In any other state, they’d be called a grinder, a hoagie, or a sub, but here in Louisiana, they’re known as po’boys and nothing else. This special sandwich has its history deeply rooted in our great state, though there are many theories as to the origin of the term “po’boy.” One popular theory claims that a New Orleans restaurant owned by Benny and Clovis Martin served their former colleagues free sandwiches during a four-month-long streetcar strike in 1929. The strikers were jokingly referred to as “poor boys” and it wasn’t long until the sandwiches took on that name, and then the Louisiana dialect took over, shortening it to “po’boy.”

So now that we’ve had a little history lesson, it’s time to uncover the best places in Louisiana where you can grab a delicious po’boy.

1. Bear’s
DiamondDoug44/Trip Advisor
DiamondDoug44/Trip Advisor
There’s always a line at Bear’s, but it’s worth the wait. This no-frills, counter-serve restaurant will dazzle your taste buds, for sure.
128 W. 21st Avenue, Covington, LA 70433.
2. Buffi’s Peaux Boys
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Buffi’s Peaux Boys/Facebook
We guarantee you’ve never had a po’boy like this before! Known for their boiled crawfish po’boy, you’ve seriously got to see these gourmet po’boys to believe them. Piled high with delicious toppings, you’ll be sure to go through a few napkins at this place.
3620 Gerstner Memorial Blvd, Ste H, Lake Charles, Louisiana 70607.
3. Darrell’s
Crandall12/Trip Advisor
Darrell’s/Facebook
This family owned and operated restaurant has been serving mouthwateringly good po’boys since 1985. What sets Darrell’s apart from the rest is their homemade gravy, BBQ sauce, and jalapeño mayo.
There are two locations to choose from: 119 West College Street, Lake Charles, LA 70605 and 1002 N. Lake Arthur Avenue, Jennings, LA 70546.
4. Dempsey’s
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Lexi/Foursquare
Dempsey’s in Baton Rouge is authentic Louisiana cooking at its finest. They have several po’boys on their menu ranging from the classic shrimp to fried green tomato, each one just as delicious as the next.
13580 Coursey Blvd, 17535 Airline Hwy, Baton Rouge, Louisiana
5. Domilise’s
Domilises/Facebook
Teast0427/Trip Advisor
Generations of New Orleanians have been enjoying the amazing po’boys at this famous restaurant. Established in 1918, Domilise’s has been featured on several Food Network shows, and their po’boys have won numerous awards.
5240 Annunciation Street, New Orleans, LA 70115.
6. Magic Grill
PJCruse/Trip Advisor

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PJCruse/Trip Advisor
Open since 1959, Magic Grill has won numerous awards for their po’boys, so do yourself a favor and make it to one of their locations to give them a try!
There are two locations: 4331 Sterlington Road, Monroe, LA 71203 and 2500 Arkansas Road, West Monroe, LA 71291.
7. Mama’s Fried Chicken
Mama’s Fried Chicken/Facebook
Mama’s Fried Chicken/Facebook
Yes, Mama’s is known for their fried chicken, but their shrimp po’boy is so good we had to include it on this list. Locally owned in operated for more than 35 years, you need you make your way to Mama’s to give them a try.
Two locations: 508 E Landry St, Opelousas, Louisiana 70570 and 2307 Jake Drive, Opelousas, LA 70570.
8. Old Tyme Grocery
Old Tyme Grocery/Facebook
Old Tyme Grocery/Facebook
Lafayette locals will tell you there’s no better place to grab a good ole’ poor boy than Old Tyme Grocery. They’ve been serving delicious poor boys since 1982, and they just keep getting better and better every year. From soft-shell crab to fried crawfish, you’ll find yourself coming back here again and again to try them all.
218 W Saint Mary Blvd, Lafayette, Louisiana 70506.
9. Parkway Bakery & Tavern
Parkway Bakery & Tavern/Facebook
Parkway Bakery & Tavern/Facebook
Parkway Bakery & Tavern has been a serving up this legendary sandwich since 1911. They’ve been feeding local New Orleanians and tourists for over a century, and once you try one, you’ll understand why there’s always a line at this place.
538 Hagan Ave, New Orleans, Louisiana 70119.
10. Robbie G’s
Robbie G’s/Facebook
Robbie G’s/Facebook
Head on over to Robbie G’s in Alexandria for some amazing Cajun food and some of the best po’boys you’ve ever had. The casual atmosphere and friendly customer service all add up to a fantastic meal you won’t soon forget.
5859 Jackson St, Alexandria, Louisiana 71303.
11. Suire’s Grocery & Restaurant
Suire’s Grocery & Restaurant/Facebook
Suire’s Grocery & Restaurant/Facebook
Not only is Suire’s an excellent place to grab a po’boy, but they also serve delicious, authentic, home-cooked Cajun meals. This little hidden gem is worth the journey, we promise.
13923 La Highway 35, Kaplan, Louisiana 70548.

Where’s your favorite place to grab a po’boy? Let us know in the comments below!

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