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Cooter Brown's TavernB+Worth Trying
509 S Carrollton Ave, New Orleans, LA 70118
· Oyster bar restaurant, American restaurant, Bar & grill
· 4.5/5 Google (2298 reviews)
Takeout · Outdoor seating
Lively Uptown sports tavern with standout oysters, loaded fries, and one of the city’s deeper beer lists; order at counters, expect crowds and occasional service rough edges.
Why it gets a B+ for overall quality
Cooter Brown's Tavern delivers solid neighborhood bar-and-grill performance anchored by strong food quality—particularly fresh oysters and signature po-boys—and knowledgeable service from bartenders and shuckers. Reliable execution on core menu items and a loyal regular following reinforce its standing as a respected local institution. However, inconsistent attentiveness in the counter-service model and rustic but unpolished decor keep it from reaching higher territory—it excels as a casual sports bar and oyster destination rather than a destination dining experience.
Restaurant Summary
Just off the St. Charles streetcar in Riverbend, this old-school tavern hums with lively game-day energy, extensive taps, and an oyster bar where shuckers work in plain view. A reviewer captured it well: "Fresh oysters, friendly pours, and a room buzzing with regulars." The decor is a time capsule of carved faces and neon, and the counter-service flow keeps things casual. In the kitchen, the cooking stays true to comforting New Orleans pub fare: hefty po-boys, loaded beer-battered fries, burgers, and that cult-favorite Irish Channel corned beef. The focus is ingredients over flash, especially at the oyster bar. Expect crowd-pleasing flavors more than culinary theatrics, with a beer list deep enough for enthusiasts and plenty of late-night sustenance when other kitchens go dark. Families do fine here thanks to kid-friendly staples like chicken tenders, burgers, and fries. Seafood fans can branch into shrimp or catfish baskets, while cautious eaters will find simple options. There is no dedicated kids menu noted, but portions run generous and the vibe is relaxed; just avoid peak kickoff times if you need quieter tables.
At a Glance
- Freshly shucked oysters with popular half-price Tuesday special
- Deep beer selection with helpful staff for tastings
- Irish Channel corned beef sandwich and loaded fries are crowd favorites
- Counter-service model can feel impersonal; occasional rude interactions reported
- Seafood and oyster items are pricier; some note portion changes over time
What Sets It Apart
- deep_beer_selection
- oyster_bar_at_counter
- streetcar_endpoint_convenience
What People Love
- That first briny oyster shucked at the bar
- A beer list with both local favorites and rarities
- Hefty corned beef on the Irish Channel
- Fries that satisfy late-night cravings
- A no-frills, familiar neighborhood vibe
Points of Concern
- Pricing on oyster and seafood items can surprise first-timers; full meals land in the low-to-mid $40s
- Service varies with crowds; a few reports of brusque or inattentive interactions
- Portion and preparation changes over the years (e.g., fries style) noted by long-time patrons
- Hygiene complaints appear in isolated older reviews; not a consistent pattern but worth awareness
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleCounter With Seating
Average Cost$32-48 per person
ReservationsNot required
What to Order
- Seafood fans: Shrimp or Catfish Basket ($17.5-18.75) offers value versus the pricier Oyster Basket ($32).
- Share Loaded Fries ($16) plus a sandwich (Irish Channel $14.5) for a filling, cost-efficient duo.
- For vegetarians, the Veggie Burger ($13) and Large House Salad ($11) make a satisfying combo.
Perfect For
- Catching a Saints game with friends
- Streetcar-endpoint oyster and beer stop
- Casual late-night eats
- Solo bar bite with a great tap list
Location Insights
Area: Uptown Riverbend hub by St. Charles streetcar, student and local mix, casual bar scene.
Safety: Generally safe, well-trafficked corridor near universities; typical urban late-night awareness advised.
Nearby: Steps from St. Charles streetcar, near Tulane and Loyola, bars and cafes cluster around Riverbend.
CarrolltonCarrollton is a well-established neighborhood characterized by its tree-lined streets, historic homes, and a strong sense of community. The dining scene here is casual and eclectic, with a variety of bars, grills, and local eateries that cater to both locals and visitors seeking a relaxed atmosphere with Southern and Creole influences.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday11:00–01:00
Tuesday11:00–01:00
Wednesday11:00–01:00
Thursday11:00–01:00
Friday11:00–01:00
Saturday11:00–01:00
Sunday11:00–01:00
Available: Takeout, Outdoor seating
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