Acamaya

Acamaya – Coastal Mexican Cuisine in the Heart of New Orleans

Acamaya is a vibrant, seafood-forward Mexican restaurant nestled in the Bywater neighborhood of New Orleans. The creation of sisters Ana and Lydia Castro, Acamaya reimagines traditional Mexican coastal fare with Gulf ingredients, bold flavors, and a laid-back, tropical vibe. The restaurant is named after the blue river prawn, a nod to both its seafood-driven menu and Veracruz roots. Since opening in 2024, Acamaya has quickly made waves for its authenticity, flair, and originality—earning attention from locals, critics, and food lovers alike.

What to Expect at Acamaya

• Bright, Flavor-Forward Dishes: The menu blends raw seafood bar offerings, hot small plates, and grilled specialties—many of which highlight traditional Mexican mariscos with modern plating.
• Warm, Welcoming Setting: The space features tiled floors, pastel walls, warm wood accents, and a Mexico City-inspired bar with house cocktails and aguas frescas.
• Chef-Driven Vision: Chef Ana Castro, a James Beard Award nominee, brings fine-dining precision to the comforting foods of her childhood—particularly from the Gulf states of Veracruz and Tabasco.

What to Eat at Acamaya

• Ceviche de Pescado: Fresh white fish marinated in citrus with serrano, red onion, cucumber, and avocado—cool, clean, and perfectly spiced.
• Aguachile Negro: Raw shrimp in a smoky chili broth with squid ink, cilantro, and pickled onions—a standout for flavor and presentation.
• Tostadas de Atún: Crispy tostadas topped with ahi tuna, crema, salsa macha, and crunchy peanuts—a crowd favorite.
• Arroz Negro: Black rice cooked in squid ink, served with grilled octopus, salsa verde, and citrus crema—a must-try house specialty.
• Pineapple Soft Serve with Tajín: A playful finish—refreshing, tart, and dusted with chili-lime seasoning for that classic street vendor flair.

What to Drink at Acamaya

• Mezcal Cocktails: The bar menu offers creative mezcal- and tequila-based cocktails with tropical fruits and house infusions.
• Micheladas & Cheladas: Perfect accompaniments to seafood dishes, served icy cold with spiced rims.
• Non-Alcoholic Options: Try their horchata, hibiscus agua fresca, or house limeade for something refreshing and kid-friendly.

Tips for Visiting Acamaya

• Come Early: Acamaya is still a neighborhood gem, but it’s gaining popularity fast—weekend dinner slots go quickly.
• Perfect for Sharing: Bring a few friends and order several dishes to get a feel for the menu’s range and spice levels.
• Great for Dates & Small Groups: With ambient lighting and a tropical vibe, Acamaya is a great setting for intimate meals or fun group dinners.
• Check for Seasonal Specials: The kitchen regularly rotates dishes based on seafood availability and inspiration.

Final Thoughts

Acamaya brings the soul of Mexican coastal cuisine to the streets of New Orleans, offering bold flavors, warm hospitality, and a one-of-a-kind culinary point of view. It’s both a celebration of heritage and a reflection of the dynamic spirit of modern New Orleans. For anyone craving fresh seafood, exciting spice profiles, and a laid-back setting, Acamaya is a must-visit.