Central Grocery and Deli

923 Decatur St, New Orleans
(504) 523-1620

Recent Reviews

C. Chapman

Muffuletta is outstanding. Can't leave NOLA without one to bring home

Eddy Parker

Our story now takes us here to Central Grocery at 923 Decatur Street in the French Quarter.In 1906, Mr. Salvatore Lupo, the founder of this store, is credited with creating the first muffaletta sandwich.Italian Farmers and workers at the near by French Market were frequent customers at Central Grocery purchasing muffuletto bread, cold cuts, olives, and cheese .This inspired Mr. Lupo to assemble these ingredients into a convenient sandwich. Initially unnamed, the sandwich eventually adopted the bread's moniker.The muffaletta trend spread, with vendors like Frank Di Nicola, known as the "muffuletto man," selling sandwiches from street to street.This culinary creation, though embodying Italian spirit, does not have an equivalent in Italy, showcasing the unique fusion of Sicilian traditions in New Orleans.Central Grocery was badly damaged by Hurricane Ida in 2021 and is undergoingextensive repairs. They have resumed making their famous Muffulettas and have them available for purchase at local locations.Muffulettas are also available for nationwide delivery through their friends at Goldbelly. I’ll leave a link in the descriptions for you to obtain this list for yourself.So what does the original Muffuletta taste like?I picked up my muffuletta at Sidney’s Wine Cellar, located next door to Central Grocery. These muffulettas sell out quickly in the day so don’t wait too long to get yours! Priced at $30 for a whole sandwich, they're worth every penny.Packaged to maintain freshness, these muffulettas boast a standout feature: the bread. Baked fresh and of impeccable quality, it serves as the perfect vessel for the legendary combination of olive salad, deli meats, and cheeses.Swiss and provolone cheeses are expertly layered alongside generous portions of meats, ensuring a flavor-packed experience.With its ample size, one muffuletta easily satisfies four hungry diners.Widely acclaimed as one of the best in the city, Central Grocery sets the standard for authentic muffulettas. Don't miss out—make sure to stop by and savor this delectable sandwich for yourself.

Will Squyres

Can’t beat the OG!

Craig Comito

Best muffuletta in the world! Always get when in NOLA.

Beth Freudenburg

Central Grocery is currently closed. You can still buy their Muffaleta sandwiches next door at Sibley’s. Just ask at the register.

Greg Murray

Closed. Never Reopened After Hurricane Damage.

Firegal

Closed. Store is empty and a sign saying to buy muffulotta next door. Next door there's a sign saying that they are out of muffulotta's. Don't waste your time. This place has no intention of reopening

David Marcou II

I'm sure everyone says this but you definitely have to try this sandwich! Very good!!

Sabrina Martorelli

Best Muffuletta in the entire world! Must try!

Will Bradford

Muffuletta was fine, I guess. The $30 price tag is ridiculous. Your money is way better spent other places. Also if you have to get it from the liquor store next door the ladies there were some of the rudest people I have met in my life

Gordon Edwards

Olive dressing and muffeletta are still the best around. The store is still under construction on the interior and doesn't look like they are close to reopening. They should consider an update to the exterior, it looks ratty.

Arnold d

Had to get an original Mufuletta. It did not disappoint.

Matthew Clemmons-Mitchell

Beautiful Facility!!! Well done NOLA!!!

Vivíssima

Classic place

Jay Reid

It is closed and according to the shop beside them has been for two years. I did not buy the muffuletta from the shop next door as I did not feel the experience would be the same.

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