As the saying goes, some things are just worth the wait. That’s certainly the case with these restaurants, where they’re cooking up some of the most amazing meals you’ve ever had. Trust us, your patience will be rewarded.
1. Crawdaddy’s Kitchen
Crawdaddy’s Kitchen has been family owned and operated for 15 years, and it’s worth the wait to taste their Cajun cuisine. They are best known for their crawfish, but when it’s not in season, you can’t go wrong with their gumbo, fried crab claws, or any number of their Cajun specialty dishes. Address: 9370 Mansfield Rd., Shreveport, LA 71118
2. The French Press
There’s typically a line for lunch at this place, but it’s worth standing in. From their boudin ball po’boy to their massive half-pound burger, you’ll be licking your plate clean. They’re also open for breakfast and brunch, so swing by and see why it’s one of Lafayette’s most beloved restaurants. Address: 214 E Vermilion St., Lafayette, LA 70501
3. Jacquelyn’s Cafe
Established in 1983, you know you can count on a good meal at Jacquelyn’s Cafe. Lunchtime is typically quite busy, but that just means it’s so good that plenty of people are willing to wait. Address: 1324 Louisiana Ave., Shreveport, LA 71101
4. K.Y.’s Olde Town Bicycle Shop
Nestled within a century-old building, K.Y.’S Olde Town Bicycle Shop has been a local favorite since it opened its doors in 1992. From po’boys to seafood platters, you truly can’t go wrong with anything on the menu, but the shop is known for its delicious burgers. Address: 2267 Carey St., Slidell, LA 70458
5. Louie’s Cafe
This Baton Rouge tradition sits just outside of LSU’s campus and it’s been serving classic diner food since 1941. They’re open 24 hours a day, but you’ll definitely encounter some long lines if you pop in during peak hours. Address: 209 W. State St., Baton Rouge, LA 70802
6. Marilynn’s Place
For New Orleans cuisine in northern Louisiana, you have to make a pit stop at Marilynn’s Place. This charming, locally owned and operated restaurant is a converted gas station and it’s been a local favorite for years. You’ll be glad you waited in line once you taste the food! Address: 4041 Fern Ave., Shreveport, LA 71105
7. Olde Tyme Grocery
Olde Tyme Grocery has been making mouthwateringly good po’boys since 1982, and you’ll fall in love after one bite. There’s typically a line for the lunch rush, but it moves pretty quickly. Address: 218 W Saint Mary Blvd., Lafayette, LA 70506.
8. Steamboat Bill’s
Voted the #1 seafood & crawfish restaurant in southeastern Louisiana, it’s no wonder the lines are long at this place. From the shrimp creole to any number of their seafood platters, you just can’t go wrong with anything on the menu here. And the best part? There are multiple locations across southeastern Louisiana, so you’re never too far away from one!
Lake Charles locations: 1004 N. Lakeshore Dr., Lake Charles, LA & 732 S. Martin Luther King Hwy., Lake Charles, LA
DeRidder location: 735 N. Pine St., DeRidder, LA
Alexandria location: 3024 N. McArthur Dr., Alexandria, LA
9. Tony’s Pizza
Don’t let the long line deter you from some of the best pizzas you’ll ever eat. Tony’s has been a Lake Charles tradition since 1968, serving incredible pizzas, pasta, and po’boys. Address: 335 E Prien Lake Rd., Lake Charles, LA 70601
How many of these restaurants have you eaten at? Which one is your favorite? Let us know in the comments below!
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