From Across the Kitchen Table: Gumbo Shop. New Orleans, Louisiana, USA

Four letters- NOLA. Three words to describe New Orleans, "Like No Other", because there really is no other place in the world that compares to it. I fell in love with NOLA (New Orleans Louisiana) as soon as I had set foot on this magical city. Its history goes back 300 years to French, Spanish, Creole and African heritage. It is not surprising that NOLA remains a city of rich diversity with seemingly endless festivals, great food, magnificent architecture and jazz. It's a place known for its party atmosphere. You'll never get bored here.

New Orleans has a unique cuisine and is deeply influenced by Creole cuisine, Cajun Cuisine and soul food. When you think of Louisiana's cuisine, what comes to mind? Of course, it's gumbo. Did you know back in 2004, the state declared gumbo as the official dish of Louisiana.

We arrived quite late in the evening and one of the few places that was still open was the Gumbo Shop, only a stone's throw away from our hotel. Gumbo Shop in French Quarter was repeatedly chosen for having the best gumbo in New Orleans. As this was my first time in New Orleans, I was really excited to try this thick stew tonight.

The restaurant is housed in a restored 1795 building in Saint Peter Street at the heart of the French Quarter. I was fascinated by the lovely old murals on the walls, it certainly added charm to the old Nawlins atmosphere of the restaurant. It also has a quaint outdoor patio perfect for cooler days.
I had the Seafood Okra Gumbo and loved it. Okra is normally used in gumbo to further enhance the taste as it adds a silky texture and wonderful flavour to the stew. The Boudin tasted amazing and will leave you wanting for more. That was a rare Cajun delicacy any visitors must try, absolutely delicious! Don't forget to leave room for dessert and try their Warm Bread Pudding, it was heavenly. I would recommend this place to anyone wanting to try authentic gumbo or Creole and Cajun inspired dishes for the first time.