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Port of CallBWorth Trying

Name: Port of Call
Address: 838 Esplanade Ave, New Orleans, LA 70116, New Orleans, United States
Rating: 4.5

838 Esplanade Ave, New Orleans, LA 70116 · Hamburger restaurant, American restaurant, Bar · 4.5/5 Google (6216 reviews)

Takeout · Outdoor seating

Classic New Orleans dive bar known for huge charbroiled burgers, baked potatoes, and powerful tiki-style drinks; great if you want an old-school vibe, less ideal for picky eaters or families.

Why it gets a B for overall quality

Port of Call delivers what it promises: legendary half-pound burgers and iconic tiki cocktails in a retro French Quarter dive with devoted repeat customers. Strong food quality and genuine destination appeal anchor the experience, but inconsistent burger doneness and seasoning alongside cramped seating and long waits prevent grade A territory. A solid neighborhood favorite worth experiencing for its charm and signature offerings.

Restaurant Summary

On the Esplanade edge of the Quarter, this longtime landmark feels like a warm, nautical dive where locals and visitors squeeze into dark rooms for charbroiled burgers and tiki-strength drinks. One diner put it plainly: "That half-pound patty with the potato was exactly what I needed." Space is tight and waits are common, but the vibe is retro and welcoming when the room is clicking. The cooking leans classic rather than creative: a short menu done with focus—burgers, steaks, and big baked potatoes. The Monsoon and other tropical cocktails are famous and very strong. Expect char from the grill and generous portions; seasoning is intentionally simple, which some love and others find underwhelming. If you want modern flourishes, look elsewhere; if you want old-school comfort, you are home. Families should weigh the realities: it is dark, bar-forward, with limited seating and no fries. Kids who enjoy plain burgers or a baked potato will be fine, but picky eaters may struggle. There is no kids menu and few alternatives, so consider daytime visits or plan backups nearby.

At a Glance

Legendary half-pound burgers with baked potatoes
Strong, crowd-pleasing tiki cocktails like the Monsoon
Small, dark rooms with lines and tight seating
Seasoning and doneness can be inconsistent
Creative/fusion menu - not traditional comfort food

What Sets It Apart

half_pound_burgers_with_potato
powerful_tiki_drinks
nostalgic_nautical_dive_vibe

What People Love

Massive, satisfying patties with real char
Baked potato as a hearty side
Nautical, old-school dive atmosphere
Signature Monsoon that packs a punch
Tradition—returning every trip

Points of Concern

Tight, dark space with 15–45 minute waits at peak
Burgers sometimes arrive overcooked or underseasoned
Service can feel curt or disorganized when slammed
Limited menu and no fries; minimal options for non-beef eaters
Pricing is genuinely expensive ($25+ mains) which may surprise casual diners

Service & Dining Experience

Service StyleTable Service Average Cost$32-42 per person ReservationsNot required

What to Order

Order the cheeseburger medium to balance juiciness with char
If sensitive to sweetness, choose beer or a spirit pour instead of the Monsoon

Perfect For

Casual burger-and-cocktail night
Pre- or post-Bourbon Street fuel-up
Solo bite at the bar off-peak
Nostalgic locals revisiting a landmark

Location Insights

Area: Residential edge of the French Quarter near Esplanade; classic bar vibe attracting locals and visitors.

Safety: Generally busy tourist zone; typical Quarter late-night cautions, well-trafficked streets.

Nearby: Near Bourbon Street nightlife and Marigny border; bars, music venues, and historic homes nearby.

LakeviewLakeview is characterized by its family-friendly environment and a variety of casual dining establishments, including seafood and American fare. The dining scene is approachable and popular with locals seeking comfort food and neighborhood staples, often with a laid-back, welcoming atmosphere.

Practical Information

Opening Hours

Monday11:00–22:00 Tuesday Wednesday11:00–22:00 Thursday11:00–00:00 Friday11:00–00:00 Saturday11:00–00:00 Sunday11:00–22:00

Available: Takeout, Outdoor seating

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