From Fryer to Family Favorite
The story of NOLA Munchies begins long before our doors officially opened in 2020. It started with a fryer, a griddle, and a passion for cooking that runs deep in our bloodline.

Elaine Maxwell-Thompson, co-owner and New Orleans native, grew up watching her mother and grandfather cook from scratch in Hollygrove and spent her childhood soaking in the smells of fried chicken and fish from the floor of her grandfather’s bar kitchen. Her husband, Lionel Thompson, hails from the Ninth Ward and brings a strong work ethic and years of experience from the New Orleans food and hospitality scene.

In the early days, the couple set up tables outside a local bar, cooking for whoever showed up. Their hustle soon turned into a food truck, and eventually, into the NOLA Munchies brick-and-mortar restaurant in Metairie — with God, grit, and gumbo leading the way.

A Taste That Went Viral
In 2022, the world got a taste of what locals already knew. A glowing video review from beloved food vlogger Bukutriece made our seafood egg rolls a viral hit. Since then, we’ve served food lovers from across the globe — some traveling states or even oceans just to try our famous egg rolls, Louisiana catfish, and seafood-stuffed bell peppers.

Every dish is cooked fresh daily with authentic seasoning, no shortcuts, and no need to add anything extra. When we say “flavor,” we mean it.

More Than Food — It’s Lan’yap
Lan’yap (a little extra) is more than a motto.
It’s our way of life.

Whether it’s an extra piece of fish on your plate or a side of our house-made punch — affectionately compared to the legendary “Ghetto Punch” — we believe in going above and beyond to treat our guests like family.

We cook like we’re cooking for ourselves. If we wouldn’t eat it, we won’t serve it.

The Future is Hot — and Expanding to the French Market
From the sidewalk to the soul, NOLA Munchies continues to grow. In addition to our bustling location in Metairie, we are thrilled to announce the expansion of our brand into the historic French Market in New Orleans.

The French Market has long been a hub for local culture, cuisine, and connection — making it the perfect next step for our family and our food. Visitors to the French Market will be able to experience the same bold flavors that made us famous, from our viral seafood egg rolls to Louisiana catfish and fresh southern sides, all served with a little extra lan’yap.

We are honored to join the French Market’s vibrant community of vendors, bringing our love for classic New Orleans-style cooking to even more locals and visitors from around the world.

Until then — and always — you can find us holding it down in Metairie, serving up food that’s fresh, flavorful, and full of love.