Bennachin

Gambian chefs celebrate the West African roots of New Orleans cuisine at this unassuming restaurant situated in a residential area of the French Quarter. Bennachin, which loosely translates to “jambalaya,” has a small brick interior brightened by African fabrics and colorful paintings framed by wooden sticks. Entrée portions are huge and cheap, and many dishes resemble Cajun and Creole fare—for instance, Bennachin serves a red beans and rice dish flavored with ginger. Favorites also include the black-eyed pea fritters and grilled chicken with coconut rice, spinach, and sweet plantains. A wide variety of vegetarian dishes are available, as well.