VOODOO BAYOU
My friend, Paula, and I have been wanting to do reviews of local restaurants and give exposure to small businesses at the beginning of the year but then COVID hit and our plans were put on pause. It worked out though because businesses need all the exposure they can get right now to drive business back in. As we all know, the travel and hospitality sector took a big hit and I want to do what I can. I want to encourage people to uncover the hidden gems in their own cities and support local businesses as much as possible. I will start doing these on a regular basis and to keep this post authentic, I just want to add that I willingly went there and spent my own money. My recommendations are based on what I have tried so far, the few times I have been, but when I go back I will update this post if needed, although I usually stick to my favorites wherever I go.
Paula, who is super photogenic as always, was drinking La Fin du Monde Amber Ale, which is very on brand since we are in a pandemic. It means the end of the world!
Voodoo Bayou is a New Orleans-themed located in Downtown Palm Beach Gardens, Florida. It is located next to Yard House. They opened for only a week before quarantine was made official and unfortunately had to close for a few months. They quickly adapted and started offering to-go options and pantry items.
Fast forward to now, Voodoo Bayou is the place to be! You will definitely need a reservation because this place is always packed. Since guests are not allowed to be at the bar now, you can wait for your table at one of the barrels outside and order a drink before you are seated. It is a little pricey, especially if you get drinks, but it is a great place for a special occasion. I recommend you get several plates (you will definitely want to when you see the menu) so you can try and share with your party.
While we waited, I ordered a Blanche Devereaux (seasonal) made with Casamigos Silver Tequila, Watermelon Juice, Coconut Elixer and Champagne. Paula ordered the New Orleans Mule made with Tito's Handmade Vodka, Ginger, Lime Juice, Pineapple Juice and Peyschaude's Bitters.
the vibe
The exterior gives no clue as to what is in store for you upon entering. When you walk through the front doors you realize the ambiance is very different than most places. The lighting is dark and moody but lit up by carefully placed spotlights at the tables, candles and most importantly, the featured rose "windows" at the bar that adds personality to the restaurant.
The mezzanine features a mural of the bayou and has vernacular balcony railings you see on Bourbon Street in New Orleans and throughout the city. On the mezzanine, there is also another bar. You can host larger parties up there and have privacy which is nice!
Photos above courtesy of Voodoo Bayou. I didn't want to be weird and take photos of people dining.
FOOD
You must try the Buttermilk Biscuits that are accompanied by honey butter (my favorite) and jalapeño pear jam.
FOR STARTERS:
The Buttermilk Biscuits and the Fried Oysters are amazing! Also, the Cornbread is great to start with too even though it is listed as a side. It comes with butter and a vinaigrette glaze which I have never thought went together, until now.
This is the Strawberry Citrus Reviver made with Tito's Handmade Vodka, Lemon Juice, Orange Blossom Honey and Fresh Strawberries! It was really good and refreshing! I love the attention to details of this place. Everything, down to the silverware, was carefully selected.
MAIN COURSE:
The Mushroom "Bolognese" is such a unique and delicious dish. I have never tried anything like it anywhere else. You can make it vegan by not getting the cheese on it. It is a huge portion so you will happily have leftovers!
RECOMMENDATIONS:
If you want to ball out, the Cajun Ribeye is delicious. It is $36 and comes with Bourbon Jus, Chili Butter (so good!) and Marinated Tomatoes. The price is worth it! You will have to get an extra side since it doesn't come with one but they have so many great options such as their: Mac & Cheese, Smashed Marbled Potatoes and Garlicky Green Beans which are all made with a southern flair. Another really good dish is the Louisiana Styled Fried Chicken that comes with Buttermilk Biscuits on the side. It has two different honey glazes on the side, one of them has a little kick to it. The honey sticks they provide so you can put the glaze on your chicken is such a thoughtful detail. I thought it was really cute! For dessert, your meal would not be complete without the Beignets, which are slightly crunchy on the outside and warm and softer on the inside.
If you like spice in your life:
COCKTAIL: Snake Oil Salesman made with Corazon Silver Tequila, Ancho Reyes, Jalapeño Elixer, Lime Juice, Agave Nectar and Tajin
DISH: Jambalaya made with Shrimp, Andouille, Chicken, Jasmine Rice, Peppers, Tomatoes and Crispy Okra
IF YOU ARE VEGETARIAN/VEGAN:
You are kind of screwed because there aren't that many options. Like I stated above, you can get the Mushroom "Bolognese" and ask them to not give you the cheese if you are vegan. If you aren't a mushroom person, you can get a few sides but that would make me personally feel like I am missing out. You definitely can't get the full experience here if you are vegetarian or vegan. Southern food is probably the furthest from being plant-based but I hope they provide more options in the future to allow for everyone to feel welcome by this amazing restaurant. It would be really cool if they were able to adapt some New Orlean styled dishes to be vegetarian and vegan friendly!
Location:
11701 Lake Victoria Gardens Ave., Suite 5095
Palm Beach Gardens, FL 33410