Cafe Du Monde

"Fox 8 New Orleans took video of the massive lines at beignet icon Cafe du Monde in the French Quarter, which appeared to extend all the way upriver to the Shops At Jax Brewery. As it turns out, Swift fans may have been after more than fried dough doused in powdered sugar. A banner hanging on Cafe du Monde’s gate along Decatur Street provided a hint: it depicts illustrations of beignets wearing a dozen or so of Swift’s outfits from the Eras tour, encircled by a friendship bracelet that spells out “Welcome 2 New Orleans; We’ve Been Waiting 4 You.” The illustration is by New Orleans artist Allie Behan. Behan collaborated with Cafe du Monde for a special Beignet Eras tumbler, she announced on Instagram this week. It’s for sale in person at Cafe Du Monde this weekend — hence the long lines — and is also available for presale online through November 1, 2024. Behan, who calls them “the most unique souvenir you can get at the New Orleans Eras Tour weekend,” is individually printing the cups, with Cafe de Monde describing them as “inspired by Taylor Swift’s Eras tour and featuring costumes worn by the artist during her concert, modeled by our top performer, the Beignet.” On Friday, Cafe du Monde posted an update to its website, saying “Swifties have made these cups even more popular than expected,” and as such, there would be an increased wait time for preorders. But, the restaurant promised it would “make sure every order placed by 11/1 is fulfilled.”" - Clair Lorell

"Cafe Du Monde is as vintage as New Orleans gets—they've been serving coffee and beignets in the same location on Jackson Square since 1862. And while it’s one of the most touristy spots in the city, standing in the long, unorganized line is worth it. The beignets are always hot, generously caked in powdered sugar, and make for the most satisfying snack in between all your other eating plans. Grab a table if you find one, and accept the fact that you’re going to show up in the background of someone else’s vacation photos." - zella palmer, carlo mantuano, megan braden perry

"The first Cafe Du Monde opened in 1862 in a stand in the French Market, and ever since, beignets have been the cafe’s calling card. Open seven days a week, Cafe Du Monde’s menu is succinct: beignets, three to an order, doused in confectioners’ sugar; orange juice, and cafe au lait made with chicory." - Beth D'Addono, Clair Lorell

"Though it’s one of the most well-known locales on this list, the powdered sugar-dusted wares found at this Decatur Street classic sets Café du Monde apart from most tourist traps. Take a seat at one of the many formica tables or step up to the to-go window for a bag of pillowy beignets and a cup of chicory coffee — both of which are served in the establishment’s outdoor facade." - Eater Staff

"This iconic stop for beignets and coffee shows up a few times in Treme, whether it be bags of the doughnuts, background shots, or direct appearances." - Missy Frederick