Since 2006
Our Story
Pioneering healthy, vegan & gluten-free dining in the heart of New Orleans.
A Kitchen Built on Heart
Meals From the Heart Cafe was born in Chef Marilyn Doucette's home kitchen in 2006 with a mission to bring healthier dining to the Big Easy — and to make it more inclusive.
Located in the historic French Quarter Farmers Market, our modest cafe has become a must-visit destination for tourists and locals alike seeking nutritious, allergy-friendly takes on classic Louisiana dishes.
We're committed to offering iconic New Orleans cuisine prepared with less sodium, refined sugars, and no trans fats or GMOs. Signature items like our crab cakes, okra gumbos, and pancakes all come with vegan and gluten-free preparations.
What We Stand For
Four guiding principles that shape every plate we serve.
Made with Love
Every dish is cooked to order with care, using time-honored Creole techniques.
Plant-Forward
One of NOLA's first restaurants to offer a full vegan menu alongside traditional fare.
Farm-to-Table
Wholesome, fresh local ingredients — no GMOs, no trans fats, less sodium and refined sugar.
Award-Winning
Voted by Travel & Leisure Magazine as one of the 25 Best Places to Eat Pancakes.
A Lifestyle, Not Just a Meal
Beyond the food, Meals From the Heart is a lifestyle and ethos. We believe in a farm-to-table, environmentally sustainable approach. Every dish starts with wholesome, fresh local ingredients.
Everything is cooked to order — so it may take a bit longer than other spots, but the purity and quality of the final plate is always worth it.
Every day we strive to provide consistently nourishing food and welcoming service to our community and visitors. We're honored to be a trusted part of your wellness journey.
With Love,
Chef Marilyn Doucette
What Our Guests Say
Loved by locals and visitors alike — see what people are saying about us.
Some of the best food we have ever had! Vegan beignets!!! So thankful for the chance to have beignets. We were able to get everything we wanted on the menu, all dairy free.
Fender Berry
I specifically came to Louisiana to try THIS vegan gumbo. Boyyy, they nailed it. Not to mention the Vegan Crab Cakes, so so so good!
Mekia B.
This place is extraordinary! I've been in NOLA for a week and being vegan has been haaard! I really wish I'd found this place sooner.
Stevie Tia
Come Sit at Our Counter
Join us in the historic French Market for satisfying conversation and an awe-inspiring, health-focused meal.