When it comes to Lake Charles, it's all about the culture here. You have the women, gambling, music and, of course, the food. It sounds like a modern day western, but that's the beautiful lifestyle we live here in Southwest Louisiana's melting pot of Lake Charles. Now, being from Mississippi originally, I have lived here since 200,1 and my first love is  the wonderful dishes here in the area. So let me make your visit easy when you decide to make the trip here.

I have summed up my top 10 favorite restaurants that you will have to try when you come to Lake Charles. While some may disagree about the order, this is MY top 10:

10. Mr. Bill's Seafood Express

Patrick Frey
Patrick Frey
loading...

Not far from Mcneese State University, Mr. Bills Seafood Express is a great taste of Heaven. For the students, it's a great reminder of home for those in the deep south of Louisiana. Of course, for our visitors it's a great introduction to Lake Charles. You can find entrees on the menu like Chicken Stew, Sausage, Potatoes, Jambalaya and of course Crawfish. This restaurant resonates Lake Charles and Southwest Louisiana.

9. Seafood Palace

Patrick Frey
Patrick Frey
loading...

When you have people who only come to Lake Charles once a year from Birmingham, Ala. -- like I do -- the first stop they want to make is to the Seafood Palace. This is a nice but quaint little restaurant -- but it's always packed regardless of what time of the day you go. They have a variety of dishes, whether you just want a little appetizer or a full-course meal including Fried Gator, Crab Jalepenos, Crab Cakes and even brews and wine.

8. Luna Bar & Grill

Patrick Frey
Patrick Frey
loading...

Right in the heart of Downtown Lake Charles is one of my favorite spots -- Luna's Bar and Grill. One of my all time favorite meals there is the Turkey Sun Burger -- when I'm trying to refrain from beef, this is my burger of choice. Now, if chicken is your thing, try out The Pluto, which includes grilled or fried chicken with swiss cheese, onions and mushrooms. The great thing about this restaurant is that if you're feeling a little claustrophobic, they have an outside area that is great for dining with nature.

7. Tony's Pizza

Patrick Frey
Patrick Frey
loading...

You know the old saying that if I tell you my secret I may have to kill ya? Well, this might be one time I may consider that threat when it comes to Tony's Pizza. If the normal seafood is not your thing, then you need to try Tony's. I don't know what they do in the back, but I know everytime I go, I am never leaving unsatisfied. Whether it's great salads, pizza, or sandwiches, Tony's is a great place where everyone in the family will enjoy a great meal.

6. Pat's of Henderson

Patrick Frey
Patrick Frey
loading...

When you talk about the perfect spot for a romantic dinner, surprise parties or office get-togethers, Pat's of Henderson is the perfect spot for you to check out. When you visit Lake Charles, there are a few spots that you can not touch our grounds unless you go there first -- and this is one of them. Not only do they serve some guilty pleasures like oysters, red snapper, Mahi Mahi and more, but they have a nice area to have a smooth glass of wine if that's your choice. Also for candle lovers, you have to grab a few for souvenirs before you leave.

5. Guillory's Famous Foods

Patrick Frey
Patrick Frey
loading...

When you want some of that great BBQ or home made cracklins, you need to make a stop by Guillory's Famous Foods. There are always smiling faces when you walk in the door -- and loosen your belt, because you will be more then full from the servings there. As a matter of fact, one of our part timers here is from Eunice and loves the cracklins from there. He took the photo above and although it was work, he utilized this time to grab a bag full while he was out. Oh yeah, once you try the popcorn balls, you'll never look at any others the same.

4. Leonard's Food Quarters

Patrick Frey
Patrick Frey
loading...

Another memory of mine. I had an Uncle and Aunt who came to visit me a few years ago. When they came, I bought some boudin for them to try out for the first time. Before they left, they made me go back and get some more so they could take it on the road with them. This is just one of the small things that you can find at Leonards Food Quarters. Although if you're looking for a quick lunch for that break away from the office, then this is your spot. The loaded baked potatoes are the bomb and the Red Bean and Rice with Sausage is always on point. Also they open at 7 a.m., if you need a little get up and go for breakfast.

3. Ball's Fried Chicken

Patrick Frey
Patrick Frey
loading...

While there are several fried chicken locations in the area, if you want a taste of Lake Charles, you have to indulge your taste buds at Ball's Fried Chicken. This is a family-owned business that has been around for decades. While the restaurant was open back in the day, it closed for a few years and reopened around 2002-03. So, while I never had the chance to try it back then, once I did I was hooked. I remember when they reopened and the streets were blocked for miles. The taste does not disappoint. The chicken has a little punch to it and  that's what separates them from their competitors and the staff is friendly as soon as you walk in the door. Give them a try and I am sure you will be back for more.

2. Darrell's Po-Boys

Patrick Frey
Patrick Frey
loading...

If you don't want a large meal, but want to be fulfilled, then you have to try Darrell's Po Boys. There is not one time during lunch that you won't find the parking lot packed and tables full. But if you can grab yourself a seat, be ready. One of my favorite sandwiches is the Darrell's Special. This one has everything you need to get you through the day. It includes Ham, Turkey and Roast Beef, also try the shrimp po-boy as well. I am telling you they wait is worth it, and while you're there pick up one for your boy.

 

1. Steamboat Bill's

What started as a means of survival turned into the first name on people's mouths when you think of seafood. Steamboat Bill's is a landmark of the Lake Charles community. Anytime I go, I am a big fan of the Fish and Chicken strip combo. The gator bites and fried mushrooms are something that I think you would love. This establishment is known from Dallas to New Orleans, and is sometimes so busy, they have employees directing traffic. So I highly recommend you stop by Steamboat Bill's and get your grub on, regardless of what you get you will not be the least bit upset at your choice.

 

  • BONUS!

    Get a Musical Taste of Lake Charles by Getting 'Zydeco Happy' With Sean Ardoin and ZydeKool!

More From 107 JAMZ