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New Orleans › Magazine Street › Maïs Arepas
Maïs ArepasA-Worth Trying
1200 Carondelet St, New Orleans, LA 70130
· Colombian restaurant, Restaurant
· 4.6/5 Google (1960 reviews)
Reservations · Takeout
Destination for Colombian arepas and hearty plates with lively vibes; excellent flavors and gluten-free corn focus, but expect waits, service inconsistencies, and premium pricing for larger plates.
Why it gets an A- for overall quality
Maïs Arepas delivers exceptional food quality with standout arepas and bold Colombian-inspired cooking that earns strong loyalty and repeat visits. Service shows warmth and attentiveness from standout staff, though inconsistent speed during busy periods and space constraints prevent grade A territory. The restaurant excels at what it does—vibrant, produce-forward Latin fare in an appealing setting—but operational friction during peak times keeps it from reaching the highest tier.
Restaurant Summary
The small room hums with lively Latin energy, bright decor, and the aroma of grilled corn masa. Servers like Alex and Norma earn warm shout‑outs, though a few guests hit slow patches at peak times. One diner raved that the arepas were "perfectly crisp with generous fillings," and called it their trip favorite. Cooking leans Colombian at heart with New Orleans accents: crisp arepas, citrusy ceviche, and hearty Ajiaco share space with premium steaks and vibrant sauces. It is not rigidly traditional, more produce-forward and modern than old-school, which suits adventurous eaters and cocktail lovers seeking bold flavors. Families do well here thanks to the naturally gluten-free corn base, simple grilled meats, and a Veggie arepa. There is no kids menu noted, but straightforward items like Pollo Griliao, yuca fries, and sweet plantain sides tend to land with younger palates.
At a Glance
- Standout arepas with crisp masa and balanced fillings
- Naturally gluten-free menu with good options
- Lively ambiance and attractive plating
- Slow service and long waits during busy periods
- Premium pricing on large plates and reported fees
What Sets It Apart
- corn-arepa focus with gluten-free base
- Colombian classics with New Orleans accents
- small, lively dining room
What People Love
- Crisp, generous arepas
- Fresh, citrus-bright ceviche
- Warm, personable servers
- Hearty Ajiaco and shareable brochettes
Points of Concern
- Service can be slow or uneven during events and peak nights
- Pricing feels high on certain mains and reported automatic fees surprise some guests
- Very small room with limited waiting space; reservations advised
- Some authenticity critiques; flavors lean modern rather than strictly traditional
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost$44-62 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- Pair Maiz de la Rueda ($11) with a Cerda arepa ($17) for a balanced light meal
- For a full dinner, share an entrada, pick different arepas, and close with Tres Leches ($11)
Perfect For
- A casual date with Latin cocktails
- Gluten-free diners craving hearty options
- Small group arepa feast
- Adventurous travelers near the Warehouse District
Location Insights
Area: Trendy corridor between CBD and Lower Garden District, popular with visitors and locals, near bars and boutique hotels.
Safety: Generally busy and well-lit with regular foot traffic; typical urban caution at night.
Nearby: Near St. Charles Ave streetcar, museums, galleries, and nightlife; walkable to Convention Center area.
Central Business DistrictThe Central Business District offers a dynamic dining scene ranging from casual eateries to upscale restaurants, reflecting the city's rich culinary heritage. The area is lively with a mix of business activity during the day and vibrant nightlife in the evenings, making it a popular destination for diverse crowds.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday
Tuesday11:30–14:30, 17:30–22:00
Wednesday11:30–14:30, 17:30–22:00
Thursday11:30–14:30, 17:30–22:00
Friday11:30–14:30, 17:30–22:00
Saturday11:30–14:30, 17:30–22:00
Sunday17:00–21:30
Available: Reservations, Takeout
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