by Christine Baker
The new year is off to a good start here in my household. My youngest son, who is far away serving in the military, surprised me and his Dad with a visit shortly into the new year. We were filled with joy, especially since we had both been quite ill during the Holidays and had missed much family fun and get-togethers with all our boys.
In love with all things food, he and I set out for a Mom and Son lunch date and came across a local restaurant here in Alexandria, Louisiana called Pamela’s Bayou in a Bowl Too. It’s conveniently located at 2049 North Mall Drive, right in the heart of Alexandria’s shopping district.
We expected to have a quiet lunch during the workweek due to Covid-19 restrictions, but to our surprise and glee, the restaurant was full of hungry patrons, always a great sign for a restaurant and community. The buffet line, socially distanced of course, moved at a fast-pace. Loren, the local manager, served up a variety of Cajun delicacies with a smile, and the steam and aroma kept everyone’s tongues on the roof of their mouth in anticipation. The restaurant’s menu boasted of many cajun delights and every one who beckoned the doors was sure to find something to tempt their palate.
My son devoured a fried shrimp po-boy with fries shortly after praying the blessing. I asked him, “How was it?” His response, “Delicious. It tasted like home.”
I ordered a side of grilled shrimp and sweet potato casserole. There were many salads available, too, but grilled shrimp is one of my favorites so I indulged. I was not disappointed. Both were served hot and were very tasty. In fact, I did something I rarely do. I devoured my entire meal.
As I was about to leave, Opelousas native and now Alexandria transplant and owner, Mrs. Pamela, was kind enough to give me a quick interview where she boasted of her love for all things faith, family, and good food. Being from the south myself, I must say, “I agreed with her assessment.” I sensed all of the above in the warm service and good food that was offered hot, quick and at a fair price.
Her love for Louisiana and her community was further proved by stating to me that she does her best to use as many local products as possible from our great state, such as rice, beans, potatoes, sausage, etc. If I hadn’t already been a lover of “cajun food” and all things local, she would have won me over. But, alas, these were already two of my favorite things in life.
So, there you have it. Mrs. Pamela of Pamela’s Bayou in a Bowl Too, unknowingly proved my husband’s saying “Good food and Good loving” right again. Put them together and you always have a winning combo.
Next time you head out for a delicious meal, Try Pamela’s Bayou in a Bowl Too in Alexandria, Louisiana. They’re open six days a week. You won’t be sorry or leave hungry!
