Do you know the difference between Cajun and Creole food?
Although they use similar spices, Creole fare generally uses tomatoes and tomato-based sauces while Cajun food does not. Local folks distinguish them by region: Creole is "city food" (specifically New Orleans) and Cajun cuisine is from the rural parts of southwest Louisiana.
With Fat Tuesday quickly upon us, Macaroni KID has compiled a list of some of our favorite restaurants specializing in Cajun, Creole, and Southern food.
Find places in Centennial, Denver, Greenwood Village, Littleton, and Highlands Ranch that offer authentic Southern-style cooking to satisfy all your cravings.
The Asian Cajun
2400 W. Alameda Ave., Denver
Three brothers-in-law joined together to create this wonderful fusion of Asian and Cajun food. Enjoy boiled Louisiana crawfish, fried seafood, and gumbo as well as cua rang muoi, bo tai chanh, and pho.
Bubba Gump's Shrimp Co.
1437 California St., Denver
Created after the film Forrest Gump, this restaurant serves up great food and fun. Featuring down-home American décor, this restaurant is now an American Icon.
Cajun Haus
1225 S Federal Blvd., Denver
Enjoy a fresh cocktail on ice and a hot seafood boil in an amazing atmosphere at Cajun Haus.
Gator Tails Cajun & Creole
810 Vallejo St., Denver
If you're looking for a quick bite of Louisiana Cajun Cuisine, stop by for an authentic po'boy at Gator Tails. Also on the menu: the namesake, fried gator tails!
Jessie's Smokin' NOLA
7422 S. University Blvd., Centennial
Jessie's Smokin' NOLA is bringing Bourbon Street to Denver! Authentic Southern-style fried shrimp, fried crawfish, and hot sausage.
Lincoln's Roadhouse
1201 S. Pearl St., Denver
Enjoy a fun night out at Lincoln's Roadhouse featuring blues and rockabilly bands. They're bringing the best Cajun food found on this side of the Mississippi.
The Lost Cajun
2201 Wildcat Reserve Pkwy. Bldg. C-10, Highlands Ranch
5350 S. Santa Fe Dr., Littleton
The Lost Cajun offers slow-cooked food along with freshly fried beignets. Start your meal with crawfish étouffée and lobster bisque.
Lucile's Creole Cafe
2095 S. Ogden St., Denver
2852 W. Bowles Ave., Littleton
275 South Logan St., Denver
Step outside of your regular breakfast or lunch routine and visit one of the oldest Creole cafes in Denver. A personal favorite for beignets, homemade jam, and authentic Cajun breakfasts.
Nola Jane Restaurant and Bar
1435 Market St., Denver
Nola Jane is pulling out all the stops with fabulous Cajun options such as po'boys, collard greens, and a fun twist on a classic burger.
NoNo's Cafe
3005 W. County Line Rd., Littleton
Family recipes handed down through the years make up the menu at this laid-back family-friendly Creole Café.
Pappadeaux Seafood Kitchen
7520 E. Progress Pl., Greenwood Village
Walking into Pappadeaux's is like walking into the French Quarter in Louisiana. The food is authentic, delicious, and upscale.
