Fine Dining in Lafayette

Since 1985, Charley G's has been a cherished dining destination in the heart of Acadiana, renowned for its unique blend of Southern hospitality and exceptional cuisine. Savor fresh, locally sourced seafood, hand-cut steaks, and chef-inspired dishes that celebrate the rich flavors of Louisiana. Be sure to order the duck and andouille gumbo with it’s rich, very dark roux. With a seasonally changing menu that highlights locally sourced ingredients, Charley G's offers an inviting atmosphere and an unforgettable dining experience, perfect for both casual meals and special occasions. Don’t stop at just a meal, though. With an extensive wine selection and an on-staff sommelier, pairing your dish with an expertly selected wine creates an elevated dining experience.

Vestal is a modern eatery in Downtown, housed in what was formerly Antlers, the oldest bar in the city of Lafayette. It was transformed into an elegant, modern space where diners can enjoy sustainably sourced fare alongside fresh Gulf seafood and craft cocktails unlike any other in the city. Enjoy fresh oysters shucked to order at the raw bar or live-fired dishes in front of the wood-burning hearth at the kitchen counter. Enjoy the magic as it happens right in front of your eyes. Vestal’s style could be described as “new southern,” providing a welcoming, upbeat environment for the community to gather and enjoy modern yet thoughtfully prepared dishes and cocktails. Be sure to try the crab spaghetti. Reservations are recommended, but walk-ins are welcome.

Marcello’s Wine Market & Café was founded by brothers Gene and Marcello Todaro and opened in 2007, combining fine dining and a wine market. The menu focused on Sicilian cooking while using fresh ingredients. Browse the wine racks and choose a bottle to enjoy at your table. If you prefer to skip the alcohol, the cocktail menu has recently expanded to offer non-alcoholic options and mocktails. Marcello’s features dishes such as linguine tritone (a personal favorite) and filet with truffled cognac 58. It’s also one of the few places that offers risotto on the menu, and the style rotates daily. Extra points if you catch it on a day when they are offering goat cheese risotto. 

Since 1932, Poor Boy’s Riverside Inn has been a cherished seafood restaurant in the heart of Acadiana. Poor Boy’s is the oldest operating restaurant in Lafayette. Their menu focuses on fresh Gulf-to-table seafood, with a touch of Cajun spice. Poor Boy’s is probably the most “casual” of our white-linen restaurants in town, perfect for Uncle Joe who’s idea of dressing up is wearing black Wranglers. Sample unique Cajun delicacies like alligator tidbits and fresh crab claws. And don't forget to satisfy your sweet tooth with their delightful desserts, especially the irresistible homemade bread pudding. 

Jane’s French Cuisine is an intimate house-turned-restaurant with a lovely courtyard with a fountain and pergola, lush greenery, and handicap-accessible restrooms. The interior boasts a real wood-burning fireplace and antique chandeliers, creating an old-world charm. The menu is small and rotates daily, featuring three appetizers, three main entrees, three dessert options, and specials offered throughout each week. The food takes time, making it perfect for a romantic dinner to savor and enjoy leisurely with a glass of wine. 

Nash Barreca is a third-generation restaurateur from New Orleans, where he began his culinary career working in his family's famous Barreca's Restaurant. The menu blends his Italian heritage with Creole taste profiles. There is something for everyone with over 50 menu items. Favorites include Veal Orleans, Veal & Spinach Cannelloni, Soft-Shell Crab Lafayette, Grilled Atlantic Salmon, Grilled Amberjack, and Angus Cut Steaks grilled to perfection! Nash’s is located in a historic mansion with an atmosphere of old Southern charm and elegance. 

Ruffino’s has a monthly culinary experience that’s a 5-course meal, paired with wine and step-by-step instructions from our team of chefs. A night where friends and family gather for an exclusive multi-course dinner, hand-selected wines, and front row seats to watch as it’s prepared right before your eyes.