Terrytown's planned community just across the river from New Orleans
Just across the Mississippi River from New Orleans, Terrytown holds the distinction as the first planned community on what locals call the West Bank. Terrytown was established in 1960 when a man carved the subdivision out of the forest and named it for his daughter. Terrytown began with only 400 homes in the first phase of construction. Since then, the unincorporated community has grown to more than 6,000 homes and shows no signs of slowing down.
Grocery stores and restaurants with deep local roots
Terrytown features a multitude of bars, restaurants, grocery stores and other essentials. One is Rouse’s Market. The grocery chain began in 1960 and has become the largest independent grocer in Louisiana. The store takes pride in promoting local culinary culture and supports charities in the communities its stores occupy. And FYI: Rouse’s is the Guinness World Record holder of both the largest avocado and the largest citrus fruits displays. For a bite, local favorites include the New Orleans Hamburger and Seafood Co. This business has been around since 1984 and is famous for its thin fried catfish. The casual eatery serves local Gulf seafood and traditional Nola comfort foods. The Terrytown Café is family-owned and began life as a doughnut shop. Over the years, it's become a full-service restaurant and community gathering spot. Joe’s Café has been offering late-night eats since 1988. Joe's makes a fantastic King Cake, and you can find breakfast, lunch or dinner any time of day. At DiMartino’s, food runs in the family. The regional favorite has been serving muffulettas since 1975. Terrytown has surprises wherever you look. One of largest is the neighborhood’s Hong Kong Food Market. This Asian grocery hosts aisles of noodles, live seafood and spices. The store also has a large selection of Asian and tropical produce as well as foods from Central and South America. In fact, the store can be overwhelming at first glance from the sheer variety of goods. A quick trip to the in-store tea bar can help center and refresh shoppers before, during or after gathering their groceries. The market is also known for its banh mi and whole Peking ducks.
Large lots and diverse styles throughout Terrytown
Housing is a mix of detached single-family houses, townhomes, apartment buildings and condos. Housing styles include Tudors, ranch houses, cottages, farmhouses and midcentury modern homes. Lots tend to be large, with some exceeding an acre. And there’s still plenty of space for new construction.
Library, playground and country club offer year-round activities
The Terrytown Library has served the neighborhood since 1974. It is across the street from Terrytown Playground, a two-floor facility with a gym for basketball, volleyball and shuffleboard as well as community meeting rooms. The Terrytown Country Club is a family-friendly landmark. Established in 1967, the club provides fun and relaxation for all ages, from the local youth swim team to the adult lounge. Other features include four lighted tennis courts, a competition-size pool with diving board, a gated baby pool area and a covered barbecue area. The facility also has cornhole boards, horseshoes and ping-pong.
Residents utilize public transit to get around
Terrytown has a small-town feel, but with no sidewalks, the area is a challenge for pedestrians. Public transportation helps residents navigate the area.
Photography Contributed By
Jason Buch