Nestled in Gulf Breeze, Café Nola offers an authentic Creole dining experience that transports guests straight to New Orleans. Patrons rave about the vibrant, flavorful dishes, with highlights including the mouthwatering BBQ shrimp and the rich and hearty chicken and andouille gumbo—reports suggest it satisfies even the most discerning palates. Reviewers often mention the welcoming atmosphere, with many opting for outdoor seating that overlooks the tranquil Soundside Beach. The staff is described as friendly but unobtrusive, allowing diners to savor their meals at their own pace. The menu is a delightful homage to Cajun cuisine, featuring tantalizing options like the alligator sausage po-boy and fried crab claws, both of which have garnered significant praise for their generous portions and perfect crunchiness. Many guests are particularly drawn to the restaurant’s rustic charm, complemented by lively music that enhances the overall dining experience. Whether it’s a casual lunch or a relaxing dinner with friends, Café Nola seems to strike the perfect balance between quality dining and a laid-back ambiance. It’s no surprise that many vow to return, reinforcing this gem's reputation as a must-visit for anyone craving a taste of New Orleans in Florida.
Amenities and More
Accessibility
No wheelchair accessible entrance
No wheelchair accessible seating
Service options
Has outdoor seating
Has no-contact delivery
Offers delivery
Onsite services available
Offers takeout
Serves dine-in
Highlights
Has fast service
Has great beer selection
Serves great cocktails
Serves great dessert
Popular for
Popular for breakfast
Popular for lunch
Popular for dinner
Good for solo dining
Offerings
Serves alcohol
Serves beer
Serves cocktails
Serves coffee
Serves comfort food
Serves food
Serves happy hour drinks
Serves happy hour food
Serves hard liquor
Quick bite
Serves small plates
Serves wine
Dining options
Serves breakfast
Serves brunch
Serves lunch
Serves dinner
Has catering
Serves dessert
Has seating
Amenities
Has bar onsite
Has restroom
Has Wi-Fi
Free Wi-Fi
Atmosphere
Casual
Cozy
Trendy
Crowd
Popular with college students
Family-friendly
Good for groups
LGBTQ+ friendly
Popular with tourists
Planning
Accepts reservations
Payments
Accepts credit cards
Accepts debit cards
Accepts NFC mobile payments
Credit cards
Children
Good for kids
High chairs available
Has kids' menu
Parking
Free parking lot
Free street parking
Usually plenty of parking
Pets
Dogs allowed outside
Photos
Reviews For Cafe Nola
Walter Orocio
May 28,2025
Stopped in Pensacola for the night on a drive from Orlando to Houston. Decided to stop by this place. Nice, quiet place with the nicest hosts. I love gumbo and usually have a hard time finding a good one. I regret only getting the cup, I should have ordered the bowl! With this cold weather that chicken and andouille gumbo really hit the spot. My burger also was huge and full of flavor. My family ordered some seafood baskets with fish and shrimp that did not disappoint. Good service, clean restrooms and great food. If I'm ever back in Pensacola I will stop by once again!
Christy Dunaway
May 12,2025
Outstanding! The food is amazing. The only thing that outshined that grilled Mahi Mahi was the music. And the view! Definitely worth the drive. When you come in, grab a menu and a table. Order at the register. Food comes fast. Friendly staff, but this isn't a place where they hover. Rustic tables, overlooking the marina. Indoor and outdoor seating available. I had the grilled fish platter, subbed mahi mahi for the house fish. Sides coleslaw, fries, and steamed broccoli. Couldn't finish the fries because they served me two nice size fish fillets. Hubs loves the Bayou Burger and fries.
donna68jss
May 12,2025
Cafe Nola is one of the best in the area! Always great service and food! I love the atmosphere here! Sit inside or .....my favorite, on the outside deck, overlooking the Soundside Beach. I highly recommend this restaurant. There is a newly opened Cafe Nola near the old Civic Center (not sure name of road) in Pensacola, haven't been there yet, I'm sure it is just at nice! If you haven't been......GO!
Staci Dattomo
May 3,2025
I've been to New Orleans so many times and my grandparents are Cajun. Every restaurant I've visited that was Cajun or New Orleans themed never really hit. CAFE NOLA IS THE REAL DEAL!! We ate in, I truly felt like I was back in New Orleans. I've never had such amazing beans and rice, besides my grandma's of course. My husband said it was the best chicken sandwich he's ever had. Great atmosphere, wonderful staff, and AMAZING food!
Keyia H
Apr 23,2025
This was our first time dining at this restaurant, and we had such a wonderful experience! We sat on the covered back patio, which had a lovely, and relaxing view. We ordered the Fried crab claws, Fried shrimp seafood basket, the Any Two-Seafood Basket with shrimp and oysters, and the Alligator sausage po-boy. Everything was delicious, but the fried crab claws, hushpuppies, and shrimp were definitely my favorites! The seafood was perfectly fried, light, and crispy. The casual atmosphere made it easy to unwind, and relax. The staff was mostly friendly during our visit and answered our few questions while ordering. We’ll definitely be back, and I highly recommend it for anyone craving NOLA style seafood. They also seem to have a great drink menu and even all for snowcones. I didn't partake in either this visit, but I definitely will next time.
Sydney Stelly
Mar 17,2025
SO GOOD. Did not expect my omelette to blow my mind but it did. Order the andouille omelette. Great Pech seating with a view. And a great place for Saints games. Who dat
Eliya Shirwood
Mar 17,2025
Food is the highlight here! Great shrimp and the Etoufee was delicious! Inside is on the small side but has outdoor sitting facing the deck that compensates. Not many engaging employees to help know the process to order, but those there were nice to talk with.
Rob Jackson
Feb 15,2025
I love this place. We were in Pensacola for 3 days last week and had dinner there twice. It would have been 3 times if I had gone there first. It was very delicious and they were an extremely good host. Our dinners were awesome and very delicious. I highly recommend NOLA the Cajun flavors are real and authentic. Love this place.
Reviews For Cafe Nola