Cajun Benedict

 UNBELIEVABLE

It all started with a father and son bet.  My younger son told me the best thing he ever ate was at a Downtown Lafayette cafe called The French Press.  I found it puzzling because for the past 24 years it seemed to me that he ate most of his meals at my table.  Upon graduating from college and starting an exciting new life, he has discovered a new world of culinary delight.  My first thought was, if he paid for the meal maybe that's why it tasted better.  He challenged me to taste outside my own experiences and if I did not like his choice of breakfast he would pick up the tab.  Little did he know I was planning on giving a critical review of his choice and enjoy a free meal.

His description on the way to the cafe he told me I was going to enjoy a large bowl with french bread, topped with a boudin patty,  2 poached eggs, a slice of cheese, covered with chicken andouille gumbo.  I could not imagine those flavors at the same time. I accepted his bet and was ready to enjoy a free meal that has been a long time coming.

The French Press seats around 40-50 people.  The ambiance was great.  I was able to have a subtle conversation with my son without the clanging of dishes and voices bouncing off the walls. Reclaiming old buildings to make fresh new starts is encouraging for a new era of Lafayette character and history. It is located in the old Tribune Printing building, an icon of days past. It was great to be in the building once again.

My son walked up to the register and ordered for the both of us. The bet was on.  I was anxious to experience what my son thought was the best thing he ever ate.  While enjoying a cup of coffee our breakfast arrived.  I stared for a few seconds, glanced at my son and said, “this one is on you”.  I began to eat and enjoy the rich flavor and heritage that went into this original dish. It wasn’t bread, boudin and gumbo.  It was an Acadiana celebration at its finest!  It was a meal rich in culture, orchestrated to enjoy, laugh, and return to.

That’s right. I paid for it once again. I am happy to know that some of the money spent on college, went to his appreciation for great food and being able to seek it out.


GREAT JOB  “ THE FRENCH PRESS”    YOU RATE      5


The French Press