Fat Pat’s in Lafayette, Louisiana, is a beloved local eatery known for its delicious Southern cooking, especially its hearty po’boys, seafood, and Cajun-inspired dishes. The restaurant has built a strong reputation for quality food, generous portions, and friendly service.
This article delves into the full spectrum of Fat Pat’s menu offerings, providing detailed descriptions, pricing information, and recommendations. Whether you’re a local or just visiting Lafayette, understanding the menu will help you select the perfect meal and enjoy the authentic flavors of Louisiana.
Introduction to Fat Pat’s
Located in the heart of Lafayette, Fat Pat’s is a staple for anyone looking to experience genuine Southern comfort food. The restaurant combines traditional recipes with fresh ingredients, making it a favorite among families, students, and tourists alike.
The atmosphere at Fat Pat’s is casual and welcoming, offering a cozy setting that complements its robust menu. Many diners return frequently for their signature dishes, which showcase the rich culinary heritage of Louisiana.
“Fat Pat’s is the go-to spot for authentic Cajun flavors in Lafayette. The po’boys are unbeatable, and the friendly vibe makes every meal memorable.”
– Local Food Blogger
Menu Categories Overview
The menu at Fat Pat’s is thoughtfully organized into several key categories. This helps diners easily navigate through their choices and find exactly what they’re craving.
The main categories include:
- Po’Boys
- Seafood
- Appetizers
- Salads & Sandwiches
- Platters & Combos
- Sides
- Desserts
- Beverages
Each category features a diverse array of options that highlight Louisiana’s rich culinary traditions.
Po’Boys
Po’boys are a hallmark of Louisiana cuisine, and Fat Pat’s excels in crafting these sandwiches with fresh bread, generous fillings, and the perfect blend of spices. The bread is always crispy on the outside and soft inside, providing a fantastic base for the fillings.
| Po’Boy | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Shrimp Po’Boy | Fresh fried shrimp served with lettuce, tomato, and Fat Pat’s special sauce on French bread. | $12.99 |
| Oyster Po’Boy | Crispy fried oysters, dressed with lettuce, tomato, and remoulade sauce. | $14.49 |
| Catfish Po’Boy | Golden fried catfish fillets, served with pickles, lettuce, and tartar sauce. | $13.99 |
| Soft Shell Crab Po’Boy | Seasonal delicacy featuring fried soft shell crab with lettuce and tomato. | $15.99 |
| Roast Beef Po’Boy | Slow-cooked roast beef smothered in gravy and served on fresh bread. | $11.99 |
| Combo Po’Boy | A mix of shrimp and oysters, fried to perfection and served with all the classic fixings. | $16.49 |
These po’boys are well-loved for their balance of flavors and fresh ingredients. Many regulars recommend trying the Oyster Po’Boy during oyster season for a true taste of Louisiana’s seafood heritage.
Seafood Selections
Beyond po’boys, Fat Pat’s offers a variety of seafood entrees. The seafood here is sourced fresh and prepared with Cajun spices and cooking methods that bring out bold flavors.
| Dish | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Fried Catfish Plate | Hand-breaded catfish fillets fried until golden brown, served with two sides and hush puppies. | $14.99 |
| Blackened Redfish | Fresh redfish seasoned with Cajun spices and pan-seared, served with rice and vegetables. | $17.99 |
| Seafood Gumbo | A traditional Louisiana stew with shrimp, crab, and sausage in a rich roux-based broth. | $10.99 (cup) / $14.99 (bowl) |
| Shrimp & Grits | Sautéed shrimp served over creamy cheese grits with a spicy Cajun sauce. | $16.49 |
| Crawfish Étouffée | Slow-cooked crawfish tails in a flavorful roux served over white rice. | $15.99 |
These dishes showcase the depth and variety of Louisiana seafood cuisine. Shrimp & Grits and Crawfish Étouffée are particularly popular among those wanting a comforting, hearty meal.
Appetizers
Start your meal right with Fat Pat’s tempting appetizers. Perfect for sharing or enjoying solo, these starters offer a glimpse into the rich flavors available throughout the menu.
| Appetizer | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Fried Pickles | Crispy battered dill pickle slices served with ranch dipping sauce. | $6.99 |
| Stuffed Jalapeños | Jalapeños stuffed with cream cheese and sausage, fried to perfection. | $7.49 |
| Crab Cakes | Homemade crab cakes served with remoulade sauce. | $8.99 |
| Buffalo Wings | Spicy chicken wings tossed in buffalo sauce, served with celery and blue cheese. | $9.49 |
These appetizers perfectly complement any meal at Fat Pat’s and are often praised for their bold flavors and satisfying textures.
Salads and Sandwiches
For lighter options or those who want something fresh, Fat Pat’s offers a selection of salads and sandwiches. These are crafted with fresh ingredients and house-made dressings.
| Item | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Chicken Caesar Salad | Grilled chicken breast over romaine lettuce with parmesan and croutons, tossed in Caesar dressing. | $11.99 |
| House Salad | Mixed greens, tomatoes, cucumbers, and onions with choice of dressing. | $6.99 |
| Club Sandwich | Turkey, ham, bacon, lettuce, tomato, and mayo on toasted bread. | $10.99 |
| Grilled Chicken Sandwich | Marinated grilled chicken breast with lettuce, tomato, and mayo on a bun. | $10.49 |
These dishes offer a fresh contrast to the heavier Cajun specialties, providing balance for diners looking for variety.
Platters & Combos
For those with a bigger appetite or who want to sample multiple items, platters and combination meals are ideal. These come with sides and sometimes bread, offering a complete experience.
| Platter/Combo | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Seafood Platter | A generous portion of fried shrimp, catfish, oysters, and crawfish tails served with two sides. | $21.99 |
| Po’Boy & Side Combo | Choice of any po’boy served with fries or potato salad. | $16.99 |
| Chicken & Sausage Combo | Grilled chicken breast and smoked sausage served with rice and veggies. | $18.49 |
These platters are perfect for sharing or for guests who want a hearty meal with variety.
Sides
Fat Pat’s offers a variety of classic Southern sides to complement any main dish. These sides are crucial to the full Louisiana dining experience.
| Side | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| French Fries | Golden, crispy fries seasoned to perfection. | $3.49 |
| Potato Salad | Creamy and tangy classic potato salad. | $3.99 |
| Cole Slaw | Freshly shredded cabbage with a sweet and tangy dressing. | $3.49 |
| Hush Puppies | Deep-fried cornmeal batter balls, crispy outside and soft inside. | $4.49 |
| Red Beans & Rice | Traditional Louisiana dish slow-cooked with spices and smoked sausage. | $5.99 |
Many customers recommend pairing the fried catfish or po’boys with hush puppies and cole slaw for a complete Southern meal.
Desserts
Finish your meal with one of Fat Pat’s delightful desserts. The sweet offerings here are simple but capture the essence of Southern hospitality.
| Dessert | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Beignets | Light and fluffy fried pastries dusted with powdered sugar. | $5.99 |
| Pecan Pie | Classic Southern pecan pie with a rich filling and flaky crust. | $6.49 |
| Banana Pudding | Creamy banana pudding layered with vanilla wafers and whipped cream. | $5.99 |
These desserts are perfect for those wanting a sweet finish that complements the hearty Cajun flavors of the main courses.
Beverages
Fat Pat’s offers a variety of beverages to accompany your meal, including soft drinks, iced tea, and specialty drinks that enhance the dining experience.
| Beverage | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Sweet Tea | Traditional Southern sweet iced tea, freshly brewed. | $2.99 |
| Lemonade | Refreshing homemade lemonade. | $2.99 |
| Soft Drinks | Various sodas available (Coke, Diet Coke, Sprite, etc.) | $2.49 |
| Local Beer | Selection of local Louisiana craft beers (availability varies). | $5.99 |
Special Notes About Fat Pat’s
Fat Pat’s also offers catering services and special event packages, making it a versatile option for group gatherings or celebrations.
Customer Favorites & Recommendations
Some of the most popular items at Fat Pat’s include:
- Shrimp Po’Boy: Renowned for its crispy shrimp and flavorful sauce.
- Crawfish Étouffée: A rich and hearty dish that embodies Cajun cooking.
- Seafood Platter: Ideal for seafood lovers who want a variety on their plate.
- Beignets: A perfect sweet treat to end the meal.
Regular visitors often praise the consistent quality and the friendly, down-to-earth atmosphere.
“Every visit to Fat Pat’s reminds me why I love Louisiana food so much. The flavors are deep, the portions are generous, and the staff treats you like family.”
– Repeat Customer
Location and Hours
Fat Pat’s is conveniently located in Lafayette, accessible to both locals and tourists. The restaurant maintains hours that accommodate lunch and dinner crowds.
| Day | Hours |
|---|---|
| Monday – Thursday | 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM |
| Friday – Saturday | 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM |
| Sunday | Closed |
Reservations are not typically required but recommended during peak times, especially weekends.
Conclusion
Fat Pat’s in Lafayette, LA, offers a rich menu steeped in Southern and Cajun traditions. From the crispy po’boys to flavorful seafood platters and classic sides, the menu caters to a wide range of tastes and preferences.
The restaurant’s commitment to quality ingredients and authentic preparation ensures a memorable dining experience. Whether you’re craving a quick po’boy sandwich or a full seafood platter, Fat Pat’s provides an inviting atmosphere and delicious food that captures the spirit of Louisiana.
Next time you find yourself in Lafayette, be sure to visit Fat Pat’s and indulge in the iconic flavors of Cajun cuisine.
