All Aboard The Gravy Train: The Darrell’s Special

by Charles Pierce

The culinary scene in Lake Charles has grown significantly over the past few years. There has been a growth of new restaurants doing truly fantastic dishes and they are making their presence known with local foodies. But, along with that rise, there are a few old favorites that have stood the test of time. Personally, the one place that keeps me coming back is Darrell’s Famous Poboys and their mouth watering Darrell’s Special.

Since 1985 Darrell’s has been serving up some truly awesome poboys. Their commitment to quality shows in their food and has been rewarded by the loyalty of their customers who have been returning time and time again for lunch and dinner since they’ve opened their doors. It’s no surprise to see the parking lot packed no matter what time of day you visit. And I am willing to bet the majority of orders coming out of the kitchen throughout the day and night are the exquisite Darrell’s Special.

It’s actually a pretty simple sandwich. You’ve got fresh cut ham, turkey and made-in-house roast beef, lettuce (I normally pass on this because...it’s lettuce), mustard, mayonnaise (regular or jalapeno), your choice of cheese (American, Swiss or Provolone) and the absolute best roast beef gravy I’ve ever had. The beauty lies in the simplicity. Or is it the gravy? It might be the gravy.

While sitting at the table awaiting your order you’ll notice a very large stack of napkins. 

SPOILER ALERT: You will need these. 

The Darrell’s Special is as messy as it is delicious. They’re very generous when it comes to the roast beef gravy, which is certainly not a bad thing. To quote their website “Unless you use at least 10 napkins, you’re doing it wrong”.

Now don’t get me wrong, there are other great tasting poboys on the menu as well. The BBQ Beef is really good and I’ve heard the Surf & Turf is almost as popular as the Darrell’s Special. Almost. But for me, it’s that signature sandwich that gets me every time.

No matter what I’m doing in Lake Charles, I make it a point to stop in and grab a Darrell’s Special. It truly is that good. Next time you’re in Lake Charles stop by and see for yourself.

Best Bites of 2016 (Burger Edition): Chuck P's Picks

by Chuck P

Well, here we are ladies and gents. The end of 2016 (thankfully) is upon us and with its end comes reflection on past events of this crazy year. Here at Bite and Booze HQ, we’re all charged with the task of looking back on the many delicious meals we’ve had this year and compiling a list of our favorite eats.

For obvious reasons, I was given the job of choosing which of the vast amounts of burgers would make my top 5 list. To me, this is almost like selecting who my favorite child is between my son and daughter (answer: they’re both my favorites). I was determined to go through each burger or at least try to, and find the ones that really stood out. So, without further ado, here are the top 5 burgers of 2016.

#5 Calla Burger

Restaurant Calla in Lake Charles, LA

During a 3 day media trip to Lake Charles, Jay hosted a Great Raft beer dinner at Restaurant Calla. Throughout the event we heard from almost every staff member there that we had to come back for lunch the next day and try their burger. It was pretty much everyone’s favorite choice on the menu. Upon returning the next day and having their signature burger I have to agree with the staff.

A soft, toasted buttery bun with two thick, juicy house made patties covered in gooey American cheese that literally melted in your mouth. I added some bacon and a fried egg as well which perfectly complimented the already delicious sandwich. Make sure to stop by here the next time you find yourself in Lake Charles and treat yourself to this tasty burger.

#4 The Burger

Overpass Merchant in Baton Rouge, LA

The Overpass Merchant is one of my favorite new places that has opened this year. This gastropub has a great selection of elevated bar food and a very nice rotating craft beer selection on tap. I love the fact that their burger is simply called The Burger. 

With Curbside Burger’s Nick Hufft behind the creation how can it NOT be good? The combo of ground chuck, brisket and short rib blended together gives this patty its unique taste. Adding choices of Aged Cheddar, Maytag Bleu Cheese, Applewood Bacon, Fried Egg or Onion Jam only enhances your burger experience. Hell, why not add them all?!? Pair this with one of their many IPA’s on tap and you’ve got yourself one heck of a meal.

#3 The “Irregular” Burger

Pimanyoli’s Smokehouse Cafe in Baton Rouge, LA

Okay everyone, let’s just take a second and look at the picture. I mean seriously. It’s like a damn work of art! Pimanyoli’s is tucked away on Airline Highway in between an Italian restaurant and a 24 hour gym. It’s one Baton Rouge’s best kept secrets. Their BBQ plates are to die for but let’s talk about this burger. 

On top of that delicious 8oz. ground chuck patty sits a mouth watering pile of their incredible smoked brisket. Add to that some awesome bacon, Monterey Jack, smoked mushrooms and grilled onions and it’s a burger lover’s paradise. Make your way out to Airline Highway and try this burger; your belly will thank you.

#2 The Breakfast Burger

Mason’s Grill in Baton Rouge, LA

If any of you know me, you know of my deep, undying love for the Breakfast Burger at Mason’s. House made patty, American cheese, fried egg, house made breakfast sausage patty, bacon, more American cheese, another fried egg. I mean...what else is there?! No more is needed to “add” to the flavor because it’s all there.

Honestly, you could share this with a buddy or your significant other but would you want to? I know I don’t. This burger is all mine and mine alone to enjoy and savor. As far as I’m concerned there are no other brunch options on the menu. This is it.

#1 The OG Burger

Alfie’s Pop-Up in Washington, D.C.

The BEST burger I had all year. For real. As beautiful as it looks in that photo, the picture still doesn’t do it justice. Chef Alex McCoy, who was a fellow contestant with Jay on Food Network Star, is the proud poppa to this beautiful bundle of joy.

The juiciness and flavor of that house made patty was mind blowing. Every component of the burger from the pickles and red onions to the baby arugula blended together perfectly. That sweet toasty bun was absolutely magical. I could eat this burger every day and never get tired of it. It’s that freakin’ good!


Honorable mentions:
The Venison Burger at Goûter in Baton Rouge, LA
The GC2 at Curbside Burgers in Baton Rouge, LA
The Old Fashioned Bacon Burger at Cotton’s Famous Hamburgers in Lake Charles, LA
The Chef’s Favorite at Spanishtown Market in Baton Rouge, LA

Check out Blair's Best Bites of 2016

Louisiana Saturday Morning: We've Got Your Brunch Plans Right Here

by Sydney Blanchard

If breakfast is the most important meal of the day, then brunch is the most important meal of the weekend.

I don't know if it's a generational thing or a gay thing, but my friends and I are constantly brunching, and I think I've pinpointed why.

Brunch foods can be savory or sweet, healthy or gluttonous, drinking is optional (but encouraged), and food always tastes better when you eat it after waking up late after a night out partying. 

In fact, I can't think of any reason not to love brunch.

Below you'll find some perfect Louisiana brunch options for the weekend. Where is your favorite brunch spot?

Mason's Grill Baton Rouge

Mason's is probably Baton Rouge's most beloved brunch spot, and with endless menu items (including the famous breakfast burger, pictured) and $5 bottomless mimosas, it's easy to see why. On Saturday and Sunday mornings and afternoons, the place is packed, so get there early to beat the crowd.

Barcadia Baton Rouge

Barcadia Baton Rouge's fried chicken and pancakes

Relatively new to the brunch scene, Barcadia near LSU has been knocking brunch out of the park with breakfast tacos and $3 Bloody Marys and Mimosas. While you wait for your food, hit up the retro arcade games that line the restaurant.

City Pork Deli & Charcuterie Baton Rouge

Few things are worth waking up early for, and @city_pork Kitchen & Pie breakfast is one of them! The grits bowl (with pulled pork, pickled red onions & an egg) & hash brown casserole are life-affirming. Have y'all tried this place yet? #breakfast #citypork #gritsbowl #goBR #yummy #foodpics #foodblogger

A photo posted by Jay Ducote (@biteandbooze) on Jan 20, 2016 at 7:42am PST

This particular photo is from City Pork Kitchen & Pie, but don't get it twisted: only City Pork Deli & Charcuterie offers a weekend brunch menu. The grits bowl is the way to go, paired with a Vietnamese iced coffee or a mimosa if you're feeling frisky.

Coffee Call Baton Rouge

Beignet? More like beign-bae! You can never go wrong with beignet fingers from #coffeecall in #gobr! #tastelouisiana #comehomela @visitbatonrouge @louisianatravel @louisianacookin @louisianaculinarytrails #nomnom #foodporn #donuts #sugar #nomnomnom #beignetmoster

A photo posted by Jay Ducote (@biteandbooze) on Dec 15, 2015 at 7:58am PST

If beignets and coffee don't constitute as brunch to you, you're wrong and I feel very sorry for you. I often forget Coffee Call is open in daylight hours, but it is, and I'm thinking I need to become a regular.

Table Kitchen & Bar Baton Rouge

Steak & Eggs is always a great #brunch decision! @brbrunches at @tablekitchenandbar knows what's up! #gobr #tastelouisiana #foodpics #foodporn

A photo posted by Jay Ducote (@biteandbooze) on Apr 17, 2016 at 12:03pm PDT

You may not even be aware Table Kitchen & Bar has a brunch, but they do, and recently Jay and Rue Rusike got to try brunch there. They've got options like tomato pie and pecan pancakes and the classic shrimp and grits, oh my!

District Donuts New Orleans

A smorgasbord of donuts at District Donuts in New Orleans

Yes, they serve up some of the most delicious donuts in the city with creative, Insta-worthy toppings. But did you know that beyond donuts District has killer brunch items? Try their griddle donut sandwiches or one of their pork belly or fried chicken sliders. Your tummy will thank you.

Lüke New Orleans

Fruit sorbet at Lüke in New Orleans

John Besh's Lüke in New Orleans, an ode to the Franco-German brasseries of old, has always treated us well. Brunch on the pain perdu or the fried chicken and tabasco honey biscuit sandwich, and you'll be a happy camper.

Johnson's Boucanière Lafayette

Still fantasizing about this lamb pastrami biscuits from @johnsonsboucaniere! Listen to @jayducote's interview with the owner at the link in our bio! #radioshow #biteandbooze #podcast #johnsonsboucanière #yummy #lambpastrami #biscuits

A photo posted by Jay Ducote (@biteandbooze) on Mar 4, 2016 at 9:04am PST

One of Lafayette's most beloved spots, Johnson's Boucanière is probably better known as BBQ spot, but they serve up Cajun breakfast in the mornings, including build-your-own biscuits and nénaine's special, a boudin stuffed grilled cheese on a biscuit served with in-house BBQ sauce.

Marilynn's Place Shreveport

Oh man, this bananas foster French toast is transcendental 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻 A little piece of New Orleans in #Shreveport! #tastelouisiana

A photo posted by Jay Ducote (@biteandbooze) on Sep 27, 2015 at 8:18am PDT

North Louisianians can't get enough of Marilynn's Place, a New Orleans style eatery with an irreverent atmosphere that's rare in this part of the state. Patrons prefer the MP Sunday brunch to church, and with knock-out drink specials and lavish options like bananas foster French toast, it's easy to see why.

Jack Daniels Bar & Grill Lake Charles

Crawfish and andouille benedict from @cheflyleb #jackdaniels at @laubergelc is money. @visitlakecharles #tastelouisiana

A photo posted by Jay Ducote (@jayducote) on Mar 6, 2016 at 10:19am PST

The Sunday Whiskey Brunch at L'Auberge Lake Charles' Jack Daniels Bar includes live music and a whiskey milk punch that'll knock your socks off. Chef Lyle Broussard consistently kills it with South Louisiana takes on traditional brunch items, and it's something to taste to believe. 

Great Raft Brewing + Restaurant Calla: A Flavorful Balancing Act

by Blair Loup

Southwest Louisiana is the place I call home. I grew up in the small city of Sulphur near what some might call the “main drag,” in this case the street with the most chain restaurants. We had to go across the bridge to Lake Charles to go to a mall or see a movie; you know, the fun stuff.

While it was a great place to grow up, I’ll admit throughout college I didn’t find myself itching to leave Baton Rouge to go home for a visit, but that’s changing.

Lake Charles is booming, and there are some cool people working hard to showcase what the area has to offer. One of those shining stars is Chef David Sorrells at Restaurant Calla.

The relatively new restaurant is one of the first businesses to open in a sparkly new development, Walnut Grove. Chef David has a long history of restaurant experience, but perhaps the most notable is his time at Thomas Keller’s French Laundry.

So what’s he doing in Lake Charles? He’s plating up some of the tastiest and creative bites I’ve had the pleasure of experiencing in the region.

Recently, Jay teamed up with Restaurant Calla and Great Raft Brewing to kick off our Louisiana Winter Beer Festival weekend. Great Raft's Chief Brewer Harvey Kenney claimed it was easily the best Great Raft Beer pairing dinner he’s experienced.

Blue Crab Beignet + Southern Drawl Pale Lager

Blue crab beignet, malt vinegar aioli, red pepper confit.

What I imagined would be a bready fritter with a few chunks of crab turned out to be this magical delicately fried ball stuffed to the gills with blue crab. The subtle sweetness of the crab met with a malt vinegar aioli to give it a tinge of acidity that set off the flavors. This lovely, bright but sweet red pepper confit added a necessary savory element. Pair that with a crisp, clean lager and the first course was set.

Red Snapper Ceviche + At Arm’s Length India Pale Lager

Red Snapper ceviche, tropical fruit, coconut cream.

Easily one of the best ceviches I’ve eaten, Chef David’s balance of flavors in this dish was spot on. Ceviche is the art of curing fish or other seafood in citrus juices. The tango of that popping citrus with tropical fruit and a coconut cream set off the hop-forward lager in a way that will stay with me.

Grilled Octopus + Commotion American Pale Ale

Grilled octopus, avocado, chipotle, barley, cilantro, grapefruit, Commotion vinaigrette.

This is not your mom’s grilled octopus dish. Super tender grilled octopus sprinkled with accoutrements like creamy avocado, smoky chipotle, cilantro, barley, and juicy grapefruit tossed in Commotion vinaigrette had my taste buds partying like it was 1999. Those flavors combined with the relaxed hoppy Commotion were money. Commotion is one of those hoppy beers that even even a Coors Light drinker can get behind. It’s easy to drink and refreshing.

Coffee & Cocoa Rubbed Tenderloin + Reasonably Corrupt Black Lager

Coffee and cocoa rubbed tenderloin, creamed yucca, charred leeks, ancho hollandaise.

This dish spoke to me on levels I didn’t know beef tenderloin could speak on. The bitter but savory rub on the beef married with the ancho hollandaise seamlessly. Drag that buttery soft bite through the thick creamed yucca, and it’s on. The toasty notes you get in the Reasonably Corrupt from the roasted paired perfectly with the chocolate-peppery notes in the dish.

Chocolate Short Bread Cookies + Provisions and Traditions Vol. 3 Oak Aged Oktoberfest with Louisiana Cane Syrup

Chocolate short bread cookies, banana sorbet, dulce de leche, peanut butter powder.

Chocolate short bread cookies with a banana sorbet drizzled with dulce de leche and peanut butter powder is never a bad decision. What I love about flavored powders like peanut butter, strawberry, green tea, etc. is that you get the entirety of the flavor full on, but not the substance. It’s a very cool way to accentuate dishes. This Oak Aged Oktoberfest is slightly sweet from the malt with a bittersweet cane syrup taste…now if only dipping the cookies in beer were a good idea!

Best of the Southwest: Get in on the Lake Charles action

by Sydney Blanchard

Never let anyone tell you there's not much going on in Southwest Louisiana. In the beginnings of a huge economic boom, the region is looking forward to rapid growth, and with rapid growth comes new reasons to check out the blossoming Lake Charles area.

Southwest Louisiana has always been good about entertaining people. With killer food, music, and culture seeping out of the area, it's made its mark as a Louisiana tourism destination.

Check out some of our favorite blog posts of the past year that highlight the best parts of Lake Charles.

Well, Hot Dog!

Kobe Beef Frank topped with Mac n' Cheese, Feta, Pickled Jalapeños, Jay D's Louisiana Barbecue Sauce and Bacon

"Botsky's has a modern, grayscale interior with pops of color from framed pictures and wall decor to napkin holders featuring movie characters holding a Botsky's hotdog with talking bubbles singing the restaurant's praises. It's unique, it's real, and it's just what the Lake Area needs more of."

Red Hot Ember

Stuffed Rabbit Loin: Pancetta Wrapped, Potato Purée, Natural Jus
Photo: Dan Jones

"There's way more going on amid the rice and crawfish ponds than even the natives give themselves credit for. And with a thriving casino industry bringing folks in from Texas as well as some huge industrial developments, I can only imagine that the next couple years will really see Lake Charles shine."

Pop Culture on Ice

(Your Own) Personal Ginger, Save a Pear, and Same Rosewater As You
Photo: Anna Sprigg

"These guys aren't playing around with these pops. The flavors they're creating are very layered and complex, but don't mistake that for intimidating."

Wild 'N Out

Sunchoke velouté en crôute with duck confit

"Chef Mohamed combines his background in traditional French cuisine with a dedication to the local ingredients Louisiana has to offer to create mouth-watering, seasonal menus."

Get Away From It All

Smoked boudin from Rabideaux's Sausage Kitchen

"Admittedly, Lake Charles isn't always the first place that comes to mind when I dream up day trips or weekend excursions, but after a recent stay in the Boudin Capital of Louisiana, it's safe to say I've converted."

Best Bites of 2015: Sydney's Picks

by Sydney Blanchard

Looking back, 2015 has been a pretty big year for me. I graduated from college (Manship, represent), landed a real job (thanks to Jay), and started paying bills for the first time (the Internet is expensive, yo).

I've also had the opportunity to travel across the country and try some amazing dishes. Whittling my 2015 eats down to my five favorites was no easy task. But as you'll see, a pattern emerged.

For me, Louisiana food wins 80 percent of the time.

Boudin along the Boudin Trail Lake Charles, LA

Smoked boudin in Lake Charles

Smoked, boiled, or balled, the state's best boudin inarguably hails from Southwest Louisiana. My family is from Eunice, Louisiana, and growing up I was convinced there was no better boudin than the boudin coming out of Eunice. My trip to Lake Charles proved me wrong. Any stop along the Boudin Trail yields delicious, smokey, seasoned results.

Jay's Brisket at the Gnarly Barley GnarBQ Hammond, LA

Jay's brisket is one of the best things in the world

My official nickname since starting with Bite & Booze as an intern back in January has been "brown nose," because apparently my enthusiasm for all things Bite & Booze comes across as sucking up for brownie points. That being said, back in October, Jay cooked all sorts of smoked barbecue goodness for Gnarly Barley's GnarBQ. My favorite of all the proteins served was this brisket, rubbed down with Jay D's Sweet & Spicy Rub. Tender, juicy, sweet and spicy with a crispy exterior, this brisket melted in our mouths. If that makes me a brown nose, so be it!

Alligator & Mashed Mirliton at the James Beard House New York, NY

#bayouinthebigapple

Chefs Sam and Cody Carroll of Sac-A-Lait in New Orleans have had a hell of a year, arguably culminating in their invitation to cook at the James Beard House in New York. To show our support, we took a team trip up to New York to help Sam and Cody where we could and to enjoy a phenomenal dinner in the famous house. The sweet fried alligator and mashed mirliton dish was one of the first courses, and it simply wowed my taste buds. The Carrolls' cuisine tastes nostalgic to me; just like the food I grew up eating, only elevated with beautiful plating and a sense of nuance. Luckily, this dish is on their New Orleans menu, and comes highly recommended by me.

Strawberry Pie at Strawn's Shreveport, LA

This is what dreams are made of

Around Shreveport, Strawn's Eat Shop is an institution. They're known for their icebox pies, and while there on a media trip I was lucky enough to see first hand how the pies are made and to try a variety of their famous pies. The strawberry icebox pie is simple in construction: fresh strawberries are combined with a red, syrupy strawberry red sauce, topped with a heap of confectioners sugar, and then finished off with whipped cream. That's it. But this pie is the stuff of dreams, light and fluffy and not overly sweet, but decadent nonetheless. Word on the street is City Pork Kitchen & Pie took some inspiration from Strawn's when drawing up their icebox pies.

Family-style Lunch at Woodson Ridge Farms Oxford, MS

Every element of this Woodson Ridge Farm lunch was aesthetically perfect

It's safe to say I fell in love with Oxford, Mississippi. My trip was filled to the brim with delicious food, the weather was perfect for our entire stay, and I got to learn about the historical importance of the town. One meal in particular stood out, and that was a homestyle fried chicken lunch prepared by Elizabeth Heiskell of Woodson Ridge Farms in Oxford. Every element of this meal was perfect: we had spicy collard greens, roasted root vegetables from the farm, a brussel sprout slaw, served family style outdoors at a big wooden table in the middle of the farm. It was true Southern decadence.

Lake Charles is the Perfect Weekend Getaway for Food Lovers, and Here's Why

by Sydney Blanchard

Admittedly, Lake Charles isn't always the first place that comes to mind when I dream up day trips or weekend excursions, but after a recent stay in the Boudin Capital of Louisiana, it's safe to say I've converted.

Below, you'll find a list of a few of my favorite things to do while in Lake Charles. You'll see how easy it is to fall in love with Southwest Louisiana food, culture, and fun!

Brunch at Jack Daniel's Bar & Grill at L'Auberge 

Fried grit cake topped with steak topped with an egg at Jack Daniel's Bar & Grill

You'd be doing yourself a disservice by staying anywhere other than L'Auberge Lake Charles. The resort is not only the epitome of luxury, but it's also home to some great restaurants. Noted Chef Lyle Broussard heads the kitchen at the Jack Daniel's Bar & Grill on the property, and their brunch items alone are worth the trip to Lake Charles. This is one of the great examples of the great food coming out of the younger culinary scene in Lake Charles. Pro-tip: Order the Whiskey Milk Punch. You won't regret it.

Try Acadian Coffee Roasters

Not-yet-roasted coffee beans at Acadian Coffee Roasters

Your post-brunch plans should definitely include coffee, especially if you brunched properly with the Milk Punch! Acadian Coffee Roasters in Lake Charles is a relatively new operation. The proprietors, both named Nancy, pride themselves on their single origin, organic coffee beans and delicious flavored coffees. It's all about supporting locals! P.S. I highly recommend their Amaretto flavored coffee. It's amazing!

Explore the Creole Nature Trail

Perfect day for exploring the Creole Nature Trail

The Creole Nature Trail is the best way to walk off that ridiculously delicious brunch. It's the picture perfect place to explore the beaches, wildlife, marshes, and fishing of Southwest Louisiana. A guided tour is also an option. Watch out for alligators (seriously)!

Snack Along the Boudin Trail

Smoked boudin from Rabideaux's Sausage Kitchen

Southwest Louisiana is the boudin capital of the world, so even if you've had boudin before, you'd be remiss to skip out on exploring the boudin trail! I'd recommend stopping by Rabideaux's Sausage Kitchen or anywhere on this list. Smoked by the link or fried up in a ball, boudin is a must-try in Lake Charles.

Tour Bayou Rum Distillery

Bayou Rum's Satsuma Rum Liqueur at their distillery in Lake Charles

In 2013, Bayou Rum sought to continue the long-lost tradition of Louisiana rum. It makes sense, right? Sugar plantations in South Louisiana before the Civil War often built distilleries adjacent to the main house. Learn more about the history and process of rum making on one of their distillery tours (and don't pass up the rum tasting bar). Bayou Rum has one of the coolest distillery tours around, and you can grab their rum and some branded swag in their immense gift shop afterward.

Cocktails & Small Plates at Restaurant Calla

Blue crab beignets at Restaurant Calla

One of the newer restaurants on the Lake Charles food scene, Restaurant Calla offers "creative, seasonal, and sustainable" dishes in the budding Southwest Louisiana culinary scene. Chef David Sorrells has a unique vision for modern Louisiana cuisine, and he carries it out well at Calla. The restaurant is gorgeous, but don't let that fool you: the menu is straight-forward and lacks pretension. Grab a drink off of their list of fun cocktails and split a couple of small plates with the table. But save room for dinner!

Dine at La Truffe Sauvage

Life-altering saffron risotto topped with fish at La Truffe Sauvage

Since 1998, Chefs Mohamed Chettouh and Arthur Durham's La Truffe Sauvage has been putting Lake Charles on the culinary map. Their take on fine French dining is something special that shouldn't be missed. Here you can read my detailed write-up of the meal I had there. I'll just say that their selection of wines is noteworthy, and the saffron risotto I had there was life-altering.

Where are your go-to spots in Lake Charles?

Wining and Dining at "The Wild Truffle" in Lake Charles

by Sydney "Brown Nose" Blanchard

I think there's an often overlooked observation to be made about Louisiana cuisine. For every specialty meats store tucked inside an unassuming gas station, there also exists an extravagant, fine dining establishment that defies expectations.

In my recent travels to Lake Charles, Louisiana, I got to experience the best the area had to offer on both ends of the dining spectrum.

On our final night in the LC, we were loaded onto our party bus one final time and herded to La Truffe Sauvage. Jay had the chance to dine there back in 2013, and his write-up got me excited to try out one of Lake Charles' finest restaurants.

Chef Mohamed Chettouh along with Chef Arthur Durham opened the French-inspired eatery back in 1998. Prior to that, both enjoyed successful international and regional culinary careers.

Chef Mohamed combines his background in traditional French cuisine with a dedication to the local ingredients Louisiana has to offer to create mouth-watering, seasonal menus.

And our dinner at La Truffe Sauvage was no exception.

We started the evening off with French 75 cocktails topped with St. Germain foam, and soon after sat down to begin our five-course wine dinner.

Wild Gulf red snapper with saffron risotto and heirloom tomato confit 

First, the chef sent out pan roasted wild Gulf red snapper on top of saffron risotto and heirloom tomato confit. The delicate, flaky white fish and the buttery, fluffy risotto were paired with a 2010 Domaine William Fevre Chablis, which is a chardonnay with fresh, floral notes. 

Sunchoke velouté en crôute with duck confit

Next came the "sunchoke velouté en crôute" with duck confit, which amounted to a sunchoke soup with bits of duck in it served in a pastry-crusted teacup. Sunchoke, also known as Jerusalem artichoke, is a root vegetable not at all like an artichoke. This course was paired with a 2013 white wine called Vin Soave Classico from the Inama Winery in Italy. Fruity and sweet, it matched well with the delicate flavors of the sunchoke.

Chèvre chaud on roasted red and yellow beets

The next dish was a crowd-pleaser: chèvre chaud (fried goat cheese) atop roasted red and yellow beets, asparagus, and arugula swimming in a black truffle vinaigrette. This was one of the best things I have ever eaten. The aromatic cheese patty was crusted and had a distinct lemony flavor that balanced well. Paired with this dish was a Chilean pinot noir from the Indomita Duette Vineyard. The spicy flavor with hints of dried red fruit made it a perfect match for this course.

Filet mignon topped with foie gras

Last came the tournedo Rossini, or filet mignon topped with foie gras, with pomme macaire (a potato cake), carrot fondante, steamed young spinach, topped with sauce madère. Truly, this dish captured me. The sauce combined with the perfectly cooked cut of meat and the foie gras made for a delicious bite, and the potato cake and carrots were heaven-sent, providing a perfect palate cleanser in between bites of filet. This very French dish was paired with an award-winning Spanish red wine from Ribera del Duero.

Dark chocolate mousse in almond tulip

And finally, dessert. After eating four substantial courses, I doubted I was capable of eating another bite of anything. But when the dark chocolate mousse was brought out, I couldn't resist. The mousse sat in an almond tulip and was topped with orange curd. The vanilla cream sauce and orange segment were a nice touch, but the mousse was the real star of the show. Dessert was paired with a 10 year Tawny port by Quinta do Noval out of Portugal. The dried fruit and orange zest notes brought out the orange flavors in the dessert.

Just when we thought we'd finished gorging ourselves, we were brought a selection of truffles: white chocolate, dark chocolate, and milk chocolate. I couldn't bear to take one more bite, so I had mine boxed up to enjoy later that evening in the privacy of my hotel room.

La Truffe Sauvage is small and warm and quaint. It feels like eating at home, if you're able to cook fabulous French cuisine at your house (I'm not). I can't wait to go back!

Pop Culture on a Stick: Pops and Rockets in Lake Charles

by Blair "B-Rex" Loup

From top to bottom: (Your Own) Personal Ginger, Save a Pear, and Same Rosewater As You
Photo Credit: Anna Sprigg

Recently I went back home to Sulphur/Lake Charles for the first installment of the Louisiana Winter Beer Festival. Event organizer Nick Villaume invited me to the festival and suggested that I should check out this popsicle business he and a friend started up called Pops and Rockets. He described them as "gourmet pops with an '80s music theme."

 "Oh hell yes," I replied.

I couldn't have been more excited to be attending a craft beer event in my home town with one of my good friends/down-the-street neighbors, Anna Sprigg. Nick instructed us to find his partner Robbie Austin and have him take us to their pop-eration (my words, not his). He said his partner could better explain some of the flavors. Maybe it's because Robbie is a teacher: high school theology and college art. As well as a gourmet popsicle maker.

You know, just the average day in Lake Charles.

Nick had the idea to start up a gourmet pop business, but Robbie wasn't buying it. One day Robbie started thinking of '80s lyrics and pop flavors and caved into Nick's pop demands. They've now sold over 5,000 pops just from pop-up business, special events, and the local farmer's market.

Robbie told Anna and me all of this as he led us into a shady storage area where a tiny and brightly-colored structure stood containing deep freezers and a pasteurizer. We started opening pops and talking about flavor profiles. 

Co-owner of Pops and Rockets, Robbie Austin and I have a connection.
Photo Credit: Anna Sprigg

The first one I tried was (Your Own) Personal Ginger made with coconut milk, ginger, and honey. Spicy, creamy, and just mind blowing-ly satisfying. While this one topped my list, the Save a Pear with spiced pear and golden raisins is my ideal Fall weather pop.

Anna went to town on the Same Rosewater As You made with raspberry, cherry, and rosewater. It was super refreshing. The tartness of the berries mellowed out the floral notes of the rosewater. This one would be perfect on a hot Louisiana day. 

These guys aren't playing around with these pops. The flavors they're creating are very layered and complex, but don't mistake that for intimidating.

Their goal is to up production of their pops to meet the demand they're faced with at farmer's markets. Check out their Facebook page in the link above to stay hip to the latest pop news. 

Off-Kilter Nostalgia: Botsky's Premium Hotdogs

Premium Hotdogs at Botsky's in Downtown Lake Charles, Louisiana

by Blair "B-Rex" Loup

Not long after my start at Bite and Booze, I accompanied Jay and the crew at TommysTV on a Louisiana Culinary Trails shoot. Each video in the web series highlights an area of Louisiana and the cuisine that makes that particular area special.

Jay told me we would be going to Sulphur/Lake Charles for this shoot, which I found perplexing. Being from that area, I didn't remember ever being blown away by the food scene.

The Lake Charles "Seafood Sensation" video wound up being one of my favorite videos in the series because of Botsky's owner, Mike Krajicek.

Being on camera is not easy for everyone. Like I always say, "Not everyone can be Jay Ducote." Not only was Mike completely natural on camera, he had a way of describing Southwest Louisiana that made me proud to be from that area of the state.

Mike has lived elsewhere, but he came home to do something cool, because when you think about it: nothing is going to become cool if all of the cool people keep leaving to do cool things everywhere else.

He has since gone on to double the size of the now year-old business and has recently been named "Restauranteur of the Year" by the Louisiana Travel Promotion Association.

Botsky's has a modern, grayscale interior with pops of color from framed pictures and wall decor to napkin holders featuring movie characters holding a Botsky's hotdog with talking bubbles singing the restaurant's praises.

It's unique, it's real, and it's just what the Lake Area needs more of.

With a main focus on high quality franks and sausages with fresh and outlandish toppings, Botsky's has something for everyone.

But seriously, I took my mom there.

While she loves hotdogs, she doesn't like things that are different. She ordered her hotdog pretty standard, but was stunned by its deliciousness and started picking at my mess of a creation.

If you're ever swinging through Lake Charles, these dogs are a must-eat.

P.S. They now carry Jay D's Louisiana Barbecue Sauce, so there's that.

Kobe Beef Frank topped with Mac n' Cheese, Feta, Pickled Jalapeños, Jay D's Louisiana Barbecue Sauce and Bacon

Beef Frank topped with Dill Pickle Relish, Chili, and the most beautiful array of Ketchup and Mustard you've ever seen

How about this dog topped with Shrimp Creole with a side of sweet potato fries topped with Steen's and powdered sugar?

Craft Beer Awakening in Lake Charles: The Inaugural Louisiana Winter Beer Festival

by Sydney "Brown Nose" Blanchard, intern

If there's one thing I always want more of in my life, it's free pizza... oh, and craft beer. Luckily in Baton Rouge, lots of bars and retail outlets carry craft beer from across the country. However, that isn't the case everywhere in South Louisiana. That's why I'm pretty pumped about the first-ever Louisiana Winter Beer Festival in Lake Charles.

This hoppy event will take place February 21 at 1 p.m. in the gorgeous Historic Calcasieu Marine National Bank building in downtown Lake Charles. Festival goers will be able to taste more than 50 different beers from brewers across the country. What better way could there be to transition out of Mardi Gras season?

On the night before the fest, these brewers will host a Louisiana Brewers' dinner at Lake Charles L'Auberge Casino's Jack Daniels Patio at 6 p.m. A hundred bucks buys you an incredible meal prepared by L'Auberge chefs and featured brews from Abita, Bayou Teche, Covington, and Nola Brewing. The founder and Editor in Chief of AmericanCraftBeer.com, Tom Bobak, will be there to talk about the Southern craft beer scene. I can't wait to mix and mingle with some of the big dogs in the craft beer scene with a Louisiana beer in hand.

Luckily the event hasn't sold out yet check out the Brewers' Dinner menu and reserve your spot or purchase tickets to the fest. It looks like the entire weekend will provide a spectacular time.

Red Hot Ember: Dining at L'Auberge Lake Charles' Steakhouse

I've really come to appreciate Lake Charles through my recent travels to their corner of Louisiana. There's way more going on amid the rice and crawfish ponds than even the natives give themselves credit for. And with a thriving casino industry bringing folks in from Texas as well as some huge industrial developments, I can only imagine that the next couple years will really see Lake Charles shine. I've had the pleasure of staying at the L'Auberge Casino and Resort quite a few times, and I'm no rookie at dining at their steakhouse, either. The Ember Grille & Wine Bar helmed by Chef Mark Chapman routinely puts out some amazing food. This past August I attended the Travel Media Showcase in Lake Charles which brought food bloggers and travel destinations from across the country to Southwest Louisiana. It's essentially a place to get to know fellow travel journalists and mingle with destination marketers, possibly planning out some future culinary adventures. If they are anywhere close to being as tasty as this one, I'll be delighted!

The Ember Prime "Tomahawk": 40 oz. Ribeye Carved Table-side

The night before the Showcase began we were treated to dinner at Ember, which once again has never failed to impress. Here's a collection of the evening's dishes. I went ahead and started this blog post with their signature steak, the 40oz prime tomahawk ribeye, carved tableside. Many other dishes follow below, each providing their own signature styles and flavors. I'd try to pick a favorite, but that's nearly impossible. I'll give you a hint though, one of the dishes made the list of the 10 best things I ate in 2014! That isn't meant to take away from the rest of these plates of beauty, though!

American Kobe Beef Carpaccio: Fried Capers, Scallions, Mustard Oil, Creamy Horseradish, Shaved Reggiano Parmesan

Quail & Waffle: Herb and Roasted Garlic Savory Waffle,
Tahitian Vanilla Infused Maples Syrup

BBQ Pecan-Bacon Wrapped Shrimp: Aged Smoked Cheddar Grits,
Candied Onion Shoot

Lamb Lollichops: Tzatziki Dipping Sauce, Gremolata Vinaigrette

Ember Salad Trio

Stuffed Rabbit Loin: Pancetta Wrapped, Potato Purée, Natural Jus

Japanese Kobe Strip Loin

Photos by Dan Jones with tommysTV.