New Year, New Flavors

by Kerri Cooke

Southwest Louisiana is famous for its Cajun food, but we also boast a variety of international food restaurants that serve up sizzling eats based on classics from around the world. The following list introduces a few new players in the local food scene while bringing attention to a few outside the Lake Charles area you may not have heard of. 

Habibi Greek & Lebanese 

‘Habibi’ is the Arabic word for ‘my love,’ and there’s a lot to love about the cuisine at 3625 Nelson Road. While Lake Charles has a variety of Greek and Lebanese restaurants, Habibis is another excellent addition to the selection, bringing its own spin on classic staples. Offering shawarma, gyro, kibbi and grape leaves like other competitors, a few stars of the menu are the Fried Halloumi Cheese and Mediterranean Hummus. With a wide range of salads, there is something for those who are on a low calorie or low carb diet for the new year. 

Tokyo Lake Charles 

The first of its kind in the area, Tokyo, 5675 Nelson Road, offers hot pot, a popular Chinese customizable soup experience. They also offer an AYCE, All-You-Can-Eat menu for a fixed price. However, you must eat all of your food without sharing with others at the table or else you will be charged a waste fee. In addition to hot pot, find an extensive list of sushi and hibachi options. A new menu item is Black Beef Tripe. Appetizers include kimchi and sesame balls. Seasonal drinks are available. 

Orinico Restaurant 

Orinico is a woman-owned business, 4723 Common St., specializing in Venezuelan and Colombian food. Oven Baked Pork Belly and Caribbean Red Snapper accompany staples such as empanadas. Grab their Sweet Plantains for a treat and a fresh juice or mocktail to wash it down. A new menu has been available for a couple months, so check out Orinico’s new tasty offerings! 

Budatan Asian Cuisine 

Budatan, 290 Parish Road in Moss Bluff, has an extensive menu of foods ranging from Thai to Chinese to Vietnamese. Opened by the former owner of Jojo’s Chinese Bistro in Lake Charles, Budatan stands out for a well-thought-out menu and the overall excellence of the food. Choices range from a whole page of sushi rolls to a whole page of chicken entrees. Their pad Thai is a favorite. If you love spice, try their Jalapeno Bombs. Then stay for a Vietnamese iced coffee. 

The Jamaican Spot 

At 1507 S. 5th St. in Leesville lies The Jamaican Spot. Jamaica has a rich culinary tradition, which is reflected in The Jamaican Spot’s menu. Get a taste of the Jamaican Goat Soup and an Island Bowl, full of fried plantains, steamed cabbage, glazed chicken and rice. Other standouts include Jamaican Stewed Peas with red beans and coconut gravy. A wide variety of island juices are available to accompany. (The restaurant has also sent supplies to Jamaica following the aftermath of Hurricane Melissa’s landfall in October.)

Raja’s Curry Kitchen & Grill 

In the mood for Indian food? Raja’s Curry Kitchen & Grill, 3821 Ryan St., has all your favorite spices. Popular items include Chicken Biryani, Butter Chicken, and Gobi Curry. If you’re craving curry something fierce, Raja’s has a dozen variations to choose from. They also offer lassi, a yogurt-based drink. 

Schnitzel 

If craving German food, cross right over the state line into Vidor, Texas, and visit Schnitzel at 950 S. Main St. Order Jaegar Schnitzel with German Potato Salad and Red Cabbage to fully dive into the German menu. Choose from a variety of sausages, try French Fries with Gravy and grab some strudel or a warm pretzel to finish the meal.