This Louisiana Cajun Café Serves Crawfish Étouffée You’ll Never Forget
In Lafayette, Prejean’s Cajun Café has earned a devoted following for one unforgettable dish.
Their crawfish étouffée is rich, flavorful, and perfectly seasoned, capturing the heart of Louisiana in every bite.
Diners return again and again, drawn by the comforting aroma and the promise of bold, authentic flavors.
From the first spoonful to the last, this café turns a simple meal into a celebration of Cajun tradition and culinary passion.
New Life Breathed In After 2021 Remodel
After changing hands, new owners rolled up their sleeves and gave Prejean’s a fresh makeover. The restaurant reopened on February 8, 2021, with updated interiors that still honor its Cajun roots.
Walking in now feels like visiting an old friend who got a stylish new wardrobe. The remodel preserved the soul of the place while adding modern comforts.
Fans of the original were thrilled to see their favorite spot return better than ever, ready to serve another generation.
A Lafayette Legend Since 1980
Prejean’s first opened its doors over four decades ago and quickly became a cornerstone of Lafayette’s dining scene. Locals and tourists alike have been flocking here for authentic Cajun food and live music ever since.
Back in 1980, the restaurant helped define what it meant to experience true Louisiana culture. The original owners built more than just a place to eat.
They created a gathering spot where traditions thrived and memories were made over steaming plates of étouffée.
Two Locations Mean Double the Deliciousness
Craving that étouffée but not sure which location to hit? Prejean’s operates two spots: the classic Carencro/Lafayette location and a newer Broussard outpost.
Both serve up the same mouthwatering dishes and vibrant atmosphere. Whether you’re closer to the original or the Broussard branch, you’re guaranteed authentic flavors.
Having two locations means more people can experience the magic without driving across town, making it easier to get your Cajun fix whenever the craving strikes.
Crawfish Étouffée That Defines Perfection
This dish is the star of the show and for good reason. Prejean’s crawfish étouffée features tender crawfish swimming in a rich, buttery roux that’s seasoned to perfection.
Every spoonful delivers layers of flavor that dance on your tongue. The recipe has been so popular that the restaurant even shares it in published cookbooks.
But honestly, nothing beats tasting it fresh from their kitchen, where decades of expertise go into every single batch served daily.
Live Music Keeps the Dance Floor Hot
Forget quiet dining experiences. Prejean’s cranks up the energy with live Cajun and zydeco music on weekends, keeping the dance-hall spirit alive and kicking.
Accordions wail, fiddles sing, and feet start tapping before you even finish your appetizer. The restaurant transforms into a full-blown party where strangers become dance partners.
It’s impossible to leave without a smile, a full belly, and maybe a few new dance moves you never knew you had in you.
Meet the 14-Foot Alligator Greeter
Before you even order, you’ll meet Prejean’s most famous employee: a massive 14-foot stuffed alligator that greets every diner.
Kids love posing for pictures with this prehistoric-looking beast, and adults can’t help but snap a photo too. The gator has become an unofficial mascot and a must-see attraction.
It perfectly captures the wild, fun-loving spirit of Louisiana, reminding everyone that dining here is about adventure as much as it is about amazing food and hospitality.
Take the Flavor Home by the Gallon
Can’t get enough of that incredible gumbo? Prejean’s lets you take it home by the quart or even by the gallon.
Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just want leftovers for the week, grabbing gumbo to go is a game changer.
It’s perfect for those days when you want restaurant-quality Cajun cooking without leaving your couch.
Stock your freezer, impress your friends at potlucks, or simply enjoy a taste of Louisiana whenever the mood strikes you.