The History of the Po’ Boy

The Po’ Boy sandwich dates back to 1929 during a streetcar strike in New Orleans. The story goes that local restaurant owners, Benny and Clovis Martin, wanted to support the striking workers by giving out free sandwiches. As workers came in, the Martins would say, “Here comes another poor boy!”—which eventually led to the name Po’ Boy.

Over time, the sandwich evolved, incorporating fried seafood, roast beef with gravy, and other Southern flavours. Today, it remains one of the most famous street foods in Louisiana, served at diners, seafood shacks, and festivals across the state.

Types of Po’ Boys

Po’ Boys come in many delicious variations, with fillings ranging from seafood to slow-roasted meats. Here are some of the most popular types:

1. Fried Shrimp Po’ Boy

Crispy, golden-fried shrimp are piled high on fresh French bread and dressed with lettuce, tomatoes, pickles, and a tangy sauce.

2. Fried Oyster Po’ Boy

Juicy Louisiana oysters are battered and deep-fried to perfection, giving this Po’ Boy a rich, briny flavour.

3. Roast Beef Po’ Boy

Tender roast beef is slow-cooked in tasty gravy, creating a melt-in-your-mouth sandwich that’s messy but delicious.

4. Catfish Po’ Boy

A Southern classic, the fried catfish Po’ Boy features crispy, flaky catfish fillets seasoned with Cajun spices.

5. Surf and Turf Po’ Boy

This Po’ Boy combines fried shrimp with roast beef and gravy, giving you the best of both worlds.

What Makes a Po’ Boy Special?

French Bread – Light and airy on the inside, crispy on the outside, this bread holds up to all the fillings.

Crispy Fried Seafood – Freshly fried shrimp, oysters, or catfish give the sandwich a crunchy texture.

Tasty Roast Beef – Slow-cooked to perfection, the roast beef version is juicy and packed with Cajun flavours.

Dressed to Perfection – Traditional Po’ Boys come “dressed” with lettuce, tomatoes, pickles, and mayo.

 Signature Sauces – Many Po’ Boys include remoulade sauce, a spicy, tangy Creole mayo that adds extra flavour.

Where to Find the Best Po’ Boys in New Orleans

If you’re visiting New Orleans, you can’t leave without trying an authentic Po’ Boy. Here are some of the best places to get one:

• Domilise’s Po-Boy & Bar – A legendary family-run shop serving classic shrimp and roast beef Po’ Boys.
  
  
• Parkway Bakery & Tavern – One of the oldest Po’ Boy spots, known for its roast beef Po’ Boy with gravy.
  
  
• Killer Poboys – A modern take on the classic sandwich, offering unique fillings like lemongrass pork belly.
  
  
• Johnny’s Po-Boys – A French Quarter favorite serving huge, overstuffed Po’ Boys.
  
  
• Guy’s Po-Boys – A local gem known for its fried shrimp and oyster Po’ Boys.
  
  
  

Tips for Enjoying a Po’ Boy Like a Local

Get it fully dressed – A true New Orleans Po’ Boy comes with lettuce, tomato, pickles, and mayo.

Try different fillings – Seafood Po’ Boys are the most popular, but roast beef Po’ Boys are just as delicious!

Eat with your hands – These sandwiches can get messy, but that’s part of the fun!

Pair it with local sides – Order a side of gumbo, jambalaya, or Zapp’s potato chips for a true Louisiana meal.

Final Thoughts

The Louisiana Po’ Boy is more than just a sandwich—it’s a piece of New Orleans food history. Whether you prefer crispy shrimp, juicy roast beef, or fried oysters, this iconic street food is a must-try when visiting Louisiana. So grab a Po’ Boy, take a bite, and enjoy the bold flavours of the Big Easy!