A shining star on the restaurant scene that rose to the top during the “shelter in place” restrictions is the new Cajun-Creole spot located in Palm Beach Gardens called Voodoo Bayou. Celebrating its grand opening in early March, just a short time before the quarantine period, Voodoo Bayou stepped up and earned a local following with curbside pickup business and social media buzz.
Serving fare with Cajun flair, craft cocktails, and southern favorites like the highly touted fried chicken and biscuits, Voodoo Bayou does not disappoint. With exceptional service continually praised on social media, and impressive sprawling interiors with lots of wrought iron, cool artwork, wood and leather details, lanterns and stained glass, the menu isn’t the only reason to go.
Appetizers
Billed as “Opening Act,” appetizers include chicken-fried gator tail with charred lemon aioli and pickled peppers, pimento cheese with pickled okra and buttermilk crackers, and a favorite among diners, buttermilk biscuits with honey butter and pear jam. You can also start off your experience with southern classics with a twist like fried green tomato blt, deviled eggs, and oysters, served either wood-fired with chili butter and garlic bread, of fried with NOLA remoulade and muffuletta vinaigrette.
Gumbo & Greens
Gumbo loaded with shrimp, andouille, chicken, and okra served over jasmine rice is basically a must-try when you go. There are also salads to choose from including Burrata, Cobb, and Caesar to accompany or start your meal.
Mains
Perhaps not a surprise, the “Yard & Pond” section of the menu begins with any foodie’s favorite, Louisiana-style fried chicken with hot honey and buttermilk biscuit. Of course, you can find Shrimp and Crawfish Etouffee and Jambalaya, staples on any NOLA inspired menu. For those who want an explosion of flavors and a mash-up of bold cuisines, there’s a Mushroom Bolognese with Mafalda pasta, Grana Padano and fresh herbs and Cajun Carbonara with rigatoni, smoked pork belly, peas, and cured egg yolk.
Po’ Boys
What makes a po’ boy a po’ boy? Yourdictionary.com defines po’boy as a sandwich originating in New Orleans consisting of meat or seafood, such as roast beef or fried oysters, and often lettuce, tomatoes, and condiments, served on French bread. Of course, Voodoo Bayou offers a selection of these NOLA classics: Shrimp (blackened or fried). Fried Oyster, Chicken (blacken or fried), Steak, and Bacon and Pimento. Which one would you choose?
Wood-Fired
Many will love the selection of entrees served with bourbon jus, chili butter, and marinated tomatoes. You can choose from a bone-in Cajun Ribeye, Filet, Brick Chicken, and Redfish served on the half shell.
Sides and Desserts
Many to choose from in both categories. Including famous cornbread, smokey collards, horseradish mashed potatoes and wild rice casserole. If you have room (or maybe take it to go) don’t skip dessert! Choose from Beignets, A “Sunday” sundae with three flavors of ice cream, and Banana Pudding,
Location
Downtown Palm Beach Gardens
11701 Lake Victoria Gardens Ave #5095, Palm Beach Gardens, FL
**At the time of this writing. Voodoo Bayou is open to serve daily starting at 12pm serving at 50% seating capacity with takeout & curbside services still available. Call the restaurant or visit their website for the most updated information.
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