Hey y’all — Beaux LeBeak here, glidin’ in with your weekly look at what’s happening around Lake Charles from May 26–June 1.

We’ve got a stacked lineup this week: downtown’s going country with Urban Cowboy Night, the Shrimp & Grits Showdown is stirrin’ up opinions, and there’s a hands-on paint class perfect for a weekend with the kids. Looking to get away? We’re spotlighting a peaceful escape to Chicot State Park, plus plenty of live music, local art, and community events to explore.

Don’t forget to cast your vote in the LC Showdown, and check out our gear picks along the way—some of those links help keep this newsletter flyin’ (see our affiliate note below).

Catch y’all out there — I’ll be the one near the stage... or the grits.
— Beaux LeBeak

🍗 Ball’s Fried Chick-N Is Back After Nearly 5 Years!

Lake Charles' beloved Ball’s Fried Chick-N has triumphantly reopened on Enterprise Boulevard, nearly five years after Hurricane Laura forced its closure. The reopening on April 28, 2025, marks a significant milestone for the community, as the restaurant returns to the very spot where the Ball family first opened it in 2003. Owner Angela Brown-Ball expressed gratitude for the overwhelming support, noting that customers lined up early to enjoy their favorite dishes once again.

The Ball family's culinary legacy dates back to the 1940s with Ball’s Auditorium, a venue that hosted legendary performers like James Brown and The Jackson Five while serving as a community hub. Despite setbacks, including a tornado last April that delayed recovery efforts, the family's resilience has led to this much-anticipated comeback.

With the next generation now involved in the business, Ball’s Fried Chick-N is poised to continue its tradition of serving up delicious, crispy fried chicken to the Lake Charles community.

🙏 Shout-Out: Big thanks to our friends at KPLC for keeping us in the loop about Ball’s Fried Chick-N's exciting comeback story!

📍 Pujo St Cafe | 901 Ryan St, Lake Charles

Nothing says Louisiana brunch quite like the mouthwatering Shrimp & Grits at Pujo St Cafe. This downtown favorite serves up creamy, buttery grits topped with perfectly seasoned shrimp sautéed with crispy bacon, green onions, and bell peppers—a hearty, savory dish that's beloved by locals and visitors alike.

Feeling inspired? Whip up your own version at home with this simple yet delicious recipe:

🐦 Beaux's Tip: Perfect your at-home brunch game with this cast iron skillet, ideal for evenly cooking shrimp and bacon to crispy perfection.

📍 Chicot State Park, Ville Platte, LA
🛣️ Approx. 2.5 hours from Lake Charles

Escape the hustle and bustle by immersing yourself in the peaceful surroundings of Chicot State Park. Spanning over 6,400 acres, the park features a 2,000-acre lake, rolling hills, and diverse wildlife. Whether you're into hiking, fishing, or simply relaxing amidst nature, Chicot offers a rejuvenating experience.

For accommodations that blend comfort with the great outdoors, consider these options:

These accommodations offer a range of experiences, from rustic cabins to comfortable hotel rooms, ensuring a pleasant stay during your nature retreat.

🚣‍♂️ Paddle the West Fork of the Calcasieu River

Explore one of Southwest Louisiana’s most scenic waterways by kayak or canoe. The West Fork of the Calcasieu River offers calm, winding waters lined with cypress trees, perfect for a relaxing day on the water with birdwatching and fishing along the way.

🐦 Beaux’s Gear Tip: Keep your essentials dry and safe with this waterproof dry bag. Lightweight and perfect for day trips!

📍 Launch Point:

Lake Charles is full of brunch brilliance—but when it comes to Shrimp & Grits, only one spot can reign supreme! 🍤🔥

This week, we’re putting four local favorites to the test. Vote for your go-to spot—or try them all and cast your verdict:

Last Weeks LC Showdown Winner-

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🗳️ Don’t Miss the LC Showdown!
Cast your vote and help crown Lake Charles’ Shrimp & Grits champion—every vote counts!

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Be good to each other, Lake Charles. I’ll see y’all out there — probably somewhere with grits.
— Beaux LeBeak

Some of the links in this newsletter are affiliate links, which means we may earn a small commission if you make a purchase—at no extra cost to you. Every click helps us keep LCHappens flying!