It’s hard to utter the words, “New Orleans” without conjuring up visions of Café du Monde’s beignets. Accompanied by a hot cup of café au lait and you will be enjoying a timeless classic established since the original Café du Monde stand first opened in 1862 in the New Orleans French Market.
What is a beignet? Some describe them as a “French-style doughnuts” because they are deep-fried dough. However, unlike most donuts they are square, very puffy and light. They are also not as sweet. This characteristic is more than compensated by the mountain of powdered sugar which is served on top. Ultimately, like any food, words do not do it justice. You must try a beignet to know a beignet.
Menu and Pricing Guide
The menu at this traditional coffee shop has not changed much since it first started. Dark roasted coffee served Black or Au Lait (half black, half hot milk) and orders of their famous beignets are still the delicacies most seen dressing up the small round tables scattered in the large outside eating area.
Your First Visit: What to Expect
A large white and green striped canopy fends off the hot sun, but does little to keep the summer humidity away. For that, guests can sit indoors where the air conditioning is blasting or partake in Iced Coffee or soft drinks which were introduced in 1988.
The last time I savored a beignet was pre-Katrina and BP oil spill. I had flown into “The Big Easy” as a speaker for a technology conference.
This time around, I wasn’t sure what to expect when I landed in New Orleans. I had read reports of both disasters on the news, but know well enough that much is lost in translation between media coverage and actually being on the ground. Folks I chatted with at the airport and on the plane noted that the heart of New Orleans, where I would be going, is restored to pretty much the way it has always been. One woman that lives in a town outside of New Orleans noted the latest BP oil spill has really impacted surrounding smaller towns and villages in Louisiana which are along the coast and had depended on the fishing for economic survival.
When I landed, I marveled how everything in New Orleans was just as I remembered it…especially Bourbon Street…and of course, the beignets. A fresh order of 3 beignets will set you back $2.14. I ordered a small café au lait and split 2 orders of beignet among three of us.
The beignets arrive piping hot and fresh. The outside has a nice crispness to it and the inside is soft, moist and chewy.
My favorite part of the beignet are the four corners of the square. I enjoy cautiously balancing some powder sugar on them as I attempt to avoid any accidents transporting the sweet doughy goodness to my perked up taste buds. I am reminded of how difficult such a task is by the floor of the cafe which is covered in a thin layer of white powdered sugar from all the previous failed attempts. The small white plates which are barely large enough to contain the three beignet do not help.
I had to pair these beignets with a hot cup of café au lait even though the weather was hot and humid. My companions, with plenty more common sense, order the iced coffee which they really enjoy and decided to swing by Cafe du Monde for it before departing on a plane.
Best Times to Visit and Insider Tips
As I relish my beignets, I watch the world go by. Sure, I can make these at home, but for the complete experience, you must devour them while surrounded by New Orleans and the Café du Monde.
Frequently Asked Questions
What do beignets taste like?
Beignets have a crisp, golden exterior and a light, airy interior that’s soft and slightly chewy. They’re not overly sweet, but the thick dusting of powdered sugar adds just the right hit of indulgence. Imagine a cloud crossed with a croissant, deep-fried and blessed by a sugar fairy.
Are beignets the same as donuts?
Not quite. While both are deep-fried dough, beignets are typically square, puffier, and lack glazes or fillings. They’re French in origin, with a more minimalist texture—crispy edges, pillowy centers, and mountains of powdered sugar. Donuts are often denser and come in a wider variety of styles.
What is Café du Monde known for?
Café du Monde is world-famous for its beignets and café au lait. Located in the New Orleans French Market since 1862, it’s a cultural landmark where powdered sugar practically rains from the ceiling, and locals and tourists alike gather day and night for a taste of sweet tradition.
Can I get Café du Monde coffee at home?
Yes. Café du Monde sells its signature coffee and chicory blend in cans and single-serve pods. It's available online, in many grocery stores, and at the original café. Pair it with homemade beignets (if you dare) for a DIY version of the French Quarter experience.
How many beignets come in an order?
A standard order at Café du Monde comes with three beignets. They’re freshly fried and served piping hot, typically buried in so much powdered sugar you’ll need a napkin—and possibly a small broom.
What is café au lait, and how is it served at Café du Monde?
Café au lait is half dark roasted coffee and half hot milk. At Café du Monde, it’s made with coffee blended with chicory, giving it a rich, earthy taste that perfectly balances the sweetness of the beignets.
Is Café du Monde open 24 hours?
Yes, the original location is famously open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week—except for Christmas Day and the occasional hurricane. You can literally satisfy your beignet cravings at midnight or at sunrise.
What’s the best time to visit Café du Monde?
Early mornings are ideal to avoid long lines. Weekends and afternoons tend to be busy, especially during festival season. For a more relaxed visit, try midweek mornings—or lean into the chaos and enjoy the buzz of the crowd.
Can I take beignets to-go?
Absolutely. Everything on the Café du Monde menu is available for takeout. Just know that the powdered sugar will find a way onto your lap, bag, and possibly your soul.
Are there other Café du Monde locations?
Yes, while the original is in the French Market, there are satellite locations in malls and airports around Louisiana. Still, nothing beats the ambiance—and powdered sugar–covered floors—of the original.