When people think of America’s great food cities, New Orleans often tops the list. But it’s not just big cities that know their way around a menu. Plenty of small towns are noted for their food scenes, too … but only one in Louisiana! On June 17, USA Today 10Best announced that Thibodaux is the #2-ranked Best Small Town Food Scene in the entire United States. This is Thibodaux’s fourth time being nominated, and its second year in a row of taking the #2 position.
This was a Reader’s Choice Award contest, in which millions of the website’s readers voted for their favorite nominees in several “best small town” categories. After four weeks, the voting closed and the winners were announced on June 17. Not only did Thibodaux receive this honor, but it was the only Louisiana destination to be included on the list of nominees, proving that it continues to make its mark as one of the South’s top culinary destinations.
The restaurants here stick to their Cajun roots, serving up fresh food with impressive flavors. Many of those dining venues found in Thibodaux can also be found on the region’s award-winning Cajun Bayou Food Trail. Here are some favorites that are worth checking out:
Big Mikes BBQ Smokehouse
120 Laura Drive
Working around the foundation that “fresh is best” and that every recipe should be served with an extra helping of TLC (Tender Lovin’ Care), Big Mikes serves up all the food you’d expect to find at a BBQ joint … plus that Cajun flair. People go for the smoked meat and stay for the boudin and fried catfish.
Cinclare
601 West 3rd Street
This innovative eatery uses familiar Southern ingredients but takes dishes to an entirely new level. We recommend the Alligator and Andouille Rangoons to start, and the Lemon Raspberry Caviar or Chocolate Torte for a sweet finish to an excellent meal!
Fremin’s Restaurant
402 West 3rd Street
Featuring dishes like Chargrilled Oysters and Duck and Andouille Gumbo, this fine-dining establishment’s menu was inspired by the area’s unique culture and heritage. If you’re looking for a special meal in a stunning setting that will remind you of the French Quarter, Fremin’s is for you.
Grady V’s
900 Country Club Boulevard
This hidden gem is based at the Bayou Country Club, and it’s no secret that they embrace the Cajun lifestyle. Whether you order the Cajun Redfish Pirogue or “All the Way” Gumbo, you’re sure to be a member of the Clean Plate Club at the end of dinner!
Spahr’s Seafood
601 West 4th Street
Spahr’s original location opened in Des Allemands in 1968 as a way to feed the area’s small fishing community and the gas and oil workers who came to town. For three generations and now at three locations – including one in downtown Thibodaux – Spahr’s has specialized in authentic Creole and Cajun food. You can’t visit Louisiana’s Cajun Bayou without trying their famous “catfish chips.”
Louisiana’s Cajun Bayou Tourism would like to extend its gratitude not only to all the people who voted for Thibodaux in this USA Today 10Best contest, but also for the amazing restaurants and chefs that continue to bring big flavors to this small town. These victories wouldn’t be possible without them!
