opening Hours

  • Mon :9:00 am - 5:00pm

Specialities

  • Takes Reservations : No
    Delivery : Yes
    Take-out : Yes
    Accepts Credit Cards : Yes
    Good For : Lunch
    Parking : Street, Private Lot
    Bike Parking : Yes
    Wheelchair Accessible : Yes
    Good for Kids : Yes
    Good for Groups : No
    Attire : Casual
    Ambience : Casual
    Noise Level : Average
    Alcohol : No
    Outdoor Seating : Yes
    Wi-Fi : No
    Has TV : No
    Dogs Allowed : Yes
    Waiter Service : No
    Caters : Yes

Meals From The Heart Cafe

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