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Living in the Bay Area for over a decade, I never knew about this little piece of New Orleans that has existed for almost three decades! I have been driving along El Camino Real for years and had spotted it a few times but I never ventured in—until now and I don’t know why, especially when I LOVE the food of New Orleans and creole cuisine. The restaurant, with its two locations, one in San Carlos and the other in San Francisco, promises an authentic taste of New Orleans right here in the Bay Area and you have got to try it!
Stepping into Creola is like being transported to a charming eatery in the heart of New Orleans. When you enter through the main door, you are greeted with a beautiful view of the bar adorned with decorative tiles, lined with high bar chairs and the bustling kitchen behind it.
The restaurant is very charming with rustic ceiling fans and chandeliers hanging off the wooden roof. The walls are filled with beautiful New Orleans art and jazz instruments, creating an inviting atmosphere that makes you want to stay a while. The music is soothing, and there is a lot of pleasant sunlight in the early evening. The outdoor seating looked very nice as well but wasn’t open in early June. I am sure it opens up with warmer temperatures.
With my husband traveling, my daughter and I decided to have a girls’ night out at Creola. It was the perfect opportunity to finally explore this neighborhood gem and our evening was a memorable culinary adventure. I passed on the beer & wine menu and started with a comforting bowl of Black-Eyed Peas & Sweet Potato Soup. The humble flavors were a testament to Creole cooking—simple, hearty, and utterly delicious. My daughter went for the Seafood Gumbo and thoroughly enjoyed the stew, rich with okra and smoky sausage. We also ordered a side of cornbread with our soups, which was warm, slightly sweet, and perfectly complemented the savory dishes.
For my entrée, I chose the Shrimp Creola and requested to swap the jasmine rice with the Cream Cheese Grits from the sides menu. The server graciously accommodated my request without any extra charge, which was a pleasant surprise. The shrimp were succulent, and the creamy grits added a delightful texture to the dish, making it an instant favorite.
My daughter ordered the Cajun Jambalaya. The generous portion was packed with flavor, and she enjoyed it so much that she ended up taking half of it home. The dish was a perfect blend of spices, meats, and the beautifully charred and tender piece of chicken , encapsulating the essence of Creole cuisine.
For dessert, we obviously couldn’t resist the beignets! They were fresh and delightful, a true taste of New Orleans. We opted for the chocolate sauce, but they also offer the tempting caramel sauce. Each bite was a sugary, airy delight that left us both smiling.
Dining at Creola was more than just a meal; it was an experience that transported us to the vibrant city of New Orleans! The friendly and knowledgeable staff added to the overall ambiance, making the evening truly special. They were more than happy to accommodate requests, share the history of the restaurant and their passion for Creole cuisine.
I can’t help but wonder why it took me so long to visit this neighborhood gem! If you live in the Bay Area and love the flavors of New Orleans, Creola is a must-visit. It’s a place where you can savor the rich culinary traditions of Creole cuisine without having to hop on a plane. If you find yourself driving down El Camino Real, make sure to stop by Creola. It’s a little slice of New Orleans in San Carlos, and it’s sure to leave a lasting impression on your taste buds and your heart.
