OVERNIGHT SENSATIONS

The Southern Hotel

A gorgeous boutique property, The Southern Hotel, sits pretty in the historic heart of little Covington, just across Lake Pontchatrain from the Big Easy. Built in the Mission-style of architecture in 1907, it reopened to guests in 2014 following a two-year, $8 million renovation. The property, which includes public spaces filled with regional art, on-site dining, a plunge pool and a spa, features 40 guest rooms and two suites. Groups of up to 40 are welcome to buy it out, pending availability.

Memorable Meals

LASYONE’S MEAT PIE KITCHEN

A Natchitoches institution since it opened in 1967, Lasyone’s is most famous for its hearty, fried pastries filled with either beef and pork or crawfish. But the restaurant also features loads of other Cajun and Creole favorites for groups to sample, such as shrimp and grits, gumbo, crawfish etouffee, red beans and rice, and po’boys. Frequented by famed folks from Charles Kuralt to Daryl Hannah, who filmed the classic movie “Steel Magnolias” in the town, Lasyone’s can seat large groups in the second-floor banquet room.

BY DEB THOMPSON

Memorable Meals

PALMETTOS ON THE BAYOU

Palmettos on the Bayou, a sophisticated Acadian-style restaurant that has specialized in serving groups for more than two decades, serves up classic Creole cuisine from its digs on the Bayou Bonfouca in Slidell. Shrimp, duck and Gulf oysters are all mainstays on the menu, but just as delightful is the lovely waterfront location, surrounded by cypress and moss-draped oak trees. Groups, which are sure to love the weekend brunches featuring live music, should be sure to check out renowned Louisiana artist George Dunbar’s artwork, on display at the restaurant.

PAT’S OF HENDERSON

Specializing in steaks, seafood and Cajun fare, family-owned Pat’s of Henderson has been one of Lake Charles’ most acclaimed eateries for more than four decades, snagging numerous local and state restaurant awards over the years. The lengthy menu pays homage to the proprietors’ Cajun heritage and includes everything from fried alligator to boudin, plus crab, catfish and crawfish dishes, and the “local favorites” fried shrimp and stuffed red snapper. Pat’s is also open weekdays for lunch.