I can really only speak on the "Muffuletta" here as it is the only reason I came. If you have never had one you absolutely must. I suggest a half and I split that with my husband. They do pre-make them as on user mentioned, but its a Muffuletta. There is only one way to make and eat that. If you want a sandwich you can customize you might want to go to a different spot. They had some pre made deserts as well. If you want an authentic Muffuletta then here is your place to go! It has a small section in the back to sit and eat your sandwich. It's a deli not a diner so the seating is not super fancy. They have bathrooms for customers and it's the best Muffuletta you can eat. Well worth the trip. read more

Central Grocery & Deli - Grocery Near Me - New Orleans, Louisiana

Interesting sandwich. Premade so can't do any adjustments. The bread is good. It's a good size- 3 of us snacked one a half. $30 for a full size/ $15 for half. We just opted for the $15. We enjoyed the snack between the 3 of us but I don't think it's worth it to be honest. It was good to try at least once. The store itself sold some select items and had a small eating section in the back that were counters. Bathrooms were super small. read more

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My son and I did a food tour in New Orleans and this was one of the last stops. It was the best food we had on the whole tour. Yes it's a small Italian deli and shop but it's also the home of the original muffuletta sandwich, opening in 1906. I hate olives, but I was converted by this sandwich. It's the perfect ratio and the bread is simply exquisite. If you're in New Orleans, you must stop here. read more

Really good muffuletta! The service was so friendly. The artichoke balls were interesting in a good way and loved the recommendation from the clerk to eat them heated. read more

Central Grocery & Deli - Mug - Grocery Near Me - New Orleans, Louisiana

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Everyone was super nice and place was super clean. I tried the muffuletta because you have to try one if you're in NOLA apparently. It was good at first but it gradually became the saltiest thing I have ever eaten. It's not their fault that's just how a muffuletta is but dang. It looked so perfect like a krabby patty though so that was neat. read more

Central Grocery & Deli - Original Muffuletta - Grocery Near Me - New Orleans, Louisiana

Central Grocery is definitely one of those classic. It's a Food Network stops in the French Quarter that catches your attention right away. I stopped in but did not actually try the food this time. They were busy filming a commercial or something. That said, everything looked great, and the place has the kind of reputation and visual appeal that makes you understand why so many people want to check it out. Even without ordering, it felt like a worthwhile stop just to see a well-known New Orleans food destination up close. I would be open to going back and trying it next time. read more

Central Grocery & Deli - Grocery Near Me - New Orleans, Louisiana

Old fashioned muffuletta from Central Grocery is ALWAYS awesome. I've been going here for years and have never had a disappointment. Sadly, road construction has caused the business to suffer a bit, but it didn't affect me at all. Every time I go to New Orleans, this is the one place that is on my places to stop. I buy several, ferry them home, vacuum seal, and freeze them until I need to go back for more. I have never found another's place like Central Grocery nor their muffuletta. I highly recommend you pay a visit. read more

My tour guide recommended this deli saying they have the best muffuletta in town. So I had to try it! The grocery market has lots of jarred preserved peppers and olive tapenades. The wooden shelves were stacked high. The deli was a very casual grocery with seating in the back. The deli menu is just the muffuletta and drinks. We tried the half sandwich for two people. The line had a very short wait and the sandwich was ready immediately. You just order at the register and then seat yourself. The sandwich has a really generous portion sized and paired well with the Zapps voodoo chips. The chips were awesome! Sweet and sour mostly. The sandwich was tasty, pretty oily/heavy, and pretty salty. Although I enjoyed the sandwich and thought it kind of tasted like a deconstructed pizza, my boyfriend felt it was too oily and salty overall. We managed to find some small seating in rows in the back with napkins and hot sauce available. Overall, I'd say it's worth trying the muffuletta here to grab a quick bite since it's super fast and convenient. read more

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Great deli for all ages.. it's a Giant sandwich that is pre cut in quarters and it's so good.. Muffuletta is amazing sandwich! A must try when in NOLA read more

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I guess we just lucked out cuz no line when we went! But $30 for a whole and $15 for a half ?!?! The sandwich was good but I doubt I will go back there for it. One and done here. Limited seating. Tiny bathrooms. read more

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Honestly, better than expected. I'm not a fan of olives, but I actually really enjoyed this sandwich! They're hugeeeemy husband and I got half of the original mufaletta. It was the perfect portion for both of us. Each half was like a whole sandwhich already. It was $15.99 which wasn't terrible for the portion you receive. I don't even remember the service. It was just a checkout line lol. It's a super casual spot with actual items you can purchase in the store. Overall, I'd totally get this again! read more

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Central grocery is one of the classic places to visit while you are in New Orleans. Around lunchtime, it's always crowded, but it has a pretty efficient system for cycling people through. When I arrived, it was so crowded I thought I would never find a place to sit inside, but by the time I got my sandwich, there were several places available. As for ambience, don't count on it being a relaxing gourmet experience. There is plenty of seating, at long, crowded tables that remind me of study carols in the library. But it was cold outside, so I was glad to not have to get my sandwich to go. They only sell half or whole sandwiches, and even a half is huge. As I sat, I ate half of my half and was full. I was not especially impressed by my sandwich at the time. I wished that it was warm or at least not cold. The flavors had not had time to meld. It was huge and relatively tasty, but I didn't like it as much as the last one I've had in Galveston, or the sandwiches I can get anytime from Schlotzsky's in Austin. I carried away my second quarter sandwich, stuck it in the fridge for a few days, carried it around in my backpack for hours, and then ate it - - and I liked that version better than the first one. In any case, it is a quintessential, New Orleans experience, and I would recommend it. read more

Central Grocery & Deli - The classic - Grocery Near Me - New Orleans, Louisiana

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Every trip to NOLA must include a stop at Central Grocery for me. It's a classic place with a great atmosphere for enjoying one of the best sandwiches ever created. The staff is friendly and always efficient. Even when they're busy, the lines moves very quickly. read more

Central Grocery & Deli - Grocery Near Me - New Orleans, Louisiana

The place is excellent, the sandwich was really good something different and ambiance felt like a warm neighborhood store

On the third floor of the canal place mall. It's very small and just sits in the food court. The muffaletta sandwiches delicious. Could have been more generous with the meat but still tastes really good. The bread was soft and the relish was nice and salty. A 1/4 sandwich cost me $8.00. read more

Central Grocery & Deli - muffaletta - Grocery Near Me - New Orleans, Louisiana

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Not only is this a great grocery store with oils, olives, sauces, and canned goods, but this deli also offers the famed muffulettas. I came in and ordered a half, which is very thoughtful. Mine was ready, so I didn't had to wait. On previous visits, I've waited, but now they're ready to go, and that is progress. I cannot comment on anything else, I have only eaten muffulettas here, and they are really good. read more

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Stopped here twice on our visit to NO. The second stop we took on our flight home and munched it on a layover. The bread is awesome, the olive mix fabulous, and the mix of meats and cheese tasty. Interesting news article posted shared how this grocery only reopened one year ago after storm damage. read more

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I know I am the outlier with this review but if I am being honest, the Muffuletta at Central Grocer was just ok. The meat was super fresh and the olive spread was good but the bread seemed a little stale. It wasn't super busy (surprisingly) but they had tons of sandwiches premade so I think even if it was, it would have been quick. They have a small counter space to eat at which is nice. The muffuletta here is served cold and the smallest you can get is 1/2 so keep that in mind. read more

Central Grocery & Deli - Original Muffuletta - Grocery Near Me - New Orleans, Louisiana

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Visited Central Grocery & Deli while in New Orleans. The atmosphere was casual and nostalgic, with that unmistakable old-school Italian deli vibe the moment you walk in -- aromatic, lively, and full of history. This legendary spot is famous for inventing the Muffuletta, and it lives up to the reputation. Tried the Muffuletta sandwich -- perfectly balanced, with salty, savory cured meats layered against a briny, oily olive salad, all packed into classic muffuletta bread. Simple, bold flavors that just work. Overall, a fun stop and a must-visit for food lovers and first-timers in New Orleans. Saluti read more

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I mean, what else is there to say. You want a muffuletta, this is THE spot, it's that simple. Walk in, wait in line, choose half or whole, heck, get both, pay the cashier, consume, be happy. It's nice that they're back open, absolutely worth stopping in. If you're traveling, make sure on the day you're leaving to pick one up to bring home, they stay for a good day or two. read more

Central Grocery & Deli - This is a half, the whole is great. - Grocery Near Me - New Orleans, Louisiana

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I was so glad this place reopened after a brief hiatus. I've been to NOLA so many times but have never tried the original muffaleta. Trust me the bread was the best I've ever had on this sandwich. The meats were perfectly balanced with the homemade olive tapenade. We split a half it was just enough for the perfect taste. This place isn't fancy so expect a diner experience. It's definitely worth stopping but they don't have long hours so get there early read more

Central Grocery & Deli - The infamous muffaleta - Grocery Near Me - New Orleans, Louisiana

Every trip to New Orleans means one thing for me, a stop at Central Grocery for their legendary muffuletta. They are not just the original, they are still the best in town. On my most recent visit, I was actually getting married in New Orleans, so naturally, I had to share this local icon with my groomsmen. I swung by right when they opened at 9am, picked up three whole sandwiches, and we had a muffuletta feast back at the hotel. Needless to say, everyone was hooked. What sets Central Grocery apart is all in the details, the bread and the olive salad. The sesame loaf has that perfect texture, crisp on the outside, soft inside, and it holds up beautifully to all the fillings. And that olive salad is absolutely unmatched. It is crunchy, briny, and full of flavor, the kind of combination that makes you crave it long after you have left town. I was so happy to see the shop reopened after the hurricane damage a few years ago, and it is comforting that the inside feels the same as always, simple, nostalgic, and filled with charm. The staff are friendly, efficient, and have everything ready to go so you never have to wait long. This is a true New Orleans staple, and I cannot imagine visiting the city without stopping here. Pro tip, grab an extra one for the flight home, the sandwiches hold up perfectly and taste just as good later. Central Grocery will forever be a must stop for me. read more

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It's a very niche store. They focus heavily on the muffuletta, as they should, because it's delicious. Seriously. I could eat that olive salad with a spoon. The line stretched to the door, but we were out and headed to Jackson Square with our sandwich in less than 20 minutes. (So much better than sitting in the deli!). Inside you'll find a few spaces to eat your sandwich, with some chairs. The dining space is kind of an afterthought. Definitely take it to go and watch some street musicians. The bread holds up to the cold cuts and olive tapenade. We ordered 1.5 sandwiches and didn't even crack open the half sandwich, 2 adults, 2 teenagers, and one kid. We also shared a pistachio cheesecake, which was delicious. I'd eat this sandwich any day. So. Good. read more

Seriously.. This is one of the best sandwiches I have ever had! And I used to work at a pretty great one... The tapenade to the meat and the cheese is sublime! If you are in the area this is a must try! The people are nice and it is filled with southern hospitality! But seriously the sandwich is so so good. (Considering getting a small tattoo of it lol) Dan & Lexi read more

Central Grocery & Deli - Original Muffuletta - Grocery Near Me - New Orleans, Louisiana

Came in for the muffuletta. Bought the half, which was huge. Really good, but cold. There were heating instructions on the package, but that doesn't help if you are festival hopping all day. Not sure they can warm them up for you, but the service wasn't offered. read more

(10/07/2026) Call it a tourist trap if you want, but the Muffaletta I bought here may have been the tastiest bite I've enjoyed in my two & a half days in New Orleans. The bread was fresh, the cheese and meat were exactly what you'd want them to be, and the olive salad pushed it over the top! The store wasn't particularly special in itself; it was clean, and gave vibes of a traditional country store. The clerk was extremely friendly and accommodating. read more

Central Grocery & Deli - Muffaletta - Grocery Near Me - New Orleans, Louisiana

That Muffaletta from Central Grocery is (according to our tour guide) the original Muffaletta in New Orleans. It was really amazing. The olive salad on top of the sandwich was pickled to perfection. The meats and bread were a perfect combination. I can't recommend this place enough. Definitely a "must eat" in the French Quarter. Small place but still easy to find a seat and the people working there really know how to put out sandwiches quickly. read more

Central Grocery & Deli - Grocery Near Me - New Orleans, Louisiana

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This place is definitely worth the hype! I had been wanting to try a real New Orleans Muffuletta my entire life and I finally did! I ordered a half and it kept me full all day! All day I tell you! And it was super delicious. I had a feeling I was going to love it, that I bought a jar of olive salad so I could make it at home. And although I don't have access to the bread used in New Orleans, I can come pretty close to making it ALMOST legit. From the second you walk in, you are amazed by the old world charm from how the deli and grocery section is organized and the layout of both. Employees here are super nice and seem to enjoy working here. This was an easy 5 stars for me! read more

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If you want an authentic Muffuletta locals will send you straight to Central Grocery. Fact is, the sandwich was invented here. This historic deli has been closed since being damaged by Hurricane Ida in 2021, so no doubt it's re-opening in December 2024 was a joyous occasion. Tommy Tusa, a third-generation owner of this family run business, did a great job with the remodel. Inside you'll find sauces, spices, mixes, spreads, and so much more. The name Muffuletta was derived from the bread it is served on - a Sicilian style loaf that is soft, round, flat, and covered with sesame seeds. The sandwich is layered with Olive Salad, Genoa Salami, Ham, Mortadella, Provolone, and Swiss cheese. A whole sandwich is huge and can be shared. A half serving is also generous. The sandwich is also meant to be served cold. For the record, this is the only sandwich you can order here. When friends come to visit, I bring them here. I also buy a jar of their signature olive salad for home because it's addicting and most likely the secret ingredient that make the Central Grocery Muffuletta so special. read more

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My first time in NOLA and husband wanted me to try Muffuletta - it's an Itallian bread with sesame seeds, brushed with olive oil, salami, mortadella, provolone cheese, swiss cheese, and signature olive spread. I enjoyed every bite of this rich-flavored sandwich. I also bought a few canned goods and goodies to bring home. This Italian deli/grocery store has been around since 1906. So, if you are visiting NOLA, don't forget to check this place out! read more

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Recently my wife and I were in New Orleans and one of our bucket list items was to visit Central Grocery and have one of their original muffaletta sandwiches. The store was founded in 1906 by Salvatore Lupo, a Sicilian immigrant who is famous for creating the muffuletta. It's an Italian grocery store through and through. The minute you walk through the doors, you start salivating/drooling due to the delicious smells wafting through the air. We were in heaven. If there is an Italian condiment you're looking for, they'll have it. There were pastas on the shelves that I'd never heard of. My wife and I ordered a 1/2 of a muffuletta cut into so each of us could have 1/4th of the sandwich. We added chips and a bottled soft drink to round out our Jackson Square lunch date in "The Big Easy." I have had muffalettas previously at different delis but when I bit into "the original" from Central Grocery, I had never tasted any muffaletta like what was "dancing" in my mouth. It was packed full of freshly sliced meats and cheeses plus freshly baked bread all topped with their famous Italian Olive salad. Oh my, what an incredible sandwich. Grab napkins, it can get messy, that's part of the fun. At the back of the store, there are nice tables and stools to sit, take a load off your feet and enjoy and incredible sandwich. Thank you, thank you, thank you for the opportunity to enjoy the original muffaletta. Happy, happy, happy! read more

Central Grocery & Deli - Muffuletta time, the original and the best. - Grocery Near Me - New Orleans, Louisiana

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Home of the OG "Muffuletta" - The monstrous sandwich that is absolutely shareable with everyone in your party and absolutely worth every penny. I tried my first muffuletta about 5 years ago in Florida and was taken back by the size of this sandwich. So much so, when visiting NOLA I was willing to walk 3 miles and fight off buskers just to get to this beauty. I don't regret it one bit. You have got to try this sandwich. In addition, the store has various meats, cheeses, and other items for sale- you can even purchase the "olive salad" (what comes on the sandwich) so you can take it home and make your own! Funny part is, I've never liked olives my entire life but this sandwich, this... Goddess of a sandwich... is the only exception. Even my kid who hates olives loved this thing. You cannot go wrong here! read more

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Strolled in at 1145a, perfect timing, short line and nice peeps. Picked up a whole sandwich: lunch and dinner were set! I had the first half right away and took the second half on the flight back. The second half was even better! The olive salad brine worked its way into the bread and gave it a salty boost of flavor. I highly recommend letting the sandwich warm up to room temperature allowing all the layers of flavor to coalesce. read more

I love their muffulettas that they are famous for. I didn't realize they were closed for three years due to damage from Hurricane Ida and they just reopened a year ago. Thank goodness! I have eaten here every time I visit. The soft and fresh bread is the key. We ordered a half and split it ($15) - not cheap but well worth it. It was delicious! This time of year it was less busy so no line for a late lunch. They have just a small area to dine-in. Please never close! read more

I have heard about the muffuletta for years so I had to get it. You know, when in Rome... It was pretty good. It's fun to say. It is kinda just a cold cut sandwich with tapenade, but worth trying. Cool old-school deli vibe at the seating area. If you are there you might as well get a muffuletta. read more

They're going to a wedding across from the French market is the home of the buffaloes. The famous sandwich with lots of cold cuts cheese and they're famous olive spread. They say Cell all of it here and make sandwiches in the back. read more

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Iconic New Orleans spot. A must-try the original muffuletta--quality ingredients shine in every bite. Great small Italian grocery selection too. Essential visit while in the city. read more

Central Grocery & Deli - Half Muffuletta - Grocery Near Me - New Orleans, Louisiana

On my last day in NOLA, I ran over to Central Grocery to bring my hubby a muffaletta back home. The muffaleta sandwich was about $20, and what was great about it is that it was already pre-packed with instructions on how to reheat if necessary. I was able to take the sandwich back home, no questions. I warmed it up and my husband was able to enjoy it immediately. I will say that although it is probably the most popular place to grab a muffaletta, it wasn't my all time fave. I will also say that if you plan on eating the muffaletta later, please be sure to warm it upespecially if you're not refrigerating it on a flight back home. read more

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Great Muffuletta! Seating in the back. Lots of groceries to look at and buy. Super friendly staff!

Vacationers, put this place near the top of your list especially if you are a sandwich lover like me. Us Southerners love a good sammie. We were with a tour group with about 16 folks. We took up any and all open eating spaces with our arrival. Our tour group leader had pre-ordered for the group, so we didn't have to wait it the line. He gave us each a quarter of a Muffuletta and that was enough, trust me. There were 2 ladies seated next to us and they had ordered a whole one. They were struggling to finish it off. On our way out the door, we bought a 16oz jar of the Hot & Spicy Italian Olive Salad used on the Muffuletta. There is also a mild version. That is the most delicious and useful souvenir we ever brought home. I've checked on Amazon and they have it. A perfect stocking stuffer saved to my Amazon list. I won't post a photo since there are 2K+ of them already. Enough! read more