Joe's OK Bayou (New Ownership), Louisville

Joe's OK Bayou has been serving up authentic Louisiana-style jambalaya and spicy alligator po' boys for nearly two decades. The shrimp-shack inspired restaurant ships in gulf oysters and whips up bayou-style favorites including crawfish etoufee, gumbo, and the aforementioned jambalaya, which is made fresh twice each day at lunch and dinner. For those who bring their heartiest appetites or their biggest pockets, Joe's offers up a boiled crawfish dinner platter that comes piled high with three pounds of the spicy mudbugs, plus garlic bread and a choice of two sides like shrimp creole or red beans. A full bar helps fuel the festive, Mardi-Gras-like atmosphere, though the restaurant remains kid-friendly, with a special menu that includes kid favorites like cheese stix and chicken strips.