The phrase "Soul Food" brings to mind heaping plates of pork chops and greens, chicken and potatoes, ribs and butter beans, biscuits and corn bread. "Louisiana Soul Food" is all of that and more. It's the livelier cousin, or couzan, of that comfort food family. Laura's II of Lafayette, Louisiana is the perfect place to appreciate the distinct difference.

 

The food at Laura's II is served cafeteria style and the line often stretches out the door and onto the sidewalk. The lunch crowd is a mixture of businessmen, neighborhood locals and college students. Laura's II seems to be everyone's favorite little secret where the prices are small and the helpings are large.

 

One forkful of the macaroni and cheese is all it takes to appreciate Laura's version of Louisiana Soul Food. The warmth is apparent with the first bite. The rich, cheesiness springs to life, practically dancing in your mouth. The fried chicken is home fried crispy. The ribs are large, juicy and dripping in sauce. The green beans are flavored with pork sausage and the rice dressing is dark and savory.

 

It's everything Mama used to cook for Daddy before his cholesterol went high. So don't miss your opportunity to enjoy it before your doctor forbids it.

 

Laura's II is located at 1904 West University Ave, Lafayette, LA