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March is Women's History Month, and to celebrate, we're showing support to local, female-owned businesses. These eateries are diverse in the types of food offered; some are new to the scene, and some are established classics. Either way, these restaurants, and the boss babes who run them are paving the way for future generations to follow their dreams.
When your grandmother opens the first soul food kitchen in Lafayette, then your mother opens the first Laura's, it is a reasonable assumption you will know a thing or two about running a successful restaurant. This is the case for Madonna Broussard, owner of Laura's II, one of Lafayette's most popular plate lunch spots. When soul food is in your blood, it's hard not to pass that passion on to customers.
Bonne Vie Macarons is known for its dedication to detailed, creative design and fresh, authentic taste. The daily menu consists of macarons, cupcakes, cookie sandwiches, petit fours, cookie dough cups, and more. Owner & Creative Director of Bonne Vie Macarons, Heather Degeyter has created a welcoming space for all with a team of female baking gurus. Follow their social media accounts to stay updated on Bonne Vie Macarons’ latest book club, tasting, and themed events.
Mother-daughter team Tracy Lindberg and Mandy Osgood opened Graze in 2019 in hopes of serving up cheese plates, charcuterie boards, and party platters to Acadiana. The business has since grown into a more prominent storefront and household name here in town. The ladies specialize in to-go boxes and trays, perfect for a girl's night in, birthdays, or a simple cheese craving.
Ton's is another staple that has been in the hands of multiple generations of women-owners. Initially owned by Rosemary Girouard, her granddaughter Hollie Girouard, now runs the spot. Open since 1963, Ton's has remained locally owned throughout the years and still has a great burger. Hungry? Try the Monster Cheeseburger: 12 oz of beef piled with cheese and all the fixings.
Five Mile Eatery, Market & Co-op, is a community-centered breakfast and lunch spot serving farm-fresh, seasonally evolving menus within a curated retail space. Nestled in the Oil Center, this female-owned business embraces sustainability and supports the local community, celebrating the flavors of our region and its values through organic, wholesome farming. Co-founded by Chef Kelsey Leger and Sarah Trotter the space is a healthy option added to Lafayette’s dining menu.
Lori Watkins Hurst is part owner of the seafood restaurant that has been around since the 30s. Poor Boy's Riverside Inn has been in the family for generations. Poor Boy's is perfect for a romantic date night, featuring upscale seafood dishes, including the Crab Meat Imperial, which has been on the menu for over 60 years.
This gelato shop has been under the ownership of two different women in its lifetime. Purchased by Liz Payne back in 2019, she redid the interior, added some new offerings such as crepes, and expanded the drink menu to include beer, wine, and aperitifs.
If you love seafood and are looking for healthy options, Rachael's is your spot. Rachael Hebert had a vision of serving delicious but healthy Cajun classics. You can find a grilled seafood platter, grilled tuna, and crawfish bisque. Pair it with healthy sides such as cauliflower rice, sweet potatoes, or roasted brussel sprouts. You can have your seafood and eat it too.
Joel Priya Joseph, the owner of Priya's, gained her following at the Lafayette Farmers Market. She has since opened a brick-and-mortar location on Johnston St. Priya's, specializing in authentic Indian dishes, including curries with many vegetarian options.
