Hello dear
Welcome to Espiritu
Espiritu is a vibrant culinary gem located at 520 Capdeville St, New Orleans. This intimate eatery specializes in flavorful Mexican dishes, offering an array of choices from hearty Tortas like the Carne Asada to refreshing Sopas like the Tortilla Soup Bowl. The atmosphere is lush and inviting, thanks to artistic decor and greenery. Reviews commend the attentive staff and the welcoming vibe that makes each visit special. Diners rave about their gluten-free options, particularly the Baja Fish Tacos and Creole Queso. Whether you're a local or a tourist, Espiritu promises a delightful experience that celebrates the essence of Mexican cuisine.
Today's Suggestions
Explore the featured selections!
Flight Of Salsas
Birria Tacos
Ginger Beer
Topo Chico
About
Espiritu
Welcome to Espiritu, nestled in the heart of New Orleans at 520 Capdeville St. This vibrant restaurant seamlessly blends an inviting atmosphere with a menu that boasts authentic flavors and innovative dishes. Here, you're not just dining; you’re experiencing a culinary escape into the depths of Mexican cuisine, enhanced by a Creole twist.
One of Espiritu's standout features is its commitment to freshness and quality. Take the Classico Guacamole, for instance. Made from whole avocados and a blend of serrano peppers, red onion, and garlic, this creamy delight is prepared daily and is both vegan and gluten-free. Accompanied by crunchy corn tortilla chips, it's a must-try. For those craving something rich and indulgent, the Creole Queso will tantalize your taste buds. This hot cheese dip, layered with Louisiana crawfish and roasted poblano peppers, is an explosion of flavor, all topped with pico, sour cream, and a sprinkle of Tajín.
Espiritu has received glowing reviews, with patrons like Kurtis J. Samchee praising the certified mezcal staff and the flavorful tacos, including options like beef tongue, fish, and birria. Other diners, like Khadijah Kaufman, have noted the restaurant's intimate vibe and well-plated, delicious dishes. “The food was fresh, hot, seasoned well,” she said, illustrating the establishment’s dedication to quality.
The staff at Espiritu is equally remarkable. Exemplary service is a given, as Marcus DD. attests to the warm hospitality and willingness of the team to engage with diners. His experience with the Creole Queso left him craving more, highlighting how a single dish can overshadow even the most important details of a meal.
Espiritu values inclusivity with a menu that caters to various dietary needs. As a vegetarian with Celiac Disease noted, everything except a few items is gluten-free, making it a comforting choice for those with dietary restrictions. The happy hour menu has also been praised, indicating Espiritu is not just a dinner destination but a lively spot for social gatherings.
In summary, Espiritu isn’t just another restaurant; it’s a beacon for food lovers in New Orleans. With its compelling atmosphere, thoughtfully crafted dishes, and a staff that truly cares, every visit feels special. Whether you're a local or a traveler, dining here promises an unforgettable experience. Don’t miss out on indulging in the vibrant flavors and exceptional service that Espiritu has to offer!
People talk
Our Guestbook
“ Came for drinks and tacos. Note the certified mezcal staff! Good vibes. Got the beef tongue, fish, and birria tacos. All good. ”
“ Everything here is gluten free except a few things. The quesadilla is not gluten free which wish they do not mention on menu and failed to tell us when we ordered. I reccomend the appetizer sampler as was really good and the baja fish tacos brought back memories of being on the beach in San Diego and eating fish tacos, they are that good! The owner took care of us and apologized for the waitress that failed to inform us, but it did not take away from the meal. I highly reccomend this place and their happy hour menu cannot be beat! ”
“ 5/5! What a hidden gem! The location matches the aesthetic/vibe the restaurant is going for: intimate, well decorated, and welcoming. The food was fresh, hot, seasoned well, and plated nicely. My only critique was the portion size of the tacos as well as the tres. Leche is not Tres Leche. Other than that - i was pleased. The service was top-notch. Every staff member made sure to greet us and check on us. Our server, Angela was patient, communicative, and gracious. ”
“ So happy I stumbled into this restaurant during my first visit to NO, when you walk in you’re greeted by an amazing atmosphere and decor. Plants and art make this place really stand out. The staff all were super nice, easy and willing to talk to. Then you get to the food, we tried the Creole Queso, which was amazing I could’ve sat and ordered it 5 more times, then we tried 3 of their tacos and I was so satisfied with the taste. This is probably one of the best restaurants in the area for locals and tourists alike. Will definitely return when I’m back in NO. ”
“ As a vegetarian with Celiac Disease, I felt so comfortable ordering from their menu since everything is gluten free. Our food was delicious and the staff was extremely attentive. Prices were also bery reasonable. My husband who eats gluten and meat said his food was also phenomenal, so highly recommended for everyone! ”
“ LOVED THE TACOS. LOVED THE DRINKS. Fish taco was spectacular!! Shrimp taco was spectacular. A good chicken tinga ”
“ You’d likely never know this adorable, plant-filled space on a block bearing a street name no one knows (that feels more like an alley) could be the best thing to happen to your week. Located directly across from one of the two U.S. Court of Appeals loading docks, this oasis quickly transports the diner to a country they may have never visited and may now want to visit immediately. This isn’t that “Mexican” place you have in your hometown that mostly serves to pacify the American palate. That isn’t to say it will feel unfamiliar or awkward; you may just realize excessive grease and cheese aren’t required for enjoyment of every item. With the exception of tortas (sandwiches) and a couple of desserts, everything is gluten-free. Not just in the “no-gluten-containing-ingredients” way you may find many places, but instead it’s an environment where staff are trained on cross-contamination (and where they have a dedicated frier). There are also numerous vegetarian and vegan options. Happy hour is 3-6 weekdays, and you’ll definitely leave happier. Then again, that’s kinda guaranteed anytime you visit. Do yourself a flavor and walk right on over from the streetcar or even the French Quarter. Should you take the ferry over here from Algiers? Well, I sure won’t discourage it! Come hungry, thirsty, and ready for your life (or at least taste buds) to be improved. ”
“ celiac review: this is one of the best dine-out experiences I've had since my celiac diagnosis in 2021. the service is fantastic, the food is incredible, the drinks are amazing, everything is so fresh and worth every penny. I walked 15 minutes in 90 degree weather every day I was in town to eat lunch at Espiritu. if you have celiac and haven't had a dining experience where you've been able to walk in and eat like a person without dietary restrictions in years, don't miss out on this on your NOLA trip. food/service review: I moved to the south in 2021 and haven't had a decent shred of Mexican food since. the way I almost cried at eating real salsa, or a proper street taco! outside of food sensitivities/allergies - this isn't just the best gluten free Mexican food I've had in years - it's the best Mexican food I've had in easily a decade or longer. y'all make great food - and DELICIOUS mocktails too! the service was great, the folks who sat and served me each day were so friendly and sweet, I got them impression that they cared about the quality of food and experience I had while in their care, which is so rare these days. I appreciate y'all for having me while I was in town, I'll have to find my way back again! ”