Keys fuel's chicken on Rampart

Question

Hear me out. Sometimes some of the best food comes from out of the way and weird places. Saw a video, or two, that while not a tourist spot still some of the best fried chicken. Close to hotel and thought, what the heck!! Have I been steered wrong? This place is not on our itinerary and it's more of a wait and see if the opportunity presents itself kinda thing. Locals?

Answer

It sounds like you're talking about Keys Fuel, which is indeed a bit off the beaten path but has earned a reputation among locals for serving some really delicious fried chicken. While not a tourist hotspot, it’s a spot where the locals go for comfort food, and the fried chicken is often considered a hidden gem. It’s a small, no-frills place that’s part of the charm—it's all about the food, not the ambiance.

The place is located on Rampart Street, just outside the French Quarter, and while it may not have the polished look of the big-name restaurants, the chicken and other soul food offerings are beloved by those in the know. The fact that it's not crowded with tourists and doesn't have long lines for Instagram shots is part of its appeal—what you get is authentic, well-prepared food.

As for whether it's a must-visit or just a "maybe"—if you’re in the area and craving fried chicken, it’s worth a stop. You won’t be disappointed if you’re into juicy, crispy fried chicken served in a casual setting. It’s not going to be the fancy experience you might expect at one of the more well-known restaurants in the French Quarter, but if you’re looking for down-home cooking with a local vibe, Keys Fuel is the kind of spot you’ll be glad you checked out.

Fried chicken is the main attraction, but they also offer other Southern comfort food like fried fish, shrimp, and hearty sides like mac and cheese, fries, and slaw.
It’s not a fancy place, so don’t expect white tablecloths. It’s more of a humble, local spot for great food at a good price.
It’s definitely more of a “locals-only” type of spot—there’s something special about finding those kinds of places where the food speaks for itself.
Since it’s near your hotel, it’s a great spot to pop into if you’re in the area and craving something casual, or if you’re looking for a place that serves food into the late hours.

If you’ve been steered here by locals or stumbled across it yourself, it could very well turn out to be a highlight of your trip. If it works out for your schedule, definitely give it a try. And if not, don’t worry—New Orleans has plenty of other spots to grab some fantastic fried chicken, but this one offers a unique, local experience that's hard to beat!