in SWLA

by Matt Dye

As Southwest Louisiana continues to recover from the storms of 2020/2021, it seems a new dining experience comes onto the Lake Area restaurant scene every minute. Hyperbole aside, it’s true that numerous new eateries have opened over the past year. In this annual special section, we share several of these newer establishments that offer some unique flavors. You’ll also find a feature on the best kidfriendly restaurants, and an exciting announcement on an upcoming restaurant at L'Auberge.

For breakfast and brunch, Biscuits & Jamz in North Lake Charles is ready to become your new go to spot. With items that range from a usual country breakfast to the decadent Crab Benedict, there’s flavors to hit every one of your taste buds. One of the stars might be the F Biscuit, which combines biscuit dipped in French toast batter with sausage and egg and a nice Bourbon onion bacon jam, which right there covers all your bases.

1620 North Simmons Street, Lake Charles. Open Wednesday-Monday, 8: 00 a.m. to 1:00 .pm. Closed Tuesday.

Over in Sulphur you’ll find Chic Frys a little, red food truck located in the Napa Auto Parts parking lot. They offer some of the best Indian food in the area. The menu isn’t overexpansive, but it has all the flavors you’re

Wining & Dining | Restaurant Guide

For the newest in Mediterranean cuisine, Nawal’s Kebab House & Grill recently opened where the old Zeus used to be on Prien Lake Road, and already, they’re ready to give the rest of the Lebanese restaurants in town a run for their money. Their menu contains all the favorites you’d expect from grape leaves to gyros, but there’s also a variety within their flavors, such as offering five different types of hummus to enjoy. The falafel is a fan favorite. And check out their stews, such as the Eggplant Moussaka. Divine!

409 West Prien Lake Road, Lake Charles. Monday-Saturday, 4:00 p.m. – 900 p.m.

If tacos are the key to your heart, Mi Tierra is the newest restaurant opened in the Market Basket Shopping Center on Nelson Road in Lake Charles. While not reinventing the wheel, Mi Tierra serves some downright authentic Mexican cuisine with one of the highlights being the Mole con Pollo that comes with a side of plantains. They’ve also got Taco Tuesday specials both on tacos and drinks, as well as a Thursday special on their mini quesabirrias.

4447 Nelson Road, Lake Charles. Open Monday-Saturday 11:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m., Sunday until 6:00 p.m.

SushiBoxx on Nelson Road might be the oldest of the new on this list, but most of SWLA is still discovering the delicious sushi being served in this strip mall just north of Kroger. While part of the appeal of SushiBoxx is the ability to grab ‘n go, you can also sit down and enjoy both freshly made sushi rolls as well as poke bowls or a Vietnamese classic such as bahn mi. While the menu isn’t as extensive as some other sushi places, what SushiBoxx does do it does well, and it’s nice to have grab ‘n go sushi you can trust.

4720 Nelson Road Suite 130. Open MondaySaturday 10:00 am. – 8:00 p.m.

Finally, if you’re looking for some dessert, Le Macaron has recently expanded from a kiosk in the mall to a brick and mortar on Country Club Road in front of Kroger. They offer more than just its namesake – there are also gourmet chocolates, gelato, cakes, cheesecakes, other French pastries, and coffee. Or check out their savory items such as chicken salad croissants and quiche. If you’re looking for a lite lunch and a round of desserts to bring back to the office, you’ve found your new favorite shop.

2020 Country Club Road Suite 120. Open Monday-Thursday 10:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m., Friday & Saturday 10:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m and Sunday Noon - 6:00 p.m.