Tom B.
Yelp
There aren't many good eating options in the Laurel District of Oakland, but this is definitely one of them.
I very much like and recommend this place.
Having lunch here was so relaxing and nice. The place is super clean and looks new and contemporary. The display case of options, many for take-out, is mouthwatering in itself. Everything is displayed so well, and looks incredibly freshly prepared.
There's a variety of seating and table service available.
I saw a Jambalaya in the display case and although not on the lunch menu I inquired if it's available. Yes, it was! So I ordered it and it came as an ample portion in a bowl with a big square of cornbread with it. YES!
Having lived in New Orleans and periodically visit I am very particular about Jambalaya. Like with gumbo there are hundreds or variations, and this one was superb. The rice was perfectly cooked and all the ingredients nicely melded together. Big, beefy slices of sausage, I suspect andouille, made it a taste treat, and right before Mardi Gras too!
I did add a hefty amount of hot sauce, as I would with many southern dishes.
The cornbread was delicious, moist and baked well. The only thing I would have preferred is if it had been warmed a bit to spread the butter.
My dining companion had an open face tuna sandwich and it looked delectable. It appeared to be a far healthier choice than mine, but hey before Lent you got to splurge! OK, truth be known I don't observe Lent, perhaps only symbolically so.
I will definitely return and I hope they keep up the good quality and care. It shows.