George Bernard Shaw once said, “There is no love sincerer than the love of food.”

Whether or not you agree with Mr. Shaw, it is an indisputable fact that no place loves its food as sincerely—or as indulgently—as New Orleans. Some people eat to live, but New Orleanians live to eat. As a result, the city offers one of the most incredible—and incredibly diverse—concentrations of exceptional dining and unforgettable cuisine in the world.

New Orleans is home to more than 1,000 restaurants, including such renowned culinary treasures as Galatoire’s, Emeril’s, Arnaud’s, Commander’s Palace, Emeril’s Delmonico, Bayona, Herbsaint, Restaurant August, G.W. Fin’s, Bacco, The Grill Room, Palace Cafe, Lilette, Brigsten’s, K-Paul’s, Cuvee, NOLA, Bourbon House, Broussard’s, Mr. B’s Bistro, and Antoine’s.

In addition, visitors have discovered many of the city’s favorite neighborhood hot spots such as Mother’s, Casamento’s, Ralph’s on the Park, Clancy’s, Jacques-Imo’s, Upperline, Acme Oyster House, Gumbo Shop, Cafe du Monde, Muriel’s, Tujague’s, Tommy’s, and Pascal’s Manale.

Guests to New Orleans will find famed classic French, Italian, and Spanish restaurants that remain unceasingly faithful to their roots; some of the industry’s brightest and most innovative rising stars, serving their own unique versions of what is collectively known as New Orleans Fusion; and, of course, the city’s signature Cajun and Creole dishes. In addition, they shouldn’t overlook the surprising selection of other exotic cuisines, including exceptional Latin, Mediterranean, and Asian variations that make their own delicious contributions to this gourmet’s paradise.

Wherever you choose to eat in New Orleans, prepare your palate to fall in love: there’s never been a better time to dine in New Orleans, and your table awaits.