Cafe Beignet, Royal Street

Cafe Beignet on Royal Street offers families a slightly quieter French Quarter alternative to the famous Cafe Du Monde, serving up fluffy, powdered-sugar-covered beignets that kids absolutely adore. With both indoor seating and charming outdoor courtyard tables, it's a perfect spot to fuel up before exploring the Quarter or take a mid-morning break from sightseeing with tired little ones.

• ✓Fresh, hot beignets served with mountains of powdered sugar
• ✓Charming courtyard seating perfect for families
• ✓Authentic New Orleans café au lait and hot chocolate for kids
• ✓More relaxed atmosphere than tourist-packed competitors
• ✓Central French Quarter location makes it easy to combine with other activities

1. 1.Bring wet wipes or ask for extra napkins,beignets are deliciously messy and the powdered sugar gets everywhere, especially on dark clothing
2. 2.Arrive before 9 AM on weekends to beat the crowds and snag a courtyard table where kids have more space to move around
3. 3.Order a side of fresh fruit or a sandwich to balance out the sugar rush if you're feeding younger children
4. 4.The Royal Street location has a charming courtyard that's more spacious for strollers than the indoor seating area
5. 5.Try the café au lait for yourself,it's authentically New Orleans and pairs perfectly with beignets

Weekday mornings between 8-9 AM offer the best experience with smaller crowds and fresher beignets. Avoid peak weekend brunch times (10 AM-1 PM) when waits can exceed 30 minutes with restless children.

Prices are moderate (under $20 for a family of four for beignets and drinks), and the cafe is cash and card friendly. Stroller access is good, though the courtyard has cobblestones, and there's limited street parking nearby,consider walking from your hotel or taking a rideshare.

Open year-round, but the courtyard seating is most pleasant during spring (March-May) and fall (October-November) when temperatures are mild. Summer visits are hot and humid,opt for indoor air-conditioned seating. During Mardi Gras season, expect larger crowds and longer waits.