Section Eats

Food Security

Kohlie Frantzen and Zack McMath are working to bring Lafayette’s food back home.

You Want Ribs With That?

My heart swelled, my hangover dried up, and I regretted nothing more than not ordering a second rib.

Wurst Biergarten finally open

On the holiday celebrating Mexico’s defeat of the French in 1862, a German biergarten opened in Downtown Lafayette.

Pile It On

Fusion rice bowls at Live Action Deli

Navigating Salty Waters

An experienced food maker can work through layers of food regulation, but health codes are still not keeping up with food trends.

Which Dog? Dat Dog!

NOLA’s most famous hot dog eatery is officially coming to Downtown.

Piece of the Pie

A bar and pizza shop that comes and goes like a thief in the night enters Lafayette’s food scene.

Latte art is war

Tonight marks Lafayette's first competitive gathering of frothy art conjurers. Latte enthusiasts rejoice.

EATS for December 2015

Not much linguistic good has come from portmanteaus. I challenge you to say appletini with a straight face. Go ahead. I’ll wait.

Tipping the Scales

Imagine you’re at an epic boucherie, surrounded by the sizzling aroma of freshly slaughtered pork being transformed into numerous sensory delights. Smoke billows from the chimneys of barbecue pits piled with ribs and sausage. Boudin is stuffed into casings as cracklins simmer and hiss in their cast-iron cauldrons.

Pho’ing Pho Tastic news

Every day I've walked past this place under construction, and have dreamed of what will become. I have seen the future. And it is glorious.

Don't give up on bacon yet

Let these pork-smiths ease your anxious mind with nitrate-free pork products like bacon, boudin and salumi.

IND EATS

Let me put it to you this way. I once walked through a horde of zombies outside a San Francisco methadone clinic to eat a banh mi, and I would gladly do the same to eat Fusion’s.

A humble but divine dinner

Eat Lafayette's 2015 Food Wine Beer & Spirits Experience continues tonight at E's Kitchen with a humble dinner fit for the gods.

Balance Bar with Tanner Ducote

While you still can, pull up a chair at Jolie’s bar, grab a well-balanced drink and learn from a gifted and dazzling mind.

El Asador's torta and fries

I’ll admit some general bias toward Mexican food. It’s like duct tape; there’s nothing that salsa picante or cumin won’t fix and make substantially better.

Sizzlin’ supper

There’s nary a better spectacle in dining than a sizzling hot plate arriving with seared goodies to your table.

Belly up to the lunch bar

Perhaps more so than lunchtime traffic, finding a midday meal that won’t sit in your belly like a bowling ball is a nearly insurmountable challenge.

Binge for breakfast

It’s been a general rule of mine over the years that if a restaurant has a specific dish in the name, you don’t order anything other than that dish and expect a positive result.

A Poboy By Another Name

Even Son Do, owner and proprietor of Do’s Deli in the South College Shopping Center, can’t quite explain what took so long for banh mi to truly arrive in Lafayette.

¡Vamos plátanos!

Patacón Latin Cuisine introduces Lafayette to the savory delights of Venezuela, with the help of two crispy fried plantains.

Eats All Day

I used to live behind Johnson’s Boucaniere in my wilder days. Many a Saturday began with a late morning stumble across an open field to the restorative itis of country ribs and jambalaya. I was a late riser, but no doubt would have rallied for Johnson’s breakfast were it available to me then.

Chef Profile: Chanel Gaudé

Chanel Gaudé, who worked her way from wait staff to sous chef in one of Lafayette's best restaurants, is passionate about Louisiana foods.

FARM TO RADIO

The farm to table movement has become quite popular these days, making touting the use of locally grown foods a relatively widespread restaurant and grocer marketing tool.

Godfather II

Gene Todaro does it again, ordering up another culinary classic.

UL student bowls 'em over

UL Lafayette student Silvana Zaldivar has earned a trip to the International Home + Housewares show in Chicago next month for her revolutionary Suma Mixing Bowl design.

Libation Education

Just one sip and I knew I was no longer at the Tiger Drive-In.

DRY RUN

I first spotted Stan Dry at the New Iberia Farmers Market. One day he was buying strawberries. The next he was selling home baked bread. “Who is this guy?” I asked around. “He’s a cook,” was one answer I received. “He’s a writer,” someone else replied. Cooking? Writing? That sounded right up my alley.

Tap dancing

Parish Brewing and Saint Street Inn are teaming up for a two-night, one-of-a-kind tap takeover and beer dinner this weekend, Dec. 26 and 27.

Chef Profile: Kelsey Leger

Kelsey Leger, who stumbled upon her interest in the local foods world as a way to make a paycheck, has what many would consider an industry pedigree. Photo by Lucius A. Fontenot Kelsey Leger, who...

Au Contraire

Bayou Farm‘s husbandry sounds intuitive, but owners Sarah Bailly and Donald Keller are actually exceptions to the rule. BAYOU FARM‘S HUSBANDRY SOUNDS INTUITIVE, BUT OWNERS SARAH BAILLY AND DONALD...

Say it ain't so! Freetown Fries closing

Where will we get french fries smothered in awesomeness now? One of our favorite food trucks is closing its window. Marla Kristicevich announced on Facebook Wednesday that Freetown Fries' fantastic...

Bon Appétit

If you're headed out to dine, The IND's 2014 fall restaurant guide featuring more than 200 locally owned establishments should be your first course. If you're headed out to dine, The IND's 2014 fall...

One to Watch

Village Cafe chef honored The man behind the scenes was front and center Monday night at Village Cafe. Fans and friends toasted Lafayette chef, Jeremy Conner, at the River Ranch restaurant as one of...

Dans Ma Cuisine: smoked ponce

Ramsey Morein prepares an old Cajun classic also known as chaudin in this latest episode of filmmaker Stephen Meaux's culinary series. Ramsey Morein prepares an old Cajun classic also known as...

Dans Ma Cuisine: Fried in Freetown

Batter up for a pre-Mardi Gras deep fry fête at Jo Vidrine's Freetown pad in this sixth episode of filmmaker Stephen Meaux's culinary series. Batter up for a pre-Mardi Gras deep fry fête at Jo...

Dans Ma Cuisine: pork chop rice & gravy

In this fifth episode of filmmaker Stephen Meaux's culinary series, Kyle Monceaux stirs up some serious comfort food. In this fifth episode of filmmaker Stephen Meaux's culinary series, Kyle Monceaux...

Brunch - in bunches

Saint Street Inn and Social Southern Bar & Table add brunch to Lafayette's Sunday menu. Saint Street Inn and Social Southern Bar & Table are getting in the brunch biz. The eateries have...

Baking Advantage

For Henri and Kevin Moore, the farmer's market is a labor of love. For Henri and Kevin Moore, the farmer's market is a labor of love. By Tyler F. Thigpen Wednesday, Sept. 3, 2014 Farmer's markets...

Restaurant Review: Phares' Kitchen

Ambassador seafood and steak restaurant undergoes menu overhaul. Ambassador seafood and steak restaurant undergoes menu overhaul. By Kari Walker Wednesday, Sept. 3, 2014 Photos by Kari Walker Chef...

Dans Ma Cuisine Episode 2: Crawfish Étouffée

Photographer and Valcour Records co-founder Lucius Fontenot cooks up a classic in this second episode of filmmaker Stephen Meaux's culinary series. Photographer and Valcour Records co-founder Lucius...

Dans Ma Cuisine Episode 1: Turkey Neck Maque Choux

Toby Rodriguez of Lache Pas Boucherie et Cuisine in Grand Coteau prepares a favorite meal in this first episode of filmmaker Stephen Meaux's cooking series. For more on filmmaker Stephen Meaux and his...

You Say You Want an Evolution

Juicing's health benefits lead to a proliferation of sellers in the Lafayette market. FARM TO TABLE By Tyler F. Thigpen Juicing's health benefits lead to a proliferation of sellers in the Lafayette...

Chef's Table Experience winner announced

Congratulations to Stella Theriot and seven friends who will enjoy a private dinner hosted by INDEats and EatLafayette INDEats and EatLafayette will host the Chef's Table Experience, a private dinner...

Meaux Betta Cooking

Filmmaker documents local foodways with Dans Ma Cuisine.' Stephen Meaux likes his kitchen, and hanging out with friends over a few drinks and a simmering pot. But then again, who doesn't? A member of...

Enter to win a private dining evening for eight

INDEats and EatLafayette want to give one lucky foodie and friends the most memorable meal - here's how you can win As part of this year's EatLafayette dining campaign, the Food, Wine, Beer and...

EatLafayette Dish of the Day: Masala's lamb chops

An aromatic tomato and onion gravy complete this savory feast Indian cuisine is all about spice profiles and creating depth of flavor without an overly rich taste. The lamb chops Masala are such a...

Win a Private Dining Evening for Eight

You and seven friends could be treated to the INDEats and EatLafayette Chef's Table Experience. As part of this year's EatLafayette dining campaign, the Food, Wine, Beer and Spirits Experience will...

EatLafayette Dish of the Day: Antoni's baked salmon

Light and fresh fish from a special prix fixe menu Antoni's Italian Café in the Oil Center Gardens is the place for a casual lunch or an intimate dinner for two. During EatLafayette, Antoni's is...

EatLafayette Dish of the Day: Chris' Poboys

Fried shrimp poboy and a muffaletta lovers rejoice at this sandwich shop On most days a sandwich for lunch seems boring - if that's the case, you haven't been to Chris' Poboys. This sandwich shop...

Artmosphere's $6 lunch menu

The price is right for a relaxed meal Downtown Artmosphere offers varited at a low price for lunchtime $6 can't get you much these days, but it can get you lunch and a drink over at Artmosphere...

Zea treats dads to a few brews

Father's Day four-pack of handcrafted beer is on the house Dads get a four-pack of Zea beer free on Father's Day Zea Rotisserie & Grill knows dads like an ice-cold beer more than another tie in...

The Local Pantry at Brick & Spoon

Pop in at the pop up Brick & Spoon's parking lot transforms into a market while the restaurant hosts locally-sourced menu and guest chefs. What happens when you mix one part dinner party with a...

Dish of the day: Rice Kings' Korean pork tacos

Charred pork and spicy sauce elevate a simple street eat Top: Korean pork tacos, Bottom: nacho dumplings Today's dish of the day is a taste of Korea rolled up in a portable tortilla - let the Korean...

Social's Lessons in Libations series returns

The art of the cocktail pairs with good company Photo by Kari Walker Social's Blackberry bourbon lemonade was one of June's Lessons in Libations featured drinks. Social Southern Table and Bar's Eli...

Boudin goes viral

Short film on the popular Cajun creation explains the boom of the beloved diet staple Ever wonder who has the best boudin around? The latest film produced by Randy Foreman for Munchies, an online...

10 things to know before you geaux EatLafayette

It's baaack! Are you ready? EatLafayette is the summer-long dining campaign that this year celebrates a decade of supporting Lafayette's locally owned restaurants. Before you pick your next place to...

Don't Let Go

Boucherie master Toby Rodriguez holds onto a Cajun culinary tradition. BOUCHERIE MASTER TOBY RODRIGUEZ HOLDS ONTO A CAJUN CULINARY TRADITION. BY TYLER F. THIGPEN Monday, June 2, 2014 Photos by...

Mix and mingle at Pamplona

Pick a few tapas and share with friends at the Downtown spot One of my favorite places to go at the end of the week is Pamplona Tapas Bar on Jefferson Street in Downtown Lafayette. I am never...

Cricket's Kitchen opens in Broussard

New plate lunch and Cajun cooking spot also features drive-thru Fried pork chops are one of the plate lunch specialties at Cricket's Kitchen. If your day's travels include a venture down Highway 90,...

Smooth moves

Body Plus' smoothies, juices and quick bites help get you bikini-ready PBJ smoothie from Body Plus is loaded with protein and just as delicious as its sandwich counterpart Now that Memorial Day...

Straws and Claws: a match made in Louisiana heaven

Boiled seafood and snowballs in a one-stop shop It seems as though I cannot go a day or two without hearing someone make a reference to two common staples in late spring and early summer food groups...

Bertolazzi, Carpe Diem! honored

The co-owner of Downtown Lafayette's Carpe Diem! Gelato-Espresso Bar walked away from last weekend's Gelato World Tour in Austin's Republic Square with one of two Technical Jury Awards for her La...

Indulge your sweet tooth

Decadent dessert delights can be found at a unique Parc Lafayette café I found myself at the doorstep of Indulge staring face-to-face with a happy looking picture of a slice of cake while window...

Eat out and give back to St. Joseph Diner

Dine for the Diner community partners give 10 percent today and help  Lafayette Catholic Service Center's mission to feed the indigent Photo via Lafayette Catholic Service Centers St. Joseph Diner...

Mother's Day dining delights

Give mom and the stove a break with a little luxury at Jolie's or Ruffino's on the River She does the laundry. She drives the kids. And she's probably the one who's cooking dinner tonight - we call...

Brunch on Bendel Road

Bread & Circus Provisions begins Saturday service Bread & Circus is open for lunch, dinner and now brunch service on Saturdays. Choose to dine inside or alfresco at a table for two. Search no...

The True Family Farm

Brian and Dawn Gotreaux and their 10 (!) children breathe new life into a fading agricultural model. Brian and Dawn Gotreaux and their 10 (!) children breathe new life into a fading agricultural...

IND Eats spring dining guide hits newsstands

Find descriptive listings of more than 200 local restaurants, along with images of scrumptious dishes by food photographer Denny Culbert INSPIRED Acadiana's culinary scene is a love affair between...

All the buzz at Social Southern Table and Bar

Fresh and local menu flavors create a seasonal springtime feast Chef Marc Krampe and the Social Southern Table and Bar folks are constantly changing the menu to give guests unique cuisine - with a...

Evolve helps teach juicing at home

Class at E's Kitchen educates how health begins in the produce aisle Photo via Evolve Fresh pressed juice from Evolve is as refreshing and delicious as it is colorful Have you ever wondered how you...

Dish of the day: Loco's Southwestern seafood pasta

Everyday is a fiesta at this Cypress Bayou Casino Hotel eatery It's almost May and time to make plans for celebrating Cinco de Mayo with a little Mexican spice. Make plans to travel down to Charenton...

Eat, drink and be Festival

The low-down on what to try this weekend when you head Downtown for the most wonderful time of the year Maybe you've heard this one before - "Man, I really love the crawfish nachos at Dean-O's....

INNOV8 the Plate event showcases local food

Producers, manufacturers, restaurants and chefs host roundtable and tasting Photo by Robin May Tastes from Brick and Spoon and other local restaurants and food vendors happen April 28 as part of...

Dish of the day: Charley G's lamb French dip

Tender meat and crispy bread create a white-linen-worthy sandwich Charley G's has long been a destination for white linen dinner dining, but don't forget about this crowd-favorite when it comes to...

Cajun Country Rice goes with the grain

Pop-up dinner of chef Justin Girouard's creations reflect farming traditions {igallery id=1478|cid=63|pid=1|type=category|children=0|addlinks=0|tags=|limit=0} Louisiana Cookin' Magazine and Cajun...

Easter eats and sweet treats

Egg-citing ideas for sharing at family gatherings Easter gatherings are fast approaching and if your plans include the need pick up a treat or two to bring to a party, here are a few ideas to fill the...

Suck the heads, pinch the tails

Is there really such a thing as too much crawfish? Stock photo South Louisiana lives to eat - and this time of year, most folks are finding an excuse to need to indulge in a few pounds of everyone's...

Dish of the day: Viva la Waffle's Rosceaux

Southern love, food truck-style Nothing says Southern flavor quiet like chicken and waffles and there's no better place to grab this dish for lunch than from Viva la Waffle. The Rosceaux is one of...

Dish of the day: French Press' Croque Madame

Ham-and-cheese-sandwich-heaven served with crispy frites Most think of breakfast or brunch when The French Press is mentioned, but the vast selections on the lunch menu are love at first bite. There's...

More than a meal

Two upcoming dinner series events that will inspire people who love to eat Swamp Pop soda fans should mark their calendars for Thursday, April 17 and call Café Vermilionville. The second dinner...

Dish of the day: Artmosphere's grilled veggie pizza

Relaxed downtown dining gets garden fresh Grilled veggies and fres herbs top a crispy crust on this pizza for one at Artmosphere If you're looking to try something different for lunch or dinner with...

Acadiana Table's George Graham makes SAVEUR list

Local food blogger nominated for regional award needs your help to win. Photo by George Graham via Acadiana Table George Graham's Acadiana Table is a local food blog revolving around Cajun and Creole...

Dish of the day: Saigon Noodle's beef Pho

Traditional Vietnamese soup with endless varieties of flavor Photo by Kari Walker via Instagram Beef Pho from Saigon Noodle is a blend of comfort and spice. Saigon Noodle is a quaint little Vietnamese...

Restaurant Preview: Grub Burger Bar

Bold burgers and spiked shakes find a home in Parc Lafayette Photo by Robin May Megan Braniff Klock local Grub Burger Bar franchise owner will open her first Lousiana location in Parc Lafayette in...

The Good Fight

Chef Jeremy Conner pulls together a fabulous meal to help Second Harvest battle hunger in Acadiana.

Mary, Mary Quite Concordant

Mary and Roy Patout find their slow-food niche. Photos by Molly Richard Farmers' markets are platforms for small business owners to share their wares and sell unique, artisanal, hand-made products....

Dish of the day: Taco Sisters fish tacos

Smoked tuna and veggies rolled in a tortilla for a Lenten lunch It's another Lenten Friday, and for those looking to escape the bloat of a fried seafood platter or poboy, take a trip down Johnston...

Go hog wild in New Orleans

Pork, beer and music take over City Park to benefit pediatric cancer Photo by Lucius Fontenot Toby Rodriguez and Jeremy Conner will compete on team Seersucker Collective this weekend at Hogs for the...

Brunch returns to Village Café

Sunday tradition welcomes spring Village Café's Sunday brunch returns as a welcome to spring and weather that's inviting for outdoor dining. Chef Jeremy Conner's menu is a blend of brunch favorites...

Dish of the week: Franken-Lamb!

Yeah, it's smoked venison sausage stuffed in a suckling pig stuffed in a lamb and roasted over an open fire. There's turducken - a chicken stuffed in a duck stuffed in a turkey. But for barbecue...

Restaurant Profile: Black Café

A cup of coffee and Scotch eggs feed the soul beneath Uptown Lofts. Looking for a new coffee shop hangout to read the paper, study for exams or grab a quick and quiet bite with friends? Then pop into...

Swamp Pop launches dinner series

Jolie's Louisiana Bistro cooks up menu inspired by local cane sugar soda flavors Swamp Pop will begin its first-ever dinner series at Jolie's Louisiana Bistro on Tuesday, Feb. 27, the five course menu...

Lafayette chef receives James Beard Foundation nod

Justin Girouard of The French Press among list of acclaimed Southern chefs Photo via The French Press Chef Justin Girouard of The French Press The James Beard Foundation released its 2014...

Dish of the Day: Bread & Circus' Fire Bird sandwich

Be one of the first to try this Bendel Road eatery Photo by Kari Walker Bread & Circus' Fire Bird sandwich balances smoke, spice and sweetness, an all-around palate pleaser. Bread & Circus...

Brunchin' for Acadiana Center for the Arts

Calling all Social-ites - this mimosa's for you On Sunday, Feb. 23 the Acadiana Center for the Arts will host an event at Social Southern Table and bar called AcA's Krewe of Social-ites. The only...

Pour me something, mister

Carnival-inspired cocktails and appetizers at Café Vermilionville Café Vermilionville is ready to get the party started when it comes to Mardi Gras. The Pinhook Road restaurant has a cocktail and...

Love is sweet at Lolli's Chocolates

Oil Center shop is ready for Valentine's Day Photo by Kari Walker Assorted chocolate gift boxes from Lolli's Chocolates start at $14.99 with optional in town delivery Once you've order the roses,...

Pop champagne and pop the question

Romance and Ruth's Chris Steak House create a Valentine's Day to remember If a way to a man's heart is through his stomach, then ladies, have him take you to Ruth's Chris for Valentine's Day and maybe...

Going underground with the Skeleton Kroux

A mash up of Lafayette's finest chefs livens up late night food Everyone knows what happens after a night out bar hopping - hunger strikes and on the way home you might swing by a drive-through for...

All you need is love

For better or worse, these couples rise above while working together Photo by Kari Walker Justin and Margaret Girouard, owners of The French Press Margaret and Justin Girouard are an ordinary married...

Agave opens third location at Parc Lafayette

Winter woes turn to tropical dreams with the spice of Mexico No doubt winter storm Leon has you thinking of times spent in warmer weather - luckily the Mexican hot spot, Agave Mexican Grill and...

Dish of the Day: Social's kimchi frites

Korean flavors and crispy potatoes pair in this new menu item Social Southern Table and Bar celebrated its one year anniversary and rolled out its new menu items earlier this week and one of the...

Food forecasts for 2014

Local chefs and foodies tell us what they see on the rise in the culinary world this the year Just like in fashion, food has its own trends - I'm very sorry curly lettuce garnish, you wore out your...

Some Like it Hot

Troy and Kara Primeaux have turned a love of peppers into a spicy ingredient in Acadiana's slow-food revolution. Photos by Travis Gauthier / Zoom Photo Studio Kara and Troy Primeaux Peppers are an...

Let's do lunch

So long, salad. Eating out and healthy is more than rabbit food. No doubt one of your New Year's resolutions is to get healthier - a big part of accomplishing this goal is what you are putting in your...

Swamp Pop expands to shelves nationwide

Louisiana sugar cane soda now found at 270 Cost Plus World Market locations Locally produced Swamp Pop soda is being sold nationwide at 270 Cost Plus World Market locations. On Dec. 30, the fizzy...

Stock the NYE bar to ring in 2014

Last minute options of sparkling wine from Philippe's Wine Cellar 2013, you've been kind, but it's time to show some respect to the new year by raising our glasses and toasting what's ahead. The...

Drink of the week: Ruffino's on the River's 'Winter'

Fill your glass with some sparkle before the clock strikes midnight Christmas has wrapped itself up into a crumpled pile of paper and bows waiting on the curb, and attention has turned to New Year's...

Drink of the week: Pamplona's Hot buttered rum

Sugar, spice and everything nice Hot buttered rum is a classic drink perfect for any holiday gathering when there's a chill in the air. The warmer temps may have moved in for the weekend, but once old...

Where to dine in New Orleans for the bowl weekend

Eat your way through New Orleans over the bowl weekend with this guide to local dining. Go hungry, leave satisfied. New Orleans is going to be as much about food and drink this weekend as it is about...

Drink of the week: POUR's Christmas Kitty

Accept no substitutions for homemade Eggnog Nothing says the holidays quite like Eggnog - but, let's get real, no one wants that pre-made stuff. Have you ever had REAL Eggnog? It's the soul-stirring...

E's Kitchen hosts grand re-opening

Week long specials and a ribbon cutting celebration held in Parc Lafayette E's Kitchen is in the middle of celebrating a week devoted to its grand re-opening - the culinary needs and gadget store...

Chef John Besh comes to Lafayette

Cooking from the Heart book signing tour hosted at Barnes & Noble On Wednesday Dec. 4, James Beard award-winning chef John Besh will be in town at Barnes & Noble as part of a book signing tour...

Tip of the iceberg lettuce

This labyrinth of seemingly disorganized plants is a rare find in South Louisiana. This labyrinth of seemingly disorganized plants is a rare find in South Louisiana. By Tyler F. Thigpen Monday, Dec....

Making spirits bright

Move over Eggnog - mixology makes merry this holiday season Photo by Kari Walker Christmas on the Bayou is a sip of local flavors like Spiced Bayou Rum, Canebrake wheat ale and fresh satsuma...

Five reasons to try Five Guys - just not today

Fry fanatics and burger lovers couldn't wait a minute longer to chow down The long-awaited Five Guys Burgers and Fries opened today at 4302 Ambassador Caffery Parkway and by the looks of the parking...

Praise the lard for La Boucherie Merci

The705 gives thanks to the community with a traditional Cajun experience at Vermilionville The inaugural La Boucherie Merci happens Sunday, Nov. 24 from 7 a.m until 6 p.m. at Vermilionville as a...

Horsing around at Pack & Paddle

Pint Night expected to draw crowd for Friends of the Horse Farm benefit As Lafayette Central Park, Inc. continues with community forums on planning the development of the Horse Farm, the folks at Pack...

Pigged out

Traditional Cajun food preparation and seasonal produce create a dinner under the stars. It was fiddles, good company and a full moon as local foodies gathered at Bayou Teche Brewery for Cochon de...

Closure of Brennan's spotlights family feuds

Brennan's Restaurant - "A New Orleans Tradition Since 1946" - is closed, the latest shoe to fall in 40 years of headline-grabbing family discord and costly litigation over matters of...

Pig & Plough Suppers presents: Cochon de Lune

Eat, drink and be merry at Bayou Teche Brewing On Nov. 17, Pig & Plough Suppers is hosting Cochon, de Lune, a pig roast, gelato and beer tasting to benefit Acadiana Food Circle. Pig & Plough's...

IND Eats Dining Guide online edition available now

In this issue we added a category called On the Geaux, featuring chefs who approach the restaurant business a little differently than most by serving great meals from a food truck. The IND Eats Dining...

A Taste from the Canvas

The Outreach Center's Palates and Pâté event offers edible art. The Outreach Center's Palates and Pâté event offers edible art. By Kari Walker Friday, Nov. 1, 2013 Photos by Robin May CChef Peter...

Yo-ho-ho and a Bottle of Rum

Locally produced potent potables complement the slow-food menu in Acadiana. Locally produced potent potables complement the slow-food menu in Acadiana. By Tyler F. Thigpen / photos by tracie...

Arcadian now open on Jefferson Street

Nostalgic arcade games and inventive pub menu available from lunch to late-night Gamers, have no fear - the long awaited opening of Arcadian is here. IND Eats had the opportunity to visit this arcade...

Olde Tyme Grocery poboy eating contest returns

Ready. Set. Eat! Photo by: Kari Walker The Olde Tyme Special, a classic sandwich offered at the popular Saint Streets eatery Do you love poboys? Do you love Olde Tyme? Do you love both so much you...

Miss the link? Boudin Cook-Off is Saturday!

Two of the most popular words in Acadiana - "boudin" and "free" - will be linked on Saturday at Parc Sans Souci when the 6th annual Boudin Cook-Off takes place from 10 a.m.-4...

What's on tap at Gulf Brew

Beer fest to support AcA happens Saturday at the Horse Farm. On Saturday, Oct. 19, from 6-9 p.m., the 7th annual Gulf Brew takes over the Horse Farm to showcase more than 120 beers, live music and...

Bread & Circus Provisions pop-up deli at ArtWalk

An inventive snack bar takes over Genterie Supply Co. Saturday night If you're headed to ArtWalk tomorrow evening,  check out the pop-up deil by Bread & Circus Provisions over at Genterie Supply...

Runaway Dish presents Smoked Screen

The charitable chef-showcase dinner series returns to benefit Southern Screen Film Festival The creative minds behind Runaway Dish have announced the chefs for the upcoming prix fixe dinner series...

Meet the eucharistic burger

A Chicago restaurant has cooked up a controversial burger of the month for October, garnishing it with an unconsecrated communion wafer and a red wine reduction sauce. CHICAGO (AP) - A Chicago...

Local foodie gears up for MasterChef

Business owner auditions for spot on FOX reality cooking show. Photo by: Robin May Lafayette kitchen goods retailer Paul Ayo loves food and cooking, so it only seems natural that he might be the next...

Recipe Rundown: Nutty chocolate caramel corn

Sweet and savory treat for fall flings. It may only be the first week of October, but I have my sights - and stomach - set on some treats that scream fall and of course, Halloween. During a recent...

New Kids on the Block

Entrepreneurial spirit, foodies and a dash of retro bring life to vacant Jefferson Street buildings. RESTAURANT PREVIEW By Kari Walker Jefferson Street has long been a popular nightlife destination,...

Eats Calendar

Off the beaten path ideas for date nights - it's anything but dinner and a movie. INDEATS ALL OVER OCTOBER Off the beaten path ideas for date nights - it's anything but dinner and a movie. By Kari...

Food for Thought

Acadiana Food Day is about much more - or is it less? - than local cuisine. FARM TO TABLE By Tyler F. Thigpen Acadiana Food Day is about much more - or is it less? - than local cuisine. Move over...

Social's fall menu premieres

INDEats' picks for seasonal tastes Social Southern Table and Bar's fall menu debuted yesterday, and Chef Marc Krampe has crafted several new seasonal dishes rich in autumn flavors. INDEats sampled the...

La. touting its beers on new Craft Brewery Trail

The trail has seven breweries so far, all accessible from Interstates 10 and 12: Abita Brewing Company, Bayou Teche Brewing, Chafunkta Brewing Company, Covington Brewhouse, NOLA Brewing Company,...

Sweet Crude Rum wins big

Rank Wildcat Spirits takes home Washington Cup. David Meaux and Cole LeBlanc, the faces behind Sweet Crude Rum, are toasting in celebration as their rum recently received top honors in the Washington...

Cafe Vermilionville's Courtyard Concert Series returns

Local music and al fresco dining welcome fall beginning Wednesday. Café Vermilionville's Courtyard Concert Series returns this Wednesday, Sept. 18 with Troy Richard and Friends staring off the season....

Dish of the Day: Sonic's Ragin' Cajun burger

Sink your teeth into some UL spirit. After an overwhelming success during last year's football season, area Sonic locations are again offering the Ragin' Cajun burger. It's a cheeseburger topped with...

Swamp Pop makes its retail debut

Locally owned sugar cane soda line on sale at Rouses. Jean Lafitte Ginger Ale is one of four Swamp Pop flavors now available. Swamp Pop Soda hits shelves Thursday at 22 Rouses locations - including...

Dish of the Month: The Lab's Summertime Hot Chocolate

Fall may be less than a month away, but it's certain South Louisiana weather will continue to offer temps that are less than accommodating for sweaters, scarves and fuzzy boots. Fall may be less than...

Eat like a local

What it means to EatLafayette and life beyond a summer of carbs. What it means to EatLafayette and life beyond a summer of carbs. story and photos By kari Walker Tuesday, Sept. 3, 2013 For the past 11...

Meet Your Market

No longer just a niche, farmers' markets are spreading the health across Lafayette. No longer just a niche, farmers' markets are spreading the health across Lafayette. By Tyler F. Thigpen / photos by...

EatLafayette Dish of the Day: Joey's Snacking tasso

A spicy cured pork sandwich - it's Cajun to geaux Today's Dish of the Day from Joey's is bursting with Cajun flavor - the Snacking Tasso Po'boy is the right blend of spice, salt, and crunch. It starts...

EatLafayette Dish of the Day: Zeus' chicken shawerma

Greek and Lebanese dishes mark the last stamp on IND Eats' passport. IND Eats' last stop for this week around the world is a sampling of Greek and Lebanese dishes from Zeus. Today's Dish of the Day is...

EatLafayette Dish of the Day: Antoni's lasagna

Enjoy old world atmosphere and cuisine in the heart of the Oil Center. Since 1996, authentic Italian cuisine has been served at Antoni's Italian Café tucked in the back of the Oil Center Gardens. This...

EatLafayette Dish of the Day: Romacelli's special

With locations in Lafayette and Youngsville, Romacelli is the place to satisfy your envie for Italian. With locations in Lafayette and Youngsville and dynamite recipes for gourmet pizza, Romacelli is...

EatLafayette Dish of the Day: BJ's Mexican pizza

Can't decide between Mexican or Italian for lunch? Get both on a pizza at BJ's. For big flavor that dips south of the border, come into BJ's Pizza and Deli on Congress Street to try the Mexican pizza,...

All Growin' Up

Get your veggie garden on! Get your veggie garden on! By Tyler F. ThigpeN PHOTOS BY TRACIE FONTENOT Friday, Aug. 2, 2013 In South Louisiana vegetable gardens are as much of a household staple as a...

EatLafayette Dish of the Day: Jolie's ceviche

Bring a pretty blonde to this Pinhook restaurant for a South American seafood classic. Jolie's menu is full of options that are fresh, local and seasonal and the ceviche delivers on all three of these...

Restaurant: Possible

Generations learn from the past to move toward the future in family-owned Lafayette restaurants. Generations learn from the past to move toward the future in family-owned Lafayette restaurants. By...

All Growin' Up

Get your veggie garden on! Get your veggie garden on! By Tyler F. Thigpen / PHOTOS BY tRACIE fONTENOT Friday, Aug. 2, 2013 In South Louisiana vegetable gardens are as much of a household staple as a...

EatLafayette Dish of the Day: Agave's Fiesta burger

A great burger begins with chips and salsa. When the debate over who has the best burger in town is on the table, you might scratch your head when someone says Agave Grill & Cantina. But this...

IberiaBank and FoodNet rally to end hunger

IberiaBank and FoodNet have teamed up to host a food truck rally Wednesday, July 24, at the IberiaBank branch at 322 Settlers Trace. IberiaBank and FoodNet have teamed up to host a food truck rally...

EatLafayette Dish of the Day: The Lab's affogato

Drown end of the weekend sorrows in a cup of espresso and handcrafted cold creams. It's EatLafayette Sweet Treats week over at The IND, and if you're having a case of the Mondays, stop by The Lab in...

AcA's Gulf Brew festival heads to Horse Farm

Changes are brewing for the annual beer festival. Acadiana Center for the Arts is moving this year's Gulf Brew to greener pastures. The annual beer festival that supports the arts has been held in...

Dixie Beer: The brand perseveres, but the brewery?

Dixie is brewed in Wisconsin now. The New Orleans brewery hasn't re-opened since Hurricane Katrina hit in 2005. And progress, in the form of a sprawling new medical complex and a disputed property...

EatLafayette Dish of the Day: Olde Tyme Special

New Orleans style Poor Boys have been a Saints Streets staple for more than 30 years - order the Special to taste why. Olde Tyme Grocery has been a Saints Street dining tradition since Glenn Murphree...

It Takes a Village

How one Lafayette kitchen is turning the macho tide How one Lafayette kitchen is turning the macho tide  By Anna Purdy Monday, July 1, 2013 "She has her little step stool and climbs right up to...

Gentlemen Prefer Old Fashioned

Everything old is new again, including this classic whiskey cocktail. Take a trip around town and experience it three different ways. The Old Fashioned is nothing new - or is it? The beloved drink,...

Dish of the Month

It's our EatLafayette Dish of the Month. Judice Inn has called 3134 Johnston St. home since 1947 when brothers Alcide and Marc Judice built the establishment themselves and started serving the...

Farm To Table: Getting Connected

Some enterprising culinary entrepreneurs are spreading awareness one gourmet meal at a time. The rapidly evolving slow foods scene in Acadiana just developed a new niche: Local foods leaders are...

EatLafayette July 2013

June 17 - Sept. 2: A celebration of Lafayette's one-of-a-kind, locally owned restaurants June 17 - Sept. 2: A celebration of Lafayette's one-of-a-kind, locally owned restaurants Click here to view...

EatLafayette Dish of the Day: 1895's pork roast

Rice, gravy and veggies, too - this dish is a good reason to get out of the kitchen and let 1895 do the cooking. 1895 Cajun Cuisine & Pub is serving up a plate of pork roast that could even put...

Katie Bakes makes Cupcake Wars

For Katie Meaux and Skylar Manuel, "life's short, eat dessert first" isn't just a mantra; it's a business. And this business has landed a spot on the Food Network's popular Cupcake Wars. For...

EatLafayette Dish of the Day: Don's seafood salad

Don's Seafood and Steakhouse's seafood salad starts off the summer-long local dining campaign as the EatLafayette Dish of the Day. Don's Seafood and Steakhouse's seafood salad starts off the...

Dish of the Month: Pamplona's Embutidos y Pimientos

During EatLafayette, Pamplona Tapas Bar is offering a buy two, get one free special from its Traditional Tapas menu. Monday, June 3, 2013 Written by IND Monthly Staff During EatLafayette, Pamplona...

Allons manger!

Let's Eat, Lafayette! The time is upon us again when we celebrate the local institutions that fill our bellies and spoil us with their specials. For the ninth year, EatLafayette kicks off this month...

Know Thy Zucchini

Locally sourced produce used to be available only at farmer's markets, but consumer demand is changing that. Locally sourced produce used to be available only at farmer's markets, but consumer demand...

The IND goes oyster touring

Warning: The oysters you're about to taste may be too fresh for your taste buds. Warning: The oysters you're about to taste may be too fresh for your taste buds. That's the advice a large group of...

Ruffino's opening night in pictures

The  official opening night of Ruffino's on the River Monday followed a week of warm-up invitation-only trial runs that already had the buzz going up and down the bayou and across town. The  official...

Today in awesome: Bayou Teche Brewing

Bayou Teche Brewing Co. in Arnaudville has been named one of the 10 best micro breweries in these United States. More accolades for our friends at the little brewery that could. Bayou Teche Brewing in...

Bravo's 'Top Chef' heads to New Orleans

The cable TV network issued a statement Friday that "the vibrant food scene of New Orleans will be a welcome addition in the 11th season of the series." NEW ORLEANS (AP) - Bravo's hit...

Brick & Spoon opens Wednesday

The long-awaited restaurant will soon be dishing out "a morning ritual that's anything but routine." Brick & Spoon has announced it will open its doors Wednesday after months of teasing...

Yes, we can

A time-honored tradition finds a niche in the slow-foods movement. The canning and preserving of foods was widely implemented as a food storage technique in the late 1700s when militaries throughout...

Sweet, Sweet Cinco

Great Harvest Bread Co. of Acadiana is offering an untraditional way to celebrate the Mexican holiday. If any other country is celebrating, Americans tend to get in on the action. We want to revel...

Gas industry gives Pa. stores taste for the South

The land of scrapple and chipped ham is starting to get a taste for jambalaya and boudin. PENNSDALE, Pa. (AP) - The land of scrapple and chipped ham is starting to get a taste for jambalaya and...

Loving on Festival Food

Because we all need something to soak up the Festival punch. As Festival International approaches, we've compiled our favorite Festival foods (and events) so you can create your own food line-up that...

La Carreta will hold its own downtown

The Louisiana-based chain is opening on Jefferson Street this week and it's poised to be a new downtown hot spot. With its reputation preceding it, La Carreta, the chain out of Hammond, is opening on...

Farmers' market comes to Horse Farm

The city park will host farmers, artisans and musicians starting Saturday, June 1. Lafayette's Horse Farm will soon be home to a new farmers' market, which is anticipated to be one of the largest in...

Dine for the Diner across Acadiana tomorrow

The annual event encourages Lafayette to eat out to help raise money for St. Joseph's Diner. The annual Dine for the Diner takes place tomorrow, and more than 35 restaurants are participating,...

Cooking classes return to Tsunami

Learn to roll with the pros. Tsunami is opening up its kitchen again so everyday eaters can learn the tricks for making professional-grade sushi. The class, priced at $50 per person, includes hands-on...

Lafayette, La: Foodie City, USA

The rest of the country seems to be catching on to what we're doing down here. Livability.com, a national website that ranks quality of life and travel amenities of small and mid-sized cities across...

EATS travels eastbound and down

A long weekend trip over Easter provided a culinary tour of Tampa, Fla. This could be said about pretty much any city in the South during the spring, but Tampa is beautiful this time of year. The...

Pin It: A Sweet Festival International Experience

Local cupcakery brings back its Festival Punch cupcake and this year is working to help keep Fest free Drinking on the job is frowned upon in most establishments, but Sophi P. Cakes, the Official...

Fat and Happy

Locally pastured beef is catching on in Acadiana - for good reasons. Locally pastured beef is catching on in Acadiana - for good reasons. By Tyler F. Thigpen Photo by Lucius Fontenot A happy cow at...

Chef John Besh hosts new cooking show at La. home

John Besh has cooked for thousands in his restaurants. He has cooked for millions on TV. But he recently realized he'd lost sight of cooking for the most important diners of all - his family. NEW...

Cena moves downtown

The ready-made meals business is leaving River Ranch for downtown Lafayette. Cena, known for its ready-to-cook meals and light lunches, is leaving River Ranch after five years and moving into the...

ReadyFit Meals opens in Oil Center

Pick up a pre-made breakfast, lunch or dinner that is packed with lean proteins, heart healthy oils and fats, rich spices and low glycemic index carbs. ReadyFit Meals opened its doors in the Oil...

Dish of the Day: Freetown Fries' crawfish étouffry

Throw étouffée on anything and it's tasty. Freetown Fries is serving up its Lenten special today: a crawfish étouffry. From 11 p.m. to 2 p.m. today, you can find Freetown Fries at the corner of...

POUR now open next to Village Café

Now a full-service bar located next to Village Café, POUR has revamped its cocktail and food menus. POUR's new location next to Village Café in Degaulle Square in River Ranch is open for business with...

Celebrate (and eat!) local food this weekend

Learn to harvest your food at Vermilionville, then watch the pros serve it for Fresh and Local 2. This Saturday, Vermilionville and Acadiana Food Circle are singing the praises of locally grown food...

Besh to keynote food processing conference

New Orleans restaurateur John Besh will be a featured speaker at the Louisiana Food Processors Conference on March 13-14 in Baton Rouge. BATON ROUGE, La. (AP) - New Orleans restaurateur John Besh will...

JSP unveils new menus

With new lunch and dinner offerings along with the first official Saturday brunch, prepare to spend your weekend downtown. Jefferson Street Pub, still in its first year of entering the downtown...

Culinary Classic sees creative cuisine

The 26th annual event was a fundraiser for Hearts of Hope, and nobody left with an empty belly. Hearts of Hope was again the benefactor of this year's Acadiana Culinary Classic, an event that brought...

Brunch Done Right

Brick & Spoon aims to fill a void in south Lafayette with a highly anticipated brunch menu for the masses. Brick & Spoon aims to fill a void in south Lafayette with a highly anticipated brunch...

POUR It On

Popular River Ranch wine bar relocates next to sister concept as full-service bar. Popular River Ranch wine bar relocates next to sister concept as full-service bar. By Elizabeth RosePhotos by Robin...

Cochon Closure Paves Way For Ruffino's

So IND Monthly hits the road for a taste test. SO IND Monthly hits the road for a taste of Italy. Story and photo by Elizabeth Rose Friday, March 1, 2013 Ruffino's owner Ruffin Rodrigue and Executive...

Arnaudville: Small Town, Big Ideas

The Little Big Cup, which specializes in the classic Louisiana plate lunch,' is representative of the tides of change now being felt in the tiny Cajun-French community. When Interstate 49 was being...

Village Café reintroduces brunch

After a hiatus, Village Café in River Ranch is serving brunch again starting this weekend under the direction of Executive Chef Jeremy Conner. After a hiatus, Village Café in River Ranch is serving...

Village Café reintroduces brunch this weekend

After a hiatus, Village Café in River Ranch is serving brunch again starting this weekend under the direction of Executive Chef Jeremy Conner. After a hiatus, Village Café in River Ranch is serving...

Lafayette institution Campus Copies closing

After serving the UL campus for 26 years, the restaurant will close its doors at the end of the month. Campus Copies, one of two non-franchises on the UL campus, is closing at the end of the month...

Brick & Spoon serving a new take on brunch

Brick & Spoon is filling a void in south Lafayette with a highly anticipated brunch menu for the masses. Brick & Spoon, Lafayette's soon-to-be newest brunch spot, has a menu chock full of both...

Jefferson Street Pub unveils new brunch menu

Though they haven't officially started serving, we had a sneak preview on Mardi Gras. Jefferson Street Pub, which entered the downtown dining scene last year, has expanded its menu to include Saturday...

Drink of the Day: Café V's Pontiac Point

It's a seasonal and strong concoction. When the crew at Café Vermilionville was working on the restaurant's Mardi Gras cocktail menu, it went with names first. The king cake martini was an obvious...

Want to be a boudin taste tester?

The Lab Handcrafted Coffee and Comforts is looking for boudin lab rats. It's a hard job, but someone has to do it. The Lab is rolling out a new breakfast treat: boudin croissants. But with so many...

Brunch en Masse honors Cochon Lafayette

Lafayette's local Francophone custodians at FrancoJeunes are holding a farewell celebration to honor Cochon Lafayette for its efforts in helping with last year's Lâche Pas benefit for...

Review: Social Southern Table and Bar

Eclectic to the nth degree, this new speakeatery' on Johnston is not your mama's home cooking. Eclectic to the nth degree, this new speakeatery' on Johnston is not your mama's home cooking. By...

POUR It On

Popular River Ranch wine bar relocates next to sister concept as full-service bar. Popular River Ranch wine bar relocates next to sister concept as full-service bar. By Elilzabeth Rose Friday, Feb. 1,...

Sweet Success: The return of Southside Bakery

The Guilbeaux family - sans sons Denny and Billy - is baking again. The Guilbeaux family - sans sons Denny and Billy - is baking again. By Elizabeth Rose Friday, Feb. 1, 2013 At the new Southside...

Social is open

Now you can experience the gastropub's extensive menu. Here are a few teasers, but you can read a full review in February's issue of IND Monthly. Photos by Elizabeth Rose Krab nachos: Definitely one...

Rum, soon to come

Louisiana Spirits, which has been teasing us with a billboard at Exit 48 on I-10 for as long as we can remember, will release its first rums "soon." Louisiana Spirits LLC has announced the...

Dish of the day: Freetown Fries' King Cake Fry

Plus a guide to king cake calorie-counting. Freetown Fries has created another seasonal favorite well suited for the upcoming Mardi Gras festivities. The dish of the day is a pile of sweet potato...

‘Bourbon N Bon Temps' at Marcello's

Lafayette's underground bourbon aficionados will soon have a place to vent their affinity for fine American bourbons when Marecello's Wine Market hosts the inaugural Bourbon N Bon Temps event this...

Dish of the Day: Johnson's Boucaniere's gumbo

The ideal meal for a day like today. Today, the conditions are ripe for a gumbo-and-boudin meal. The weather is gloomy with a slight chill, many of us are feeling that slight soreness in the backs of...

Ring in the new year with the food trucks

The now-monthly event has a few new trucks to behold. The Acadiana Grilled Cheese Co. is appearing for its first time at this month's round-up, and after a hiatus due to mechanical problems, Viva la...

Southside Bakery set to reopen next month

At the new Southside Bakery on Congress, a light-up "OPEN" sign sits on the table by the door, longing for the day it can hang in the window and beckon customers who long for the classic...

Local Appeal

Acadiana Food Circle promotes locally sourced food and helps ensure what we consume in restaurants lives up to its billing. Photos by Denny Culbert City Farm's pattypan squash ready for the farmer's...

Freshest Ingredients: Brussels Sprouts

In South Louisiana, we truly have a penchant for taking healthy foods, most notably vegetables, and smothering them in some of the least healthy members in the food kingdom. In South Louisiana, we...

Farm to Table: Local Appeal

Acadiana Food Circle promotes locally sourced food and helps ensure what we consume in restaurants lives up to its billing. City Farm's pattypan squash ready for the farmer's market this past...

Bayou Teche releases Courir de Mardi Gras biere

"This style of French beer is historically crafted at the beginning of winter with the farm's freshest crop of barley, wheat and hops."  Arnaudville's Bayou Teche Brewing is releasing 2013's...

Social Southern Table and Bar opening soon

But mum is the word on the menu, the drinks and...well, everything. The group behind Charley G's is opening a new restaurant: Social Southern Table and Bar, and it's on track to be the most...

Social Southern Table and Bar close to opening

But mum is the word on the menu, the drinks and ... well, everything. The group behind Charley G's is opening a new concept restaurant called Social Southern Table and Bar that is on track to be the...

Pear and pecan muffins to fight the holiday bloat

This simple recipe makes an easy breakfast at only 149 calories per muffin. As we round the last stretch of the holiday marathon, some of us may begin to feel the toll that holiday eating has taken on...

Official: Restaurant inspections will improve

Louisiana's Office of Public Health is going statewide with a plan that officials say cut past-due restaurant and retail food inspections by at least one-third during a nine-parish pilot that began in...

Bowl weekend food guide

And announcing the CC's gift card winner! First, congratulations to Ashley Rush for winning the CC's gift card and coffee! The roads will be clear in Lafayette as Ragin' Cajuns fans make the trip down...

Drink up some holiday cheer

CC's delivers wintery favorites in a cup. Comment for a chance to win CC's coffee and a gift card! As the holidays draw ever closer, you often need a pick-me-up while doing that dreaded last-minute...

Food business incubator organizing

Gaye Sandoz, who most recently was with Edible Enterprises - a food business incubator in Norco - hopes to have the incubator fully developed over the next 12 months. BATON ROUGE, La. (AP) - The LSU...

Dish of the Day: Rusted Rooster's Ciabatta Believe It

The new Saint Streets restaurant's sandwich is an homage to the Italian countryside. Rusted Rooster's Ciabatta Believe It sandwich starts with healthy hunks of fresh mozzarella, topped with sun-dried...

Crispy kale from the oven

Baking the unsung green. Kale is not typically thought of as the most nutritious green - most go for spinach for a nutrition boost, but kale is a strong contender for the top spot. A one-cup serving...

New Orleans restaurants revive Creole custom

The elaborate grand reveillon dinners, which stem from the old French tradition of eating a lavish meal after midnight Mass on Christmas Eve, have become a popular draw for visitors to New Orleans...

New Orleans restaurants revive Creole custom

The elaborate grand reveillon dinners, which stem from the old French tradition of eating a lavish meal after midnight Mass on Christmas Eve, have become a popular draw for visitors to New Orleans...

Easy holiday baking: molasses cookies

These cookies get better with age ... if they last long enough. My mother grew up in Milwaukee and every year since 1928, Wisconsin Electric has distributed a cookbook full of recipes that customers...

Saint Street Inn Dish of the Day Double Doozie

Waiting for the next Saturday brunch may prove difficult. Saint Street Inn held a kickoff party this past Saturday to mark the first weekly brunch, complete with bloody Mary bar and live music - oh,...

Roll out this weekend

Make your own sushi this weekend in a Tsunami cooking class. Saturday night, Tsunami is hosting a sushi class for those who want to roll their own at home. For $50, you can learn how to build, roll,...

Saint Street Inn kicks off Saturday brunch

The first Saturday brunch is chock full of farm-to-table goodies, music and free Bloody Marys. Saint Street Inn will begin serving brunch every Saturday, and this weekend's morning meal is the...

Restaurant Review: Open Your Pie Hole

Nestled in the old Salon Bazaar on Jefferson Street is a restaurant earning a local buzz about its Cajun slant on Italian food and tables with beer taps right at your fingertips. Pie Hole Pizzeria and...

World Traditions: Holidays Around the Globe

So often, food is central to celebrations, and when the holidays roll around, people across the world eat for their health and luck for the coming year - and for self-indulgence. Winter...

On a Roll

Meet Dustin Aguillard's peaux dog. A new truck is on the move in Lafayette with Dustin Aguillard behind the wheel and the griddle, serving up gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches and a new specialty:...

Next food truck round-up Saturday

E's Kitchen's monthly food-truck round-up is set to have some new faces. E's Kitchen, in its newfound tradition, is hosting the next food truck round-up Saturday in Parc Lafayette. There will be food...

Gift wrapping for foodies

Photographer Denny Culbert has transforms favorite food photos into a wrapping paper, just in time for the holidays. Photographer Denny Culbert has embraced the food diversity in Lafayette and...

Audit: Restaurant inspections don't ensure safety

Louisiana's regulators of food safety fail to ensure restaurants and other retail food establishments are complying with health standards. BATON ROUGE, La. (AP) - Louisiana's regulators of food safety...

Dish of the Day: Fat Pat's Dome Dog

Fat Pat's doesn't serve up a mediocre hot dog. Fat Pat's has reinvented red beans and rice and converted it into a potentially portable dish in a bun. The Dome Dog is an homage to a South Louisiana...

Repurpose those Thanksgiving leftovers

Already tired of turkey sandwiches? The Thanksgiving leftover dilemma is inevitable. Piles of turkey sit in your refrigerator and everyone in the family grows tired of the same meal day after day -...

An ode to smoked olive oil

A drizzle of this oil is all you need. For anything. In a stroke of luck, a bottle of smoked olive oil was gifted to me this summer. I didn't know what to expect. It was an unsuspecting bottle, skinny...

New cupcakery opens on Bertrand

Everything Else is Cake is a new bakery that specializes in not just cupcakes, but also gluten-free and paleo versions of the same treats. Co-owners Chasity Hooks, Lana Nezat, Tiffany Faul and Lori...

Piling plates at Palates and Pâté

Last night's Palates and Pâté brought decadent desserts and delicious dishes all for the benefit of Acadiana Outreach Center. Grab a glass of wine and a plate for a roaming foodie adventure for...

Restaurant Guide hits the stands!

After weeks of constant phone calls and a dozen bowls of soup, the restaurant guide is complete and ready for consumption. The IND's restaurant guide, a comprehensive compilation of Lafayette...

Dish of the Day: Zea's pesto-crusted trout

Zea's does it all, but a seafood standout is the pesto-crusted trout. Take two fresh trout filets and smear them with fresh basil pesto and sear them in a pan, and the simplicity of the ingredients...

Cuckoo for cracklins

The Port Barre Lions Club is hosting the 28th annual Port Barre Cracklin Festival this weekend, complete with a cracklin cook-off. Few things are easier to gorge on than handfuls of fresh cracklins....

Down south, we know Boudin & Beer

Cochon's mastermind, Donald Link, drew a crowd Friday night in New Orleans, and Southern Living magazine took notice. At Friday night's Boudin & Beer in New Orleans, South Louisiana chef Donald...

Dish of the Day: Poupart's French Dip

A perennial favorite for a cool day. Wondering where to eat for lunch? Poupart's always has delicious daily specials and today is no exception. Try the French Dip: a poboy stuffed with roast beef and...

Open Your Pie Hole

Nestled in the old Saloon Bazaar on Jefferson Street is a restaurant earning a local buzz about its Cajun slant on Italian food and the tables with beer taps right at the fingertips. Chad Cormier owns...

Coffee cupping today at Café Cohen

Stop by for an afternoon java jolt. Café Cohen, located inside Great Harvest Bread Company, is holding a cupping today at 1 p.m. with new Guatemalan and Nicaraguan coffees. The café serves all coffee...

Reap What We Sow

The Acadiana Seed Bank is helping preserve a vital aspect of South Louisiana heritage. The Acadiana Seed Bank is helping preserve a vital aspect of South Louisiana heritage. By Elizabeth Rose November...

Grape White Hope (and Red)

One Hope Wines are crafted with more than just oenophiles in mind. One Hope Wines are crafted with more than just oenophiles in mind. By Elizabeth Rose November 2012 When One Hope Wine began in 2007,...

Chef Spotlight: Gilbert Decourt

Cajundome's Decourt shows the motherland how to make a real Cajun roux. Cajundome's Decourt shows the motherland how to make a real Cajun roux. By Elizabeth Rose November 2012 From left, chefs Adam...

Izzo's to open second location in Lafayette

Izzo's Illegal Burrito is expanding to the south side. Izzo's Illegal Burrito owners Gary Kovacs and Ozzie Fernandez have announced Izzo's will open a second location in Lafayette in the first quarter...

Repurposing those pumpkin seeds

Don't throw out those pumpkin seeds after pumpkin carving - roast them in the oven for a snack! It's a familiar feeling: Your hands covered in the innards from a pumpkin just after you've gutted it...

Dish of the Day: Counter Culture's Humphrey Yogart

It's Monday - treat yourself! Since it opened a branch here in Lafayette, Counter Culture has provided Lafayette with lighter lunches and a rotation of soups that ranges from roasted red pepper and...

A recipe fit for the Great Chili Challenge

New Iberia's Great Chili Challenge is Nov. 3, and this recipe could potentially rule them all. The Great Chili Challenge commences next Saturday, Nov. 3, at the New Iberia City Park to benefit the...

Bougie Goose flies to Carpe Diem! for cheese tasting

The Bougie Goose is flying to Carpe Diem! this weekend for its first cheese-tasting class. Lafayette newcomer The Bougie Goose is sharing cheesy goodness with Lafayette with its first cheese-tasting...

Break out Grandma's pie recipe

The first Sweet Dough Pie Festival hits Grand Coteau Nov. 3. Grand Coteau is holding the inaugural Sweet Dough Pie Festival at St. Charles Catholic Church, run by the newly created Grand Coteau...

Wining and dining at Rouge et Blanc

Louisiana's second largest food and wine festival descended on downtown Lake Charles this weekend to benefit the McNeese State University Banners Series. Thirty-three restaurants and 26 wine...

E's Kitchen announces second food truck round-up

After the immense success of the first food truck round-up, E's Kitchen is going at it again. E's Kitchen will hold its second food truck round-up on Saturday, Nov. 3, where food trucks from around...

A meal fit for a man

The Cigar Merchant, Glazer's and Charley G's are teaming up for the Hudson whiskey and cigar dinner on Nov. 1. Charley G's is serving its last wine dinner of the year tonight, but fret not, because...

The Lab opens up Design This Wall contest

The Lab Handcrafted Coffee and Comforts is inviting area artists to create a design for its chalk wall. The Lab's first Design This Wall contest has officially opened. The Lab's 144-inch-by-100-inch...

Festivals Food Guide

Festivals Acadiens et Creoles is upon us, and you need fuel for all that dancing you're going to do. The Bayou Food Festival at Festivals Acadiens et Creoles has an overwhelming number of choices that...

Mother of all cook-offs this weekend in New Iberia

The 23rd annual world championship gumbo cook-off is consuming New Iberia for an entire weekend. To get to the 23rd annual world championship gumbo cook-off, the New Iberia Convention and Visitors...

LCOA hot dog fundraiser next Wednesday

The Lafayette Council on Aging is holding a hot dog fundraiser next Wednesday to continue providing for Lafayette's seniors. The Lafayette Council on Aging, in order to combat cutbacks, is holding a...

Finding comfort in challah

This apple and honey challah recipe is a familiar taste of fall. Fall hits, and I have a strong urge to utilize apples in all of my cooking. I put apples in my salads, in grilled cheese sandwiches and...

Drink for a cause with One Hope wines

One Hope wines' chardonnay was crafted with Napa Valley grapes and a large dose of philanthropic spirit. One Hope Wines, distributed by Select Wines, Inc., has expanded into Lafayette - and each...

Cook-offs abound in coming weeks

Fall is here and what better way to enjoy the outdoors than to gorge on the foods that we make best in Lafayette. Two gumbo cook-offs are on the horizon: one for the Realtors Association of Acadiana...

Acadiana Food Day set for Oct. 27

Learn about growing your own food and eat a lot while you're at it. Michelle MacFadyen of Great Harvest Bread Co. is coordinating all efforts for the Acadiana Food Day on Oct. 27 at Heymann Memorial...

Titans of Tailgating

At Cajun Field, the smokers are out in full force, the Webers are filled with charcoal and the black pots are aplenty. Photo by Elizabeth Rose Walter Dozer  tends his tailgating grill. Monday, Oct. 1,...

Fresh Ingredients: Squash Bisque

Local restaurants are changing their menus to accommodate the plethora of new produce rolling in the door, including squash. Monday, Oct. 1, 2012 Photo by Elizabeth Rose Though the weather may not...

Review: Twins Burgers & Sweets

Denny and Billy Guilbeaux, who were born 28 minutes apart, opened Twins Burgers and Sweets in June following a notorious dispute with their father. They have since created the business they've always...

Restaurant Review: Twins Burgers and Sweets

The Fabulous Bakery Boys' are at it again, this time with their same delicious sweets and a revamped burger - and the assurance that this time, they get to do it their way. The Fabulous Bakery Boys'...

Make it a Double Date Sunday, Oct. 7, at Cochon

Head over to Cochon on the Vermilion River this Sunday for a zydeco brunch featuring Double Date. For its Sunday zydeco brunch (let's hope this beautiful weather stays around) from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.,...

Weekend festivals bring international food fare

October is right around the corner, and that means every weekend holds a new festival. Tomorrow, the Kaplan Chamber of Commerce will host the eighth annual Cajun Food Fest in downtown Kaplan, which...

Oktoberfest brunch this weekend at Jolie's

Break out the lederhosen. In celebration of the annual Oktoberfest, Jolie's is partnering with LA 31 brewery to serve a five-course beer brunch this Sunday. This Sunday at 11 a.m., Jolie's and LA 31...

Café Cohen celebrates one year with free cappuccinos

The small café that began in Great Harvest Bread Company has reached its one-year anniversary and invites Lafayette to stop by and help celebrate. Jason Cohen opened the premier coffee and espresso...

‘All You Can Meat' heads to Vermilion Parish

Evidently cracklins are Cajun bacon. We think they're more like Cajun heroin. The Travel Channel's All You Can Meat program, which is about, well, eating meat, celebrates the Cajun way on Wednesday...

Dish of the Day: Steve ‘n' Pat's shrimp poboy

When Steve and Patrick O'Bryan opened Steve n' Pat's Bon Temps Grill, they didn't want to do run-of-the-mill Cajun food - and this shrimp poboy is the epitome of that ideology. The poboy sandwiches...

Five Guys wins best burger competition

The burger joint going up on Ambassador Caffery Parkway at Settlers Trace once again topped a new survey of burger chains. Five Guys Burgers and Fries won out in Market Force Information's survey of...

E's Kitchen now carrying knives for lefties

Left-handed people tend to draw the short straw most of their lives, forced to deal with equipment that was designed without consideration for the 10 percent. E's Kitchen is making it a little easier...

Celebrating National Cheeseburger Day

Ring in National Cheeseburger Day at local eateries with distinct burgers ranging from the classic to the creative. Today, Sept. 18, is National Cheeseburger Day and there are enough burger places in...

Food truck round-up set for Saturday

E's Kitchen in Parc Lafayette is hosting a food truck round-up this Saturday for families and individuals alike. E's Kitchen, located at 1921 Kaliste Saloom Suite 103, is hosting a food truck round-up...

Tacos galore tomorrow at festival in Opelousas

National Hispanic American Heritage Month runs Sept. 15 to Oct. 15, and the first annual Festival del Taco is a great way to celebrate. Tomorrow, Sept. 15, gorge on tacos at the first annual Festival...

Saint Street Inn to host first Hot Dogit Cookoff

The first-ever Saint Street Inn Hot Dogit Cook-off is a definite departure from a standard backyard barbecue. As a send-off for summer, the Saint Street Inn is hosting a hot dog cook-off a week from...

Mark your calendar: Boudin Eating Contest Sept. 22

Cajun Harley-Davidson in Scott is holding its first-ever boudin-eating contest (delicious boudin courtesy Don's Specialty Meats). Cajun Harley-Davidson wants to laissez les bons temps rouler at its...

Third Piastres en Masse set for Saturday

FrancoJeunes will invade Johnson's Boucanière this Saturday for the third Piastres en Masse. The group of young, French-speaking professionals known as FrancoJeunes is invading Johnson's Boucanière...

Dish of the Day: Zea's duck empanadas

Crispy, cheesy and savory duck empanadas are an affordable indulgence. Zea Rotisserie and Grill's duck empanadas are not an ordinary appetizer. The restaurant combines roast duck, heaps of cheese and...

Back to a boil

Last year, the Carencro institution Paul's Pirogue was close to permanently powering down the boilers. Not any more. Restaurant Review Back to a boil With a change in leadership, this north Lafayette...

Breaux Bridge hosts third annual jambalaya cook-off

Travel to Veteran's Park in Breaux Bridge tomorrow for a Cajun staple: jambalaya. Breaux Bridge Area Chamber of Commerce is hosting the third annual jambalaya cook-off in Veteran's Park tomorrow...

Cane's CEO named Restaurateur of the Year

Fresh, never frozen chicken fingers have earned Raising Cane's founder the title of Restaurateur of the Year. Todd Graves, Founder, Chairman and CEO of Raising Cane's Chicken Fingers was recently...

New business shuttles eaters to Cajun delights

Cajun Food Tours offers three-hour tours full of history and, of course, food in the Tastiest Town in the South. After spending 22 years as a history teacher turned vice principal at St. Cecilia...

Tenth Food Fest raises funds for LCA

This year marks the tenth annual Lydia Cajun Food Fest, which benefits cancer patients in Iberia, Vermilion, St. Martin and St. Mary parishes. This weekend at Weeks Park in Lydia you can stuff your...

Bienvenu brings ‘True Blood' to life

Cajun chef and former Times of Acadiana and Times-Picayune food writer Marcelle Bienvenu has put the delicacies of Bon Temps, La., fictional setting of the popular HBO vampire drama True Blood, into...

Lab's grand opening Sept. 19

The Lab's grand opening will be a celebration of the city's newest caffeine-powered establishment with music and indulgent beverages and treats. The Lab officially opened the week of July 4, but...

Let the Cajuns tailgating competition begin

Elizabeth Rose, The Verm's editor and IND Monthly's food writer, is on a mission to find the best tailgating food at Cajun games; we'll crown the winner in the October issue. Get your cooking game on...

It's official: new Bayou Teche beer

The upcoming Festivals Acadiens et Creoles has an official beer: Bayou Teche Brewing's recently released Acadie, a traditional French bière de garde, or farmhouse brew. The upcoming Festivals Acadiens...

Cochon fills bellies for CODOFIL

Cochon hosted the two Lache Pas events Sunday to benefit CODOFIL while satisfying hundreds at brunch and dinner. Sunday morning, Cochon hosted the Lache Pas Musicians Brunch fundraiser for CODOFIL...

Eats 08-15-12

Dish of the Week Rachael's Café's Beaucoup Shrimp Tried and true, it might seem difficult to shake up a Southern tradition like fried shrimp, but Rachael's Café's Beaucoup Shrimp is a welcome...

Dish of the Day: Jolie's grilled watermelon

What says summer more than a slice of watermelon? Jolie's Louisiana Bistro combines the two food practices that summer requires: eating juicy watermelon and grilling. Juicy and only slightly grilled,...

Drink of the Day: The Lab's hand-poured coffee

Monday's Dish of the Day is a drink, quite possibly the best cup of coffee to ever touch your lips. Visit The Lab Handcrafted Coffee and Comforts in River Ranch, Lafayette's newest café, for a cup of...

River Ranch POURing out specials for ladies

POUR in River Ranch is offering half off champagne splits and $1 half-glasses of moscato as part of its ladies' night specials on Thursdays. Ladies looking to let off a little steam can POUR into...

Dish of the Day: Pont Breaux's Zydeco Salad

Packed with protein and veggies, this salad is a main course. Salads are often a precursor to the main course, but this one is an entrée of sausage, duck, shrimp and fish. Pont Breaux's Zydeco Salad...

Dish of the Day: French Press' grits and grillades

For breakfast or lunch, The French Press serves its version of grits and grillades for those with hearty appetites. The French Press, best known for its incredible breakfast menu, is home to Cajun...

Dish of the Day: Bailey's Creekstone Hamburger

The burger's standout ingredient is its one-half pound patty made with fresh Creekstone Farms beef. At the recently renovated and renamed Bailey's Bistro, the classic hamburger has been reimagined and...

Eats 08-08-12

![coyoteblues1](images/stories/Ind 080812/coyoteblues1.jpg)Every week day during EatLafayette, The Independent will spotlight a Dish of the Day; on Wednesdays, our Dish of the Day also becomes the...

Dish of the Day: Romacelli's Tuscan Seared Tuna

One of Romacelli's most popular items, and for good reason, Tuscan Seared Tuna is Monday's EatLafayette Dish of the Day. Romacelli's Tuscan Seared Tuna is an herb and garlic marinated tuna steak...

Dish of the Day: Lafonda's filet mignon

While La Fonda is best known for its Mexican fare, Friday's Dish of the Day highlights the restaurant's steakhouse origins. While La Fonda is best known for its Mexican fare, Friday's Dish of the Day...

Dish of the Day: Hub City Diner's meatloaf

Take a trip to Hub City Diner and be transported back to childhood with Mom's Special Meatloaf. Hub City Diner is offering Mom's Special Meatloaf as part of its EatLafayette special and earns...

Eats 08-01-12

Every week day during EatLafayette, The Independent will spotlight a Dish of the Day; on Wednesdays, our Dish of the Day also becomes the Dish of the Week and is published in the print edition, along...

Dish of the Day: POUR's mozzarella panini

Its menu crafted expressly to enhance its vast selection of wines, POUR does paninis right. POUR's mozzarella panini ($7) is The Ind's fresh and satisfying EatLafayette Dish of the Day. Made with...

Dish of the Day: 2Paul's pulled pork sandwich

2Paul's Radically Urban Barbeque pulled pork sandwich is a crunchy, savory and sweet experience. 2Paul's Radically Urban Barbeque serves up the house specialty for the dish of the day: the pulled pork...

Dish of the Day: iMonelli's soft shell crabs

Take advantage of soft shell crab season at iMonelli. Though soft shell crab season is shorter in other areas, the warm waters of the Gulf allow soft shell crab season to stretch from April to...

French Press to be featured on Cooking Channel

Lafayette restaurant The French Press will make its debut on a Cooking Channel show Aug. 7. The Cooking Channel has been filming a new series called Road Trip'n with Chef GEE and arrived at The French...

Eats 7-25-12

Every week day during EatLafayette, The Independent will spotlight a Dish of the Day; on Wednesdays, our Dish of the Day also becomes the Dish of the Week and is published in the print edition, along...

Dish of the Day: Sandra's rotisserie chicken

Sandra's defies the stereotype that health food isn't satisfying. Sandra's Café and Health Foods Store serves a heaping plate lunch of rotisserie chicken and sides for today's dish of the day. The...

Dish of the Day: Nimbeaux's shrimp gumbo

Chockfull of succulent shrimp and fluffy white rice, Nimbeaux's shrimp gumbo is today's Dish of the Day. Enjoy a cup of Nimbeaux's shrimp gumbo as an appetizer for $5.99, medium size bowl for $7.99 or...

Dish of the Day: Nimbeaux's shrimp gumbo

Chockfull of succulent shrimp and fluffy white rice, Nimbeaux's shrimp gumbo is today's Dish of the Day. Enjoy a cup of Nimbeaux's shrimp gumbo as an appetizer for $5.99, medium size bowl for $7.99 or...

Dish of the Day: Fezzo's oysters

Grab a dozen of Fezzo's charbroiled oysters, made two ways. Fezzo's charbroiled oysters are served by the dozen of half dozen and are broiled over an open flame on the half shell. The Oysters...

Eats 7-18-12

Every week day during EatLafayette, The Independent will spotlight a Dish of the Day; on Wednesdays, our Dish of the Day also becomes the Dish of the Week and is published in the print edition, along...

Dish of the Day: Tsunami's Crunchy roll

Until Aug. 15, enjoy a $20 meal of Miso soup, salad, one regular roll and entrée at Tsunami during the 2012 EatLafayette campaign. Diced tempura shrimp, masago a type of fish roe and avocado wrapped...

Brewhaha: A spirited new Louisiana law

A new law passed during the recent legislative session was crafted to help the Louisiana Spirits rum distillery under construction near I-10 in Lacassine, but the legislation also opens up...

Dish of the Day: Sophi P's Southern Belle

Sweet as its namesake, Sophi P's Southern Belle cupcake was created in celebration of the 2012 EatLafayette campaign. Using sweet potato mix from Bruce Foods, Sophi P's crafts a sweet potato cake,...

Eats 7-11-12

Every week day during EatLafayette, The Independent will spotlight a Dish of the Day; on Wednesdays, our Dish of the Day also becomes the Dish of the Week and is published in the print edition, along...

Brewhaha: Beer and Taxes

The Dead Yeast Society is a superbly local resource for home-brewers and craft beer lovers, so much so that donating to the cause is tax deductible. For beer lovers of the most devoted variety - home...

Dish of the Day: Antlers' smothered chicken

Fill up on a famous Antlers plate lunch: smothered chicken. Every Thursday, Antlers, the oldest bar in Lafayette, serves up its legendary smothered chicken over rice with corn maque choux, sweet peas...

Dish of the Day: Masala's Butter Chicken

Masala's mouthwatering Butter Chicken ($16) is a divergence from the traditional chicken dishes around Lafayette. Overflowing with flavor and spices, Masala's butter chicken's boneless pieces of...

Eats 07-03-12

Every week day during EatLafayette, The Independent will spotlight a Dish of the Day; on Wednesdays, our Dish of the Day also becomes the Dish of the Week and is published in the print edition, along...

Dish of the Day: Antoni's veal scaloppine

For July's first Dish of the Day, Antoni's creates its own interpretation of the traditional veal scaloppine. Antoni's Italian Café creates its own version of the traditional veal scaloppine, grilling...

Brewhaha: Who's tops for taps

Village Café Executive Chef Jeremy Conner on the ‘cardinal sin' many commit when cooking at home, plus local trivia on what establishment boasts the most beers on tap The Brewhaha blog is back this...

Dish of the Day: Agave's fish tacos

Today's Dish of the Day is Agave Mexican Grill and Cantina's fish tacos, one of many traditional and modern Mexican dishes on the restaurant's menu. Agave Cantina's fish tacos snuggle marinated and...

Dish of the Day: Fat Pat's Mile-High Burger

Beef up your meal with Fat Pat's Mile-High Burger. Today's Dish of the Day is Fat Pat's Bar and Grill's Mile-High Burger, a hearty seasoned 7-ounce beef patty with pickles, lettuce, grilled onions and...

Boudin War is on

As of this writing, the towns of Scott, Broussard and Jennings all claim the title of Boudin Capital of the World, according to today's Wall Street Journal. As of this writing, the towns of Scott,...

Dish of the Day: Picante's Chicken Arizona

Add a little spice to your day with Picante's Chicken Arizona. Today's Dish of the Day is Picante's Chicken Arizona, a chicken breast stuffed with spinach, bell pepper and jack cheese served over...

Eats 06.27.12

Every week day during EatLafayette, The Independent will spotlight a Dish of the Day; on Wednesdays, our Dish of the Day also becomes the Dish of the Week and is published in the print edition, along...

Shaken or stirred

Healing House and Absolut Vodka are partnering to bring the 2012 Absolut Best Martini Tour to Lafayette's top restaurants beginning next week. Healing House: Hope for Grieving Children is teaming up...

Boudin Cook-Off among ‘Top 10'

The Lafayette event brings together more than two dozen of the finest boudin purveyors in Acadiana to compete. The annual Boudin Cook-Off held each October in Parc Sans Souci is adding another ribbon...

Dish of the Day: Blue Dog's Grilled Tilapia

For $19.95, Blue Dog Café's EatLafayette special includes a corn and crab bisque first course, a choice of crawfish enchiladas, a marinated grilled chicken breast with artichoke hearts or grilled...

Brewhaha: Prohibition and inhibitions

It's Week 2 of The Independent's EatLafayette promotional Brewhaha beer blog, a fun, fact-filled dialogue about beer and booze that could land you with a free 12-pack of Bud Light Platinum to...

Dish of the Day: Johnson's Country Style Ribs

For Eat Lafayette, Johnson's is offering a special price for its pulled pork sandwich, with chips and drink, for $6.95. Johnson's Boucaniere's slow-smoked country-style rib plate lunch boasts...

Dish of the Day: Don's Crawfish Bisque

Mention EatLafayette at Don's Seafood and Steakhouse through Aug. 15 and receive a 15 percent discount on entrées. Don's traditional crawfish bisque begins with 20 pounds of crawfish, which are...

Eats 06.20.12

With EatLafayette kicking its campaign into high gear this year - Robert Mondavi Wines has joined The New Fly Lafayette Club as a title sponsor - The Independent has stepped up its effort to steer...

Dish of the Day: Joey's Turducken sandwich

Mention EatLafayette at Joey's through Aug. 15 and you'll get a special price, $8.98, on its Turducken sandwich. Mention EatLafayette at Joey's and you'll get a special price, $8.98, on its Turducken...

Dish of the Day: Tsunami's Tonkatsu

EatLafayette, an initiative to get more diners into local restaurants, launches today, as does The Independent's Dish of the Day feature. Every week day during EatLafayette, the popular initiative to...

Brewhaha: Beer fun starts today

As promised, The Independent and Schilling Distributing have teamed up to bring readers a weekly beer blog starting today. If you think you've got your booze facts in line, take a shot at our trivia...

Tabasco to QE II: ‘You go, girl!"

The McIlhenny Company, producer of the most famous brand of pepper sauce in the world, is hailing Queen Elizabeth II's diamond jubilee celebration with a special gift to Her Majesty. Look at the...

Scott officially ‘Boudin Capital'

The city, home to regionally famous The Best Stop and a host of other Cajun specialty meat shops, is looking to host an annual boudin festival beginning next year. Rep. Stephen Ortego, D-Carencro, was...

Go, Taco!

Lafayette's newest food truck specializes in that most portable of cuisines. Lafayette's newest food truck specializes in that most portable of cuisines. By Anna Purdy / Photos by Robin May Wednesday,...

EatLafayette returns June 18

Sixty-one local restaurants have signed on for the eighth annual campaign to put more people in seats at locally owned eateries. With The New Fly Lafayette Club returning as title sponsor,...

American Craft Beer Week under way

The Jefferson Street Greenroom downtown and several hundred additional pubs and breweries nationwide are celebrating American Craft Beer Week with special events this week. Thirsty? If so, American...

Marcelle Bienvenu cooks for ‘True Blood'

One of Acadiana's favorite food writers talks to Deep South Magazine about her role in the new cookbook from the popular HBO series. Deep South Magazine publisher and Ind contributor Erin Z. Bass...

Al Fresco All Year Long

Speaking of outdoor dining, Romacelli is tops in this town - even in the hottest summer months. Healthy-ish Italian options and the city's best outdoor dining make Romacelli well worth a visit. By...

Wild Salmon owner caught fish-handed

A Times of Acadiana article highlighting The Wild Salmon's menu and live music bookings had some unintended consequences for the bar's owner, who recently admitted to an Alaska online newspaper that...

Location cubed - and great sandwiches

Johnston Street Java hits its stride with a simple menu done well. Johnston Street Java hits its stride with a simple menu done well. By Anna Purdy ? Photos by Robin May Wednesday, April 4, 2012 Since...

Tastiest Town food fête finale

In what was perhaps the most ill kept secret of the last month, last night confirmed that Lafayette won the Southern Living Tastiest Town 2012 award. Showing that the folks at Southern Living truly...

It's official: Lafayette is the ‘Tastiest Town'

A reception during which much eating, drinking and self-congratulating will take place happens tonight at the AcA. We all but knew it - a soiree at the Acadiana Center for Arts was announced last week...

A Merlin by any other name

Creole Lunch House's Merline Herbert is a soul food wizard. Creole Lunch House's Merline Herbert is a soul food wizard. By Anna Purdy Wednesday, March 7, 2012 June 23, 1983, was the day Merline...

Local chef a James Beard nominee

Justin Girouard, chef and owner of The French Press, has been nominated for a 2012 James Beard Award. Justin Girouard, chef and owner of The French Press, has been nominated for a 2012 James Beard...

Three Decades of Fine Dining

Established white linen eating doesn't mean sedate. Established white linen eating doesn't mean sedate. By Anna Purdy Wednesday, Feb. 22, 2012 A few blocks from the Vermilion River on Pinhook Road in...

Freetown Fries is back

Stop by the corner of Johnston and Vermilion this weekend and taste Freetown Fries. Freetown Fries has made a few appearances at festivals and the like in 2011. The concept is simple - same American...

Mo' Pho!

I like your secrets about your favorite eating spots as much as I like passing them along. So when an old pal and pho connoisseur - he is called the Pho King - tells me that there is a little place in...

Be mine, Vermilionville Valentine

To the bitter, this day celebrates a diapered chubby kid who makes like Dennis the Menace with wings and wants to hit you in the face with a sharp, pointed object. To those ensconced in snuggles, this...

The Lab experiements with coffee, treats

The Lab in River Ranch will be the next big place to make your caffeine score. The Lab in River Ranch will be the next big place to make your caffeine score. Located between Katie Bakes and...

Well, Hot Dog!

Pelon's Mexican Hot Dogs at 1506 Verot School Road was inspired by a trip Pelon, aka Tony Bailey, took with his wife. No longer the sole domain of ballparks and children's parties, hot dogs have gone...

Gastronomic joys at Jolie's

Jolie's Louisiana Bistro has a new plate lunch special every week and some scintillating ideas for oysters and St. Patrick's Day. Jolie's is now offering a Plate Lunch Special. It changes weekly and...

Indulge yourself

A new sweets contender has emerged on Lafayette's south side - Indulge has opened at 1921 Kaliste Saloom Road. Torte: Strawberries and blueberries are drizzled with white chocolate and set on a bed...

RANDOLS

The live Cajun music kicks off every night at 6:30 p.m., providing the setting for Randol's menu of Cajun and Creole classics. RANDOL'S RESTAURANT www.randols.com 2320 Kaliste Saloom Road, Lafayette...

Houston loves Lafayette - let's kiss!

Houston has proven itself to be downright neighborly, as the Houston Press gives Lafayette's cuisine a great review in connection with Southern Living's "Tastiest City in the South"...

A la carte carts to new locale

James Comeaux Road is the new home of longtime Oil Center business a la carte. a la carte's new location on James Comeaux Road James Comeaux Road is the new home of longtime Oil Center business a la...

Food for Ought: Villager's Cafe

The Philly cheesesteak is one of the best sandwiches in Acadiana. There is just no other way to say it. Wednesday, Jan. 18, 2012 Written by Anna Purdy If you've never had a Philly cheesesteak, no need...

Food trucks and the ReStore team up

Whaddya hungry for? Waffles? Fries? Wraps? Drive over to 319 E. Pinhook Road before 2 p.m. and have your choice. Whaddya hungry for? Waffles? Fries? Wraps? Drive over to 319 E. Pinhook Road before 2...

King cake vodka moving in

Lucky Player has come out with a vodka meant to celebrate the signature Mardi Gras dessert. As first reported here at The Gambit, this booze is made to echo the baby-filled, cream-filled treat. Its...

Cochon and Bayou Teche Biere team up

Prepare yourself - in two weeks Cochon is having a special four-course dinner with Bayou Teche Biere as its special guest. Don't be jealous, you're invited, too. Prepare yourself - in two weeks Cochon...

Munchies on the move -- hot dog carts return

Anyone who has visited New York can attest to the marvel of a hot dog cart. It's a simple meal but the awesomeness of walking down a street and literally walking into food seems miraculous when you're...

A la Carte moving out of Oil Center

A la Carte is moving from its Oil Center home to a fresh James Comeaux Road location. A la Carte is moving from its Oil Center home to a fresh James Comeaux Road location. A call to A la Carte this...

Voting starts Dec. 22 for Tastiest Town

Set your browsers to bookmark and set clicking finger to stun - today marks the first day of voting for Lafayette as Southern Living Magazine's Tastiest Town 2011. Set your browsers to bookmark and...

Food for Ought: Katie Bakes

Katie Meaux grew up in Lake Charles then moved to Baton Rouge to attend LSU and become a dental hygienist. She married her high school sweetheart, Jacob. But nothing stopped her baking. Starting in...

Chef John Besh in Lafayette

Restaurateur, Iron Chef competitor, Louisiana native, husband and father Chef John Besh made two appearances in Lafayette this past Saturday. The first was a book signing at Barnes & Noble. The...

Vote Lafayette Tastiest Town 2012

First, Rand McNally and USA Today decided we were the best small city in America in which to eat. Now Southern Living is nominating us for a Tastiest Town Award. First, Rand McNally and USA Today...

Miller's Time 12.14.11

Winter summerland: Pamplona's seasonal drink menu is sizzling. Wednesday, Dec. 14, 2011 Written by Heather Miller Photo by Amber Burkholder Summer may be a distant memory as the streets of downtown...

Food for Ought: Potato Place

One of the Northside's best-kept secrets keeps it simple. One of the Northside's best-kept secrets keeps it simple. By Anna Purdy Photo by Robin May Crawfish étouffée potato As a young drinkslinger...

Katie Bakes, you happily get fat

Tell Santa you want a thinner waistline this December and give up trying yourself - there is a new baker in town. Katie Bakes has opened in River Ranch. Tell Santa you want a thinner waistline this...

Downtown Lafayette loses Guamas

After 10 years of serving South American food with Cuban flair, Guamas has closed. After 10 years of serving South American food with Cuban flair, Guamas has closed. Murmurs were heard on social...

Food for Ought: Café Josephine

Owned by Troy and Melissa Bijeaux, who also own Lafayette's Flowers, Etc., Café Josephine was opened because of a dream. Wednesday, Nov. 30, 2011 Café Josephine's bisque and shrimp and grits are to...

Freetown Farmer's Market now two days a week

The list of farmer's markets is growing along with the movement toward attaining locally sourced goods. The Freetown Market is now popular enough to add Saturdays. The list of farmer's markets is...

Food for Ought: Nacho Libre!

The new dish to try downtown is at Guamas. Its Cuban nachos are new in every way. Guamas was one of the only Latin restaurants in Lafayette when married owners Julieta Tarazona and Rueben Mesa opened...

Local photographer hits N.C. BBQ trail

Lafayette's Denny Culbert, who specializes in food photography, has teamed up with food historian Rien Fertel to gather and preserve the stories behind North Carolina's popular barbecue culture. On...

Crowley shows off food finds

Crowley showcases food and art in historic Ford Building. This Thursday, Nov. 3, the city of Crowley will showcase the best of its food. The event will be held in Crowley's historic Ford Building at...

A manly Charley G's dinner

On Nov. 3 Charley G's is holding a special Whiskey & Cigar Dinner. On Nov. 3 Charley G'sis holding a special Whiskey & Cigar Dinner. Arguably no gastronomic experience can make someone feel...

Food for Ought: Festivals Acadiens et Creoles

A great secret of festivals is that there are some vendors who only come out for the event - there are no brick-and-mortar restaurants where their fare is readily served. Wednesday, Oct. 12,...

Food? Wine? Festival? Yes, please!

The second annual Acadiana Wine & Food Festival is the last weekend in October. The second annual Acadiana Wine & Food Festival is the last weekend in October. Taking place at University of...

Food for Ought: Saigon Noodles

Un-Pho-Gettable Saigon Noodles Brings Southeast Asia to Lafayette. By Anna Purdy Some restaurants are so good you hesitate to mention them, hoping to keep it your own little secret, a backup in the...

Viva la Waffle back after burn

"WE ARE BACK BABY!!!! And it feels SO GOOD!!!!" The waffle lives again. Lafayette's fledgling mobile food-vending industry was burned last July when the Viva la Waffle truck, not even a week...

Food for Ought: Joey's Deli

Nestled within an unorthodox building that resembles somewhere your rich aunt would live rather than a place you would frequent to clog your arteries with a Turducken sandwich, Joey's Deli is a...

Gumbo Championship held this October

Autumn in Louisiana doesn't bring the masses of golden foliage like they have in the Northeast, nor does it bring the first whispers of frost to the ground. Nope, here it means "gumbo...

Food for Ought: Hot Food Express

Hot Food Express is one of those spots that can only come out of the cultural mire that is Louisiana. Wednesday, Sept. 21, 2011 Eclectic mix of food and music marry on Cameron Street. By Anna...

Eat your Hearts out

Mark your calendars, clear your schedule and get to the gym: The annual Acadiana Culinary Classic is Oct. 3 at the Cajundome. Mark your calendars, clear your schedule and get to the gym: The annual...

Cafè Cohen opens in Great Harvest

Coffee and tes are bountiful as of this morning as Café Cohen opens within Great Harvest Bread Company's doors. Coffee and teas are bountiful as of this morning as Café Cohen opens within Great...

Food for Ought: Hainam

Hainam heats up Lafayette's Asian buffet business. And dim sum is on the way. By Anna Purdy I can guess what you're thinking - yet another Asian-inspired buffet in Lafayette with virtual troughs of...

Miller's Time 09.14.11

Calling all beer junkies. By Heather Miller The Greenroom downtown has cultivated an entertaining and educational way to sample unique beer while meeting fellow beer enthusiasts and learning the art...

Café V turns 30

Landmark restaurant Café Vermilionville celebrates its 30th anniversary this month and you can drop in for the festivities. Café Vermilionville is located at 1304 W. Pinhook Road. One of the oldest...

New local beer on tap for fall season

A method of brewing beer that has fallen out of favor is being used by Bayou Teche Brewing in Arnaudville. A method of brewing beer that has fallen out of favor is being used by Bayou Teche Brewing in...

Where's the fire? Not at Jolie's

Last night, Jolie's Bistro on Pinhook was the source of scuttlebutt and rumors of a fire. Yes, there were firetrucks, but it was only as a precaution. Last night, Jolie's Bistro on Pinhook was the...

The Saint Street Inn officially opens

As we lucky few who attended its soft opening can attest, The Saint Street Inn is fantastic. But it is no longer a secret. Today marks its official opening. Photo by Noshy McHungry A recent tasting...

Wine award to the Village

Wine Spectator magazine has given Village Cafe a 2011 Award of Excellence. Wine Spectator magazine has given Village Cafe a 2011 Award of Excellence. Village Cafe in River Ranch's wine list is under...

Families and foodies unite at Jolie's brunch

Sundays are for your choice of God, mowing lawns, football and general laziness. They are also for eating like the rest of the week will be one long fast, and Jolie's Bistro has some new menu...

Best Food title celebration continues

On Wednesday the Parrs are returning to where the fun began. The Parrs were known as the wedded team of "Fun Finders" selected by Rand McNally and USA Today to go in search of the town with...

Canton City closes

As of August 1, Canton City Inn will close its doors. Canton City has been open in Lafayette since the late 1970s, making it one of the first truly ethnic (non-Cajun) restaurants in the Hub City or in...

From fire to farm

The house fire on Vermilion Street last year left a huge, empty lot. (Thankfully, no human or pet lost their lives.) It is now the spot for a new farmer's market for Lafayette, called the Freetown...

Butterbeer til your heart's content

While it's tough for most new businesses, restaurants happen to thrive particularly well in Lafayette. Judging by the scores of hot and decaffeinated throngs at Carpe Diem! Gelato-Espresso shop the...

All fired up

Two Acadiana restaurants succumbed to fire this weekend, one several generations old and one barely five days old. Viva la Waffle is the brand spankin' new food truck rolling through Lafayette...

La. researcher shines light on bigger crawfish

An aquaculture researcher at Northwestern State University says she's getting major results - and more robust mudbugs - by lighting the ponds at night. Could bigger, more bountiful harvests from...

'Fun Finders' eating away in our fair city

The Fun Finders have descended upon Lafayette and let's hope they leave feeling memorably full so Lafayette can be deemed "Best for Food" in Rand McNally's competition. Rand McNally is...

Beer, you win again

The World Beer Championships have awarded a silver medal to Acadiana's Bayou Teche Brewing's LA-31 Biere Pale. Right now Bayou Teche Brews are only available in Louisiana and Mississippi but that is...

Find your thrill at Bluesberry Fest

Blue Moon Saloon is the fitting location for the first ever Bluesberry Festival on July 16. Blue Moon Saloon is the fitting location for the first ever Bluesberry Festival on July 16. Doors open at 5...

To brew, perchance to drink

You may not run your own beer company or supervise those who make it, but you can pretend for one night while filling yourself full of some of the most talented chefs in Acadiana's offerings. The...

Bibi's Patisserie baking on Pinhook

What started as a way for couple Nathan Raffel and Hannah Ellaham-Raffel to help their diabetic parents ended up in a great and healthful baked business venture. Bibi's Patisserie is coming to 1321...

EatLafayette takes flight

EatLafayette has partnered with the new Fly Lafayette Club as its title sponsor. Now in its seventh year, EatLafayette has partnered with the new Fly Lafayette Club as its title sponsor. Fifty-seven...

A festival triumvirate

Do you like tomatoes, seafood, Cajun or zydeco music? Chances are if you live in Louisiana one of these is a passion of yours. If not, airfare is cheap in the summer months. June 11 and 12 the...

Healing House helps with martinis

Martinis for grieving children? Not exactly... If you like to drink and you want to find a reason to justify it, boy, have we got a solution for you. Healing House is throwing a martini contest and...

Taco Mama moves downtown

One of the most trendy things in dining right now is food found on four wheels. Photo by Robin May A temporary Taco Mama truck (equipped with a generator) is operating in a vacant lot on the...

It may be 90+ degrees, but there is beer

It may not seem smart to have a beer festival in the blustery heat of a Louisiana July, but then when else would you rather have really cold beer? Gulf Brew 2011 is scheduled for July 23 starting at 6...

Pour me somethin' mister!

Wine has gone high tech in a friendly way in River Ranch. Pour has popped its 48 corks. A new concept headed by Village Cafe's chef Jude Tauzin, Pour features contemporary decor in a setup that allows...

Eating your way to altruism

Multiple sclerosis is a terrible disease, yet eating burgers to raise money to fight it? Awesome. Thursday from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.the Justice Grillin' Hamburger Cook-Off happens in River Ranch Town...

All aboard: Coffee Depot rolls into Scott

A charm-filled coffee and sandwich shop has come to Scott. At 902 St. Mary Street near the railroad tracks and the Scott location of Chase Bank, owners Jeff and Sarah Laughlin opened The Coffee Depot...

Waffles on wheels

Gourmet food trucks have been gaining popularity around the nation. It seems it's Lafayette's turn, and we now have Viva La Waffle. Gourmet food trucks have been gaining popularity around the nation....

Orange Leaf grand opening Saturday

New Iberia has a new spot to satiate the summer cravings for something cold. On May 21 Orange Leaf is hosting its official grand opening. Lafayette's Sophi P. Cakes will be there serving cake, a...

Running with the Bullritos

Move over, quick pick-up Tex-Mex joints - there's a new refried sheriff in town. Starting May 23, Bullritos is going to be serving up its own type of high end Tex-Mex fare at 2201 Kaliste Saloom Road,...

Red or white, that is the only question

Jean Kerr said, "Even though a number of people have tried, no one has yet found a way to drink for a living." Ms. Kerr, I humbly beg to disagree. The sangria at Pamplona's Tapas Bar is...

Festival food - so far

There is local and international music, there are weird and cool things for sale in tents around downtown and there is the second most famous Louisiana export after music: amazing food. After the...

Poupart's pushing pastries downtown

Passing by the old Sidebar on Jefferson Street, next to Mr. Gloss Shoe Shine, you'll see a flowered sheet in the window with a barely there sign - "Poupart's Bistro here for Festival!!"...

Getting tarty In Your Own Backyard

The tradition of Pie Day has not only lived on, it has thrived and moved northward into Lafayette. The Center for Cultural and Eco-Tourism (CCET) has partnered with Vermilionville to discuss the...

Farewell Philippe's downtown

Lafayette's Gay Fire Fighter is for now pointing to one less business on Vermilion Street. The clutch of bricked storefronts that has been revived across from Parc San Souci is be missing Philippe's...

Lafayette tops NOLA in foodie fortunes

The March issue of Restaurant Business ranked our fair city the 17th best place in the nation to open a restaurant. Photo by Robin May An elegant exotic addition to Lafayette's sushi landscape, Dozo...

Toasted earth policy

Green thumbs forgo clutching hoes for mimosas on Sunday, April 3 in a charitable benefit at Esprit de Coeur. In a benefit for EarthShare Gardens, Esprit de Coeur is teaming up with Pamplona's Tapas...

Catahoula's barks again

This Thursday an Acadiana staple returns. Same logo, same location, yet open under a different chef. Catahoula's has been around since seemingly the beginning of time, functioning as the go-to place...

St. Pat's pride shown at Great Harvest Bread Company

This St. Patrick's Day, the Great Harvest Bread Company, located at 854A Kaliste Saloom Road (across from Fresh Pickens), wants to show Acadiana a good green time. Inspired by a trip to Texas during...

Cena divines spirits

Luke Tullos, head bartender at Jolie's Louisiana Bistro, taught his first of hopefully many classes educating the public on the magic of liquor on March 10 at Cena. Luke Tullos, head bartender at...

Homemade baby food classes held at Cena

Abi Augello, local event planner and public relations consultant, is teaching classes on how parents can make their own baby food along with educating on the reasons why and how easy it is. "I'm...

Homemade baby food classes held at Cena

Abi Augello, local event planner and public relations consultant, is teaching classes on how parents can make their own baby food along with educating on the reasons why and how easy it is. "I'm...

Kevin Faulk officiates Naked Pizza grand opening

On February 26 Carencro-bred Kevin Faulk, former LSU Tiger and currently running back for the New England Patriots, cut the ribbon at Naked Pizza's first Lafayette location. Located at Naked Pizza...

Bagel-sized bite of New York comes to Lafayette

Spurred by a trip to New York with his wife, Ryan Thibodeaux decided to master the art of the bagel. After having success at the Hub City Farmers Market for over a year now, Ryan Thibodeaux has opened...

The Accidental Chef is purposefully delicious

Chefs Carlos Russo has opened The Accidental Chef Cooking School located on Garfield Street next to Esprit de Coeur. Angelle Baudin Gooding bought both buildings (the cooking school was once Mooney's,...

Writer travels the 'boudin trails'

Former Houston Chronicle Travel Editor Harry Shattuck, in an article published this week in his former newspaper, takes a waist-expanding journey along southwest Louisiana's boudin trails, as he calls...

Roundabout Tavern comes to Youngsville

Izzy Gravouia, co-owner of Lafayette's Green Room, is opening Roundabout Tavern in the heart of Youngsville. Located at 327 Iberia St. (Hwy. 92) in the Midtown Plaza, Roundabout Tavern is a...

Jolie's Louisiana Bistro's new kitchen king

Manny Augello is the new executive chef of Jolie's, a locally owned restaurant named for the famous work by artist George Rodrigue. Open just a few years, the restaurant is already a mighty contender...

Naked Pizza dons Acadian clothing

Naked Pizza will be opening in March on Arnould Boulevard, near Brother's. Lafayette seemingly has more successful, locally owned restaurants than most other cities. We love our food and we don't...

Bonnie Bell's Bistro returns to Jefferson St.

Bonnie Gibson has reopened Bonnie Bell's Bistro in its same Jefferson Street spot. Bonnie Gibson closed her Jefferson Street eatery Bonnie Bell's Bistro Dec. 31 because she had a buyer. But when the...

It's Twelfth Night; Mardi Gras to the world!

Unlike many local bakeshops that have had King Cakes out for days (you know who you are!), Keller's Bakery will serve no King Cake before its time - which is, of course, Twelfth Night (Jan....

Bayou Teche releases Grenade passion fruit beer

Arnaudville's Bayou Teche Brewing has just released the third beer in its LA-31 series. Arnaudville's Bayou Teche Brewing has just released the third beer in its LA-31 series. Grenade, brewed with...

Second Mess Hall set to open

While there is still no word on who is going to move into Bonnie Bell's Bistro spot downtown, former chef Paul Gibson, who opened up The Mess Hall on Kaliste Saloom several months ago, is set to open...

Big bang New Year's Eve

Seems the party hearty staff of the Times-Picayune have the same thoughts I do about New Year's Eve. Drink it up right. This holiday, the TP lists a dozen takes on the champagne cocktail. Frankly,...

Out of the frying pan

Ok, so all the latest health recommendations say to eat more fish. Low fat, high in omega-3 fatty acids, guaranteed to lower your risk of getting a stroke. Right? Wrong. While here in the deep South...

Red beans and ricely yours

Remember 35-cent plates of red beans and rice? If you do, you also probably ate those quintessential red beans at Buster Holmes, in New Orleans' French Quarter. The iconic restaurant, on the corner of...

It wouldn't be Christmas without eggnog

Every year come December, our beloved publisher, Steve May, starts agitating during weekly staff meetings. He's looking for the big one, the story he knows will make papers fly off news stands and...

Chef John Besh signs cookbooks Saturday

If you're looking for a last minute Christmas present for your favorite cook, one of the outstanding cookbooks to come out of Louisiana, John Besh's My New Orleans, will be signed by the New Orleans...

Otter's Chicken restaurant closes

While I've reported recently the plethora of new restaurants opening, I've been chastised by readers to tell the whole story. Restaurants do also close in Lafayette; it's a tough business. Otter's...

Road Food: The New Cankton Drive-In

I sat down at my desk last week, and as predictable as the maddening smell of bacon and brown gravy wafting up from the kitchens at Antlers filling the parking garage about 10 in the morning, my cube...

Gulf shrimp safe: If you eat only four a week

What's good for the goose may not be so good for the grouper. Findings by the Natural Resources Defense Council in a survey of over 500 people in the Gulf states show that residents along the Gulf of...

French Press lauded in Times-Picayune

Eleven a.m. on a Thursday morning, hunched in my writing hole, gulping my second cup of coffee, scanning the news on the net, and Times-Picayune restaurant writer Brett Anderson puts brunch in my...

The Big Fry

Two more days to turkey day. For those of you getting ready to fry a turkey for the first time, here's a video of Cajun chef Pat Mould frying a turkey on the Today Show a few years ago. Just like...

I yam a sweet potato

While pumpkin may be the chosen member of the Cucurbitaceae family for pies and other noshes at Thanksgiving, here in south Louisiana we favor a Convolvulaceae member for our dishes. That would be the...

Nouveau Beaujolais pops its cork

Champagne at New Year's Eve, mint juleps on Derby Day, a beautiful Beaune for Passover (that was my dad's way of blending his French heritage with Jewish observance): we who love wine and spirits have...

Grand Tasting at Marcello's

Autumn is the time of the grape harvest, and in a week or so the new wine will be bottled. So it's the right season to raise a glass in honor of the artistry of vintners world wide. Or raise a few...

French dips and other good things

Under the sure hand of Patrick Poupart, the little French bakery on Pinhook continues to evolve. While Poupart's has had cold sandwiches and quiches in its refrigerator cases for some time now, the...

A match made for vinophiles

The latest synergy in the local food world is the new paring between Café Vermilionville and Philippe's Wine Cellar. Café V has revamped its menu for fall. Think seared venison chop encrusted with...

Wild Hog and Deer Cookoff benefits Bayou Teche

Bayou Teche is getting a lot of TLC these days from Blake Couvillion and his group of Cajuns who are working to clean up the stream. The latest event is an easy sell - the Wild Hog and Deer Cook-Off....

Cheers! PASA Golden Gala Wine Auction

Since it was first introduced to Acadiana 16 years ago, the Performing Arts Society of Acadiana's Golden Gala wine auction has become known as one of the most spirited social events of the year. Since...

Kleinpeter ice cream garners national attention

A story on Kleinpeter Farms Dairy, of Baton Rouge, is the cover story for the October, 2010 issue of Dairy Foods Magazine. The story, titled "Straight From the Heart," was written by Cathy...

Art Café set to open

With the upcoming grand opening celebration of the Acadiana Center for the Arts set for Nov. 4-13, more good news percolates from the AcA. Along with contemporary music, the spoken word, opera, visual...

Boudin Cookoff winners and where to find them

Now that we've all recovered from Saturday's Boudin Cookoff, we're ready to hear who and what won, so we can contemplate heading out next Saturday for a taste of the winning boudins. Now that we've...

Linked in: the Boudin Cookoff

Are you ready? The third annual Boudin Cookoff takes place this Saturday at Parc Sans Souci. Twenty-one teams will be competing in three categories for best boudin in Acadiana, or, since some of the...

Roux Dat: New Iberia's Gumbo Cookoff

Gumbo weather indeed. That's what the temperature is this weekend in New Iberia as the town celebrates soup at the 21st annual World Championship Gumbo Cookoff. This year, 91 teams, the most in the...

October is persimmon season in Louisiana

The glorious weather is a good incentive to get out of town and in touch with the countryside around us. The glorious weather is a good incentive to get out of town and in touch with the countryside...

Fun run helps crabbers in a pinch

It helps to do a little road work before you chow down. That's what any trainer will tell you, but in this case, the run supports crab fishermen, who have been having a tough time since the BP oil...

Food Wars: Shrimp Poboys

I'm not much into the over-the-top all-day-long food shows that run on the Food and Travel channels. You can only watch Anthony Bourdain bite into a baby lamb chop and throw down glass after glass of...

Lost tacos reappear at La Paletera

Found! I'm talking about the superb tacos at Taco Tico, which closed over a year ago. Found! I'm talking about the superb tacos at Taco Tico, which closed over a year ago. Owner Irene Salvatierra left...

Oysters under scrutiny

While the Louisiana Department of Health and Hospitals and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration have been reporting a mostly clean bill of health for Gulf of Mexico seafood, oysters...

R'evolutionary restaurant

Jambalaya stuffed in a crepe for breakfast? Turtle cappuccino with truffle spuma and cubes of sherry gelée? Let's just say I remain curiously skeptical. The chef's a little out there too. Rick...

Stacked

Deconstruct a sushi roll and what do you get? Sutakku, a small stack of rice on the bottom, a flourish of cucumber, fish, crunchies and smelt roe in a small tower on top. That's the new gorgeous...

Redeye Special

I'm all about shots. Tequila shots, tetanus shots, pot shots, snap shots, crack shots, whatever you got. Midafternoon, that sleepy old after-lunch feeling that happens at exactly 2:30, when I'm...

Gulf seafood under the microscope

The nose knows. Well maybe. But the sniff test for pollutants in Gulf seafood hasn't been the most reassuring way of ascertaining whether fish, crabs, shrimp and oysters from oil-afflicted waters are...

Seafood, safety and science

If the story I posted yesterday wasn't enough to get you off Gulf seafood for a while, take a look at this photo . It was taken by the University of Southern Misssissippi Gulf Coast Research...

Off the menu: Blue crabs

Blue crab larvae from Louisiana's coastal waters are turning up contaminated with oil. Blue crab larvae from Louisiana's coastal waters are turning up contaminated with oil. According to an AP story...

He screamed for ice cream

I've been plagued all summer by our publisher, Steve May, to write an ice cream story. I won't get into all the reasons I haven't made it round the ice cream rounds (BP oil spill coverage, lactose...

Trendy Trynd opens in downtown

A red carpet welcome rolled out the latest addition to the bar scene in Lafayette. Trynd, a swanky upstairs lounge in the former Stan's on Vermilion Street opened Thursday night with a flourish of...

TP explores smoked meat houses of Acadiana

The Times Picayune has been traveling Cajun country's "smoked meat highway," through its contributing writer, also Independent Weekly staffer, Mary Tutwiler. An article published today asks...

Francophone dinners promote language and culture

Freeing the tongue by pleasing the palate presents a pleasant way to parlez française. Freeing the tongue by pleasing the palate presents a pleasant way to parlez française. That's the notion behind a...

Inspiration in a glass

The Times-Picayune printed their most important issue of the year. No, it's not the Saint's schedule. The annual Bar Guide came out over the weekend, detailing where to get the best of what you're...

Pamplona's prize-winning paella

We always knew that the paella at Pamplona was the best in Lafayette. But the local tapas restaurant has just taken on the big boys in New Orleans and beaten them at their own paella game, bringing...

Between Meals: Grill Gridiron

Dozo Japanese restaurant heats up hibachi with a difference. Photos by Robin May Mandarin shrimp salad in a cucumber wrap Hibachi is pure kitsch. Juggling, wisecracking grill chefs chink out tunes...

Cochon coming to the bayou

For proponents of the pig, good news on the culinary front. Cajun-born chef Donald Link will be opening a second location of his dynamite New Orleans restaurant, Cochon, here in Lafayette. Link, along...

Hub City farmers market grand opening Saturday

The Saturday farmers market in the Oil Center celebrates its grand opening on June 19. The Saturday farmers market in the Oil Center celebrates its grand opening on June 19. The market's official new...

The nose knows

When it comes to testing seafood for the taint of oil, there's no better probe than that Gallic proboscis in the center of your face. When it comes to testing seafood for the taint of oil, there's no...

Net to Net: shrimpers savvy on the Web

Stocking up on fresh Gulf seafood is on everyone's minds these days, and the town of Delcambre has just made it a lot easier. A new internet marketing Web site, www.portofdelcambre.com allows...

Farmers market reopens in Oil Center

The Lafayette Hub City Farmers Market opens in the Oil Center on Saturday, May 1 at the civilized hour of 8 a.m to noon. The Gotreaux family organic farm will be there, offering snow peas, swiss...

Pours crafted to pair with Louisiana cooking

Take New Orleans' rogue politicians, her historic architecture, her love of living well, her creative cuisine and her kick-ass football team. Blend with care. Paste on an irreverent label. Wait for...

Festival: we're all in this together

This comment was posted yesterday on my blog about how much I like Frankie burgers, one of my personal Festival International treats. written by Not Amused , April 22, 2010 I know everyone likes to...

Festival on the menu

One of the pluses of working downtown is all the great food. New restaurants are constantly opening, and established places keep raising the bar with their innovative cocktails and creative menu...

The fresher the gator, the better the flavor

Ridge Road is a little bit off the beaten path for me, so I didn't notice when Deaneaux's Seafood closed several months ago. I also didn't notice when LA Seafood House opened in its stead. Perhaps...

Times-Pic spotlights Crescent City Cajun cuisine

In New Orleans, native Creole and Cajun cooking mix together like grits and grillades; trying to clearly part the two is almost impossible. In New Orleans, native Creole and Cajun cooking mix together...

Wake up and smell the coffee

Nidal Balbeisi's ever expanding empire of restaurants crossed another Rubicon on Friday, opening the doors of Collage Cafe on Jefferson Street. The espresso machine cranks up at 7:30 a.m. to jolt a...

Boucherie this weekend at the Dewey Balfa camp

For anyone who has always wondered how the squeal gets in the boudin, here's the opportunity to find out. As part of the Dewey Balfa Cajun and Creole Heritage Week, on Saturday, April 17 musician...

Absinthe makes the heart grow fonder (with video)

A century-old ban on the spirit in the U.S. is over. Here's why: Sometimes life is a lot like art. Take last night. I was sitting at the bar at Pamplona with a friend, sipping on absinthe and he asked...

Freddie's BBQ getting famous in spite of Freddie

Eating at Freddie's Not Yet Famous BBQ feels like a Sunday barbecue in your own backyard. Contractor and New Iberia mayor pro tem Freddie DeCourt has a genius for turning a vacant lot into a place...

Doing it by taste

Who'd a thunk it? One of the best gumbos in town can be found at Vermilionville. Usually, when a restaurant is dubbed "Mom's Cooking," or in our Francophone case, "La Cusine de...

One bad oyster is all it takes

If you ate oysters recently and you're feeling a bit queasy, you aren't alone. Nearly 40 people were sickened after eating oysters last month, which has caused the largest closure of the state's...

Sage Italian restaurant opens on Ambassador Caffery

Move over quesadillas, the arancini have arrived. Several weeks ago Picante, one of Lafayette's premier Mexican restaurants, and my personal pic for best marguerita in town, closed its doors. It...

Cajun Grain rice steams NYT

I missed this story on Cajun Grain rice when it was first published in the New York Times magazine, on March 24, but luckily, it's still online and well worth reading. Kinder rice and pig farmer Kurt...

World class barbecue at Johnson's Boucaniere

Ever since Johnson's Boucaniere opened on St. John Street, I've been walking (got to get some exercise somehow) over to chow down on boudin and smoked sausage. Those items are family traditions from...

Cuban all stars at Rumba Cafe

Ok, I'm a sucker for barbacoa. It personifies the fifth taste, umami, meaning savory. Put dark chicken, pot roasted in soy sauce and butter on my plate and I'm helpless. It's so good, it makes me...

Éirinn go brách

Happy St. Paddy's Day. A few beer centric thoughts for the day. Honoring the tradition of Bennigan's, its replacement, The Tilted Kilt, on Ambassador Caffery, has the tent, the band and the green...

Cooking with the stars

Move over John Besh. Step aside Susan Spicer. Lafayette's rising star chef Holly Goetting, Charley G's, will be cooking side by side with the supernovas of the New Orleans constellation of chefs at a...

Consider the oyster

You either love them or hate them, there's no middle ground when it comes to oysters. Southern writer Rick Bragg drawls out his change of heart in a memoir dubbed "Your First Oyster." ...

Jolie's Louisiana Bistro opens for lunch

Lunchtime just got a lot better on Lafayette's restaurant row. Jolie's Louisiana Bistro started serving lunch on Ash Wednesday, adding some delectable and innovative dishes to lunch choices for those...

Go for the good works, get some gumbo

Chef Colt Patin at Crawfish Town U.S.A. in Henderson is leading an effort to help out families with premature babies find teeny tiny clothing. Micro premies, babies under five pounds, who have to...

How do you like them erysters?

Fried. Oh so delicately in a thin crust of cornmeal. My favorite downtown plate lunch place, Antler's, has just added fried oysters to the poboy menu and are they good. I crunched down on the poboy...

Taco Sisters expand hours

For the late lunch crowd, good news from the Taco Sisters. Fans of Molly and Katy Richard's smoked fish tacos and brisket burritos can now let the noon rush die down before strolling over to the...

Jersey's Burgers and Dogs opens in Saints Streets

Take America's ballpark dog. Drop it in the deep fryer. What do you get? Astonishingly, a great weiner, with a crisp skin that rips, the way the best boudin casing does, when you bite in. Hence the...

A spot of tea

When downtown's coffee house, Café Bonjour, closed about two years ago, the caffeinated crowd still had spots to hit for a cup of joe but no real place to hang, read the paper, watch the morning...

New menu at Pamplona filled with food art

Pamplona's chef, Orlando Amaro, is back from Barcelona, where he spent a month studying under cooking super star Ferran Adrià. The mastermind behind the internationally acclaimed restaurant elBulli is...

Flavor's the ticket at The Claw House

Just when you think you know your way around the world of boiled crawfish, another boiling joint opens up and throws you out of your comfortable routine. If you're like me, knowing where the best...

Soup for you

A bisque of a different color. When we say crawfish bisque here in Louisiana, it means a deep brown roux-based soup, filled with crawfish tails and stuffed heads. So when a bowl of creamy corn and...

Ciao down on crawfish

Satisfy your crawfish craving Italian-style. Can't get enough crawfish now that the season, albeit slowly, has begun? While boiled crawfish are still tee-tiny and tres cher, Charley G's has come up...

Crawfish Tyme

It's Lent again, and poor Catholics must be dreading their sacrifice of not eating meat, except seafood, on Fridays. It's Lent again, and poor Catholics must be dreading their sacrifice of not eating...

And now Pho something entirely different

I'd like to make a case for renaming Johnston Street the Ho Chi Minh trail. I'd like to make a case for renaming Johnston Street the Ho Chi Minh trail. Wait, wait, before you grab your dusty M16 and...

Cafe V offers V Day specials

The Valentine's Day menu at Cafe Vermilionville offers some not-to-be-missed specials. The Valentine's Day menu at Cafe Vermilionville offers some not-to-be-missed specials. Starters include a local...

When a rose is not a rose

Cocktail creativity is blooming in Acadiana, inspired  by St. Valentine. Pamplona Tapas Bar bartender Luke Tullos has come up with another charmer for the romantic occasion. Cocktail creativity is...

Liquor is Quicker (with video)

This Valentine's Day, romantic restaurant bars are the right venue for you if you want to pitch some woo  with your baby Sunday night. This Valentine's Day, romantic restaurant bars are the right...

Underground Gourmet Richard Collin remembered

For those who were eating their way through New Orleans in the 1970s, there was only one guide to the city's restaurants. The Underground Gourmet led the intrepid eater from the haute Creole halls of...

The Shed is smokin'

It's hard to find good barbecue in Lafayette. I've probably gotten more e-mails about where to find succulent ribs than any other food question. Normally, my primary barbecue locator is twofold. 1....

Don't take my salt shaker away

A mineral so elemental it's a pillar of the Bible. Cordelia loses Lear's love by comparing it to her affection for her father. And down here, it's a major ingredient of our favorite...

French Press opens today

For those of us who can't get their breakfast of champions down before 11 a.m., right after every egg and bacon joint has repurposed their grill for lunch, there is a new day a-dawning downtown. The...

Bourdain fires up New Orleans

It's a bye week for the Saints, all the more reason to attend the other sporting event that obsesses everyone who lives south of I-10. I'm not talking about basketball or duck hunting, although both...


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