Acadiana Profile Magazine June-July 2023

ICE

PINK DOLPHINS, BIRDING AND MORE

Features

28

25 Fun Things to do This Summer

Ice Cream, Pink Dolphins, Birding and More

38 Prep Work

What to expect when you are thinking about having cosmetic procedures or surgeries

45 Top Dentists

The best in the region

Recettes

Elevate how you hydrate with a cooling watermelon cocktail for a sweettart hot weather buzz

De

Finding tranquility and casual comfort in a custom Youngsville home

EDITORIAL

Editor Melanie Warner Spencer

Art Director Sarah George

Associate Editor Ashley McLellan

Copy Editor Liz Clearman

Lead Photographer Danley Romero

Web Editor Kelly Massicot

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(337) 235-7919 Ext. 230 rebecca@acadianaprofile.com

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CIRCULATION

Subscriptions Jessica Armand

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For subscriptions call 877-221-3512

An oft-repeated refrain from my dad when my brother and I were kids was “If you can’t find something to do, I’ll find something for you.” That was code for chores and I wanted no part of it. I learned young to never utter the word “bored” within a mile of my dad. My older brother, being a little hardheaded, didn’t get the memo, hence the phrase being repeated a lot — especially during the summer months when the hours and days seemed so much longer. Camping, hiking, fishing, canoeing and swimming were our typical summertime pursuits, along with festivals, trips to museums and amusement parks, walks to the soft serve ice cream joint, kickball and tag on the street, and picking blackberries at our neighbor’s farm.

As an adult, I still don’t dare to even whisper the word “bored” and with good reason — there's even more to do with new restaurants, bars, distilleries and breweries opening all the time, as well as art shows, live music and dancing.

Case in point, three years ago, we started our now annual “25 Fun Things to Do” feature. Each year, we revisit the question, “Will we have enough without covering too much of the same territory?” The answer continues to be a resounding “Yes!”

Our writer for each installment is Cheré Coen and she always pulls quite a few surprises out of her hat. For example, I was this issue years old when I learned about the pink dolphin that lives in Gulf waters south of Lake Charles. My mind is officially blown. Flip through the story and get your summer planned in a jiffy. Don't worry, there are plenty of indoor activities on the list, for when it’s just too hot to think.

As usual, we also have a solid lineup of art, food (speaking of which, the delicious boudin featured on the cover was shot by Lafayette-based photographer and wine retailer Denny Culbert), day trips and more in this issue. It’s safe to say that if you can’t find something fun to do in Acadiana, you aren’t trying — especially during the summer months. Cheers!

AWARDS International and Regional Magazine Association

2023

Finalist Magazine of the Year

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Silver Art and Culture Feature

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Bronze Reader Service

Bronze Home and Garden

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2022

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Gold Overall Art Direction

Gold Art Direction of a Single Story

Gold Portrait Series

Silver Food Feature

Bronze Reader Service Article

Bronze Special Focus

2021

Gold Art Direction of a Single Story

Silver Covid Related Story

Silver Food Feature

Bronze Overall Art Direction

2020

Gold Overall Art Direction

Silver Art and Culture Feature

Silver Recreation Feature

Bronze Food Feature

Bronze Profiles

Bronze Art Direction of a Single Story

2019

Winner Magazine of the Year

Gold Overall Art Direction

Gold Art Direction Single Story

Gold Photo Series Silver Photographer of the Year

2018

Gold Overall Art Direction

Gold Magazine Photographer

Gold Art Direction of a Single Story

Gold Food Feature

Gold Department

Silver Magazine

Writer of the Year

Melanie Warner Spencer Managing Editor Melanie@AcadianaProfile.com

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Silver Hed & Dek

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2017

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Gold Magazine Photographer of the Year

Gold Art Direction of a Single Story

Gold Food Feature

Silver Cover

2016

Gold Overall Art Direction

Gold Magazine Photographer of the Year

Gold Art Direction of a Single Story

Wildlife, Nightlife and Good Eats

Round up of what's new in Acadiana

BY LISA LEBLANC-BERRY

ENDURANCE RITE OF PASSAGE IN LAFAYETTE

Registration is now open for the revered CajunMan Triathlon and Duathlon (Sept. 10). Known as a rite of passage for endurance fiends, the (USTA sanctioned) race includes ½ mile of swimming (assisted by boats for water safety), 20 miles of pedaling through Lafayette Parish roads and a 5K run throughout the Lafayette regional airport grounds. Athletes who don’t want to do the entire race can enter as a relay team (latrail. org/cajunman).

Fishermen Hooked on Birds

Calcasieu Two feathers on a wood duck (lemon and bared) are highly prized by fly fishermen, but that isn’t the reason members of the Contraband Flycasters Club recently created and installed several new wood duck houses at Sam Houston Jones State Park (three in the lagoon along the Red Trail and two more in the nearby turtle pond). Members explained they did it for the love of the park that reopened in May 2022 after hurricanes destroyed 80% of the trees and buildings (lastateparks.com/parkspreserves/sam-houston-jonesstate-park).

Bettering a Setting

JENNINGS

These Gators

Don’t Bite

When the kids start asking “Are we there yet?” while driving along I-10 during the family’s summer road trip, head to Gator Chateau and give them some baby alligators to pet. Public feedings for gators start in June and end in September. After the kids get a lesson from an alligator handler, they can hold one of the babies and take photos. Tip: Closed on July 4 (jeffdavis.org/gator-chateau).

For more news briefs visit AcadianaProfile.com

Lafayette The former Jefferson Street Pub, housed in a circa1905 former bank building, was recently sold for $2.5 million. The Classical Revival building’s transformation includes two bars and five upstairs apartments. Renamed as The Jefferson, it will also be an event space while the side bar is being leased to an established, yet-to-be-announced Acadiana restaurant currently under expansion (downtownlafayette.org).

Hot from Scott

When completed, the new Carencro

Best Stop that is currently under construction will offer outdoor seating, a drive-through and a deli featuring its signature boudin and specialty meat offerings, Brunella biscuits, Dana burgers and Penny's po’boys made famous at the original Best Stop in Scott. Slated for completion in the latter half of 2023 (facebook.com/ BestStopSupermarketCarencro). A new Tractor Supply Company is also coming soon to Carencro, likewise preceded by a Scott location (tractorsupply.com).

VIENS VOIR LE PAYS DES ANCÊTRES

For those longing to visit the land of their Acadian forefathers, the next Congrès Mondial Acadien has been announced (cma2024. ca/; facebook.com/ cma2024/). Held every five years, the 10-day family reunions (Aug. 10-18, 2024) are a way for people from around the world to connect with their Acadian ancestry (for family reunions: familles@cma2024. ca/). Erath’s Acadian Museum is partnering with Richard Laurin of Nova Scotia to organize a tour group from Louisiana (Novacadie Tours Inc., novacadie.ca).

Sweets and Sushi

Youngsville Construction begins this summer for Youngsville’s first BaskinRobbins, to be located in a new 11,650-square-foot shopping center adjacent to Mill Commons in Sugar Mill Pond. A new Tokyo Japan Steakhouse & Sushi Restaurant, complete with a large porch, will occupy the largest space in the center. The only other Baskin-Robbins locations in Acadiana are situated in New Iberia and Lafayette (baskinrobbins.com; tokyosteakhousesushibar.com).

Two-Stepping into Summer

Erath If you want to get some pep in your two-stepping via concerts by such greats as Zachary Richard and the late D.L Menard, grab your partner and visit youtube.com/@ acadianmuseum to polish your moves for those summer festivals. Tip: Enjoy nightly dancing to music by top bands at the fais-do-do during the 87th annual Erath 4th of July Celebration (June 30-July 4) complete with parades, pageants, fireworks and the boisterous (hotly contested) water fights between five city fire department teams (erath4.com).

CARENCRO AND SCOTT

Horsin' Around

1

Evangeline Downs Racetrack & Casino RACING

BY CHERÉ COEN

In addition to its dining options, hotel, live concerts and slot machines, Evangeline Downs offers a one-mile oval racing track with thoroughbred racing April through August and quarter horse racing October to December (check website for exact dates).

EVANGELINE DOWNS

2235 CRESWELL LANE EXTENSION

OPELOUSAS

337-594-3000

EVANGELINEDOWNS. BOYDGAMING.COM

COASTING Z STABLES

2755 HIGHWAY 752

OPELOUSAS

337-207-2823

FACEBOOK.COM/ COASTINGZSTABLES

KNOLLWOOD FARMS

149 KNOLLWOOD LANE SUNSET

337-658-6000

FACEBOOK.COM/ KNOLLWOODFARMSUNSET.LA

2 3

Coasting Z Stables

RIDING

Coasting Z Stables outside of Lawtell between Opelousas and Eunice offers horseback riding, team-building activities, birthday parties and more on its 40 acres of pastureland. They offer a monthly all-ages Boots & Hooves Day with horse-riding for both experienced and non-experienced riders, plus games, music and more.

Knollwood Farm Equestrian Center LEARNING

Learn to ride for fun or for competition at Knollwood Farm in Sunset. They train riders at all levels on their facility that include pens, arena, pond and trails in the nearby woods. Knollwood Farm, which has been hosting riders for 40 years, also hosts an annual horse show and other special events. Ici on parle français, which means French is spoken here.

St. Landry Parish boasts of a long history with its love affair with horses — dating back to the French colonial era. That’s why in 2022, the Louisiana Legislature designated the parish the “Equine Capital of Louisiana.”

PRESERVING THEIR PLACE

Chantel Comardelle of Houma works against time to document her tribe's home

BY JOHN R. KEMP

Chantel Comardelle of Houma is on a personal mission to document the history and culture of her people — the Biloxi-Chitimacha-Choctaw Native American tribe that once inhabited the rapidly disappearing Isle de Jean Charles in Terrebonne Parish south of Houma. It is a land of memories and vanishing hope that has almost disappeared into the Gulf of Mexico.

Comardelle, who was born in 1982 in Houma but spent her childhood on the Isle de Jean Charles, has taken to the camera to document what she describes as her “memories” of the island and the spirit of her people. To that end, she and the tribal council are doing more than simply recording their history and culture. They are preserving, as she says, “our place in time” and “our tribe’s existence in the wake of all the environmental and life changes” around them. As an example of those changes, she talks about a little grocery store that once stood on the island.

“I want to make sure that we document things we take for granted now but may not be there in the

(above) Crab Traps, Isle de Jean Charles (top, right) Ghost Trees, Isle de Jean Charles (bottom, right) Isle de Jean Charles

future,” she says. “That’s our only way of showing our kids where the old grocery store use to be. The last part of the old store was destroyed by Hurricane Ida. I’m so glad I have pictures of it before it was destroyed. Now, there’s not even a shed left there. Seeing that, I know how important it is to capture as many photos of our community and culture as possible.”

Isle de John Charles has been home to these Native Americans since the 1830 Indian Removal Act forced many tribes to resettle west of the Mississippi River. The often deadly trek became known as the Trail of Tears. Rather than go to Oklahoma, many of the Biloxi and Choctaws who lived along the Mississippi Gulf Coast fled across the river into the marshes of Terrebonne Parish where they have lived ever since — that is until now.

According to Comardelle, who is the executive secretary of the Isle de Jean Charles tribe, approximately 98 percent of the island land has been lost to erosion, more frequent hurricanes, rising sea levels, land subsidence and saltwater intrusion caused by intrusive canals dug by oil exploration companies.

The island was once home to 75 families, but the numbers dwindled to 33 by 2016. Only three families now remain on the island. The other 30 have moved farther inland to a resettlement community in Shriever, financed in 2016 by a $48 million federal grant from the U.S. Office of Community Planning and Development. Speaking of the feds, Comardelle says the tribe has changed its name to the Jean Charles Choctaw Nation to make it easier and less cumbersome for its members to complete federal census forms.

“Several years into our resettlement project, we realized we were doing more than just relocating,” says Comardelle. “As community members were moving off, we saw that transition of culture from generation to generation slowly wane as folks became more assimilated into where they were now living. The tribal council saw the need to preserve as much of our tribe’s existence as possible. It started off slowly and just kind of evolved. So, we put a name to it — project Preserving Our Place. That way we can really get some traction. We have no museums or cultural centers in our community or in Terrebonne Parish. We thought this would be a good way to bring about an actual place where folks can keep that connection.”

And that may be soon. The tribal council recently purchased property in nearby Pointeau-Chien as a high-and-dry location for a community center and museum for people to better understand the history and culture of the Isle de Jean Charles Biloxi-ChitimachaChoctaw tribe. Comardelle is optimistic about the progress the tribe is making in telling its story but laments the irreversible losses.

She recalls those days growing up on the island where she learned how to swim, fish and crab in the bayou that ran through the center of the island. She loved fishing and crabbing off the little bridge that crossed over to her grandmother’s house where the family gathered after church on Sundays. She loved those days playing with her cousins across the bayou, feeding the chickens and walking in the marshes that she describes as once “full of green, hard land.” Most of that land is gone now, she says, and the island is surrounded by a ring levy that has cut off the bayou, causing it to be at times little more than a stagnant drainage ditch.

“In a sense,” she says, “life on the island has left. It's not the way it once was. There’s no crabbing, there’s no fishing. It’s a different feel now. It’s just a skeleton of what it used to be. I wish I had taken more photos of that transition.”

Comardelle’s photographs are now part of a traveling exhibit titled “Project Preserving Our Place” that will visit Princeton University this fall. Her work also will be featured in the forthcoming book, “Invisible No More: Voices from Native America” published by Island Press. 

Chantel Comardelle

Hometown Houma

Born 1982

Artistic Goals

Document memories of Isle de Jean Charles

Inspiration Culture and spirit of her people, the Biloxi-ChitimachaChoctaw Tribe

Photographic Style

Documentary

Tribal Website isledejeancharles. com/ tribal-leadership

MEET THE ARTIST

Second Act

Finding tranquility and casual comfort in a custom Youngsville home

BY MARIE ELIZABETH OLIVER

PHOTOS BY HAYLEI SMITH

Kenny and Anna Cefalu spent a decade raising their family in a 5,000-square-foot Lafayette property originally built as a show home by McLain Companies. After their children moved away, the Cefalus knew they wanted to downsize. They also knew they wanted to take the parts they loved most about their former home with them.

The couple found the perfect lot in Youngsville and reached out to McLain to begin the work of reimagining their dream house. Anna Cefalu says using the same builder gave the new project a sense of continuity with her former home.

“I was able to adopt the things I liked about it and carry that forward,” says Cefalu. “We knew things we’d be keeping, and we designed with that in mind.”

Cefalu let her experience guide her vision of the new space. She says she gleaned so much knowledge from the talented decorators she’d worked with in the past that she had the confidence to handle most of the interior decisions herself.

Jim Van Breemen, construction manager at McLain, says Cefalu’s design sense had a huge impact on the project. “A lot of what you see in that house is from her creativity,” says Van Breemen.

Although the Cefalus' new home was smaller, they strategically invested in high impact materials and

Kenny and Anna Cefalus knew they wanted to continue to entertain and host family events in their new home, so they prioritized gathering spaces like this formal dining room.

Cefalu says Sunbelt Lighting (sunbeltlighting. net) was her go-to source for light fixtures, helping her research and find the perfect products to match her vision.

craftsmanship. Van Breemen points to the white oak floors and custom cabinetry in the kitchen as an example. “When people see it they notice, and they feel the difference,” he says.

The home’s kitchen also features a white oak island covered in a slab of white quartzite, which is mirrored in the backsplash. Panel-ready Thermador appliances help give the space a polished look. But, Van Breemen says, it’s the punctuation of natural elements — antique wooden beams and unpainted, Old Chicago bricks — that give the home its character.

Cefalu says her favorite spot is the living room, where French doors open onto her brick-paved back

patio and outdoor kitchen. “I can watch the sun go up in the morning,” she says.

For Van Breemen, it’s all about creating a home that will encourage those types of moments for his clients. He noted the two bespoke swings hanging on the porch, just waiting for the Cefalus' grandchildren’s next visit.

“You can carve out these little nooks and crannies, and it puts you in a different environment,” says Van Breemen. “You can create feelings.”

For Cefalu, now that she’s downsized, it’s the quality — not the quantity — of these spaces that she values the most.

DETAILS

Builder McLain Companies, mcLaincompanies. com

Architect Jarod Hebert, jarodhebertarchitect. com

Cabinets Simon’s Custom Cabinets

The living room is one of Cefalu’s favorite spots. She calls it her “office” and enjoys looking out from the seating area into the backyard. “It’s like the outdoors is inside,” she says.

(Top) Rich pops of color infuse warmth into the interior’s neutral color palette and keep the white walls from feeling too stark. (Middle) Cefalu says local retailers, Albarados (albarados. com), Sofas & Chairs (sofasandchairsla. com) and Louisiana Furniture Gallery (lfgallery.com), were invaluable for sourcing furniture. (Bottom) The Southern-style front porch features Old Chicago brick set in a herringbone pattern. Children's swings and a nearby fountain make it the perfect backdrop for making new memories.

“I am appreciating the simplicity,” says Cefalu. “We had a lot of landscaping, outdoor ponds, balconies — they were beautiful, but they were a lot of work.”

Her biggest piece of advice to anyone embarking on a new build: Never underestimate the power of a good vision board. She describes her method as “old school,” printing out pictures of images she likes and making a separate poster board for each room.

“The more I did, the room just came to life,” says Cefalu. “I could boil down the details, and it took on its own life.” 

FUN THINGS TO DO THIS SUMMER

BY CHERÉ COEN

Summer’s here, the kids are underfoot and everyone’s demanding what to do. In Acadiana, the summer fun is endless, from swamp tours and other exciting outdoors activities to learning Cajun dance and speaking French. So, get out your calendar and start making notes. We’ve compiled a handy list to get you started.

1 We All Scream

It’s a trip back in time ordering ice cream from Lafayette’s Sundays Soda Fountain with its marble countertops, pressed tin ceilings and soda jerks (those are waiters for you young’uns). The new addition to the downtown scene serves up all kinds of creamy treats but also lunch items, baked goods and libations for the adults.

sundayssodafountain.com

LAFAYETTE

PHOTO COURTESY SUNDAY’S SODA FOUNTAIN

Take a Swamp Tour

LAFOURCHE

Former WWE wrestler Zamariah “ZZ”

Loupe, who also hunted alligators in TV’s “Swamp People” and made a guest appearance on “The Bachelor,” is now taking folks on the water with his Zam’s Swamp Tours in Lafourche. In addition to getting on the water, visitors will learn about South Louisiana culture and maybe pet a gator or two. facebook.com/ zamsswamptour

Thrifting the Corridor

SUNSET // GRAND COTEAU

How satisfying it is to search through thrift stores and antique shops to find that special one-of-a-kind treasure. And it’s possible on a short stretch of highway between Sunset and Grand Coteau. Sunset features both thrift — don’t miss the funky Bayou Some Stuff — and antiques, such as The Funky Flea and the Sunset Antiques Market on weekends. Grand Coteau focuses more on antiques. Even better — both cities participate in the Exit 11 Yard Sale every spring and fall.

4Find Pinky

Back in 2007, visitors to the Creole Nature Trail All-American Road south of Lake Charles spotted something unique in the Gulf waters — a rare albino dolphin with a pink hue. Nicknamed “Pinky,” people have been searching for her ever since. There’s even a Facebook page dedicated to Pinky! She could be anywhere along the coast but some say the Calcasieu Ship Channel is a good place to see dolphins. facebook.com/pinkythedolphin

Trace the Stars

How many times have we watched Hallmark Christmas movies to spot a familiar site or crepe myrtles in bloom? So many were filmed in Louisiana, as well as dozens of feature films and television shows. You can walk in the steps of the famous by following Louisiana’s Film Trail, everything from “Swamp People” to movies based on James Lee Burke novels. And, of course, there’s Lifetime’s “Christmas in Louisiana,” shot in New Iberia and “The Christmas Contract” and “Christmas on the Bayou” shot in and around Lafayette. louisianatravel.com/film

6 7

CAMPGROUNDS WITH LAGNIAPPE

Escape to the Wild

Louisiana is blessed with numerous state parks, many of which lie in Acadiana, and almost all feature cabins for overnight stays. The cabins at Sam Houston Jones State Park north of Lake Charles have been renovated and that’s just one reason to visit. The park features more than 1,000 acres of lakes, trees and rivers, kayak rentals and picnic tables and remains a great place to spot nearly 200 species.

Seek Out the Unusual

Acadiana is home to several distinctive destinations, many of which have been spotlighted by media and TV shows. The haunted Gothic Jail in DeRidder, built in 1915, was the location of a double execution, plus it’s creepy as all get out. They offer ghost tours as well. Over in Avoyelles, cross Bayou des Glaises on the Sarto Bridge, a swing truss bridge built in 1916, then visit the 1927 Adam Ponthieu Grocery Store and Big Bend Post Office Museum that’s a time capsule for the Big Bend Community.

5 9 10

Table That Idea!

French Tables, gatherings of French speakers looking to learn or enhance their language, exists throughout South Louisiana. At NUNU Arts and Culture Collective in Arnaudville, they also offer La Table Kreyol for Creole speakers and the Indigenous Table featuring Native American language and culture. You must admit that Acadiana is one interesting cultural gumbo.

We’ve known the expanse of fun located in Henderson just before the Atchafalaya Bridge as Cajun Palms RV Resort. Now, the park featuring a trio of pools, Fun City Arcade and accommodations in addition to the RV slots is Camp Margaritaville. The renamed resort includes luxury cabins, a bark park, high-speed Wi-Fi, sport courts and three bars with a — you guessed it — Jimmy Buffett theme. Over in Carencro, the Lafayette KOA has been honored with the 2023 KOA President’s Award and the KOA Founder’s Award for their customer service and high standards. The campground includes a 10-acre lake so bring your fishing gear.

When the thunderstorms pound or it’s too hot to go outside, there are three outstanding children’s museums to choose from to keep the kids busy: The Children’s Museum of Southwest Louisiana in Lake Charles, the Children’s Museum of Acadiana in downtown Lafayette and the Bayou Country Children’s Museum in Thibodaux.

LAFAYETTE

PHOTO COURTESY VISIT LAKE CHARLES

Outdoor Art

There’s art everywhere — and it’s free to enjoy. Rayne, Lake Charles, Morgan City and Lafayette downtowns, to name a few, sport numerous murals and Lafayette features a variety of sculptures and unique art pieces. Down the bayou in Chauvin, Nicholls State University maintain the eclectic artwork of Kenny Hill, who decorated his small plot of land with concrete folk art. lafayettetravel.com/ things-to-do/trails/public-art. nicholls.edu/folkartcenter

LOUISIANA COAST

11

Birding on the Coast

The best time to catch colorful birds on the Louisiana coast is spring and fall, when our feathered friends are migrating to and from warmer places down South. During the summer, you can still spot plenty of species at the woods, beaches and marshes of Grand Isle and along the Louisiana coast. As many as 2 million birds visit the 40-acre Peveto Woods Bird & Butterfly Sanctuary along the Creole Nature Trail, west of Holly Beach. Peveto’s oak chenier is maintained by the Baton Rouge Audubon Society.

Put on Your Dancing Shoes

The LeCajun Music Awards and Festival is a three-day event that features an awards ceremony honoring the best in Cajun music and Cajun musicians and this year will be Aug. 18-19 at the Rayne Civic Center. Best of all, the event includes a two-day dance festival with award-winning Cajun bands. So, dust off those dancing shoes and grab your partner. cajunfrenchmusic.org/lecajun

Attend a Festival

Louisiana hosts more than 400 festivals a year, mostly in spring and fall when the weather’s less than stifling. But summer has its share. Look for the St. Landry BBQ Fest June 9-11; Rockin’ on the Runway airshow and fly-in June 10 in Sunset; Gheens Bon Mangé Festival June 2-4; Holly Beach Crab Festival June 9-11; Lebeau Zydeco Festival July 1; the Erath 4th of July Festival July 30-Aug 4; and the Delcambre Shrimp Festival Aug. 16-20. One of the state’s largest and oldest festivals, Shrimp & Petroleum, takes over Morgan City at summer’s end, Labor Day weekend.

The newest brewery to Acadiana comes with a bark. Lafayette’s Adopted Dog Brewing not only serves craft beers from its taproom at 329 Dulles Drive (close to South Louisiana Community College), but offers a full food menu as well. Naturally, there’s a dog-friendly outdoor area and plenty of bar games to keep both pooch and owner entertained. adopteddogbrewing.com

16Beachy Keen

We admit it, we’re not Gulf Shores or Florida, but the Louisiana coast does have its share of beaches. Places to view Gulf waters and white sandy beaches include Rutherford Beach and Holly Beach south of Lake Charles and Grand Isle Beach further east. Cypremort Point State Park doesn’t face the Gulf, but it offers a man-made beach on Vermilion Bay. If the ocean isn’t your thing, but a beach is, try Lakeview Park & Beach in Eunice where live music is also part of the fun.

Hit the Greens

BROUSSARD

Learn to play golf at the indoor training facility at Le Triomphe Golf Academy in Broussard. Open to both members and non-members, the Academy features two indoor climate-controlled hitting bays with a host of instructors. ltgolfacademy.com

Pick Your Food

Fresh farm produce may be found at farmers markets throughout South Louisiana but if you’d rather pick your own, visit Bluesberry Fields in Carencro where their fields turn blue in June. Owner Kary Ritter’s father was a blues lover, hence the name. Their Sunday events in June let folks pick their own, but check the website or call before you go; the spring weather caused havoc on the crops. bluesberryfields.com

Get Your Art On

LAFAYETTE // LAKE CHARLES

The Hilliard Art Museum in Lafayette offers art talks and other programs monthly. Third Saturdays, catch “Let’s Make Art,” a free drop-in art program for ages 4 and up (with an adult). Lake Charles’ Historic City Hall Arts and Cultural Center has works by well-known local artists this summer, followed by “Mosaics” through September.

ON THE WATER

Paddle Up

Grab a paddle and hit the water on the Bayou Terrebonne Paddle Trail in Houma. The newly organized trail includes floating launches in the heart of town. Lake Area Adventures in Lake Charles rents kayak and boat rentals to enjoy on the lake and Pack & Paddle of Lafayette offers hosted paddles on Lake Martin and the Atchafalaya Basin.

Follow the Boudin

We don’t have to explain why there are boudin culinary trails, just why there are two. The folks out west (where Interstate 10 veers close to Texas) have compiled a great list of eateries, truck stops and restaurants into the Southwest Louisiana Boudin Trail. The Cajun Boudin Trail highlights great spots serving up the delicious rice and pork sausage in Lafayette and surrounding towns. Visit the websites, pick your favorites and hit the road. Better yet, try them all! lafayettetravel.com/ discover-lafayette/boudin-trail; visitlakecharles.org/food-drink/ cajun-creole/swla-boudin-trail

MUSIC AND PIE

Cane River Pecan Company’s 55-seat Pie Bar, which serves up decadent pies, soups and sandwiches and craft coffees, also presents live entertainment every Friday afternoon with the first Friday of each month focused on Cajun music. “It’s open to anyone, kids included, although the crowd skews more adult, naturally,” said Jady Regard, CNO or Chief Nut Officer. “But if you’re looking for ‘kid’ friendly things, ice cream and pie hit the spot too.” caneriverpecan.com

Take a Selfie

Get out your phone and hit the road for there are numerous spots to capture fun selfies in Acadiana. Be the Y in Lafayette’s sign at Parc Sans Souci downtown or visit the giant 900-year-old Buddha at Jungle Gardens in Avery Island. Hold a baby alligator at Gator Chateau in Jennings or pose near the largest pair of shrimp boots in existence at the Explore Houma Visitors Center, located at 114 Tourist Drive in Gray.

Get wet

LAFAYETTE // ABBEVILLE // LAKE CHARLES

Splash pads, such as the ones at Parc San Souci in Lafayette and Palmetto Island State Park south of Abbeville not only provide cool waters but the dancing fountains will delight children — and maybe a few adults. Lake Charles’ casinos feature lazy rivers where visitors can relax and float for hours, stopping maybe to the swim-up bar for refreshment.

Go Fish

GOLDEN MEADOW

Fishing is da bomb at the Golden Meadow-Fourchon Tarpon Rodeo, to be held this year from June 29 through July 1. But there’s so much more — food booths, games, live music and boiled shrimp dinners. Even if you’re just there to watch others bring in the haul, there’s plenty of fun to go around. fourchontarpon.com 

What to expect when you are thinking about having cosmetic procedures or surgeries

By Marie Simoneaux

Illustrations by S.E. George

PREP WORK

With that in mind, one might come to the conclusion that plastic surgery is in decline. However, the global cosmetic surgery industry is at an all-time high, according to a Fortune Business Insights study, and is projected to continue to grow to a value of $71.93 billion by 2029.

A cynic could argue this trend suggests the body positivity movement is nothing more than corporate gaslighting. However, it’s important to recognize that being body positive is rooted in choice, meaning people who want to change their appearance have every right to.

There’s no shame in having cellulite or a flat booty, but there’s also no shame in seeking medical or cosmetic intervention to feel confident. And, with a rise in non-invasive procedures like lip fillers, chemical peels and laser treatments, cosmetic treatments are arguably more accessible than ever.

Navigating what, when and whether to have a procedure can be overwhelming and making the choice to do so is a personal decision.

According to Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery of Acadiana’s Dr. Joseph Lupo, the first step when

According to Dr. Joseph Lupo, breast surgeries –– augmentation, lifts, and reduction –– are by far the most common cosmetic surgery in the region, followed by tummy tucks and fat transfers, primarily from stomach to butt.

Over the past decade or so, mainstream beauty standards have trended in the direction of body positivity and inclusivity. For perhaps the first time in modern memory, we’re seeing ourselves reflected in the beauty industry, instead of the other way around.

considering any procedure is to weigh the risks and rewards. It’s important to have a clear goal in mind, Lupo said, which will help you decide whether to seek surgical or non-surgical options.

In general, non-surgical procedures tend to be cheaper, easier and require less recovery. They also typically have more temporary results, which might make them more or less appealing, depending on the patient. Lupo suggests stepping back and assessing your time, physical needs and aesthetic goals before moving forward.

“From a patient perspective, the consideration of lifestyle and activities is the first priority,” he said. “For example, if a patient is a mom that is still adding to their family, then it is best to wait until she is done having children to proceed with most body surgeries.”

According to the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, “over 99 percent of Americans place a very high value on a beautiful smile.” If you’re considering dental intervention to achieve your idea of an ideal smile, it’s important to remember that procedure and recovery time and costs vary widely.

Teeth whitening, for example, is typically a one-visit process, but may need to be done with some regularity to maintain results. Porcelain veneers and crowns are “cemented restorations,” that typically require at least two visits for shaping and then cementing.

While there are many non-surgical cosmetic procedures, the most permanent and extensive options may require surgery. Dental implants are the most reliable and longest-lasting teeth replacement option available, according to the AACD, but do require more time, both in recovery and preparation.

Non-surgical options include dentures or “bonding,” which is used to repair minor defects. Braces are also a non-surgical option for cosmetic repair, but patients should keep in mind results take months, if not years, and can be costly.

However, with clear or “invisible” braces becoming more affordable in recent years, the AACD reports trends away from invasive procedures, like veneers, in favor of more gradual procedures, like braces.

For surgical procedures of any kind, immediate barriers might include uncontrolled health issues, such as diabetes or high blood pressure.

With that in mind, if you have preexisting conditions or a higher-risk lifestyle that you aren’t willing to adjust, seeking out non-surgical procedures would likely be your best route. With new cosmetic treatments and trends being developed all the time, there’s a good chance you

can find non-invasive options for procedures that were once exclusively surgical.

However, if you do decide to have surgery, finding the right physician is key.

“A board-certified plastic surgeon is the only option, in my opinion.” Lupo said. “Personality and aesthetics also matter. The surgeon a patient chooses should match up with the type of result they want to achieve. For example, some may prefer ostentatious results, whereas others might prefer a more natural approach to cosmetic surgery.”

Before moving forward, Lupo recommends visiting the American Board of Plastic Surgery website (abplasticsurgery.org) to verify your surgeon’s certification. Finding the right doctor might take some time, but Lupo cautions against rushing the process.

Cosmetic surgery is deeply personal and it’s important that you connect with your physician. You will need to have open and honest discussions about your body and goals, and your surgeon should empower you to do so. If they don’t, your desired results are at risk, as is your overall experience during the process.

If you have friends or family who have had similar work done, they can be your best resource. Ask around, seek recommendations from trusted sources, and know you can always say no.

To prepare for surgery, Lupo recommends focusing on a healthy lifestyle and mentally preparing for the physical challenges that might occur during the healing process.

“Eating well and maintaining a healthy lifestyle [pre-surgery] will assist recovery time. Also having a support system is important, not only physical support, but emotional support,” he said.

Teeth whitening usually lasts between six months and two years, but some patients’ results remain consistent for up to 10 years. Avoiding things like coffee, red wine and smoking can help extend whitening results. Veneers and crowns last up to seven years, and implants are typically reliable between 10 and 30 years.

Depending on the type and amount of surgery done, Lupo said patients should expect a month or two of appointments, post-operation. Though recovery varies from person to person, patients getting major surgeries like a breast reduction or tummy tuck should expect to need significant help as they heal.

“The main thing is to remain patient and follow the surgeon's instructions for restrictions,” he said. “It can be frustrating to be limited but in the long run, it will pay off.”

Ultimately, Lupo said to trust your gut. Do your research, have as many consultations you feel you need, and don’t move forward if you’re having cold feet. Talk to other people you trust who have gone through the process, and, perhaps most importantly, be sure you’re taking care of your mental health.

If you decide to pursue cosmetic treatment, do it for one person, and one person only: you. 

Top Dentists Top Dentists Top Dentists Top Dentists

Introduction

This list is excerpted from the 2023 topDentists™ list, a database, which includes listings for more than 100 dentists and specialists in the Acadiana area. The Acadiana list is based on thousands of detailed evaluations of dentists and professionals by their peers. The complete database is available at usatopdentists.com. For more information call 706-364-0853; write P.O. Box 970, Augusta, GA 30903; email help@usatopdentists.com or visit usatopdentists.com.

Selection Process

"If you had a patient in need of a dentist, which dentist would you refer them to?"

This is the question we've asked thousands of dentists to help us determine who the topDentists should be. Dentists and specialists are asked to take into consideration years of experience, continuing education, manner with patients, use of new techniques and technologies and of course physical results.

The nomination pool of dentists consists of dentists listed online with the American Dental Association, as well as all dentists listed online with their local dental societies, thus allowing virtually every dentist the opportunity to participate. Dentists are also given the opportunity to nominate other dentists that they feel should be included in our

list. Respondents are asked to put aside any personal bias or political motivations and to use only their knowledge of their peers' work when evaluating the other nominees.

Voters are asked to individually evaluate the practitioners on their ballot whose work they are familiar with. Once the balloting is completed, the scores are compiled and then averaged. The numerical average required for inclusion varies depending on the average for all the nominees within the specialty and the geographic area. Borderline cases are given careful consideration by the editors. Voting characteristics and comments are taken into consideration while making decisions. Past awards a dentist has received and status in various dental academies can factor in our decision.

Once the decisions have been finalized, the included dentists are checked against state dental boards for disciplinary actions to make sure they have an active license and are in good standing with the board. Then letters of congratulations are sent to all the listed dentists.

Of-course there are many fine dentists who are not included in this representative list. It is intended as a sampling of the great body of talent in the field of dentistry in the United States. A dentist’s inclusion on our list is based on the subjective judgments of his or her fellow dentists. While it is true that the lists may at times disproportionately

reward visibility or popularity, we remain confident that our polling methodology largely corrects for any biases and that these lists continue to represent the most reliable, accurate, and useful list of dentists available anywhere.

Disclaimer

This list is excerpted from the 2023 topDentists™ list, which includes listings for more than 100 dentists and specialists in the Acadiana area. For more information call 706-364-0853; or write P.O. Box 970, Augusta, GA 30903; or at www.usatopdentists.com. topDentists has used its best efforts in assembling material for this list but does not warrant that the information contained herein is complete or accurate, and does not assume, and hereby disclaims, any liability to any person for any loss or damage caused by errors or omissions herein whether such errors or omissions result from negligence, accident, or any other cause. Copyright 2011-2023 by topDentists, LLC, Augusta, GA. All rights reserved. This list, or parts thereof, must not be reproduced in any form without permission. No commercial use of the information in this list may be made without permission of topDentists. No fees may be charged, directly or indirectly, for the use of the information in this list without permission.

Top Dentists

Endodontics

Casey B. Bargas Bargas Endodontics 2640 Country Club Road, Suite 300 Lake Charles 337-564-6885

Benjamin Ber Southern Endodontic Specialists 1211 Museum Drive Houma

985-917-0084

Brent M. Chauvin Advanced Endodontics of Lafayette 221 Rue De Jean, Suite 214 Lafayette 337-769-0999

K. Shane Fowler Acadiana Endodontics 4906 Ambassador Caffery Parkway, Building O Lafayette 337-981-0144

Steven M. Gaudet, Jr. Southern Endodontic Specialists 1211 Museum Drive Houma

985-917-0084

Blair P. Gremillion Ascension Endodontics 17563 Old Jefferson Highway Prairieville 225-677-5000

John E. Levin Levin Endodontics 312 West University Avenue, Suite A Lafayette 337-236-9880

Michael J. Marcello II Premier Endodontics 117 Saint Michael Street Thibodaux 985-625-3636

Kenneth W. Parks Lake Area Endodontics 636 West McNeese Street Lake Charles 337-477-6124

Anthony B. Rainwater 3909 Ambassador Caffery Parkway, Suite B Lafayette 337-233-7113

General Dentistry

Robert A. Adams III 1201 Southeast Boulevard Bayou 985-395-2436

Melanie J. Andrews Plantation Road Dental Care 103 Plantation Road Destrehan 504-764-1148

C. J. Ardoin II Lake Area Dentistry 4985 South Highway 27 Sulphur 337-583-2756

Brock J. Barras Barras Family Dentistry 1700 Kaliste Saloom, Building 4 Lafayette 337-443-4912

Peter T. Bayles Lake Area Dentistry 824 West 4th Street Dequincy 337-786-6221

D. Sheard Ber 1711 Himalaya Avenue Thibodaux 985-446-5031

Charles A. Bernard III 2726 Kaliste Saloom Road Lafayette 337-984-9414

Mark J. Bilello 399 Bayou Gardens Boulevard Houma 985-872-9470

Gary J. Blanchette Sulphur Dental Associates 2920 Maplewood Drive Sulphur 337-625-2671

Natalie B. Brasseaux 107 Oak Way Lane, Suite A Lafayette 337-456-3925

Rebecca Charpentier Charpentier Family Dentistry 600 Rue de Onetta New Iberia 337-369-6587

Carl W. Churchman, Jr. 3640 Common Street Lake Charles 337-478-5070

James R. Churchman Churchman Family Dentistry 3425 Louisiana Avenue Lake Charles 337-478-1700

Mary S. Churchman

Churchman & Roberts Dentistry

3632 Common Street Lake Charles 337-478-4022

Robert C. Cochran Moss Bluff Family Dental Care 1434 Sam Houston Jones Parkway Lake Charles 337-855-7748

Lauri Daigle Houma Family Dental 5683 Highway 311 Houma 985-868-5699

Christy G. DrumAmmons 214 West McNeese Street Lake Charles 337-478-0870

Lige F. Dunaway III 121 Representative Row Lafayette 337-264-1890

Rachel A. Durel 1100 South College Road Lafayette 337-237-1120

Matthew D. George 627 West College Street

Lake Charles 337-478-3646

Laurie R. Glaser

Glaser Family Practice 13270 Highway 90 Boutte 985-785-0123

Joshua R. Guidry Guidry Family Dentistry

809 North Canal Boulevard

Thibodaux 985-449-0611

Sara R. Guidry Guidry Family Dentistry 809 North Canal Boulevard Thibodaux 985-449-0611

Herbert M. Hamilton, Jr.

406 West McNeese Street, Suite B Lake Charles

337-477-9790

Scott M. Hannaman 1540 Country Club Road

Lake Charles 337-474-4892

Edward J. Hebert 1540 Country Club Road Lake Charles 337-474-4892

Jeffery A. Hennigan Lake Area Dentistry 700 West McNeese Street

Lake Charles 337-478-8470

Craig S. Landry 350 Doucet Road, Suite 100 Lafayette 337-981-9242

Michelle M. Leblanc 10950 Highway 3125, Suite C Lutcher 225-869-6223

Dean L. Listi 904 David Drive Morgan City 985-384-4044

Trace L. Lynn Lynn Family Dentistry 3107 Maplewood Drive Sulphur 337-625-9911

Brett David Madere 190 Central Avenue Reserve 985-536-3193

Bryan Manning Manning Dental Associates 1910 Maplewood Drive Sulphur 337-625-8787

Daniel J. Melancon Melancon Melancon & Theriot 102 Mystic Boulevard Houma 985-873-8451

James P. Mire 102 Mystic Boulevard Houma 985-868-5337

Lorie A. Moreau Houma Dental 600 Valhi Boulevard Houma 985-872-3677

Benjamin M. Ory Ory Family Dentistry 430 West 5th Street La Place 985-652-9616

Robert D. Ory, Jr. Ory Family Dentistry 430 West 5th Street La Place 985-652-9616

James A. Pearce 1221 Coolidge Boulevard Lafayette 337-269-0564

Daniel M. Perry 4301 Lake Street Lake Charles 337-478-0812

Corey James Porche 103 Southdown West Boulevard Houma 985-876-5564

Jason R. Ray 698 East 1st Street Thibodaux 985-446-8037

Katie Roberts Churchman & Roberts Dentistry 3632 Common Street Lake Charles 337-478-4022

Lance N. Savoie Lance Savoie Family Dental 105 Rue Centre Abbeville 337-892-4774

G. Kyle Slaven Smile Design Orthodontics 3913 Maplewood Drive Sulphur 337-625-0008

James J. Stafford 2670 Highway 20 Vacherie 225-265-3026

Paul D. Vidrine Friendly Dental Care 108 Executive Drive, Suite B Lake Charles 337-433-1306

Top Dentists

Charles J. Waguespack La Vie Dental 109 Johnny Dufrene Drive

Raceland 985-532-5303

Lamar E. Waguespack, Jr. La Vie Dental 109 Johnny Dufrene Drive

Raceland 985-532-5303

Jerome M. Walker 600 Liberty Street Houma 985-851-2653

Ryan A. Walker 1092 Valhi Boulevard Houma 985-851-1633

Daniel A. Weaver Center for Restorative Dentistry 715 West College Street

Lake Charles

337-478-3123

Stephanie B. Weaver Center for Restorative Dentistry 715 West College Street

Lake Charles 337-478-3123

Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery

Robin C. Ardoin Oral & Facial Surgery Center

203 A Energy Parkway Lafayette 337-234-1780

David G. Baughman Oral-Facial Surgery Center 1608 Polk Street

Houma 985-879-1972

Donald P. Boudreaux, Jr.

Southern Oral & Facial Surgery

606 Rue De Brille New Iberia 337-560-0131

Clay S. Chandler

Lafayette Oral Surgery

3839 West Congress Street, Suite C Lafayette 337-984-0403

G. Rawleigh Fisher

Lake Charles Oral & Facial Surgery

1624 Wolf Circle Lake Charles 337-478-0468

Harold D. Kennedy Oral & Facial Surgery Center

203 A Energy Parkway Lafayette 337-234-1780

Nickolas S. Maskas Louisiana Oral & Implant Surgery 4720 Lake Street Lake Charles 338-888-4771

Christopher J. Saal Oral Facial Surgery Center 1608 Polk Street Houma 985-879-1972

Bruce A. Schneider Acadiana Oral & Facial Surgery 117 Rue Fountaine Lafayette 337-981-4744

Orthodontics

Donald B. Balhoff Balhoff Orthodontics 3909 Ambassador Caffery Parkway, Suite E Lafayette 337-761-7070

Craig H. Crawford Crawford Orthodontics 701 West College Street Lake Charles 337-478-7590

Danielle A. Doré 1144 Coolidge Boulevard, Suite F Lafayette 337-267-7645

Jude P. Fairchild Lake Charles Orthodontics 1837 West Prien Lake Road Lake Charles 337-478-2805

Guy W. Favaloro Favaloro Orthodontics 416 Belle Terre Boulevard La Place 985-652-2178

Melanie M. Fowler

Dr. Melanie Fowler Orthodontic Studio

4906 Ambassador Caffery Parkway, Building O Lafayette 337-981-4350

David A. Guidry Guidry Orthodontics 1301 Victor II Boulevard Morgan City 985-372-2399

Allison A. Hamada Hamada Orthodontics

131 Ormond Center Court Destrehan 985-725-0509

Mark B. LaHaye LaHaye Orthodontics 100 Pecan Street Thibodaux 985-446-0988

Troy Michael Lefort Lefort Orthodontcs 2628 Country Club Road Lake Charles 337-436-3631

John F. Moffett, Jr. Moffett Orthodontics 1509 West McNeese Street Lake Charles 337-479-0300

John M. Oubre Oubre Orthodontics 1605 Kaliste Saloom Road Lafayette 337-988-2025

Paul C. Perry 3109 Maplewood Drive Sulphur 337-625-5330

Stephen E. Searcy Searcy Orthodontics 3839 West Congress Street, Suite B Lafayette 337-984-0178

Donovan P. Soignet Houma Family Dental 5683 Highway 311 Houma 985-645-2820

Stacy P. Ste. Marie 113 Rue Fontaine Lafayette 337-233-2277

Nicole Thieler

Thieler Orthodontics 206 Mystic Boulevard Houma 985-876-4484

S. Jay Waguespack IV Waguespack Orthodontics

4906 Ambassador Caffery Parkway, Suite 1200 Lafayette 337-233-3677

Pediatric Dentistry

Amanda H. Begue 159 Longview Drive, Suite A Destrehan 985-307-0072

Kennell P. Brown, Jr. 306 North Lewis Street, Suite 2 New Iberia 337-369-7654

Bradley S. Comeaux Associates in Pediatric Dentistry 17534 Old Jefferson Highway, Suite C-1 Prairieville 225-673-9600

N. Paige Gaudet Bayou Children’s Dental 635 Enterprise Drive Houma 985-868-8331

Anita J. Gouri Lafayette Pediatric Dentistry 350 Doucet Road, Suite 101 Lafayette 337-981-9242

Roger G. Grimball, Jr. Grimball Pediatric Dentistry 1570 Maplewood Drive Sulphur 337-625-2212

Whitney Walker Linville Acadiana Pediatric Dentistry 1516 Chemin Metairie Road, Suite D Youngsville 337-451-0991

S. Troy Miller Quest Pediatric Dental Group 210 Beaullieu Drive Lafayette 337-347-7365

Philip D. Moses 631 West College Street Lake Charles 337-474-2563

Danielle Robinson Lake Area Pediatric Dental Specialists 631 West College Street Lake Charles 337-474-2563

Eric A. Sanders Sanders Pediatric Dentistry 2620 Country Club Road Lake Charles 337-433-5437

Paige Sigsworth Associates in Pediatric Dentistry 17534 Old Jefferson Highway, Suite C-1 Prairieville 225-673-9600

Elizabeth A. Thorson Thorson Dentistry for Kids 159 Longview Drive, Suite A Destrehan 985-307-0072

Scott L. Worley The Dental Depot 4600 Lake Street Lake Charles 337-474-0240

Periodontics

M. Randal Comeaux Perio One 3839 West Congress Street, Suite D Lafayette 337-989-0267

Bryan S. Pearson Periodontics Associates 3839 West Congress Street, Suite D Lafayette 337-989-0267

Raymond J. Steiner 4550 Lake Street Lake Charles 337-478-1000

Prosthodontics

Conrad F. Frey III Frey Prosthodontics 185 South Beadle Road Lafayette 337-354-0004

Hungry?

ONLY $17.95

A collection of 50 traditional and contemporary recipes by Stanley Dry — Louisiana Life “Kitchen Gourmet” columnist, former senior editor of Food & Wine magazine and accomplished cook — top-notch ingredients are paired with fresh seafood to create delectable dishes imbued with the author’s signature simplicity. The easy-to-follow recipes emphasize Louisiana seafood and quality, local ingredients. Inspired, innovative and delicious, the seafood dishes in this collection are sure to become favorites in your kitchen.

Summer in a Glass

Elevate how you hydrate with a cooling watermelon cocktail for a sweet-tart hot weather buzz

BY LISA LEBLANC-BERRY

PHOTO BY ROMERO & ROMERO

Watermelon is the ultimate summertime treat. Whether it’s blended into a spritz, margarita, punch or daiquiri, it goes well with just about everything to make cocktails suitable for poolside parties and tropical retreats, tiki torch luaus and July’s firework fêtes.

Lorde’s Revolution, a refreshing new cocktail by The Whisper Room at Beausoleil Books, is an easy-to-make, thirstquenching crowd-pleaser that invokes the spirit of summer with sweet watermelon juice, hibiscus-infused vodka and the floral notes of elderflower liqueur balanced with tart lime and lemon balm.

In keeping with The Whisper Room’s literary-themed cocktails, and to celebrate the LGBTQ-friendly Beausoleil Books’ special events tied to Pride Acadiana celebrations (June 24) and Pride Month, Lorde’s Revolution was named after the late Audre Lorde. The noted poet was devoted to confronting the injustices of racism, sexism and homophobia.

Bar manager and cocktail curator Mo Blanchard (Buck & Johnny’s former manager and cocktail maven) created the watermelon-laced summer sipper. She joined The Whisper Room when it opened in 2021 after the debut of Beausoleil Books. The francophone literary haven is revered for its French and Louisiana-themed books, bilingual staff, weekly poetry readings and monthly French Table. Bilingual co-owner Bryan Dupree is a seventhgeneration descendant of Acadian pioneer Joseph “Beausoleil” Broussard, hence the bookstore’s name.

“The Whisper Room is a really cool, undiscovered spot in downtown Lafayette,” says Blanchard. “It’s the perfect date-night scene for seasonal craft cocktails.”

Lorde’s Revolution

Shake 1 ounce hibiscus-infused JT Meleck vodka, ½ ounce elderflower liqueur, ¼ ounce fresh lime juice and 1 ½ ounces fresh-pressed watermelon juice with ice and strain into a coupe glass. Garnish with fresh lemon balm.

The flavors range from fruity to floral in this refreshing summer sipper.

JOURNEY TO CUBA, BY WAY OF SOUTHWEST LOUISIANA

Café Habana City in Lafayette serves Cuban cuisine created from family recipes

BY ERIC CORMIER PHOTOS BY JOSEPH VIDRINE

Tostones Rellenos are green plantains stuffed with ground beef or shrimp. A Café Habana City favorite.

Sun and Gulf breezes elicit thoughts of island fun, food and drink. For those not able to jump on a plane or boat and visit an exotic locale, or if you just don’t feel like leaving Southwest Louisiana for your island fix — Café Habana City deliciously awaits.

Rafael Garcia, along with his family and friends, has stood the test of time and cornered off a piece of the culinary and culture scene by way of preparing home-styled Cuban dishes.

The team opened the restaurant in 2002.

Carribean beer cools the body while dining on flavors from the islands.

Owner Rafael Garcia makes sure the diners walk away knowing what Caribbean flavors. A plate of grilled round steak marinated in citrus sauce and topped with onions has made many customers happy.

The mojitos at Café Habana City are the staple cocktail at the restaurant. Garcia has developed fruit-inspired variations of the drink.

As good as the food is, the back story is just as impressive.

Garcia and his family immigrated to Lafayette from Cuba in 1998. It was a matter of prison or death since Garcia was regarded by the Cuban government as an enemy of the state. He spent years speaking out against the Castro regime.

With assistance from the American government's immigration apparatus, Garcia and a few members of his family obtained permanent residency in America.

Once the group landed in Lafayette — directly from Havana — they registered for assistance and were provided one month’s rent for an apartment. Garcia then got busy trying to figure out how to make a living.

After four years of working in the injection molding plastics business, he and his family opened Café Habana City. In 2007, the restaurant moved from its first location on Verot School Road to its present home near the University of Louisiana at Lafayette sports complex.

Garcia is amazed by how the restaurant has been accepted by area foodies.

“Everything on our menu is from family recipes,” he said. “We use citrus because it is part of Caribbean seasoning.”

What does Garcia recommend eating when you visit Café Habana City?

The Cuban Classic or the Habana Mix Plate.

On the Classic, the plate will be served with traditional Cuban roast pork, a Cuban tamale, moros y cristianos (black beans cooked with rice) and boiled yuca.

Food on the Habana mix plate includes classic shredded beef, a Cuban tamale, maduritos (or sweet plantain chips) and a bowl of black beans and rice.

“These two plates are very traditional and very popular,” Garcia said. “They are a festival of flavors and colors.”

Other dishes that feed the call of the island are: maripositas (little meat pies), tostones rellenos (stuffed green plantains with ground beef or shrimp), parrilla de pollo (grilled chicken breast marinated

Diners at Café Habana City have been introduced to Cuban culture by way of the food, atmosphere, and Garcia’s family.

in citrus sauce), pollo empanizado (fried chicken breast marinated in citrus sauce and topped with raw onions), enchilada de camarones (classic Cuban shrimp cooked in Spanish sauce with bell peppers, onions and herbs) and bistec empanizado (beef steak marinated in citrus sauce, breaded and deep fried) — get the picture?

Key flavoring ingredients in Cuban food featured at Café Habana City are garlic, cumin, bell peppers, oregano, onions and bay leaf.

If you are born and raised in SWLA, those spices can be found in many kitchen pantries. Garcia said there are many similarities between Cuban and Creole cuisine.

“I tell everybody that the landscape and culinary cuisine of Cuba is closer to Louisiana. You have French, Spanish and African as the main combination in Cuba. That is the same as it is in Louisiana. We eat a lot of rice. We eat beans. We eat pork. That is our favorite meat,” he said.

Tthere is one drink synonymous with Café Habana City — the mojito. A traditional Cuban drink, Garcia and his clan feature many variations. Variety, spice and a zest for life are central to this vibrant eatery and its founders.

The Cuban sandwich at Café Habana City is regarded as the number one menu item. Patrons have ventured back to the restaurant hungering for the sandwich since the eatery opened.

Garcia recommends new visitors to the restaurant order the Habana Super Sample featuring stuffed potato balls,  a tamale, beef croquettes, tuna croquettes, beef tostones, stuffed shrimp and meat pies.

TRY THIS!

1

Habana Super Sample

Tasty morsels filled with the spirit of Cuban and Caribbean flavor await on this plate. A stuffed potato ball, Cuban tamale, beef croquettes, tuna croquettes, stuffed beef tostones, stuffed shrimp tostones and meat pies — delicious!

2

Bistec de Puerco

Pork is a delight for Cubans. The pork steak on this plate is marinated in citrus sauce and garlic, grilled or fried and topped with onions.

3

A Bowl of Beans  Lafayette area college students who have eaten at Café Habana City since they were children, ask for the beans. This is island comfort food.

Habana 1: White rice, black beans with fried yucca and sweet plantains.

Habana 2: Moros y Cristianos (black beans and rice cooked together), boiled yucca root and fried plantains.

Miami Style Beans: Bowl of white rice topped with black or red beans and chopped raw onions.

FÊTE FRANÇAISE

Celebrate Bastille Day in French style with these classic dishes

BY MARCELLE BIENVENU

PHOTO & STYLING BY EUGENIA UHL

My father’s birthday is July 6 so we often celebrated his birthday on the 4th of July, which was a big blowout being that the mid-summer holiday was the peak of our summer gatherings. One year, Papa suggested that since the background of our families is French we should also celebrate Bastille Day. (Or la fête nationale in France, which is celebrated annually on July 14)

We reused our red, white and blue theme of the 4th since the French flag features the same colors as the American flag, and rather than having a French wine, baguettes and assorted French cheeses, Mama went all out with the menu featuring a classic French fricassee, French bread and delicious chocolate eclairs.

This year for my Bastille Day celebration, this is my carte du jour.

Offer a French Champagne or aperitifs, like Dubonnet, to stimulate the appetite and begin the fête with rillettes de saumon fumé, (a smoked salmon spread). Follow with a very French (but simple) dinner of steak au poivre, pommes pailles, tomatoes provençale and a simple dessert like madeleines.

Set an intimate table with your best silver, china and crystal, or have a casual affair on the patio or in the backyard. Add songs by Édith Piaf to your playlist and enjoy. 

Pommes pailles are potatoes cut into matchsticks. It’s best to use a mandolin to get these thinly cut, or if you have good knife skills, cut them as thinly as possible.

Steak au Poivre

3 tablespoons black peppercorns

4 (½-pound) beef filets , each about ¾-inch thick Salt

1½ tablespoons vegetable oil

1½ tablespoons unsalted butter

¼ cup minced shallots

½ cup Cognac

1 cup beef broth

2⁄ 3 cup heavy cream

Cayenne

Watercress or parsley sprigs for garnish

1. Coarsely crush peppercorns with a mortar and pestle or in a peppermill. Press pepper into both sides of steaks and season with salt.

2. In a large heavy skillet, heat oil and the butter over moderately high heat until the foam subsides. Add the steaks and cook for 2 to 2 ½ minutes on each side, or until they are just springy to the touch, for medium-rare, or longer if you prefer the steaks to be medium.

3. Transfer to a platter and keep warm. Pour off almost all of the oil in the skillet. Add shallots and cook over moderate heat, stirring, until softened. Add Cognac and cook until the mixture is reduced to a glaze on the bottom of the pan.

4. Add broth and simmer, stirring, until reduced by half. Add cream and stir occasionally, until it is thickened slightly.

5. Season with salt and cayenne. Pour sauce into a warmed sauceboat. Garnish steaks with the watercress or parsley and serve sauce separately. Makes 4 servings

1 ⁄3 cup minced parsley

3 tablespoons finely chopped fresh basil leaves

Salt and black pepper

1. Preheat the oven to 325 degrees.

2. Cut off top third from tomatoes and discard. Scoop out seeds with a small spoon and brush outside with olive oil.

3. Put tomatoes, cut sides up, on a lightly oiled shallow baking pan and season the inside with salt and pepper. Bake for 20 minutes. Remove and invert tomatoes over paper towels and let drain for about 15 minutes.

4. In a small bowl, toss together bread crumbs, anchovy, garlic, Parmesan, parsley, basil and salt and pepper. Divide mixture equally among tomatoes and stuff into the cavities. Sprinkle with the three tablespoons of olive oil. Return tomatoes to baking pan and broil about four inches from the heat for 2 to 3 minutes, or until the topping is crisp and golden brown. Makes 4 servings

DESSERT

Madeleines

1 cup all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon baking powder

4 large eggs

2⁄ 3 cup sugar

1 teaspoon grated lemon zest 1 stick unsalted butter , melted

To get the recipe for Pommes Pailles and a Rillettes De Saumon Fume , visit AcadianaProfile.com

ON THE SIDE

Tomatoes Provençale

4 medium, ripe tomatoes

3 tablespoons olive oil plus additional for brushing the tomatoes

1 ⁄3 cup bread crumbs

1 flat anchovy fillet , rinsed, patted dry and minced

1 teaspoon minced garlic

1 ⁄3 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1. Sift flour with baking powder. Whisk eggs and sugar until thick and pale. Beat in zest, then fold in flour, a third at a time, mixing between each addition. Add butter with the last batch. Cover and chill until it stiffens slightly, about 20 minutes.

2. Preheat the oven to 450 degrees. Grease and flour madeleine molds. With a large spoon, pour batter into the molds, so that they are two-thirds full. Bake for 5 minutes. Reduce heat to 400 degrees and continue baking until golden brown, 5 to 7 minutes. Remove from oven and cool for a few minutes before popping them out to cool on a wire rack. Makes 24 cookies

Promenons-nous dans

le bois

Se balader en plein air fait du bien

PAR DAVID CHERAMIE ILLUSTRATION PAR SARA WILLIA

Il était une fois, il existait un pays magique et mythique où se passaient de grandes aventures. À la différence d’autres lieux légendaires, on n’avait pas besoin d’un mot de passe secret, d’une incantation dans une langue occulte ou même de passer par une garde-robe ou un portail inter-dimensionnel. Croyez-le ou pas, pour y accéder, il suffisait d’ouvrir la porte de sa maison et de sortir. Cette contrée de merveilles s’appelait tout simplement le plein air. D’autres peuples y donnaient d’autres noms comme l’extérieur, le dehors, la campagne, les bois ou même le grand air. À vrai dire, cet endroit existe encore, mais un tour de magie maléfique l’a obscurci de nos yeux. La fée technologie a placé un écran ensorcelé devant nos yeux qui éclipse de vue la vraie réalité. Les anciens parmi nous se rappellent cette terre pleine de danger et d’amusement qu’on fréquentait jusqu’au coucher de soleil. Avec les exhortations des parents, dès le petit-déjeuner avalé, on quittait la maison à pied ou à vélo pendant les journées interminables d’été. On découvrait des nouvelles espèces d’insecte ou de serpent; on fréquentait les cabanes qu’on construisait nous-mêmes avec des planches abandonnées et meublées avec des sièges qu’on retirait des caisses auto. On restait là jusqu’à l’apparition du signe universel qu’il fallait se précipiter à la maison sous menace de punition : l’allumage des lampadaires de rue. À ce moment, on rentrait vite car tout le monde savait que dès la tombée de nuit, le Rougarou sortait.

Le rapport entre le nombre d’heures passés devant son écran et les effets néfastes sur son état mental ne reste plus à prouver. Il y a, néanmoins, un remède avéré contre les blues et ça s’appelle la randonnée, la promenade dans le bois ou respirer le bon air à plein poumons. Aller dehors, quoi. « Il existe de plus en plus de preuves, provenant de dizaines et de dizaines de chercheurs, que la nature a des avantages pour le bien-être humain physique et psychologique », déclare Lisa Nisbet, PhD dans une publication de l’Association américaine de psychologie. On est particulièrement

chanceux en Louisiane, étant entouré d’espaces verts accessibles par des pistes comme celles le long des levées du Mississippi et de l’Atchafalaya, au Parc Chicot et même au nord de l’état entre Jamestown and Winnfield. Certaines suivent les anciens sillages des chemins de fer. La bonne nouvelle, c’est que depuis quelques années, un effort sérieux se monte pour la création de la Piste de l’État des bayous qui va relier ces voies de la Nouvelle-Orléans jusqu’à Shreveport et au-delà. Ce n’est pas pour demain, mais une fois réalisé, on aura une très longue piste pour rafraîchir son âme et renouveler la joie de se retrouver dans la nature.

En attendant, fermez le téléphone et ouvrez la porte pour retrouver ce pays presque perdu. Mais ne rentrez pas trop tard, comme dit la comptine française, « Promenons-nous dans le bois, tant que le loup n’y est pas/Si le loup y était, il nous mangerait ». ■