Review - Middendorf's Restaurant, Akers, LA

Interstate 55 runs from Lake Michigan in Illinois to Lake Ponchartrain in Louisiana. There are many interesting places to dine along its approximately 900 mile length. One of the best is a place tucked nearly under I-55 out in the Louisiana swamp where Pass Manchac enters Lake Maurepas.  Middendorf's Restaurant offers a full array of delicious seafood, prepared country style or Cajun style.

Looking for catfish? At Middendorf's you'll find thinly sliced catfish fillets (fried to golden crispy perfection) or traditional thick catfish. Fried or broiled, you'll find great taste on your plate.

Oysters, crayfish and shrimp are available as well, prepared in a variety of fashions.

Middendorf's is a great family-style restaurant, with options for those who prefer milder flavoring as well as the spicy dishes many expect from south Louisiana cuisine. Non-drinkers can enjoy a great seafood meal for under $20.00. A bar is available for those who choose to imbibe. The staff has no problem rearranging tables to accommodate any size group.

The jaunty red awnings on the front windows bid welcome.The atmosphere is very casual, reminiscent of an old fishing camp, but bigger and cleaner. You'll find lots of wood in the decor and lots of good eating on the menu. And ladies, check out the retro decor in the ladies' room.

Middendorf's has been in operation since 1934, when Louis Middendorf founded the restaurant. It recently changed hands. New Orleans restauranteurs Karen and Horst Pfieffer purchased the Middendorf's in March of 2007, according to the Greater Baton Rouge Business Report. They are quoted as not planning to make any changes, so you'll be able to count on getting the same wonderful food, from a menu where the emphasis is Louisiana seafood cooked with down-home care.

If your travels take you to New Orleans or Baton Rouge, you're only about an hour away from a great meal at Middendorf's. Exit I-55 at Pass Manchac, go east (about 30 seconds after you exit!) to U.S. 51 and turn south to Middendorf's (about another 30 seconds). I haven't seen much else in Akers, LA, but with Middendorf's there, what else do they need?

© Mary Beth Magee 2007