Chris Chandler
Google
A Taste of the Bayou in the Pacific Northwest: Altha's Louisiana Cajun Store - A Must-Visit!
As a Southern transplant happily married to a New Orleans native, I've had the immense pleasure of experiencing authentic Cajun and Creole cuisine firsthand. From countless bowls of gumbo to heaping plates of jambalaya, red beans and rice, and dirty rice, I feel confident in my ability to discern the real deal. My recent visit to Altha's wasn't just a shopping trip; it was a delightful immersion into the flavors and spirit of Louisiana.
My initial draw to Altha's Lousiana Cajun Store was the almost mythical presence of Blue Bell Ice Cream in the Pacific Northwest. And I was not disappointed! Their selection was impressive, a true testament to their commitment to bringing Southern favorites to our region. Let's be honest, there isn't a bad flavor in the Blue Bell lineup.
However, the experience transcended my ice cream quest the moment I stepped inside. Despite its unassuming location in a humble part of town, crossing the threshold of Altha's is like stepping through a portal directly to New Orleans. The air is thick with the intoxicating aroma of spices, a symphony of scents that immediately awakens the senses. The interior evokes the charm of a classic small-town general store, creating an atmosphere that instantly resonated with my own experiences and, I know, would instantly charm anyone familiar with the warmth of Southern hospitality. My wife, a true New Orleanian, would undoubtedly feel right at home here.
The service was another standout aspect of my visit. I had the pleasure of meeting the owner and his brother, two incredibly welcoming and engaging individuals. Their genuine Southern charm shone through in every interaction, making me feel like a long-lost friend.
The biggest and most delightful surprise, however, was discovering that Altha's Louisiana Cajun Store serves food! On the day of my visit, it was "Gumbou" day – their unique take on gumbo featuring boudin sausage instead of the traditional varieties. Offered a complimentary sample, I was prepared to offer polite feedback. Instead, I was utterly blown away. With the utmost sincerity, I can say that this "Gumbou" is the best variation of gumbo I have ever tasted. Yes, you read that right – I'm even willing to admit it surpasses my own attempts! The depth of flavor, the perfect balance of spices, and the unique character the boudin brought to the dish were simply exceptional. If this "Gumbou" were available in stores, it would become an immediate staple in my household. I went in for ice cream and left with a generous portion of this culinary masterpiece – and even that wasn't enough!
While my experience was overwhelmingly positive, my enthusiasm leads me to suggest a few areas for potential growth:
* Expansion is a Must! It's genuinely surprising that a gem like Altha's isn't a fixture in more cities around the region. I recall hearing about a previous location in Puyallup that unfortunately closed due to pandemic-related shutdowns. I strongly believe that a location in a rapidly growing area like Frederickson would thrive. Alternatively, or in addition, a food truck could bring their incredible offerings to a wider audience.
* Strategic Partnerships: Exploring opportunities to partner with local military base commissaries could introduce their unique products to a significant and appreciative customer base.
* Infrastructure Enhancements: To meet the inevitable demand, investing in a larger freezer for their coveted Blue Bell Ice Cream and offering larger containers for the take-home "Gumbou" would be beneficial. A larger kitchen might also be necessary to keep up with the potential for their food service.
In conclusion, Altha's Lousiana Cajun Store is more than just a store; it's an authentic taste of the South right here in the Pacific Northwest. Highly, highly recommended!