Category: Community – Lafayette

Whether you have a sweet tooth or enjoy fresh, artisan breads, it’s always nice to have a good bakery in your area. If you live in Lafayette, Louisiana, you’re spoiled for choice, as this city is home to many, top-quality bakeries. Here are a few examples.

1. Poupart Bakery Inc.

Poupart Bakery Inc. is an authentic French bakery that has been serving delectable French pastries, sweets, cakes, and fresh breads in Lafayette for more than 40 years. Founder Francois Poupart came to Louisiana in 1965 after working in Paris as a pastry chef and two years later opened the doors of Poupart Bakery Inc. According to locals who have been frequenting this little bakery for many decades, the Pouparts have consistently maintained the exceptional quality of both their service and baked goods.

On the menu is a variety of French treats like petit fours, macarons, French eclairs, beignets, and French butter cookies, as well as sweets and desserts from other regions, such as cannoli and baklava. In addition, they bake a variety of fresh breads daily, including ciabatta, sourdough, walnut bread, buckwheat, dinner rolls, and brioche, as well as delicious cakes.

2. Keller’s Bakery Downtown

The Keller family has been in the bakery business for centuries rather than decades. Victor Keller, who opened the original Keller’s Bakery in 1895 in Louisiana, came from a long line of bakers who immigrated from France to America in the late 1700s. In 1929, Victor’s grandson continued the family tradition by opening Keller’s Bakery Downtown in Lafayette, and today the bakery is still owned and run by the Kellers.

The loyal customer base that this bakery has garnered over the years is a testament to the quality baked goods that this bakery consistently provides. The pleasant venue, which is in a historic building in downtown Lafayette, features several display cases where patrons can view the delicious pastries, cookies, cakes, and cupcakes on offer. Choices include doughnuts, danishes, cinnamon rolls, cream puffs, eclairs, petit fours, macarons, ladyfingers, lemon bars, and much more. The bakery also sells “take & bake” goods, such as frozen pot pies and quiches that you can take home with you and bake when you wish.

3. Piece of Cake Lafayette

When you’re planning a special occasion, whether it’s a birthday, wedding, baby shower, or anniversary, Piece of Cake Lafayette should be your go-to bakery. This establishment specializes in baking beautiful, custom cakes that will make those special events even more memorable. Over the years, the professional team at this bakery has collected photos of all the cakes they have created in extensive albums, so that new clients can gather ideas.

You can either order a cake from their repertoire or create your own from their long list of available cake flavor and filling options. The establishment also offers tastings and consultations to help clients with the decision-making process. During a tasting, clients get to taste six of the most popular cake flavor and filling combinations, including chocolate cake with Oreo cream filling, fresh strawberry cake with Swiss meringue, and red velvet cake with cream cheese.

Whether you want a decadent sweet treat, freshly baked bread, or a cake for that special occasion, these top-quality bakeries in Lafayette will not disappoint.

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Whether you’re a Lafayette local or you’re in town for a visit, you’re bound to need some caffeine to fuel your day in the city. Here are four great coffee shops that will help you relax and recharge as you enjoy your favorite brew.

Jet Coffee

Jet Coffee is a great place to go to celebrate community, culture, and, of course, coffee. They have a drive-thru for your quick coffee needs, or you can choose to sit inside and enjoy the aroma of coffee and the taste of one of Jet Coffee’s delicious hand-crafted drinks.

Consider trying one of their Jet Squad drinks, including the Bomber, a chocolate macadamia nut American-style latte, or the Super Hero, an Irish cream drink with six shots of espresso. Other menu items include smoothies, espresso freezes, energy drinks, and classics like cold brews, Americanos, and chai lattes. If you’re hungry, Jet Coffee even offers snacks like muffins, oats, and bagels.

CC’s Coffee House

CC’s Coffee House uses high-quality beans from all around the world to make their classic coffee brews. Not only that, but you’ll find the staff here grinding and brewing the coffee beans every hour to achieve a deep flavor and optimal freshness. Choose between medium roast, dark roast, or decaf, or get a cafe au lait for coffee with steamed milk. They also serve espresso classics like cappuccinos, mochas, lattes, and even specialty lattes with seasonal flavors.

If you’re in the mood for a cold treat on a hot day, try an iced tea, a smoothie made with 100% real fruit, or their signature Mochasippi, a frozen espresso drink.

Johnston Street Java

With java right in the name, you know exactly what you’re getting into with Johnston Street Java, but this is much more than a simple coffee shop. This New Orleans-style spot offers 35 different flavors as well as additional seasonal offerings. They also have special flavor combinations, such as the Samocha with chocolate, caramel, and coconut and the Peppermint Patty with white chocolate, chocolate, and mint. Of course, there are plenty of classics available here too, from Americanos to iced lattes.

You can also grab a bite to eat for breakfast or lunch at Johnston Street Java, and the food won’t disappoint — choose from biscuits, sandwiches, pastries, and smaller snacks.

Rêve Coffee Roasters

Not only does Rêve have their own coffee shop, but they also supply their beans to many other coffee havens in Lafayette. They feature beans from Africa, Asia, Central America, and South America, and they sell local Louisiana blends as well. Try their Costa Rica Tarrazu with notes of honey and citrus, the Ethiopia Yirgacheffe Honey Koke with brown sugar, grape, and melon notes, and their Fire & Brimstone, a full-bodied blend with notes of chocolate, cedar, and brandied cherries.

Whether you appreciate coffee for its flavor or the energy it provides, you’re sure to fall in love with these great coffee shops in Lafayette. Try one for yourself today to refuel and cure your afternoon slump.

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There are plenty of brilliantly sunny days in Lafayette, but we also have our fair share of rainy ones too. When those days hit, there is no need to cancel your day out. Instead, try one of these rainy day activities.

Go on a Cajun Food Tour

A major part of the city of Lafayette is the food, and there is no shortage of it on the Official Cajun Food Tour. Even if you are a Lafayette restaurant connoisseur, you’ll still love taking the 14-seat bus around the city and trying traditional Cajun dishes at five of the city’s favorites. What’s fun about this tour is that it’s not only about the food, you’ll also spend three to four hours hearing about the history of the city.

Admire the Cathedral

The Cathedral of St. John the Evangelist is a sight to see, no matter your religious preference. Here you’ll find intricate stained glass and beautiful Italian marble inside and an above-ground cemetery and exquisite oak trees outside. This cathedral has a history that’s just as interesting as our city. Learn more on one of the audio tours available in English, Spanish, and French.

Visit the Children’s Museum

It’s easy for children to feel cooped up in the house on a rainy day, so consider visiting the Children’s Museum of Acadiana. The exhibits at this museum are hands-on with a strong emphasis on learning through participation. Children will love exploring HAPPY PAWS Hospital, a play veterinary clinic where they can learn more about animals and take care of those admitted. Another favorite exhibit is the Bubble Factory where kids can create different bubbles and then experience what it’s like to stand inside one. This is a spot that kids and adults will enjoy.

Star Gaze at the Planetarium

If you’re disappointed that it’s raining, visit the Lafayette Science Museum, a combination museum and planetarium where there’s nothing but clear skies in the forecast. On the museum side, discover more about meteorites, the speed of light, and different spacecraft, then visit the planetarium to learn what it takes to be an astronaut and the story of some of our solar system’s stars. The planetarium has both live and recorded demonstrations so you can have a first-hand look at constellations and planets.

Create a Piece of Clay Art

Hand Star Clay Studio, located on East Saint Mary Boulevard in Lafayette, is a place to visit if you’re feeling artistic. Owned and operated by Adel deValcourt, this clay studio hosts beginners’ classes, workshops, and even studio tours where you can see works of art in the gallery and showroom. Adel also offers date night packages and private lessons for those who want to take their clay building to the next level. After your time at Hand Star, you’ll have a piece you can’t wait to display in your home.

We’re lucky that no matter the outdoor conditions, there is plenty to see and do. Even when the weather is less-than-ideal, enjoy one of these adventures to pass the time and try something new.

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Living in Louisiana, we know good Cajun and Creole food the moment it settles on our tongue. Around here, our palates are made for this food. Even though there are plenty of options to choose from, here are our picks for authentic Cajun and Creole restaurants around Lafayette.

Bon Temps Grill

Bon Temps Grill, located on Verot School Road, is an award-winning Lafayette restaurant known for its Cajun and Creole cuisine. The menu at Bon Temps is largely focused on seafood and steak, like their Alligator Bang Bang Po-Boy and deep-fried meat pies. Try their Hamburger Steak, a half-pound of ground beef that’s smothered in brown gravy and cheddar cheese, or order the 12-ounce ribeye, 6-ounce filet, or 8-ounce sirloin to experience their grilled-to-perfection cuts.

Prejean’s Restaurant

If you’re looking for a tried-and-true Cajun restaurant, look no further than Prejean’s Restaurant. Around for more than 40 years, this Lafayette staple is focused on two things: providing authentic food and creating an environment where guests feel welcomed like family. Prejean’s serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner, so stop by almost any time of day to enjoy your Cajun favorites with a twist. 

If you want the best start to your day, order the Prejean’s Napoleon, a poached egg dish with a potato cake and crab cake that’s topped with a hollandaise sauce, fresh shrimp, and tasso. If you’re looking for something a little sweeter, the French toast-esque Pain Perdue should do the trick. For lunch or dinner, make sure to order the Chicken & Sausage Gumbo — it’s a three-time world champion dish for a reason.

Don’s Seafood Cajun Restaurant & Oyster Bar

Don’s Seafood Cajun Restaurant & Oyster Bar has been around since 1934, and some locals would consider it a tradition to enjoy one of their fantastic dishes. With every bite of any dish, you can taste the difference in their commitment to quality food and an exceptional cooking process. You won’t be disappointed in their charbroiled oysters made with garlic butter and Romano cheese. You also can’t go wrong ordering the fried or grilled catfish.

Blue Dog Cafe

The Blue Dog Cafe is easily recognized by its signage — a blue dog with wide yellow eyes. Artist George Rodrigue created the painting and sculpture of the dog, along with other notable works that capture the history of the region, and his sons now own Blue Dog Cafe. Any dish at Blue Dog Cafe is sure to be a great one, but we recommend the Corn and Crab Bisque and the Crawfish Enchilada for the true taste of Creole.

Dwight’s

Dwight’s, serving Lafayette residents and visitors from their Johnston Street location for decades, specializes in crawfish, along with other classic Cajun and Creole dishes. Dwight’s crawfish is so fresh that they only serve them five months of the year when they are available at their peak. For something a little different, try their BBQ lunch on Sundays.

In Lafayette, you’re surrounded by award-winning and mom-and-pop restaurants that have been part of the community for years. To enjoy a meal at any of these locations is to know and love the city’s culture and history.

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Lafayette, Louisiana, is on the shore of the Vermillion River. It has beautiful scenery and a variety of great attractions, including the Vermillionville Historic Village, one of the largest Creole and Cajun living history museums in the world. If you feel like relaxing later, you can visit one of the many bookstores in the area to find a fascinating read. Here are some of the most interesting bookstores near Lafayette.

The Book Rack

The books in The Book Rack will let you experience faraway places, exciting events, magic, mysteries, and more. You can travel to other galaxies, battle vampires, or even fall in love with a wonderful spouse. It’s an excellent place to browse and find hidden treasures.

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Lafayette, Louisiana, has a variety of unique stores where you can find souvenirs, gifts, and interesting items for your home. Shop here to find cool artwork, meet new people, and learn more about this wonderful city and its Cajun and Creole culture. Here are some of the best gift shops in Lafayette.

Cajun Creations Gifts & More

At Cajun Creations Gifts & More, you can find embroidery, gift baskets, and handmade soap, bath bombs, shower steamers, bath salts, aromatherapy mists, and lotions. Their attractive, handcrafted cedar soap dishes drain themselves to keep your artisanal soaps dry and in good condition longer. You can also buy natural loofa sponges and sea sponges. Essential oils, handmade wooden shaving sets, beard oils, aftershave, shaving soaps, beard and mustache wax, and many other products are available, as well.

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