French Quarter Shrimp Boil & Live Music

Experience a Classic NOLA Shrimp Boil with Live Entertainment in the French Quarter

The French Quarter Shrimp Boil & Live Music tour offers a unique taste of New Orleans culture for $109 per person. With an approximate duration of 1 hour and 30 minutes, this intimate experience is hosted at Mister Gregorys in the heart of the French Quarter. The tour is highly rated, with a perfect 5.0/5 from 152 reviews, and is recommended by 95% of participants. Booking tends to happen about 39 days in advance, making it a popular choice for those seeking a genuine local experience. The tour features all food included, live musical entertainment, and a licensed guide to enhance your evening.

This experience is perfect for food lovers, culture enthusiasts, and anyone eager to enjoy a private, authentic New Orleans dinner with storytelling and spectacular views from a balcony. It’s a small-group experience, with a maximum of 30 travelers, ensuring an intimate and engaging atmosphere. Since alcoholic beverages are BYOB, guests can bring their favorite drinks to fully enjoy this lively event.

The Start Point at 834 N Rampart Street in the French Quarter

The tour begins promptly at 7:00 pm at 834 N Rampart Street, a central location in the French Quarter. The meeting point is near public transportation, making it accessible for most visitors. Guests meet at Le CaBARet, a bar next door, where mingling with other attendees begins before the experience officially starts. The end point is the same as the start, returning guests to the original meeting location after the event.

This setup offers an easy, hassle-free start to an evening filled with food, music, and stories. The relatively small group size helps foster a cozy, friendly environment where everyone can interact comfortably with Mister Gregory and the other participants.

The Signature Mister Gregorys Shrimp Boil Cabaret Experience

The heart of this tour is the shrimp boil cabaret hosted by Mister Gregory, who is celebrated as an American treasure for his hospitality and storytelling. The experience is far more than just a meal; it’s a multi-course event featuring local flavors and lively live music.

Guests start with a tasting of fresh fish from Lake Pontchartrain or a blue crab appetizer, followed by alligator sausage tasting. Then, a detailed presentation about Gulf shrimp highlights the freshness and local sourcing—shrimp from local shrimping families at their docks are cooked with local sausage and a special Cajun seasoning blend. The crowning dish is the shrimp, prepared with seasonings and sausage, served hot and flavorful.

The Unique Dining Atmosphere with Balcony Views and Storytelling

The intimate setting in the French Quarter allows guests to step away from the busy tourist areas and enjoy a private dinner with balcony views. The small group size and personalized care from Mister Gregory create a warm, engaging environment.

Throughout the evening, storytelling about local customs, food traditions, and history enriches the experience. The music—described as campy and raucous—brings the lively spirit of New Orleans alive; performances ensure guests stay entertained while dining.

The Food Menu: From Fish Tasting to Signature Desserts

The menu is designed to showcase authentic local ingredients. Starting with Lake Pontchartrain fish or blue crab, guests enjoy famous alligator sausage tasting and learn about the wild-caught Gulf shrimp. The shrimp dish is cooked with local sausage and Cajun seasonings, emphasizing the region’s culinary style.

After the main course, hot towels are provided for cleanup, and the evening concludes with a signature dessert and a tasting of New Orleans-style chicory café au lait. The all food is included, so come hungry for a hearty and flavorful meal.

The Live Music and Entertainment: Adding Sparkle to the Night

The live entertainment is a highlight, with performances that enhance the festive atmosphere. The musicians bring a raucous and campy energy, perfectly complementing the storytelling and dining. The music and stories about local history and food make the night more than just a meal—it’s a culture.

Guests consistently praise the talented performers and the engaging host, who makes everyone feel part of the experience. This lively musical backdrop helps create lasting memories of the evening.

The Importance of the BYOB Policy and How to Prepare

Since alcoholic beverages are BYOB, visitors are encouraged to bring their preferred drinks to pair with the meal. This allows for a more personalized experience and the opportunity to enjoy favorite cocktails or wine during dinner. The venue does not provide alcohol, but the flexibility enhances the relaxed, celebratory atmosphere.

Guests should remember to bring their drinks in advance, and since the tour is canceled in poor weather, it’s best to check the forecast to ensure a smooth experience.

The Experience of Storytelling and Local Lore from Mister Gregory

Mister Gregory is known for his storytelling skills and local expertise. Guests appreciate how he shares family recipes like pumpkin bread pudding, along with stories about local history and customs. His passion for the food and culture shines through, making the evening feel like a private dinner with a friend.

This personal touch, combined with knowledgeable explanations of each dish, transforms the meal into an educational and heartfelt experience that truly captures the essence of New Orleans.

Group Size, Accessibility, and Booking Tips

With a maximum of 30 travelers, this tour maintains a small-group atmosphere that encourages conversation and connection. Most guests can participate, making it suitable for a wide range of visitors.

The tour begins at 7:00 pm and most bookings are made around 39 days in advance, reflecting its popularity. To secure a spot, early booking is recommended. Guests should also note that most of the experience is outdoors or on balconies, so comfortable attire and weather-appropriate clothing are advisable.

The Cost-Effectiveness of a Full Cultural Night Out

At $109 per person, the experience offers excellent value considering the all food included, live entertainment, and personalized storytelling. The reviews consistently highlight the great food, entertaining host, and authentic local vibe as key strengths.

Since alcoholic drinks are not included, guests can customize their experience with their preferred beverages, adding to the overall value.

Cancellation Policy and Planning Considerations

Guests can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancellations made less than 24 hours before the start are not eligible for refunds, so planning ahead is crucial. The tour is weather-dependent, and if canceled due to poor weather, an alternative date or full refund is offered.

This policy supports a smooth, predictable experience, allowing guests to plan their evenings with confidence.

Why This Tour Gets Consistently High Ratings

Multiple reviews praise Gregory’s hospitality, delicious food, and entertaining music. The personal storytelling and local authenticity resonate strongly, making it stand out among other experiences in New Orleans. The small-group setting fosters a friendly atmosphere, and the balcony views add a special touch.

The combination of food, music, and storytelling makes this experience a highlight for many visitors, especially those seeking an authentic, engaging night out in the French Quarter.

This tour offers a rich taste of New Orleans culture through delicious food, live music, and storytelling in a small-group, intimate setting. The price is justified by the all-inclusive menu, entertaining host, and authentic local ambiance. It’s an ideal choice for foodies, music lovers, and culture seekers who want to experience NOLA beyond the typical tourist spots.

While weather can impact the experience, the flexible cancellation policy helps plan with confidence. Guests should arrive hungry and ready to enjoy a warm, lively evening that captures the spirit and flavor of New Orleans.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, making it suitable for a wide age range. Keep in mind that the experience is lively and includes alcohol if you choose to bring it.

What should I bring?
Guests are encouraged to bring their own alcoholic beverages since it’s BYOB. Wearing weather-appropriate clothing is advisable, especially if you plan to enjoy balcony views.

How long does the experience last?
The tour runs for approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, making it a manageable evening activity.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are free up to 24 hours in advance. Cancellations within this window are not refunded.

What makes this experience stand out?
The personal storytelling, local ingredients, live music, and balcony views create a truly authentic and engaging night in New Orleans.

Are drinks included?
No, drinks are not included but are welcome to be brought by guests for a more personalized experience.

Is the venue accessible and easy to find?
Yes, the tour meeting point at 834 N Rampart Street is near public transit and easy to access in the French Quarter.

How far in advance should I book?
Most bookings are made about 39 days in advance, so early reservation is recommended for availability.