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Although Lake Charles is located clear across the state from New Orleans, that doesn’t mean you’ll lack for some incredible cuisine in a range of styles.  

Local Restaurants

From famous po-boy establishments and Southern comfort cuisine to a plethora of Cajun seafood houses, and restaurants featuring fresh, seasonal ingredients—you’ll find quite the variety in Lake Charles. One of these gems is steeped in history while serving up delicious, modern Italian. The Villa Harlequin is located in downtown’s restored Noble Building and offers a unique blend of rustic charm and elegant ambiance for this must-visit spot. 

Festivals

Festivals across Louisiana are a sure bet to find a variety of tasty local dishes and those in the Lake Charles area are no different. Gumbo, etouffee, boiled seafood, fresh fish dishes, boudin, barbeque, and more abound whether you’re enjoying a major festival or a local church fair. The annual Louisiana Food + Wine Festival takes place in Lake Charles in September, but don’t wait to get tickets. It will sell out. Attendees enjoy authentic tastes of the area’s Cajun/Creole cuisine, as well as regional flavors from other southern chefs, and attendees can wash it all down with endless pours of wine, spirits, and other libations. With events Thursday - Sunday, it’s quite a celebration. 

Casino Dining

Even if you’re not a gambler, it’s a sure bet you’ll find amazing food at Lake Charles’ three casinos. From burgers, beers, Pan-Asian fusion, and fresh pizza to upscale dining at its best. Enjoy renowned destinations such as Gordon Ramsay Steakhouse, Drago’s from New Orleans (the place that invented charbroiled oysters), Johnny Sanchez (from award-winning chef and TV personality Aarón Sánchez), Vic & Anthony’s (one of America’s Top 10 Steakhouses), Landry’s Seafood House (a Louisiana legend), and more. 

Boudin Trail

Boudin is a Louisiana staple. The best way to find your favorite style of this sausage-encased rice and meat mixture is to sample it on the Southwest Louisiana Boudin Trail. Both north and south along U.S. Interstate 10, visit one of the 30+ mom-and-pop food establishments, specialty meat shops, or grocery stores listed to find the best of this Louisiana delicacy. 

If you’re hungry, Lake Charles and Southwest Louisiana’s rich offering of Louisiana’s Creole and Cajun specialties won’t let you down!