NOLA SOUTHERN GRILL 1375 Gause Blvd, Slidell, LA 985.201.8200
I chose to visit NOLA Southern Grill in Slidell for dinner. The outside of the restaurant has a true New Orleans look with downstairs and upstairs patios edged with wrought-iron. The theme continues inside with Louisiana artwork and phrases. The restaurant has a casual atmosphere with a clean look to it and good energy between staff and guests. The cocktail menu offered a good variety of wines, beers and specialty drinks. I ordered the “Swamp Monster,” which included Captain Morgan & Parrot Bay Coconut Rum mixed with fresh squeezed juices. It was a refreshing drink against the recent Louisiana heat. Looking at the starters, I decided to stick with the Southern swamp theme and ordered the gator bites, which were lightly fried in a cornmeal breading and served with a Cajun sauce. Very tender for Gator tail! The dinner entrée menu offered a great variety, from some traditional New Orleans dishes like po-boys to fresh fish, pastas and wraps. I decided to order the pan seared redfish topped with a flavorful “smothered shrimp etouffee.” It was seasoned and grilled perfectly, which added additional flavor to an already amazing fish. My two sides of choice were sautéed colorful vegetables and homemade fried okra. I made sure to save some room for homemade bread pudding topped with a warm praline sauce, strawberries and whipped cream. Very flavorful. NOLA has a really good ambiance and a New Orleans feel. It’s welcoming for all kinds of guests: from business associates to families. The service was right on and the staff was very knowledgeable about the menu. I definitely recommend NOLA Southern Grill. “Let the good times roll!”