The legacy of Poor Boy’s Riverside Inn began during the Great Depression with a hand-pushed snowball stand run by a man named Hulo Landry. Landry was originally a baker by trade, but he ironically developed an allergy to flour; thus, he became an entrepreneur.
The Lafayette native introduced the famous “poor boy” sandwiches to Acadiana after spending some time in New Orleans. He decided to give up his snowball stand and began selling “poor boys” (also called po-boys) along with burgers. His new business flourished, prompting him to expand his menu to include fresh seafood and steaks.
In 1940, shortly after Poor Boy’s relocated, a great flood destroyed the restaurant. No one in Lafayette thought that Landry would come back from the loss, but surprisingly, just three months later, Poor Boy’s was up and running again.
Six years later, Poor Boy’s relocated yet again, bringing Lafayette the first fully air-conditioned restaurant. By this time, Poor Boy’s Riverside Inn was a complete success. The ever-expanding menu and spectacular service kept bringing in happy and loyal customers. Landry continued to prosper until his death in 1958.
Today, Poor Boy’s Riverside Inn is run by Hulo’s grandson Richard, who teamed up with his sister Elaine to open a second restaurant in New Iberia, called Little River Inn. The business continues to prosper on the same premise that brought Hulo Landry his great success–quality in food and perfection in service.
The extensive Poor Boy’s Riverside Inn menu includes just about every Cajun dish you’d imagine. Along with plenty of comfort food options, there are also heart-healthy and vegetarian portions, allowing all appetites to be satisfied. Daily lunch specials are offered throughout the week, and yes, po-boys are still on the menu!
Originally posted at: Lafayette Real Estate News
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