Cajun Classics at Prejean's Restaurant

This past January, I had the pleasure of going to Louisiana, where I met some of the nicest people and had some of the most amazing food I've ever had. My first Cajun cuisine experience was at Prejean's Restaurant in Lafayette. This place hits you with Cajun vibes as soon as you walk in the door- the host stand has an alligator on it! Whether it's a real alligator or a sculpture, I'm unaware; I didn't get a chance to ask. The walls of the dining area are painted to look like a swamp, and the local bands playing live music really puts you in the mood for some Cajun eats.

Appetizers here are to die for. From fried green tomatoes to oysters Rockefeller, you're guaranteed a taste of authentic southern deliciousness. For those of you with adventurous taste buds, I recommend the Tout Que’ Chos, or Little Bit of Everything. Complete with fried frog legs, crawfish tails, mushrooms, shrimp, alligator- yes, I said alligator- and crawfish Boudin balls, this dish gives you a little bit of what Cajun food is all about- that is, if they can catch it, they will fry it and eat it.

Sidebar: alligator isn't nearly as bad as it sounds. It's got the consistency of chicken and has a mild fishy taste. Try it. What's the worst that can happen?

Entrées at Prejean's continue the Cajun seafood flavor with everything from Yellow Fin Tuna Rockefeller to Blackened Catfish Etouffee to your basic Shrimp Fettuccine. When selecting a side dish for your seafood feast, try the fried mac n' cheese. A slight flavor clash sure, but how could one resist fried mac n' cheese? There's also hush puppies, potato salad, sweet potato fries, and side salads for those who think mixing mac n' cheese with seafood is a huge no-no.

The dessert list only has a few options, and since they only make a limited amount of desserts per day, the one you may have your heart set on might be sold out. So here's a few suggestions for you, in the hopes that one of them is available.

My personal favorite dessert is the Banana Nut Bread with Praline sauce. The soft bread soaks up the flavor of the sauce, and the flavor combination is to die for. This dish also comes with a side of vanilla ice cream. The White Chocolate Bread Pudding is also quite mouth-watering. There are also a variety of cheesecakes, including Bananas Foster and Turtle. Whichever dessert you choose, your sweet tooth-or teeth- won't be disappointed.

Sidebar 2: For the best selection of desserts, as well as the catch of the day entrée option, come early. The restaurant closes at 9 p.m. during the week and 10 p.m. on the weekends.

Next time you're in the Low Country, pass through Lafayette and stop at Prejean's for an authentic Cajun meal. This eatery has it all- amazing food, stellar service, a charming and authentic ambiance, all to the tune of local bands playing live for your listening pleasure all at a price that won't break the bank. Until next time..

Keep Smilin' :)