Acamaya
New Orleans
Visit during weekdays to enjoy a more relaxed atmosphere.
Acamaya, situated in the vibrant Bywater neighborhood of New Orleans, is a Mexican restaurant that merges the culinary traditions of Mexico City and the bounty of the Gulf of Mexico. The eatery is overseen by sisters Ana and Lydia Castro who bring their unique vision to this part of the city. Known for its relaxed yet refined atmosphere, Acamaya offers diners a taste of authentic Mexican flavors with a contemporary twist. Patrons can expect a menu that emphasizes fresh seafood and traditional Mexican recipes with a nod to local New Orleans ingredients.
The space itself is an inviting blend of rustic and modern, creating a warm setting that feels both intimate and open. This makes it an excellent option for everything from casual nights out to more formal dining experiences. Diners can expect a friendly and attentive service that complements the rich, flavorful dishes.
Though reservations are recommended to secure a spot, Acamaya does make limited seating available for walk-ins. This policy allows both spur-of-the-moment visits and planned gatherings. With its focus on hospitality and high-quality cuisine, Acamaya is well-suited for both locals and visitors seeking an engaging and delectable dining experience.
Reviews
12/10. Every dish was fantastic. Everyone at the table was so impressed that they kept thanking me for choosing the restaurant, but like, I did not make the food. I just did my research. Acamaya deserves all the credit because this place is seriously incredible. The menu feels like a blend of a small-plates, tapas-style restaurant and a more traditional entrée restaurant. I highly recommend treating it like tapas and sharing everything. We had five people and ordered seven smaller dishes plus two entrées, which was the perfect way to experience the menu. This is a restaurant that deserves so much more recognition. The menu is small, but every dish sounds intentional, and the limited selection actually makes it easier to choose. The building, interior, atmosphere, and food all fit together perfectly. I am from out of town, but I genuinely wish I could eat here every week.
Acamaya offers a phenomenal experience every time. The space is lively yet intimate. Service is very friendly. Drinks were exceptional; the cocktail list is inventive, and when our table requested variations of simpler cocktails, the wait staff and bartender graciously agreed. The food is what keeps bringing us back. Every bite was delicious. The fish, rice, and sweet potato dishes stood out among an impressive menu. Will definitely be back.
Visited Acamaya on Saturday July 11. Did not have a reservation but it was first come first serve seating at the bar and bar tables so I sat there. Our server Olivia was prompt, informative, and funny! All of the food was wonderfully prepared and had great bold flavors I appreciated. The flan is top tier! I would recommend for an anniversary or special occasion!
In the heart of New Orleans’ Bywater neighborhood, sisters Ana & Lydia Castro offer up fantastic Mexican coastal cuisine and seafood with delicious New Orleans (and many other) accents. As I sat down as a solo diner, with a full view of the open kitchen filled with smiling faces, I immediately saw this was my kind of menu: lots of small plates, seafood, and acidic dishes, shining with brightness from herbs, chiles, and heat. I believe it’s called “mariscos”, as a sort of catch-all term for dishes including aguachiles, ceviches, shrimp cocktails, tostadas, and more. (I might be wrong here… I’m no Mexican cuisine expert). But I AM definitely certain that I loved every bite I tasted, including… 🔥 Hamachi “Al Pastor” Tostada - Pineapple • Cilantro • Shallot • Tepache 🔥 Half Dozen Brightsides Oysters - Lime • Salsa Veneno • Chiltepín Vinegar 🔥 Aguachile Verde - Gulf Shrimp • Cucumber • Tomatillo • Serrano 🔥 Ceviche – Red Snapper Onion Ash • Serrano • Avocado • Jicama 🔥 Octopus - Morita Chile • Anchovy • Sunchoke Escabeche • Tortillas 🔥 Margarita - Siembra Alteño Blanco Tequila • Lime • Salt What a lineup, what an evening! Acamaya appeared on the 2024 NYT Best Restaurant List and received a 2025 Bib Michelin Gourmand distinction, among many other accolades. And after gobbling up a nice sampling of the menu, I can see why! There’s no doubt I will be looking to return ASAP to Acamaya in New Orleans. Thanks to Ana, Lydia, and their entire terrific team.
I went to Acamaya and the place is absolutely beautiful. The ambiance, the decor, the lighting—everything is thoughtfully done. It’s one of those spots where you walk in and already know you’re in for a great experience. The service was just as impressive. Ian was our server and he was excellent—attentive, knowledgeable about the menu, and he really elevated the whole experience. Now the food—here’s my ranking (because you definitely want to order strategically 😅): 1. Flan – a must. You have to get it. 2. Shrimp costra – incredible flavor. 3. Tuna tostada – fresh and perfectly balanced. 4. Carne asada – very well cooked and juicy. 5. Hamachi tostada – really good, just not as standout as the others. 6. Octopus – it was really good is just compared to others. Overall, highly recommend. It’s one of those places that gets the vibe, the food, and the service all right. I’d definitely go back.
