You walk into this unassuming spot on West University Avenue and immediately, the humidity of South Louisiana hits you differently. It’s not just the weather; it’s the steam from massive pots of gravy and the scent of fried catfish that has been perfected over three generations. Honestly, if you’re looking for a white-tablecloth experience with tiny portions, Laura's 2 Lafayette LA is going to be a massive shock to your system.
People talk about "soul food" like it’s a generic category you can find in any strip mall. In Lafayette, that's just not how it works.
The Real Story Behind the Gravy
Madonna Broussard, the powerhouse behind the current iteration of the restaurant, didn’t just wake up one day and decide to fry chicken. This place started in her grandmother’s kitchen back in 1968. Think about that. While the rest of the country was dealing with massive cultural shifts, Laura Williams Broussard was in her home on Voorhies Street, perfecting a stuffed turkey wing that would eventually catch the attention of legends like Anthony Bourdain.
It wasn't always a storefront. For a while, the business lived in a trailer after a house fire. That kind of resilience is baked into the crust of every pork chop they serve.
You’ve probably heard people call it "Laura's II" or "Laura's 2 Lafayette LA," but locals just know it as the place where the "Plate Lunch Lady" rules. Madonna was recently named a semifinalist for the 2025 James Beard Award for Best Chef: South. That's a huge deal. It’s the culinary equivalent of an Oscar, yet she’s still there, often personally greeting people with a "How you doing, baby?"
Why Laura's 2 Lafayette LA Isn't Just Another Lunch Spot
Most folks think a plate lunch is just a quick meal you grab because you’re on a clock. At Laura's 2, the plate lunch is a ritual. If you arrive at 1:00 PM and expect every menu item to be available, you’re playing a dangerous game. They open at 10:30 AM and close by 2:30 PM (or when the food runs out).
- The Rice and Gravy: This is the foundation. It’s not that thin, watery stuff you get at a cafeteria. It’s dark, rich, and has a "stick-to-the-ribs" consistency that requires a serious nap afterward.
- Stuffed Turkey Wings: This is the undisputed heavyweight champion of the menu. They are massive. They are tender. And they are stuffed with a savory dressing that makes you wonder why you ever settled for plain poultry.
- The "Jargon": You aren't just a customer; you're family. The staff uses that Lafayette lingo that makes the whole experience feel less like a transaction and more like Sunday dinner at your aunt's house.
The portion sizes are actually kind of hilarious. They serve almost everything in take-out containers, even if you’re eating there, because there is physically no way a standard plate could contain the amount of food they give you. It’s a mountain of rice, a sea of gravy, and sides like smothered okra or macaroni and cheese that could be meals on their own.
The Bourdain Effect and Modern Fame
When Anthony Bourdain visited for Parts Unknown, it put a global spotlight on the 1904 W University Ave location. But fame hasn't changed the soul of the place. You still see construction workers sitting next to guys in suits and tourists who look slightly lost but very excited.
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Recently, the food influencer Mr. Chimetime called his meal at Laura's 2 the highest-rated he’s ever had. He wasn't exaggerating. When you taste the crispy fried catfish or the smothered country-style ribs, you realize that the "secret" isn't a spice—it's the time. They don't cut corners.
- Consistency is King: They use the same seasoning blends and cutting styles established in the late 60s.
- Generational Hand-off: Madonna’s daughter, Lacey, represents the fourth generation. That’s rare in the restaurant world.
- Community Roots: They aren't just feeding people; they are preserving Creole culture in a world that’s becoming increasingly homogenized.
What to Know Before You Go
If you’re planning a trip to Laura's 2 Lafayette LA, don't just wing it.
First, check the daily specials. Wednesdays are huge for turkey wings, but honestly, they’ve started carrying them more often because the demand is just relentless. If you see the stuffed baked pork chops on the menu, buy two. You’ll thank me at 9:00 PM when you’re looking for a snack.
Second, the spice level is real. Creole food isn't just "hot" for the sake of being hot; it’s seasoned. But if you have a low tolerance, maybe keep a bottle of water (or a Fresh Fruit Chiller) close by.
Lastly, understand the hours. They are a lunch-only spot. They are closed on Mondays. If you show up on a Tuesday at noon, expect a line. It moves fast, but the anticipation is part of the experience.
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Actionable Tips for the Best Experience:
- Download the Apps: If you’re in a rush, they are on DoorDash and Uber Eats, but you lose the atmosphere. Go in person at least once.
- Talk to the Staff: Ask what's fresh. They’ll tell you if the cornbread dressing is particularly "on point" that day.
- The Side Game: Don't sleep on the broccoli and cheese casserole. It sounds basic, but it’s a sleeper hit.
- Parking: It can be a bit tight in that lot on University. Just be patient.
The reality is that places like Laura's 2 are disappearing. We live in a world of "concept" restaurants and corporate-backed bistros. Finding a spot where the owner’s grandmother’s recipes are still the law of the land is a rare thing. It’s messy, it’s loud, it’s crowded, and it is arguably the best meal you will ever have in Acadiana.
Next Steps for Your Visit:
Map out your route to 1904 W University Ave and aim to arrive by 11:00 AM to ensure the full menu is available. Check their official Facebook page for the "Daily Plate" announcement to see if they're serving your favorite smothered specialty before you head out.