Louisiana
Food

On Your Way To The Beach, Enjoy A Meal At This Hidden Gem Cajun Spot In Louisiana

Published Jun 5, 2023

Written by 

Jackie Ann

One of the biggest secrets in Louisiana is our beaches. While many fuel up and head over to our eastern Gulf Coast neighbors, Louisiana's beaches are just as beautiful and often, much less crowded. If you're thinking about heading down to Grand Isle to spend some time soaking up the sun, be sure to carve out some time to swing by this hidden gem restaurant in Louisiana for some good old-fashioned Cajun cuisine.

If you’ve ever driven down to Grand Isle, you’re all too familiar with LA-1.

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Karen LaCorte/Google

This lonesome road is the only road to Grand Isle, and though it does have some very scenic spots, you’ll be driving through some of Louisiana’s smaller fishing communities and villages where there’s not much to do... but there’s certainly some very good places to eat!

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One of the last little villages you’ll come across before reaching Grand Isle is Golden Meadow, a tiny little town of about 1,500 folks.

It’s here in Golden Meadow that you’ll find Me-Maws Cajun Cuisine.

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Thomas Krummer/Google

With a name like that, you know it’s going to be good. If there’s one thing that's true about the South, it’s that me-maws always have the best cooking.

Me-Maws is a humble little joint that’s best described as a no-frills, all-flavor hidden gem restaurant in Louisiana.

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Jake Hunt/Google

Come as you are, just like grandma would want.

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The menu features all your favorite Cajun classics, with a new daily special to keep things interesting.

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Joshua LaCoste/Google

If you happen to visit Me-Maws during crawfish season (mid-January - mid-July) you’ve got to get yourself a few pounds of crawfish.

From soft-shelled crab po’boys to chicken and sausage gumbo, all your favorite Louisiana dishes make an appearance here.

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Paul Wood/Google

Me-Maws always posts the daily specials on Facebook, so be sure to follow Me-Maws Cajun Cuisine on Facebook to stay in the know.

Whether you dine in or grab some take-away to enjoy on the beach, Me-Maw's will quickly become your new tradition on the way to Grand Isle.

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Rostislav Sikora/Google

If you know of a locally-owned restaurant that could use some love, nominate them for a chance to be featured in an upcoming article.

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Food

This Panoramic-View Restaurant In Louisiana Is A Must-Visit

Published Aug 16, 2024

Written by 

Jackie Ann

Few things can compare to a meal with a view. Phil's Marina Cafe is a wonderful waterfront restaurant in Louisiana that is worth seeking out. Today, we're checking out this longtime Louisiana eatery that's known for its succulent seafood and sensational views. Let's check it out:

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You’ll find Phil’s Marina Cafe just off of I-10 in Slidell.

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Steven M./Google Reviews

The restaurant, which has been in operation since 1991, overlooks Grand Lagoon. Surrounded by Lake Pontchartrain and Big Branch National Wildlife Refuge, it’s a perfect restaurant to swing by after a day of boating or exploring the NWR.

The restaurant is a local favorite.

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TJ Herndon/Google Reviews

It’s the type of place that families bring their kids to and then the kids grow up and bring their kids to. When you’ve been in business for 33 years, you develop a loyal following, and it shows.

The menu boasts a variety of Louisiana classics.

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Phil’s Marina Cafe/Facebook

Phil’s specializes in po’boys and crawfish (when in season). Regardless of the time of year you dine here, you’ll be met with friendly service, an incredible meal, and a fabulous view.

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The restaurant offers a sensational view of the marina.

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Nancy Crumpton/Google Reviews

If you can time your visit during sunset, you won't be disappointed!

From crab dip with fried bowtie to soft shell crab, Phil's is the place to be for delicious seafood.

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Phil’s Marina Cafe/Facebook

Of course, you'll find plenty of Italian-inspired dishes too.

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Phil’s Marina Cafe/Facebook

Cajun and Italian go together like peanut butter and jelly, after all.

This is one restaurant you'll want to save room for dessert.

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Phil’s Marina Cafe/Facebook

The creme brûlée and bread pudding are fan favorites, but we enjoy the peanut butter pie!

After you've enjoyed your meal, take a stroll along the water and watch the sunset.

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Eric F/Google Reviews

It's always a good show.

Visit the website of Phil's Marina Cafe to see the full menu, and be sure to follow Phil's Marina Cafe on Facebook so you never miss out on any specialty dishes. If you've ever dined at this waterfront restaurant in Louisiana, share your experience with us in the comments.

Check out our favorite restaurants in Louisiana while you're at it. Who knows, you may be inspired to take a road trip across the state!

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Food

The Off-The-Beaten-Path Restaurant In Louisiana That Is Worth The Day Trip

Published Aug 17, 2024

Written by 

Jackie Ann

One of the best things about living in Louisiana is that you're never too far away from a good meal. Even if you find yourself in a small town, you can bet there's a local restaurant that will serve you one of the best meals you've ever had. Gaston's BBQ & Beer is a restaurant in Donaldsonville, Louisiana that easily fits the bill.

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You’ll find Gaston’s BBQ & Beer tucked away in the heart of Donaldsonville’s Historic District.

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Gaston’s BBQ & Beer/Facebook

Part of The Inn on the River, it’s the only hotel in Donaldsonville with an on-site restaurant. You don’t need to be a hotel guest to dine at Gaston’s.

The restaurant opened its doors in 2022 and has become a local favorite.

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Gaston’s BBQ & Beer/Facebook

Gaston’s is open seven days a week:

Monday - Saturday: 11 a.m. - 8 p.m.

Monday - Friday: 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. (lunch buffet)

Sunday:

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9 a.m. - 2 p.m. (breakfast buffet all day)

When it comes to Southern BBQ, Gaston's really stands out from the pack.

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Gaston’s BBQ & Beer/Facebook

It's easily worth a day trip.

In addition to having some of the best BBQ in Louisiana, Gaston’s also offers daily lunch specials you’ll want to try.

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Gaston’s BBQ & Beer/Facebook

Every day is something different! You can peep the menu at Gaston’s to see the full rundown. Mondays are red beans and rice (obviously), Tuesday is meatloaf, Wednesdays are pork chops, etc.

Fan favorites at Gaston’s include brisket, pulled pork, and ribs.

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Gaston’s BBQ & Beer/Facebook

Low and slow is the method here! Gaston’s offers smoked meats that are slow-cooked for 12 hours on-site. Trust me, it’ll melt in your mouth!

Of course, a good BBQ plate is only as good as its sides. Luckily, Gaston's knocks it out of the park in this department, too.

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Gaston’s BBQ & Beer/Facebook

Traditional sides like Texas toast, macaroni and cheese, smoked baked beans, and smothered green beans all make an appearance at Gaston’s. I’d highly recommend the andouille corn macque choux—it’s delicious!

Visit Gaston's BBQ & Beer website to see a full menu, and be sure to follow Gaston's on Facebook, too. If you've dined at this restaurant in Donaldsonville, Louisiana before, share your experience with us in the comments.

If you want to turn the day trip into an overnight adventure, book a stay at The Inn on the River.

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