It's a favorite dining spot for most locals, including
area celebrities, politicians and other notable figures. Why is that? Maybe it's the
great food. Many of the menu items can't be found anywhere else. Or maybe it's the
patriotic atmosphere. The walls are covered with military memorabilia...not bought at some
anonymous yard sale, but belonging to the owner and donated, by customers, family and friends.
Either way, you're going to love it. Welcome to Southside Cafe in Slidell, La.
We had the opportunity to sit down with manager Chris Legrand after a
delicious late lunch one day and chat about the history, the ambience, and the uniqueness of this
popular Northshore restaurant.
The story starts out simply enough: owners Dan and Sharon Deblanc opened the restaurant in
March of 1991 with Chris by their side. In an attempt to decorate a bit, Dan hung a few
pictures and other items from his days in the Marines Corps on the walls. Soon customers were
donating their own military treasures. They contributed military photos and memoribilia of
their parents, children, aunts, uncles, cousins, friends, and so on. It wasn't long before the
place took on a uniquely personal neighborhood charm. Today, Southside Cafe serves as a
tribute to the men and women of the United States Armed Forces. If you're from the Northshore,
chances are you'll see someone you know in one of the many photos on the walls.
But Southside is known for more than it's atmosphere; it's known for it's excellent food and
specials. Thursday and Saturday nights are Steak Nights, when one can have a complete steak
dinner for under $12.00. Wednesday night is the ever popular Bike Night, which started out
with maybe 20-30 motorcyclists converging at Southside, and has grown in recent years to a crowd of
more than 100 motorcyclists and enthusiasts, and there are plans to expand it. In fact, over
the summer of 2003 Southside will join with Miller Lite and Harley Davidson, hosting live radio
remotes, having prize give always, and much more! It's expected to bring in a crowd of well
over 200 participants.
Southside's menu features over 15 specialty sandwiches as well as New Orleans classics such as
muffulettas and po-boys. There's something for everyone, unique combinations that make your
taste buds sing. In addition to the original menu specialties, like the now famous Big Mo
Jamma, you'll also find many newer specialty sandwiches unique to Southside. Many of these
specialty sandwiches have been invented by Southside employees over the years in order to keep
Southside's selections interesting and unique. The Pontchartrain Pig, Bayou Bird, and Front
Street Mesquite Chicken are a few delicious examples of these brainstorms. Get an order of
"Killa" Fries or Onion String Rings to go with your sandwich and you'll know why Southside
Cafe is the locals' favorite!
For the calorie conscious, Southside offers a
number of delicious menu items that make it easy to eat healthy. Great salads made with fresh
Romaine and spinach with many toppings to choose from, grilled fish dishes like the Grilled Catfish
and Yellowfin Tuna, are just a few of these dishes. Southside Cafe also offers unique side
dishes such as delicious homemade soups, Sweet potato fries and much more. These menu items
are really just a few of the many fabulous choices available. Peruse the menu; you're sure to find something to tempt your
tummy!
Since 1991, Southside has grown...in fact doubled in size. But the same neighborhood warmth
and patriotic atmosphere prevail; it's a place where people WANT to be. Once you experience
Southside's great food, service and ambiance, you'll know why.
The restaurant is open seven days a week; 11 am - 10 pm Monday through Friday, 11 am - 11 pm
on Saturday, and 12 pm - 8 pm on Sunday. The bar is open Monday through Saturday from 11 am
until...well, whenever things slow down or 2 am, whichever comes first, and on Sunday from 12 pm -
8pm.
Southside is truly a "Hot Spot"; one that everyone will enjoy,
especially those now or formerly active in the military. Check out the food, the fun, the
memories, and the neighborhood feel of SOUTHSIDE CAFE.
Click here
to view Southside Cafe's complete menu, specials and more restaurant information.
