A quick trip out of New Orleans

[Hank Stamper]

I have family in New Orleans- been there/ate there a lot. In August I'm planning on going down for a long wekened but want to take a day off and head out of the city for a day trip and grab some Cajun food (nothing fancy but good) and see some sights (no sightseeing tours but just a different persepctive from what I see back home in New York). New Iberia? Thibodaux? Suggestions for cities and restaurants are appreciated. Thanks!

[edible complex]

if you start out early on a Sat morn, head to Mamou for the live Cajun show at Fred's Lounge. just trust me...
http://www.fredsociety.com/mamou.html

head over to Savoy Music for a jam session
http://www.savoymusiccenter.com/

grab a bite at D.I.'s
http://www.discajunrestaurant.biz/NewDIs/index.htm

catch another Cajun show (early evening) at the Liberty Theater in Eunice
http://www.eunice-la.com/libertyschedule.html

eat in Breaux Bridge at Cafe des Amis
http://www.cafedesamis.com/

or grab a bite in Abbeville at Black's Oyster Bar
http://www.blacksoysterbar.com/

or take River Rd. and visit some plantations and eat at Roberto's
http://www.robertosrestaurant.net/AboutUs.asp

or Latil's Landing at Houmas House
http://www.houmashouse.com/restaurant...

be sure to stop at gas stations and roadside stores for some hot, fresh steaming boudin for the car ride. pack an ice chest, as you will want to bring back some boudin, sausage, produce, seasonings, etc.

ask locals where to go for food and music, as there is always something happening; and you won't meet friendlier people than in SW La, as you're likely to be invited over for some home cooking.

[Hank Stamper]

Thanks!!! Time to get the map out! BTW - I see you like Dark & Stormys- check out Barrit's Ginger Beer or AJ Stephen's.

[edible complex]

getting the right ginger beer is key to the D&S. thnx.

if you can, spend a night out on your road trip:
http://www.bayoucabins.com/
there is so much to experience.
and take the scenic route:
http://www.byways.org/explore/byways/2066/
http://www.byways.org/explore/byways/...

[hazelhurst]

I will not clailm that my word is definitive on the subjkect of Black's Oyster Bar....I grew up eating there when I was a younf duck hunter. I was there last year and was very disappointed. The place has been sold(I am told) and it was a simple sandwich shop. Not the same place I knew---although the oysters were fine....just did not have the same "feel"....Maybe it is just me..geting old.....

[Tonto]

I spent a month around there after Katrina and Black's is non plus in my estimation. Very ordinary and memorable but not in a good way.