Just off University Avenue, Nola bursts with energy, charm, and the distinct soul of New Orleans. Its vibrant interior and upbeat soundtrack set the scene for a lively and flavorful meal. Outside, patios and tables line a street closed to cars, providing a relaxed and open-air escape to people-watch and enjoy the Southern-inspired dishes. From spicy jambalaya to fluffy beignets, Nola brings comfort and festivity to the heart of Palo Alto.

Jambalaya Skillet ($18.95): 8/10

Like a warm hug with a gentle kick, the jambalaya is pure soul food comfort with enough spice to keep things interesting. The seasoned rice forms a rich and flavorful foundation, soaking up the creamy tomato perfectly. The medley of meats adds heartiness while the subtle taste of sweet peppers and tomato balances the dish beautifully. Though not overly spicy, the taste builds with each bite, creating a lingering heat that complements the plate’s cozy warmth.

Nola’s Crispy Coconut Shrimp Taco ($6.95): 8.5/10

Though they can be a bit tricky to eat without making a mess, these tacos are well worth the effort. The shrimp are perfectly crispy and lack the fishy aftertaste that sometimes plagues seafood dishes. The real star of the dish, however, is the sauce: a creamy, light, and tangy blend with subtle notes of passion fruit that adds a bright and tropical feel without overpowering the shrimp. Juicy tomatoes provide a fresh contrast, balancing out a tasty taco that is both flavorful and satisfying.

Crescent City Cooler ($7): 7/10

This mocktail strikes a delicious balance between tangy and refreshing without being too sweet. The tropical notes, including hints of passion fruit, make it taste like summer in a glass. A light fizz enhances the flavors, adding just the right amount of playfulness. With each sip, the drink delivers a bright and energizing feel, conjuring memories of summer afternoons and ocean breezes.

Mama’s Mac and Cheese ($9.95): 7/10

This mac and cheese really nails the texture with a creamy base that coats every noodle perfectly. The breadcrumb topping is a pleasant finish, though it could use more crunch to create the contrast it is aiming for. While the dish has a subtle earthiness, the cheese itself is a bit bland and could benefit from a pinch more salt to bring out the full flavor. It is a comforting plate overall, but one that leaves you wishing for just a bit more flavor to match its texture.

Crispy Hot Chicken Sliders ($8): 7/10

These chicken sliders bring the heat with a fiery kick that builds quickly. The tangy sauce adds an extra punch, but it is balanced out by the crispy pickle, which cuts the acidity, and a creamy coleslaw that helps cool things down. The slight sweetness of the brioche bun perfectly ties everything together, offering a soft contrast to the other bold flavors. While the portion feels small for the price, the layers of flavor make for a satisfying slider overall.

Beignets ($6.95): 10/10

These beignets are definitely the star of the show. Served deliciously warm in a generously sized basket, they seem to be the only item truly worth the price. They are perfectly fluffy with heaping amounts of powdered sugar on top, making each bite a sweet and airy treat. Three sauces accompany the dish. The chocolate sauce is a standout, liquidy, rich, and divine, with just the right balance of sweet and bitter. The caramel sauce, on the other hand, leans a bit towards the synthetic side and simply can’t measure up to the chocolate. However, the jam offers a tangy contrast to the overall sweetness, providing a refreshing balance that elevates the dish overall.