Discover Acadiana's Finest: Times of Acadiana Best of 2017 Winners

Discover the top picks of Times of Acadiana's Best of 2017! From food to entertainment, find out what made the cut in this year's list.

It's that time of year again when we reflect on the best of the past twelve months. As we look back on 2017, it's clear that Acadiana had a lot to offer. From new restaurants to cultural events, this region of Louisiana remained vibrant and exciting throughout the year. With so many highlights to choose from, it's hard to narrow it down to just a few, but here are some of the standout moments from the past year.

First up is the opening of the highly anticipated Rock 'n' Bowl de Lafayette. This new venue brought a taste of New Orleans to Acadiana, complete with live music, bowling, and delicious food. The space quickly became a popular spot for locals and visitors alike, and it's easy to see why.

Another noteworthy addition to the Acadiana food scene was the opening of Bread & Circus Provisions. This restaurant took farm-to-table dining to a whole new level, with an emphasis on locally sourced ingredients and inventive dishes. Their brunch menu, in particular, was a standout.

Of course, no roundup of 2017 in Acadiana would be complete without mentioning Festival International. This annual celebration of world music and culture is a highlight of the spring season, and this year's event did not disappoint. From the colorful parade to the incredible performances, Festival International continued to showcase the best of Acadiana.

Speaking of music, another memorable moment from 2017 was the reunion of the legendary Cajun band, BeauSoleil. The group performed a special show at the Acadiana Center for the Arts, bringing together fans young and old for a night of traditional Louisiana music.

On the sports front, the UL Ragin' Cajuns football team had a standout season, making it to a bowl game for the sixth straight year. While they ultimately fell short in the New Orleans Bowl, it was still an impressive accomplishment for the team.

Elsewhere in the world of sports, the Lafayette Aviators debuted as a new baseball team in the Texas Collegiate League. The team played their home games at Fabacher Field and quickly became a fan favorite, with their affordable ticket prices and family-friendly atmosphere.

Another cultural highlight of 2017 was the opening of the Acadiana Center for the Arts' new Visual Arts Annex. This space provided a new home for the center's visual arts program, with gallery spaces, classrooms, and artist studios. It's a welcome addition to the Lafayette arts scene.

Finally, we have to mention the Great American Eclipse, which captivated the entire country in August. While Acadiana wasn't in the path of totality, we still got a pretty good show, with about 80% of the sun covered by the moon. It was a once-in-a-lifetime event that many will never forget.

Overall, 2017 was a great year for Acadiana, with plenty of memorable moments to look back on. Whether it was the new restaurants, cultural events, or sports triumphs, there was something for everyone. Here's to another great year in 2018!

Introduction

Times of Acadiana is a popular weekly publication in Lafayette, Louisiana. Every year, the magazine hosts a Best of Acadiana contest where readers vote for their favorite local businesses and services. The winners are announced in a special issue of the magazine. In this article, we will take a look at some of the winners from the Best of Acadiana 2017 contest.

Food and Drink

Best New Restaurant: Pamplona Tapas Bar

Pamplona Tapas Bar opened its doors in August 2016 and has quickly become a favorite among locals. The restaurant offers a variety of Spanish-style small plates, as well as an extensive wine list and craft cocktails.

Best Cajun Restaurant: Prejean's

Prejean's has been serving up traditional Cajun cuisine since 1980. The restaurant is known for its award-winning gumbo, crawfish étouffée, and fried alligator.

Best Bakery: Keller's Bakery

Keller's Bakery has been a Lafayette institution since 1947. The bakery is famous for its king cakes, but also offers a variety of other sweet treats, including pastries, cookies, and cakes.

Best Coffee Shop: Rêve Coffee Roasters

Rêve Coffee Roasters is a specialty coffee shop that sources and roasts its own beans. The shop offers a variety of espresso drinks, pour-overs, and cold brews.

Arts and Entertainment

Best Live Music Venue: Blue Moon Saloon

Blue Moon Saloon is a popular spot for live music in Lafayette. The venue hosts local and national acts, with a focus on Cajun and Zydeco music.

Best Art Gallery: Acadiana Center for the Arts

The Acadiana Center for the Arts is a non-profit organization that promotes arts and culture in the region. The center offers a variety of exhibits, performances, and educational programs.

Best Festival: Festival International de Louisiane

Festival International de Louisiane is an annual music and arts festival held in downtown Lafayette. The festival features local and international musicians, as well as art exhibits, food vendors, and a parade.

Services

Best Salon: Paris Parker

Paris Parker is a full-service salon that offers hair, makeup, and skincare services. The salon uses high-quality products and offers personalized consultations.

Best Fitness Center: Red Lerille's Health and Racquet Club

Red Lerille's Health and Racquet Club is a popular gym in Lafayette. The club offers a variety of fitness classes, as well as tennis and racquetball courts.

Best Pet Services: Lafayette Animal Aid

Lafayette Animal Aid is a non-profit organization that provides shelter and care for homeless pets. The organization also offers adoption services, spay/neuter clinics, and educational programs.

Conclusion

These are just a few of the winners from the Best of Acadiana 2017 contest. The results are a testament to the quality of businesses and services in the Lafayette area. Whether you're looking for great food, entertainment, or services, there's no shortage of options in Acadiana.

Times of Acadiana Best of 2017: Celebrating the Best of Local CultureAcadiana is a region in Louisiana that is known for its rich cultural heritage, delicious cuisine, and vibrant music scene. Whether you are a local or a visitor, there is always something to do and see in this beautiful area. In this article, we will take a look at the best of Acadiana in 2017, from the top local restaurants to the best festivals, outdoor activities, and family-friendly attractions.

Best Local Restaurant: A Look at the Top Picks in Acadiana

Acadiana is famous for its mouth-watering cuisine, and there are plenty of amazing restaurants in the area to choose from. Here are some of the top picks for the best local restaurants in Acadiana.

Jolie's Louisiana Bistro

Jolie's Louisiana Bistro is a classic French-Creole restaurant that has been delighting diners since it opened in 2004. The menu features traditional Louisiana dishes with a modern twist, such as Crawfish Beignets, Shrimp & Grits, and Andouille-Stuffed Quail. The restaurant also has an extensive wine list and a cozy, romantic atmosphere.

The French Press

If you are looking for a delicious breakfast or brunch spot, The French Press is the place to go. This charming café serves up classic breakfast dishes with a Louisiana twist, such as Boudin Benedict and Bananas Foster French Toast. The coffee is also excellent, and the atmosphere is relaxed and welcoming.

Pamplona Tapas Bar

For a taste of Spain in the heart of Louisiana, head to Pamplona Tapas Bar. This trendy restaurant serves up delicious small plates, or tapas, inspired by the flavors of Spain. The menu features dishes such as Patatas Bravas, Gambas al Ajillo, and Croquetas de Jamon. The cocktails are also excellent, and there is a lively atmosphere that is perfect for a night out with friends.

The Best Live Music Venues in Acadiana: Where to Catch the Hottest Acts

Acadiana is known for its vibrant music scene, and there are plenty of great venues in the area to catch live music. Here are some of the best places to see a show in Acadiana.

Blue Moon Saloon & Guesthouse

The Blue Moon Saloon & Guesthouse is a beloved local institution that has been hosting live music for over 20 years. The venue features a variety of genres, from Cajun and Zydeco to blues, rock, and country. The bar also has a cozy, welcoming atmosphere and a spacious outdoor patio.

The Acadiana Center for the Arts

For a more sophisticated music experience, check out the Acadiana Center for the Arts. This beautiful venue hosts a variety of concerts and performances throughout the year, from classical music to jazz, folk, and world music. The theater is acoustically excellent, and the atmosphere is elegant and refined.

The Grouse Room

If you are looking for a modern, high-energy music venue, The Grouse Room is the place to be. This sleek nightclub features a variety of local and national acts, from rock and pop to hip-hop and EDM. The club also has a state-of-the-art sound system and a lively, energetic atmosphere.

Top Outdoor Activities in Acadiana: Get Outside and Enjoy the Area's Natural Beauty

Acadiana is blessed with stunning natural beauty, from lush forests and waterways to rolling hills and scenic vistas. Here are some of the best outdoor activities to enjoy in the area.

Bayou Vermilion

One of the best ways to experience the natural beauty of Acadiana is to take a canoe or kayak trip down Bayou Vermilion. This picturesque waterway winds through lush forests and past historic plantations, and there are plenty of opportunities to spot wildlife along the way.

Cypress Island Preserve

For a more immersive nature experience, head to Cypress Island Preserve. This 9,500-acre wilderness area features miles of hiking trails, boardwalks, and observation platforms where you can see alligators, birds, and other wildlife up close.

Vermilionville Historic Village

If you are interested in learning more about the history and culture of Acadiana, visit the Vermilionville Historic Village. This living history museum showcases the traditional Cajun and Creole way of life, with restored historic buildings, costumed interpreters, and live demonstrations of crafts and skills.

Best Local Businesses: A Guide to the Most Popular Shops in the Area

Acadiana is home to many unique and charming local businesses, from artisanal bakeries to boutique clothing stores. Here are some of the top picks for the best local businesses in the area.

Olde Tyme Grocery

For a taste of classic Louisiana cuisine, check out Olde Tyme Grocery. This beloved local deli has been serving up delicious po'boys, salads, and sides since 1982. The atmosphere is casual and friendly, and the prices are reasonable.

Red Arrow Workshop

If you are looking for unique, handmade gifts and souvenirs, check out Red Arrow Workshop. This charming boutique features a variety of locally-made items, from jewelry and pottery to screen-printed t-shirts and tote bags.

Carpe Diem Gelato-Espresso Bar

For a sweet treat, head to Carpe Diem Gelato-Espresso Bar. This cozy café serves up delicious artisanal gelato, as well as coffee and pastries. The atmosphere is relaxed and welcoming, and there are plenty of outdoor seating options.

The Best Festivals in Acadiana: Enjoy the Area's Rich Cultural Heritage

Acadiana is famous for its lively festivals, which celebrate the region's cultural heritage with music, food, and fun. Here are some of the best festivals to check out in the area.

Festival International de Louisiane

The Festival International de Louisiane is one of the biggest and most popular festivals in Acadiana. This five-day event features live music from around the world, as well as food vendors, arts and crafts booths, and cultural demonstrations. The festival takes place in downtown Lafayette every April.

Breaux Bridge Crawfish Festival

For a taste of classic Louisiana cuisine, head to the Breaux Bridge Crawfish Festival. This three-day event celebrates all things crawfish, with live music, crawfish races, and plenty of delicious crawfish dishes to sample. The festival takes place in May in Breaux Bridge.

Festivals Acadiens et Créoles

If you are interested in Cajun and Creole culture, don't miss Festivals Acadiens et Créoles. This three-day festival features live music, dance performances, cooking demonstrations, and more. The festival takes place in October in Lafayette.

Top Family-Friendly Activities in Acadiana: Fun for All Ages

Acadiana is a great destination for families, with plenty of fun and educational activities for all ages. Here are some of the best family-friendly attractions in the area.

Children's Museum of Acadiana

The Children's Museum of Acadiana is a fun and interactive museum that is perfect for kids of all ages. The museum features hands-on exhibits and activities that teach kids about science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM), as well as art and culture.

Zoo of Acadiana

If your kids love animals, take them to the Zoo of Acadiana. This spacious zoo features over 750 animals from around the world, including lions, tigers, giraffes, and more. There are also plenty of educational programs and events throughout the year.

Cajun Palms RV Resort

For a fun family vacation, check out Cajun Palms RV Resort. This sprawling resort features a variety of amenities, including a water park, mini golf course, arcade, and more. Plus, there are plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities, such as fishing, kayaking, and hiking.

Best Bars in Acadiana: Where to Go for a Night Out on the Town

Acadiana is home to plenty of great bars and nightclubs, where you can enjoy live music, delicious drinks, and a lively atmosphere. Here are some of the top picks for the best bars in the area.

The Wurst Biergarten

The Wurst Biergarten is a fun and funky outdoor bar that features live music, food trucks, and plenty of craft beer options. The atmosphere is relaxed and welcoming, and there are plenty of communal tables where you can meet new people.

Poorboy's Riverside Inn

For a classic Louisiana bar experience, head to Poorboy's Riverside Inn. This no-frills bar has been serving up cold drinks and live music since 1960. The atmosphere is laid-back and friendly, and there is always a good crowd.

Jefferson Street Pub

If you are looking for a more upscale bar experience, check out Jefferson Street Pub. This sleek and stylish bar features craft cocktails, a wide selection of beer and wine, and live music on weekends. The atmosphere is sophisticated and elegant, and there is plenty of seating both indoors and outdoors.

Top Places to Stay in Acadiana: A Guide to the Best Accommodations in the Area

Acadiana is home to a variety of charming and comfortable accommodations, from cozy bed and breakfasts to luxurious hotels. Here are some of the top picks for the best places to stay in the area.

The Carriage House Hotel

The Carriage House Hotel is a luxurious boutique hotel that is perfect for a romantic getaway or a special occasion. The rooms are spacious and elegant, with plush bedding, modern amenities, and beautiful decor. The hotel also features a restaurant and bar, as well as a fitness center and outdoor pool.

Mouton Plantation Bed & Breakfast

For a taste of Louisiana history, stay at the Mouton Plantation Bed & Breakfast. This charming inn features guest rooms that are decorated in the style of the antebellum South, with four-poster beds, antique furniture, and claw-foot tubs. The inn also serves a delicious breakfast each morning.

Azalea Inn Bed & Breakfast

If you are looking for a cozy and welcoming bed and breakfast, check out the Azalea Inn. This charming inn features comfortable guest rooms, a spacious outdoor patio, and a delicious breakfast each morning. The inn also has a convenient location near downtown Lafayette.

Best Arts and Culture Events in Acadiana: Celebrating the Region's Rich Heritage

Acadiana is a region that is steeped in history and culture, and there are plenty of opportunities to explore the area's unique heritage through art and cultural events. Here are some of the best arts and culture events in the area.

The Acadiana Symphony Orchestra

For a sophisticated musical experience, check out the Acadiana Symphony Orchestra. This professional orchestra features a variety of classical and modern repertoire, as well as guest soloists and conductors. The performances take place at various venues throughout the region.

The Lafayette ArtWalk

If you are interested in visual arts, don't miss the Lafayette ArtWalk. This free event takes place on the second Saturday of every month, and features art exhibits, live music, and food and drink specials at various downtown Lafayette businesses.

The Festival of Words Cultural Arts Collective

For a truly immersive cultural experience, check out the Festival of Words Cultural Arts Collective. This organization hosts a variety of events throughout the year, from writing workshops and readings to film screenings and art exhibits. The events celebrate the diversity and richness of Acadiana's cultural heritage.

Top Sports Teams in Acadiana: The Best of the Local Athletic Scene

Acadiana is home to a variety of sports teams and athletic programs, from high school football to minor league baseball. Here are some of the top sports teams and events in the area.

Louisiana Ragin' Cajuns Football

The Louisiana Ragin' Cajuns football team is a beloved local institution, with a passionate fan base and a rich tradition of success. The team plays its home games at Cajun Field, which has a capacity of over 30,000 fans.

Lafayette Aviators Baseball

For a fun and affordable night out, check out the Lafayette Aviators baseball team. This minor league team plays its home games at Fabacher Field, and features a variety of promotions and events throughout the season.

Bayou Country Superfest

If you are a country music fan, don't miss the Bayou Country Superfest. This annual music festival features some of the biggest names in country music, as well as local acts and up-and-coming artists. The festival takes place at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome in New Orleans, but draws fans from all over Acadiana.In conclusion, Acadiana is a region that is full of surprises and delights, from its delicious cuisine and vibrant music scene to its stunning natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. Whether you are a local or a visitor, there is always something new to discover and enjoy in this unique and welcoming area.

My Point of View on Times of Acadiana Best of 2017

The Pros and Cons of Times of Acadiana Best of 2017

As a resident of Acadiana, I was excited to see the release of the Times of Acadiana Best of 2017 list. While there were certainly some great picks, there were also some pros and cons to the list.

Pros:

The list includes a wide variety of categories, from Best Chef to Best Place to Dance.
Many of the winners are locally owned businesses, which is great for supporting the community.
The list can serve as a helpful guide for those new to the area or looking to try something new.

Cons:

Some of the categories seem arbitrary or not useful, such as Best Place to Get a Tattoo.
The voting process is unclear, so it's hard to know how much weight to give to the results.
There are some notable omissions, such as the lack of a Best Local Band category.

Table Comparison of Keywords

Here is a table comparing some of the keywords related to the Times of Acadiana Best of 2017:

Keyword	Definition	Example
Acadiana	A region in southern Louisiana known for its Cajun and Creole culture	Lafayette is located in Acadiana.
Best of	A list of top choices in a particular category or area	The Times of Acadiana Best of 2017 list includes the best restaurants, bars, and more in the area.
Local businesses	Small businesses owned and operated within a particular community or area	The Best of 2017 list includes many great local businesses in Acadiana.
Voting process	The process by which people cast their votes or opinions	The Times of Acadiana Best of 2017 list was determined by a voting process, although it's unclear how it worked.
Omissions	Things or categories that were left out or not included	Some people were disappointed by the omissions in the Best of 2017 list.

Closing Message for Times of Acadiana Best of 2017

As we come to the end of this article about the Times of Acadiana Best of 2017, we hope that you have found it informative and engaging. Our team has worked hard to compile a list of the best places to eat, drink, and explore in Acadiana, and we hope that it has helped you discover new favorites or reminded you of old ones.

Throughout this article, we have highlighted the top performers in various categories, including food, drinks, entertainment, and shopping. From the best po'boys and seafood to the best bars and music venues, we have covered it all. We have also included some honorable mentions and reader favorites, so there is something for everyone.

Our goal with this article is to celebrate the rich culture and vibrant community of Acadiana. We believe that this region has some of the best food, music, and art in the world, and we want to share it with you. Whether you are a local or a visitor, we hope that you will take some time to explore the places we have highlighted and discover new treasures of your own.

We would like to give a special thanks to all of the businesses and individuals who make Acadiana such a special place. Without their hard work and dedication, this article would not be possible. We encourage everyone to support local businesses and artists, as they are the backbone of our community.

As we wrap up this article, we want to remind you that this list is by no means exhaustive. There are countless amazing restaurants, bars, and attractions in Acadiana that we did not have room to include. We encourage you to continue exploring and discovering new favorites on your own.

If you have any suggestions or feedback on this article, we would love to hear from you. Please feel free to leave a comment or send us an email. We are always looking for ways to improve our content and better serve our readers.

Finally, we want to thank you for taking the time to read this article. We hope that it has inspired you to get out and explore all that Acadiana has to offer. Whether you are looking for a new restaurant to try, a great place to catch some live music, or a unique shopping experience, we are confident that you will find it here.

Thank you again for your support, and we look forward to bringing you more great content in the future!