The po’ boy is New Orleans’ most famous sandwich and a culinary tradition dating back to the 1920s. They are made with unique ingredients producing a distinct flavor, unlike more conventional deli sandwiches. It’s not uncommon for any food enthusiast who lives in or visits the South to make the po’ boy a regular part of their diet.

Catering to Orange Beach, AL, diners looking to satisfy their po’ boy cravings, Barefoot Island Grill offers an authentic version of this dish on their menu. The restaurant is open for lunch and dinner, making it possible to receive a delicious meal almost any time of the day. Below, they share a brief account of the history of po’ boys and their different variations.

History of the Po’ Boy Sandwich 

As with many stories rooted in history, there are different versions of how the po’ boy came to be. However, the most widely accepted is an account that tells of the sandwich being invented by brothers and former streetcar conductors, Clovis and Benjamin Martin. After quitting their jobs and opening a restaurant in New Orleans’ French Quarter in 1922, they discovered a tasty concoction made with roast beef, gravy, and French bread. When the streetcar conductors went on strike in 1929, the brothers pledged to feed the hungry, unemployed workers who were referred to as poor boys. Thus, the name of the sandwich was established.

Types of Po’ Boys

Po’ boys are usually available in a wide array of choices. They are customarily made with fried seafood, such as shrimp, oysters, soft shell crab, catfish, and crawfish, fried chicken, shredded beef, and spicy sausage. Although these are the most common types, they can virtually be filled with anything that comes to mind.

If you’re searching for a po’ boy that tastes like it came straight out of the French Quarter, look no further than Barefoot Island Grill. The restaurant proudly carries on the po’ boy tradition, offering New Orleans’ classic sandwich to diners on the Gulf Shores of Alabama. They use the freshest ingredients to create mouthwatering dishes, guaranteeing to appease your taste buds. Contact them directly by calling (251) 256-0055 to request a reservation, or visit the website to view the menu.