Restaurant Review: Papa Roux

There's just something about Indy's east side.

It's as if they refuse to adhere to the rules of chain restaurants and retail shops. They keep plopping Mom and Pop stores and eateries all over the neighborhood and then have the audacity to not care if the rest of the metro area population likes it or not.

For those of you who have not made it to that side of Indianapolis ... it's not your luxurious, with-a-view community comparable to the far north and south sides. It's what used to be referred to as a blue-collar neighborhood.

No frills.

No nonsense.

However, you'll find that non-chains are, well, hit and miss, actually. I won't say they are better than chains, neither will I vow all chains are spectacular choices for service or food.

It's much like everything else in life; good, bad, and that unforgivable level---  mediocrity.
You'll remember I encouraged, practically begged, you to check out Oishi Sushi at 10th and Shadeland Avenue last year. A diamond interior shelled by a rough exterior, I called it.

Papa Roux is not a serene interior with a plain exterior. Nope. What you see on the outside is exactly what you're going to get on the inside. Located at 10th and Post (look close or you'll miss it) this joint is having none of your fanciful ways.

You want Cajun food? Have a seat.
You want linen and crystal? Move along.
Kings, carpenters, and restaurant critics all get the same treatment. Want to be placed on a pedestal? Hit the road Jack. These folks treat their customers all the same, as it should be. Loyal customers stop in frequently for a dose of the say-it-like-it-is personality of Papa Roux and his staff. Not rude, or even impolite, just down-to-earth, and busy, very busy; this is always a good sign.
 I met up with a buddy of mine, Dick Davis (Burger Meister, I call him), who writes a blog (smallerindiana.com/group/burgerquest) about, you guessed it, burgers. He's foregone burgers and eaten at Papa's several times and was dismayed when I mentioned that I "have been meaning to get over there" but hadn't made it yet. I wanted to take a chance on finding a great muffelatta and check out that wall I keep hearing about.

Deciding if one Cajun or Creole eatery is more authentic is as futile as determining which restaurant's fried chicken is more Midwest-authentic. There are many cooks and styles in every locale. It's more about capturing the essence of the region.

Let’s get to the food.

The red beans and rice were, quite frankly, the tastiest I have ever eaten, anywhere, including in the French Quarter, with a balanced seasoning and spice combination. The French bread pudding was softly textured with a creamy, cinnamon flavor. Some other sides offered were etouffee and cornbread.

Po Boy sandwiches are the house specialty, with the pulled pork taking top vote over my coveted muffaletta. Po Boys are served topped with cole slaw. All sandwiches are also served with unlimited sides.

Unlimited...

I suggest getting a full-sized sandwich, eating half there with the unlimited sides, and take the other half home.

Bottom Line: All in all, Papa Roux is worth twice the drive, for the food, the value and for the atmosphere. Remember to put your name on the wall.

Elizabeth J. Musgrave is a syndicated columnist, travel writer and theater critic. Catch her as Indy’s Arts & Entertainment Adviser on 93.1 WIBC and follow her on Facebook, Twitter (@gottago) and at GottaGo.us. Comments can be sent to elizabeth@gottago.us.

Gotta Go is published in M magazine and the following newspapers: South Sider Voice, West Side Community News, New Palestine Reporter, West Indianapolis Community News, Pendleton Times Reporter, Fortville-McCordsville Reporter, and Indiana Weekender

Photo credit: E J Musgrave

Restaurant Review: N'awlins Creole Cafe'

Photo by N'awlins Creole Cafe'

I was invited to test the newest eatery in the area, N'awlins Creole Café, 1118 N. State Road 267, in Avon. Opening just a week or so, ago, the café is already showing a promising start. Owners Brian and Jeri are originally from the pelican state and have run a catering business prior to opening the restaurant.

Tasting several items from the menu, I am happy to report that it is not only possible to get authentic Creole cuisine in the Indy area, it is also possible to do so without breaking the bank. The catfish was flaky and moist, the breading even and not too thick. The shrimp Po Boy sandwich was stacked high with the little guys and dressed as it’s done in New Orleans – mayonnaise, lettuce, tomatoes and pickles.

The jambalaya was as good as it can get this far north. The spices were noticeable without overpowering the traditional chicken, smoked sausage, and for an extra buck, shrimp. All seafood is brought in from Louisiana. was also tipped to the fact that crawfish is only good in the months with the letter “R” in it…which means no crawfish until September.

The gumbo file was a hearty soup delicious in its combination of shrimp and spices. The side dishes, Cajun corn, and red beans and rice, were hot and delicious. Future plans are for wine and beer to be added to the menu, but for right now, soft drinks are available. The décor was reminiscent of the former occupant, a coffee shop, and there is Dixie music in the air.

Outdoor seating is available, as are catering and delivery options. I have been invited back to check out the lunch menu. That sounds like a great idea, since I want to try the pralines from the dessert menu. The prices are reasonable and the steady stream of customers gives the distinct impression that this eatery has a very bright future.
T:  (317) 272-1077; Website: Nawlinscreolecafe.com Address: 1118 N State Road 267, Avon, IN
Elizabeth J. Musgrave is a syndicated columnist, travel writer, performing arts and restaurant critic. Catch her as Indy’s Arts & Entertainment Adviser on 93 WIBC, and follow her on Twitter @ejmusgrave1 and Facebook. Gotta Go is published in the following newspapers: South Sider Voice, Indiana Weekender, New Palestine Reporter, Pendleton Times Reporter and Fortville-McCordsville Reporter.