Ruston is a thriving college community with small-town charm. Best known for growing some of the sweetest peaches in Louisiana, Ruston has a lot to offer and is perfect for a quick weekend getaway. Not only is the 18-block historic downtown district filled with a variety of specialty shops and historic attractions; however, there’s one restaurant, in particular, that has one of the most unique vibes you’ll ever dine in. Let’s check it out.

Ponchatoulas was founded in 1996 by Johnny Guadet.

Team Crume/Google

Located on Park Avenue in downtown Ruston, the building has quite the history behind it.

Ponchatoulas/Google

The building is over 100 years old and has served a number of purposes before being converted to a restaurant in the 1980s.

Alan Waggy/Google

Not only was the space a former fire station in the early 1900s, but the KRUS radio station also used the building for a number of years.

Josef Cook/Google The one and only Elvis Presley recorded his music in the upstairs studio!

Since Ponchatoulas took over in 1996, they’ve been quite the staple for a family-friendly dining experience in Ruston.

Ponchatoulas Restaurant/Facebook

The menu features a wide variety of Cajun food.

Ponchatoulas Restaurant/Facebook

From seafood gumbo to boudin balls, Ponchatoulas is like a little slice of Cajun Country hiding in northern Louisiana.

Ponchatoulas/Google

The red beans and rice are legendary, and an absolute must-try when you visit.

Management/Trip Advisor

Of course, you’ll also find incredible seafood dishes and hearty po’boys that will require a stack of napkins to get through.

Ponchatoulas Restaurant/Facebook And we all know that the best po’boys are judged by how many napkins you go through.

Address: 109 E Park Avenue, Ruston, LA, 71270

Team Crume/Google

Ponchatoulas/Google

Alan Waggy/Google

Josef Cook/Google

The one and only Elvis Presley recorded his music in the upstairs studio!

Ponchatoulas Restaurant/Facebook

Management/Trip Advisor

And we all know that the best po’boys are judged by how many napkins you go through.

 

For more information, including a full menu and hours of operation, check out their website and don’t forget to follow them on Facebook.

Ruston has plenty of amazing restaurants peppered around the town. If you’re craving Tex-Mex or BBQ, why not head over to the Log Cabin Grill where you can feast like a king on some of the most delicious Tex-Mex around.

Have you ever dined at Ponchatoulas? Share your experience with us in the comments below!

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