Where to find late-night dining in New Orleans

The big picture: There are lots of reasons late-night eating went through a long slump in New Orleans.

• More than two decades ago, Hurricane Katrina certainly did a number on things. I remember the days when the only option to satisfy a late-night craving was to drive out to Sweet Things and Donuts and Grill. It's still open 24 hours, so keep it on your radar.
• But long years of late-night crime and the pandemic didn't help, either. (The Times-Picayune's Ian McNulty has a story that dives into both.)

Yes, but: Things are lookin' up.

• Not only are some once-reliable options restarting their late-night hours, but others are purposefully getting into the game.

Here's where to find great eats in New Orleans well after dark.

🍔 The classics: For when you need a beer and a burger, or perhaps breakfast well before the rooster crows.

• Buffa's, Melba's, Clover Grill and Beachcorner. Bertie's Intergalactic Pub Kitchen does classics with a twist.

🍸 Something chic: Great cocktails or wine lists, plus elevated kitchens that stay open 'til at least 11pm on weekends.

• Bouligny Tavern, The Delachaise, The Chloe, Pluck, The Will & The Way and Revel.

👀 And three newcomers: These spots opened just recently but made early plans to appeal to the late-night scene.

• Junebug, Morrow Steak and Taquerias Carnalito.