By Jeanni Ritchie
I was on Day 4 of an artists’ retreat in Leesville, fueling my book writing solely with fruit and Sargento snack packs. My stomach was crying for REAL FOOD!
Just down the street from the historic plantation I was temporarily calling home, I discovered a renovated 1940s gas station turned burger joint. The sign outside boasted “Best Burger Ever” and the menu inside displayed choices like hand-cut fries and house-made sauces.
Of course there was also the option of a “Fatboy” (2/3 lb. burger) or a “Skinny” (1/3 lb. burger) with a variety of toppings. I chose a “Skinny” then promptly made up for the health-conscious choice by ordering four different types of cheeses on top! I chose sauce cups to experiment with — Korean BBQ and Spicy Ranch — but mostly dipped my meat-and-cheese-only burger in ketchup!
The homemade fries were heavenly, though a battle with a salt shaker found in the plantation home’s cupboards might have resulted in a little too much seasoning!
The restaurant was filled with soldiers and antique replicas, including the vintage Tinkey Tonker parade car hanging from the ceiling. I felt like I’d stepped straight into a Norman Rockwell painting.
From the canisters of Perry’s Original Cajun Seasoning — manufactured by former Fatboy & Skinny’s employee Perry — to a case filled with decadent ice cream gallons, there’s history and flavor in every corner of the restaurant.
In addition to the burgers and fries, they serve pizza, wings, hot dogs, corn dogs, alligator sausage, grilled cheese, and Frito pies.
For those who like a little personality with their provisions, Fatboy & Skinny’s is the place for you!
Fatboy & Skinny’s is located at 303 S. 5th Street in Leesville, Louisiana. The restaurant can be reached by phone at (337) 208-1477. Hours of operation are Monday through Saturday from 10:30 a.m. to 6 p.m., and the restaurant is closed on Sundays.
