Bayou Bakery Brings NOLA to Arlington Courthouse

Let the good times roll!  Bayou Bakery is at last open in none other than my 'hood, Courthouse in Arlington. Well, almost open.  This morning they hosted a soft opening in which the majority of their menu was available gratis, accepting donations for Best Buddies. I suppose the idea behind the concept is that it allows guests to experience a taste of what Bayou has to offer, and alleviates some the pressure on the staff, all while contributing to a good cause.  I thought it was a great idea and they will be doing the same on Monday, November 22nd.

I am almost giddy and B is over the moon as Bayou Bakery brings the classics of his college city to Courthouse.  Bayou offers breakfast (and let's face it, the all day goodness) of beignets and chicory coffee by Counter Culture.  Lunch and dinner selections include Gumbo, Po' Boys and Muffulettas.  Beer and wine are available, including Abita Amber on tap.

The space is surprisingly light filled with New Orleans accents laced throughout -- fleur de lis, alligators, street cars -- oh my!  Iced tea (sweetened or unsweetened) is served in mason chars and the air is filled with New Orleans music, but at a volume suitable for conversation.

Bayou Bakery: Gumbo

At $4 a cup, the Gumbo was almost as transportive as a trip to the Big Easy, with a subtle heat and thick, Gumbo Shop base.

Bayou Bakery: Muffuletta

Not quite Central Grocery clone, albeit a more manageable portion, the "muffa-lotta" has a zesty tapanade and includes the addition of Virginia black forest ham.

Bayou Bakery: Beignets

At $3 for 3 beignets and all that powdered sugar goodness, I am worried about the proximity of my house to these fried treats.  Cafe Du Monde they are not, but they are the closest I have had outside of New Orleans.

Yes, there are some quirks.  The Camille's sign of the former occupant of the space on the corner of N. Courthouse Road has not been removed.  The baristas are still getting into the groove.  But so far I am both impressed and excited about this addition to the neighborhood.  Last year at this time, we were in New Orleans, and this year no trip, but still a taste of the Big Easy.