7 Best Restaurants in Side Trips from New Orleans, Louisiana

You're probably not going to go to Billy's for your fanciest occasions (or if you're trying to eat healthy), but if you're looking for some amazing Cajun snacks with no frills, then this is the place for you. Go inside and order at the counter to see what they've serving that day or swing through the drive-thru if you're in a rush.

This outstanding boucaniere (Cajun French for smokehouse) is run by the next generation of the family that once operated the iconic Johnson's Grocery in Eunice, Louisiana. Customers sit on the covered porch and dig into boudin sausages, sandwiches, and the heartily recommended barbecue—smoked in-house and rubbed with Cajun-style seasonings. The boudin-stuffed grilled cheese is also a crowd-pleaser. This is a laid-back, friendly place with a refreshing blend of tradition and modern style. Music from young local bands plays over the sound system and is available for purchase.

Crawfish and shrimp pasta with stuffed crab, a fried frog leg basket, or sausage Creole are some of what you can expect to find at this casual breakfast and lunch spot tucked inside the owner's catering company building. Cakes and pies are their specialty; call ahead to see what might be available while you're in town. A huge Lenten buffet is available for dinner on Friday between Mardi Gras and Easter.

On the town square, you can step back in time at this old-style diner. Breakfast is full of hearty Cajun and southern fares such as the pain perdu (old-fashioned local version of French toast), beignets, and praline chicken biscuits; the lunch menu has sandwiches like a brisket po'boy, as well as a different plate lunch special each day. Crawfish étouffée, fried catfish, and barbecue chicken are just a few recent options.

People jam into this diner as early as 6 am for hot biscuits and grits (add shrimp if you're in the mood). Dwyer's also has a variety of omelets, breakfast plates, and sandwiches. If you're famished by midday, try the hearty plate lunch specials, which include an entrée and three classic southern sides.

The owners' passion for locally sourced ingredients is reflected in the menu here, with likes of burgers made with locally raised beef, coffee served with milk from nearby cows, and herbal teas from a local producer. The sandwiches, wraps, tacos, and salads are healthy and delicious, and the house-made sno-balls are a wonderful treat, especially in the heat of summer. Take food to go, or swing by with a book while enjoying a tea or coffee. There is also a retail section with gifts from local makers.

This often-busy diner serves a hearty Cajun breakfast and lunch, which feature daily specials such as smothered rabbit, catfish courtbouillon, or crawfish omelets. The southern fare also includes fried chicken and seafood dishes.