Forget Chicago's Italian beef and Philly's cheesesteaks, for in Fayetteville, a true taste of New Orleans awaits at Bado's Louisiana Kitchen food truck. Chef-owner Lorraine Anderson, armed with her vibrant personality and passion for Cajun cuisine, is serving up authentic flavors that have tongues wagging and bellies satisfied.
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| Taylor Shook, The Fayetteville Observer |
A Dream Realized, One Shrimp Po' Boy at a Time:
Anderson's culinary journey began not on the streets of Fayetteville, but amidst the bayous of Louisiana. Growing up, Cajun cooking wasn't just a meal; it was a way of life. So, when she opened Bado's in May 2023, it wasn't just a food truck; it was a dream realized.
The star of the show? The legendary shrimp po' boy. Imagine crusty bread, shipped straight from the Big Easy, piled high with crispy fried shrimp, shredded lettuce, juicy tomato slices, tangy pickles, and a creamy remoulade sauce. A touch of Louisiana hot sauce adds an optional kick. This masterpiece not only earned her the "Best American Food" award at the Cumberland County Fair, but has also led to customers returning twice in a day for more.
Beyond the Po' Boy: A Gumbo of Delights
But Bado's doesn't stop there. Classics like gumbo, jambalaya, beignets, and fried catfish and whiting transport you straight to the heart of Louisiana. Be sure to try the boudin balls: a delicious mix of pork, chicken, or seafood, rice, cheese, and spices, rolled into bite-sized morsels and fried to golden perfection.
For those seeking a touch of viral trend, Anderson offers a special Hot Cheetos-crusted boudin, inspired by a recent TikTok sensation. It's a testament to her willingness to experiment and keep things fresh.
From Struggle to Success: A Story of Grit and Determination
The journey to Bado's success wasn't paved with ease. Anderson, a single mother who relocated to Fayetteville in 1998, faced challenges head-on. After dropping out of culinary school due to an accident, she worked as a hairstylist while her food truck dream simmered. It wasn't until 2020 that she could finally turn that dream into reality.
A Food Truck with Soul
Today, Bado's Louisiana Kitchen is a reflection of Anderson's spirit. The truck itself, adorned with New Orleans-inspired graffiti and her home state's iconic boot shape, speaks volumes about her authenticity. She runs the show solo, pouring her heart and soul into every dish. It's not just about serving food; it's about sharing a piece of her culture and bringing a taste of Louisiana to Fayetteville.
Ready to Dive into Flavor? Find Bado's Here:
If you're craving a culinary adventure, don't miss Bado's Louisiana Kitchen. Here's where you can find them:
- Wednesday: 11 AM - 7 PM at Bethany's Food Trucks, 7064 Maxwell Road, Stedman
- Thursday: 4 PM - 7 PM at Legacy at Cross Creek, 570 Castle Rising Road, Fayetteville
- Friday: Noon - 5 PM at S&H Auto Repair, 532 S. Reilly Road, Fayetteville
Come hungry, come curious, and get ready to experience the unique flavors and spirit that Bado's Louisiana Kitchen brings to Fayetteville.