Where to Get the Best Gumbo in Louisiana

Gumbo is a staple of the south and we treat it as such. Every region of Louisiana has something different to offer with their gumbo flavor, roux, and ingredients.

We asked Pelican team members to search for the best gumbo in their communities and they delivered! Make sure to stop by these local spots when you’re wanting something that feels like home.

Opelousas – Lee’s Cajun Cuisine

When asked to find the best gumbo in my hometown of Opelousas, Louisiana, the first place that came to mind was our little Cajun spot: Lee’s! Lee’s Cajun Cuisine is a new, veteran-owned restaurant here in Opelousas. Since opening, Lee’s Cajun Cuisine has become quite popular in the local area.

On cold days like the ones as of late, I always order a large bowl of their chicken and sausage gumbo before heading home from Pelican. They serve it dark, well-seasoned, and loaded with meat! The dish comes fresh with white rice and toasted French bread, but I also tend to get a side of house-made potato salad to complete the meal.

Aside from their fantastic gumbo, the other Cajun entrees they offer are awesome as well! From their chicken sandwich smothered in tasso gravy to their shrimp po’boys slathered with rémoulade, their menu is sure to not disappoint!

-Edward, St. Landry Branch Teller

Hammond – Brady’s

Located in historic downtown Hammond, Brady’s offers a relaxed and casual atmosphere. The food features classic American options blended with Louisiana favorites.

I tasted their gumbo and let me say, I am so glad I did. I ordered the chicken and andouille gumbo and, while a little short on time, chose to bring back to the branch to sample. Right away I was blown away by the delicious smell. There is a smoky flavor from the sausage along with a beautiful dark roux and the perfect amount of spice.

If you are someone that can’t live without okra in your gumbo, this is the one for you! The blend of rice, roux, chicken, and sausage was just perfect. Offered at a price of just $6.00 for a large bowl, this is an affordable option to enjoy a Louisiana tradition.

While I chose to take mine to go, this is definitely a place to visit when time permits. The atmosphere in Brady’s is fantastic. They offer quality food, great service, and a variety of tasty menu options.

Check out Brady’s next time you’re in Hammond. You will not be disappointed!

-Jessica, Hammond Member Service Representative

Lake Charles – Seafood Palace

Born and raised in one of the southern-most points in Louisiana, Cajun cuisine runs deep in my veins. My grandmother’s gumbo was a staple growing up, and I have always compared every gumbo I taste to hers. So when I say Seafood Palace has the best gumbo in Lake Charles… THEY DO!

If you are like me and love a dark roux, Seafood Palace’s seafood gumbo is for you! The flavor, the consistency, and the fresh seafood are unmatched, unless you are comparing it to my ma maw’s (you know family always comes first).

If seafood isn’t for you, try their chicken and sausage gumbo! It is just as amazing. They also offer two sizes to serve you, which makes it even better! If you are in the mood for fried or boiled seafood, you can get a cup of gumbo on the side or, if you really want to dive in, go for the large! You can get a small cup of gumbo for $7.95 or a large bowl for $13.95, and let me tell you, it is worth every penny.

I always say Seafood Palace is that hole-in-the-wall restaurant and a little gem in our community! If you know you know, and trust me SWLA knows. They are always packed, but it’s definitely worth the wait—I promise you won’t be disappointed!

-Ashley, Southwest LA Business Development Representative

Baton Rouge – Walk-On’s

Walk-On’s is a popular Baton Rouge restaurant and sports bar with a menu ranging from Cajun food to burgers and even tacos. Not many places offer a gumbo with duck in it, but they do!

Other than my own, their duck and andouille gumbo would have to be my favorite. It’s warm, filling, and great with an order of boudin balls on the side to dip in my gumbo.

I usually visit the Towne Center location when I’m on my lunch break and the Prairieville location when I’m at home. They both are less than 5 minutes away, so I am a regular visitor. I recommend anyone looking for a good meal and fun atmosphere to visit any of the local Walk-On’s locations!

-Kisha, Mid City Branch Teller

Monroe – Mohawk Tavern

Mohawk Tavern is the oldest restaurant located in the heart of Monroe. After passing by many times, I knew now was finally the time to give it a try. The dim lighting inside creates a very relaxed and comforting dining experience.

They only offer seafood gumbo, but with the large shrimp and thick roux, it was almost like a smooth gravy. A bowl of gumbo is $12.5 and it was delicious! I would suggest anyone visiting Monroe to stop by for a bowl of gumbo. They also offer fresh oysters, so I certainly look forward to coming back!

-James, North LA Business Development Representative

Prairieville – The Galvez Seafood Company

From seafood, steaks, po-boys, salads, and more, The Galvez Seafood Company offers many delicious menu items to choose from. The restaurant is located on Highway 42 in Prairieville, Louisiana, with good parking.

Prairieville – The Galvez Seafood Company

As I entered the restaurant, I was welcomed by a friendly host who greeted and seated me right away. They offer both seafood gumbo and chicken and sausage gumbo. I decided to order a cup of seafood gumbo.

My gumbo arrived in a timely manner and it looked delicious! The gumbo had a dark roux and was full of seafood and flavor. I thought it was really good and just enough to satisfy my hunger. For only $6.95 per cup, I thought it was a great buy!

From a spacious, welcoming atmosphere, with local décor surrounding the room to a mouthwatering menu, my experience at The Galvez Seafood Company was positive. The Galvez Seafood Company is a gem. You can visit their Facebook page or better yet, stop by Tuesday – Sunday to experience it yourself!

-Danielle, Greater Baton Rouge Business Development Representative

Zachary – Lagniappe

Lagniappe is a seafood restaurant that offers a variety of Louisiana favorites such as gumbo, fried seafood, and étouffée. They offer a seafood gumbo on the menu that can be ordered every day. This gumbo is made with the holy trinity, and you experience the seasoning in every bite!

The fresh shrimp gives it that Louisiana taste that we love so much. This gumbo is unique because it has okra in it, which is rare when you are buying gumbo from a restaurant. It reminds me so much of my mom’s gumbo because she puts okra in hers. A bowl of gumbo is also just $10! This gumbo was worth the money, and I would get it again.

This is a very large restaurant with several private rooms that can be rented for events. It’s well-lit and open concept so you can see from one side to the other of the restaurant. I would recommend anyone in the area needing to host a dinner or event to check out Lagniappe!

-Chaselan, Greater Baton Rouge Business Development Representative

Covington – Vazquez Restaurant Seafood & Po-Boy

Located in beautiful downtown Covington, Vazquez Restaurant Seafood & Po-Boy is a must try. I ordered the seafood gumbo, but they have chicken and sausage gumbo on the menu as well! Unlike many places, the gumbo had a light roux, but was filled with shrimp, crab, and okra.

You can get a whole bowl for only $7.50 and it is worth every penny! This was my first time trying Vazquez, but I will most definitely be back. If you’re in the Covington area or even just passing through, I recommend stopping by to grab a bite!

-Daryl, Southeast LA Business Development Representative

Now that you’ve heard our favorite, tell us yours! Where is your favorite spot to get gumbo from? Let us know in the comments!

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