Acadiana Cafe San Antonio, TX

For authentic Cajun cookin', this is the place to go in San Antonio. Located on the far west side of the city, the huge restaurant plays host to hordes of locals craving authentic Cajun cuisine, seafood and catfish. As this is definitely a family restaurant, you can expect child and parent-friendly touches such as lids and straws for milk glasses, a plentiful supply of saltines to munch on, and crayons as a diversion. Housed in what resembles a massive two-story cedar house, the restaurant boasts a large porch and a cavernous interior. The quick and friendly service more than compensates for a table setting that leaves something to be desired (vinyl cloths, heavy wooden chairs and tables balanced on sugar packets for stability). Cajun specialties such as red beans and rice, gumbo and jambalaya abound, and all are wonderfully prepared. Should you crave seafood, any of the shrimp entrees can't be beat. For fish lovers, be sure to try the famous catfish. Side dishes include expected choices such as coleslaw, potato salad, hush puppies and basic vegetables.