Frequently Asked Questions

Meals From The Heart Cafe is a New Orleans restaurant located inside the historic French Market. We specialize in classic New Orleans-style dishes — Creole-inspired comfort food — in vegan, gluten-free, and traditional preparations. Everyone deserves a seat at the table, no matter their dietary needs.

We're located inside the historic French Market at 1100 N Peters St #13, New Orleans, LA 70116 — stall #13, in America's oldest public market, just steps from the French Quarter and the Mississippi River.

We're open Monday through Saturday, 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM. We are closed on Sundays. Hours may shift around major New Orleans events and holidays like Mardi Gras or Jazz Fest — call ahead during busy seasons to confirm.

Several paid lots and garages sit within a short walk of stall #13 along N Peters St and Decatur St. Street parking fills up fast on weekends and during festivals. Many visitors find it easier to take the Canal Street streetcar, use a rideshare, or walk from the French Quarter.

We serve real New Orleans-style cuisine — dishes rooted in Creole and Cajun traditions, offered in vegan, gluten-free, and traditional versions. Bold flavors, generous portions, and soul in every dish — not a 'salad bar with a side of quinoa.'

Yes. We're not exclusively vegan. We offer traditional New Orleans dishes alongside our vegan and gluten-free options, making us a great spot for groups with mixed dietary preferences.

Yes. Nearly every Louisiana classic on our menu — gumbo, crab cakes, jambalaya, red beans and rice — can be prepared traditional, vegan, or gluten-free, all scratch-made by Chef Marilyn Doucette.

Our vegan menu draws heavily from New Orleans flavors — vegan versions of Creole-inspired dishes, hearty mains, and sides. They're not just 'good for vegan food' — they're flat-out good food. The menu rotates, so check our current offerings before your visit.

Absolutely. Gluten-free dining in New Orleans can feel like a minefield, so we offer dedicated gluten-free breakfast and lunch selections. If you have celiac disease or severe gluten sensitivity, speak with our staff so we can guide you to the safest options.

Yes — and it's rare in a city known for buttery, bready, meat-heavy cooking. Ask any team member and we'll happily point you to dishes that work for both.

We prioritize quality ingredients that do justice to New Orleans flavors. Ask us about a specific dish anytime — we're happy to talk sourcing.

Yes — including vegan and gluten-free dessert options. Everyone deserves a sweet ending.

We're family-friendly and kids are always welcome. We don't print a traditional kids' menu, but many dishes work well for younger eaters — let your server know and we'll help you find something the whole table will enjoy.

Yes. New Orleans lives and breathes with its seasons, and our menu reflects that. Follow us on social media or check the website for current specials.

It used to be harder than it is now. The scene has grown a lot, but dedicated vegan spots are still less common than in cities like LA or NYC. That's why Meals From The Heart Cafe matters — we make plant-based dining feel like the full New Orleans experience.

Many traditional dishes that sound vegan aren't. Red beans and rice usually contain smoked sausage or ham hock, gumbo typically has meat or seafood and a butter-based roux, and vegetable sides are often seasoned with pork fat. Always ask. At our cafe, the menu is clearly labeled and our staff can answer any ingredient question.

It can be tricky — French bread, fried foods, roux, and beignets all contain gluten. Awareness has grown, though, and Meals From The Heart Cafe is one of the safer bets in town because gluten-free is built into our menu from the start, not bolted on.

Yes. Not everything on our menu is strictly vegan — we also have vegetarian options that may include eggs or dairy, giving vegetarians even more choices.

This is our specialty. Vegan, gluten-free, and traditional eaters can all sit at the same table and eat well. Bring the group where everyone has different food needs — no apologies required.

We take dietary needs seriously and do our best to accommodate allergies, but our kitchen handles a range of ingredients including common allergens. If you have a severe allergy, please speak with a staff member before ordering so we can advise you properly.

Walk-ins are welcome — we're a natural stopping point in the French Market. For large groups, busy event weekends (Jazz Fest, Mardi Gras, French Quarter Festival, holidays), or special occasions, calling ahead is a smart move.

Yes. The French Market accommodates visitors with mobility needs, and our cafe is accessible to guests using wheelchairs or other mobility aids. Reach out in advance if you have specific accessibility questions.

Our seating area inside the French Market is covered, so you get the open-air ambiance without battling the elements. New Orleans weather can still be unpredictable, though — dress comfortably for the season.

We love a good gathering. For group outings, birthdays, family reunions, or anything similar, get in touch in advance so we can coordinate.

Yes. Call us at (504) 525-1953 to place a pickup order — perfect if you want to enjoy your meal down by the river or in Jackson Square.

Yes — you can order delivery through Grubhub and other major delivery partners. A convenient option if you're staying nearby.

Yes, especially for large groups or time-sensitive visits. Give us a call at (504) 525-1953 and we'll work something out.

Yes. If you're planning an event — corporate, personal, or anything in between — reach out to discuss. Vegan and gluten-free catering options are genuinely useful for planners juggling diverse guest lists.

Absolutely. Digital gift cards are available on our Gift Cards page and can be redeemed in-cafe for any menu item.

The French Market is one of the oldest public markets in the United States, with roots dating to the late 1700s. It stretches along several blocks near the Mississippi River, just a short walk from the heart of the French Quarter, and includes shops, restaurants, an open-air flea market, and seasonal events.

Absolutely. It manages the rare balance of being beloved by tourists and locals alike — street performers, artists, local vendors, and a real sense of the city's character.

Plenty. You're steps from Café Du Monde, Jackson Square, the St. Louis Cathedral, and the Mississippi River. The Marigny, known for its live music, is a short walk away — one of the best-located spots in the city for sightseeing alongside a meal.

One hundred percent. We serve traditional New Orleans dishes too, and our whole philosophy is rooted in the food culture of this city. You're not compromising — you're getting the full experience alongside people with different dietary needs.

If you want a place where everyone in your group can eat well — no one staring sadly at a plain side salad — we're hard to beat. Vegan and gluten-free versions of New Orleans cuisine that are actually satisfying, in the historic French Market. Pretty compelling case.