Café Du Monde

Overview

Café Du Monde is an iconic open-air coffee stand operating 24 hours a day since 1862. Famous for its beignets (French-style doughnuts) dusted with powdered sugar and its chicory-laced café au lait.

Highlights

• Beignets: Three pillowy beignets buried in powdered sugar — the only food item.
• Café au Lait: A blend of coffee and chicory served with hot milk.
• Open-Air Atmosphere: No walls, live street music drifting in from the Quarter.

History

The original French Market coffee stand opened in 1862 during Union occupation of New Orleans. It has never closed except during Hurricane Katrina in 2005.

Visitor Tips

• Tip 1: Go late at night or early morning to avoid the longest lines.
• Tip 2: Cash only at the original stand; card readers at satellite locations.
• Duration: 30–45 minutes.