Video poker machines also are permitted in some parishes. To catch the rhythm, follow the crowd. In The Times' annual Best of Acadiana Readers' Poll, readers let us know where they go to feel the beat. Grant Street Dancehall took home top honors for both best place to dance and best place to hear live music. Randol's Cajun Restaurant also made both lists thanks to Cajun bands every night and some of the area's most talented two-steppers on the dance floor.
Many local communities host festivals or fairs to celebrate their primary industry.
For example, the Shrimp Festival in the town of Delcambre invites Acadiana residents to sample shrimp dishes, as well as local music and street fair games. BeauSoleil, Wayne Toups and Sonny Landreth, as well as national and international acts. Taking the top spots for best restaurants in Acadiana in The Times annual readers' poll were Charley G's Seafood Grill and Bar and Prejean's Restaurant. For the best in Italian fare and in romantic atmosphere, readers chose iMonelli Italian Restaurant, while La Fonda won for best Mexican restaurant and best margarita. Ruth's Chris Steakhouse was the hands-down choice for best steak, while Don's Seafood and Steakhouse was selected for its superb gumbo.