Crawfish Season in New Orleans

Updated: 14 diciembre 2022

Yes, you heard us! It is crawfish time in New Orleans and mid-February through mid-June is peak season.

And don’t get confused by the different terms: Crawfish, Crawdad.

The terms "crawdad" and "crawfish" come from the French word, "escrevisse," which relates to the verb "to crawl."

Other theories point to the Anglo Saxon word "crevik," which means the same.

Historians and scientists can’t agree as to where the suffix "dad" came from.

But, many think the suffix "fish" came from those who first believed crawfish to be a swimmer from the water, same story with lobsters and other crustaceans.

But no matter what they are called, we think they are delicious. When you are down here in New Orleans, don’t leave without trying some good crawfish.

Etouffee, Crawfish Pie, Crawfish Monica, in Gumbo, in Jambalaya, or fried, we can tell you all about it.

The absolute best way to eat crawfish is BOILED. Usually, the crawfish are boiled in sodium, with whole garlic gloves, corn, sausage, potatoes, and any extras you like.

Here are the best places in New Orleans to get crawfish. Make sure you call ahead and ask if they are boiling!

  • KJEAN Seafood, N Carrollton Ave, New Orleans, LA 70119, (504) 488-7503.
  • Clesi's Restaurant, 4323 Bienville St, New Orleans, LA 70119, (504) 909-0108.
  • Frankie and Johnny's, 321 Arabella St New, New Orleans, LA 70115, (504) 243-1234.
  • Deanies Seafood, 841 Iberville St, New Orleans, LA 70112, (504) 581-1316.
  • Markey’s Bar, 640 Louisa St, New Orleans, LA 70117, (504) 943-0785.
  • Three Legged Dog, 400 Burgandy St, New Orleans, LA 70112, (504) 412-8335.

Now if you are still not convinced to try crawfish, then we know why: and the answer is no, crawfish is not that difficult to unwrap from its shell and eat.


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About The Author

Sarah Hester

Sarah first moved to New Orleans in 2001 to work for the American Red Cross of Southeast Louisiana. While working in the communities of New Orleans she fell in love with the unique culture of the Big Easy; it's food, music, architecture, wildlife, and most of all history. Read More... Sarah began her career with FTBF, first as a guide, then as an owner/operator. She believes every day is a good day if she gets to impart her love of her beloved New Orleans with Free Tours By Foot guests. She especially likes to convert new Who Dat Saints Fans!
Updated: diciembre 14th, 2022
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