Authentic New Orleans Cuisine in Austin - 'Lil' Easy'

Entering Lil' Easy in Austin feels like stepping straight into the heart of New Orleans. Nestled within Austin's vibrant cityscape, this gem captures the essence of Creole and Cajun cuisine with a unique Texas twist. From the moment you step inside, the lively atmosphere, filled with the sounds of jazz and the rich, aromatic smells of Southern cooking, invites you to relax and enjoy a culinary journey.

The ambiance at Lil' Easy strikes a perfect balance between casual and chic. The décor features a blend of rustic wooden tables, colorful murals, and vintage New Orleans memorabilia, creating a cozy yet lively environment. The outdoor seating area is particularly inviting, with string lights and lush greenery making it an ideal spot for an evening meal under the stars. The staff are incredibly welcoming and knowledgeable, eager to share recommendations and stories about the dishes. The setting outside Lil’ Easy immediately sets you in the right frame of mind for laissez les bon temps roulez. On a far stretch of East Cesar Chavez Street, the large, shaded patio is filled with paint-chipped wrought-iron tables and chairs and enclosed by tropical plants. Two large windows, painted with signage advertising “fresh oysters” and “daquiris,” look into the dining room. And if you’re not yet convinced that you’re entering a laidback Cajun dive, the alligator door handles will get you there. We stopped for lunch on a Wednesday and were a little surprised that the dining room was full (it was July, after all). We took a seat at a bar top and ordered frozen drinks to offset the heat outside.

The menu at Lil' Easy is a celebration of classic New Orleans flavors. Start with the crispy fried green tomatoes, served with a tangy remoulade that perfectly complements the tartness of the tomatoes. Another must-try appetizer is the gumbo, a rich and hearty stew brimming with fresh seafood, smoky sausage, and okra. Each spoonful is a testament to the authenticity and care put into recreating this beloved dish.

For the main course, the shrimp and grits are a standout. The shrimp are plump and juicy, cooked to perfection and served atop a bed of creamy, buttery grits. The dish is elevated by a flavorful sauce that ties all the elements together seamlessly. If you're in the mood for something heartier, the jambalaya is an excellent choice. Packed with tender chicken, sausage, and shrimp, it's a symphony of spices and textures that will leave you thoroughly satisfied. Best was the cherry limeade, which had an impressive depth of flavor—like it was made with sour cherries—and while we had the nonalcoholic version, spirits can be added for a charge. We found the deviled eggs—each topped with a crispy piece of tasso ham and green onion—to be a little tough, as if the eggs were overcooked a bit. We were far more delighted with the entrées. The prime rib debris po’boy featured thin slices of beef, caramelized onion, and horseradish aioli, with jus for dipping. The filling sandwich came on a classic Leidenheimer roll seared with Parmesan, but we both agreed that the funky cheese didn’t necessarily meld well with the other flavors. On the other hand, the fried shrimp basket, which came with tasty hushpuppies and Creole-seasoned fries, was excellent: light, fresh, and not at all chewy. It’s worth checking the menu for the daily special, which features Louisiana favorites like jambalaya, crawfish étouffée, and seafood gumbo. We capped off our meal with the rum-glaze-covered mini bundt cake and a scoop of vanilla ice cream, which was much needed after the savory Cajun food bomb. It may not necessarily convert native New Orleanians, but Lil Easy is a fun, accessible, affordable spot for quick catchups and leisurely happy hours.

No visit to Lil' Easy is complete without indulging in their beignets. These pillowy, sugar-dusted treats are the perfect ending to any meal, transporting you to the streets of the French Quarter with each bite. Pair them with a cup of chicory coffee for an authentic New Orleans experience. The dessert menu also features a delectable bread pudding, rich and moist with a delightful bourbon sauce.

During my second visit, I found the staff friendly and ready to take our drink order once we settled in. The menus are all via QR code, so keep that in mind, as my friend's phone had a little trouble pulling it up. I had the French 75 and the frozen Saturn (10oz comes in a glass and then 16oz in the cute plastic cup). As for food, we loved the variety here compared to other spots in Austin. I can't say I've seen a Cajun meat pie elsewhere, so I had to try it. It was similar to a Jamaican patty in shape and crust type, but the flavors differed. My friend got the oyster po'boy as she was just fresh off a New Orleans trip and said you don't see that one on Austin menus either. They're still working out some kinks, as we got some cheese fries by mistake, but overall, the food is good, and the drinks are even better.

One final point, my wife and I were born in southwest Louisiana…and the food, drinks, and service here reminded us of home. We decided to sit at the bar where we were attended to immediately and even greeted by one of the owners. We tried the boudin, deviled eggs, meat pie, gumbo, potato salad, shrimp po boy, sazerac, Bloody Mary, and daiquiri. The boudin and sausage are from Poche's and are perfection. The Bloody Mary was one of the best I've had and the daiquiri requires you to call an Uber. The inside and patio felt like we were transported back home. I like my food a little more spicier but everything was flavored so well. I only took a picture of the Bloody Mary because I was so excited to eat :,)

Lil' Easy in Austin is a delightful homage to New Orleans cuisine, offering an array of dishes that are both comforting and exciting. Whether you're a longtime fan of Creole cooking or new to these flavors, Lil' Easy provides a warm, inviting atmosphere and a menu that will leave you eager to return. It's a must-visit for anyone looking to savor the soulful tastes of the Big Easy right in the heart of Texas.

5000 E Cesar Chavez St, Austin, TX 78702

(512) 631-2812

www.lileasyatx.com