Cafe du Monde vs. Cafe Beignet: Which is Better?

Cafe du Monde and Cafe Beignet are the best-known beignet places in New Orleans. Beignets, made of fried dough squares that are topped with powdered sugar, are a local staple—I knew I had to give them a try on my first visit to NOLA.

After testing both these famous beignets, I personally preferred Cafe Du Monde. But, there are some reasons you might like Cafe Beignet better. Here are some of the main differences between the two.

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Reasons to Pick Cafe du Monde

1. The beignets are crispier and lighter

The biggest difference between the actual beignets is the texture. Cafe du Monde’s beignets are crisp on the outside and airy on the inside. By contrast, those at Cafe Beignet are dense and doughy (almost like bread).

I found that the beignets at Cafe Beignet were too heavy for me, and left me feeling too full, even when splitting with a friend. Cafe du Monde’s were just right for an afternoon snack, and I probably could’ve eaten one order by myself and still felt fine.

2. Slightly cheaper price

An order of beignets at Cafe du Monde costs just under $4, while they’re just under $5 at Cafe Beignet. However, while Cafe du Monde’s beignets cost less, they’re also smaller; Cafe Beignet’s are truly massive.

While I usually prefer to “get my money’s worth,” I felt that Cafe du Monde’s were better overall, so I’d prefer to spend a little less and get a lower volume of food (and not feel bloated).

3. The cafe loses later

Cafe du Monde locations in the city stay open later than Cafe Beignet’s. The main location on Decatur Street is even open until midnight!

We’d actually wanted to try Cafe Beignet one evening, only to find out that most locations were closed. The Bourbon Street location does stay open until 9:30-10:30, but it’s more of a food stand in a courtyard than an actual cafe experience.

4. City Park location is stunning

The Cafe du Monde in City Park is surrounded by oak trees covered in Spanish moss, with romantic bridges leading you over the creeks. It’s a really peaceful setting, with both indoor and outdoor dining. You also get to see them making the beignets as you wait in line to order.

I’d highly recommend this location as it’s less busy, and you’ll get to see another one of NOLA’s gems. The park is massive, but near the Cafe du Monde, there’s a botanical garden, art museum, small amusement park, sculpture garden, and miniature golf course. It’s well worth going a bit outside the city center to spend a few hours (or the day) in the park.

Reasons to Pick Cafe Beignet

1. You can pay by card

Cafe du Monde is cash only, and since many people rely on cards these days, this can be a hassle. Luckily, at Cafe Beignet, you can pay by card.

2. More aesthetic interior

While both Cafe du Monde and Cafe Beignet have historic interiors with romantic details, Cafe du Monde is definitely prettier, especially the Royal Street location. Its tile floors, exposed brick walls, and heart-shaped chairs make the dining experience more special. However, seating is limited, so you’ll want to come early.

The Cafe du Monde in City Park is also pretty aesthetic, but still can’t beat Cafe du Monde’s cozy vibes.

3. Fuller menu with actual meals

Cafe du Monde really only offers beignets and cafe drinks (they’re famous for their chicory coffee). On the other hand, you can have a full meal at Cafe Beignet, and they have plenty of breakfast foods like omelettes and waffles, as well as local specialities like muffaletta.

4. Live music at Bourbon Street location

The Bourbon Street location is the only one that says open late, and you can enjoy live music here daily from 10am to closing.

It feels almost like you’re at a summer festival when you grab beignets here, as there’s an outdoor stage and patio seating. If you’re sensitive to loud noises, just keep in mind that the music volume is pretty high, and you may need to relocate since the dining area is small.

Tips for Getting Beignets in NOLA

1. Prepare to wait in line

Even on a weekday afternoon at the Cafe du Monde in City Park, we had to wait for 5-10 minutes. At the Decatur Street location in the city center, you’ll likely need to wait even longer—maybe even half an hour or more.

Similarly, there was a ~10 minute line to order at the Cafe Beignet on Bourbon Street on a weekday evening.

At some Cafe du Monde locations, note that there may be two lines: one for to-go, and another to dine in. Make sure you know what line you’re in. Some people say you can even seat yourself if there’s an empty table, but make sure to double-check, as these forums/blogs are older and newer threads have said they were asked to wait in line after trying to seat themselves.

If you want to avoid lines and enjoy cooking, you can buy Cafe du Monde beignet mix in most gift shops around town.

2. Bring water

The beignets are loaded with powdered sugar, so you will get thirsty. You can buy water at the cafes, but you’ll save a few bucks (and some plastic) by bringing your reusable water bottle.

Of course, many people also order coffee with beignets, but you may still want some water to wash everything down.

Overall Cafe du Monde’s beignets were covered with more sugar, but you can of course shake some off before eating the beignets.

Let us know in the comments if you tried either of these beignets and which one you preferred!