Mother’s Restaurant has been a breakfast institution since 1938 across the street from Hotel Fontenot, where we were staying. I had heard many legends about this cafeteria-style joint that always draws crowds. Mothers serves Breakfast all day.

One morning, we decided to join the long line outside the door to try it. The line moves quickly, as once inside the door, you are handed a menu, then queue up to order and pay before you head into one of the large dining rooms to find a table receipt in hand. Once at the table, your server gathers the proof of purchase and serves your food.

Although not attractively presented, the food is good and hearty. Our orders included a Mother’s spicy bloody Mary ($10), the breakfast special ($13) with two eggs, one meat, regular girls and biscuit or toast; crawfish étouffée omelet ($14); the shrimp creole omelet ($14) served with grits and a biscuit ($2.75) and poached eggs with grits ($7.50). Cheese grits instead of regular adds $3 to your bill.

Don’t miss Mother’s famous buttermilk biscuit ($2.75) served with butter and their “very berry jelly” (raspberry preserves). That “very berry jelly” is also available in the restaurant or online.

I recommend a visit.

Mother’s Restaurant
401 Poydras St,
New Orleans, LA 70130
(504) 523-9656
mothersrestaurant.net