New Orleans Food Timeline

A chronology of the history of food in the Crescent City.
Native Americans, French, Spanish, Africans, Acadians, Irish, Italians...many cultures have and still influence the food of New Orleans. This timeline is an attempt to honor the food, the restaurants, and the people who contributed to this history..

How ya like dem ersters, Mr. President?

President Franklin Roosevelt visited New Orleans in 1937 to dedicate Works Progress Administration additions and improvements. While dining at Antoine's during this trip Mayor Maistri, seated next to him, asked, "How ya like dem erster, Mr. President" ("How do you like those oysters...?)".