Top Lunch Spots for Women in Southwest Louisiana: Ideal Girlfriend Getaways

Updated June 28, 2017

When women gather for lunch in Southwest Louisiana, it's about more than delicious food. They seek venues with inviting atmospheres perfect for conversation—free from blaring TVs or loud music. Healthy menu options are a must. Discover these 11 popular local favorites for your next girlfriend lunch.

1. Craving al fresco dining? Enjoy the outdoor patio at Garden Path Groceries, a pop-up spot serving lunch Wednesdays in the Historic Calcasieu Marine Bank courtyard. Weekly menus feature favorites like Contraband Chicken Salad and nutrient-packed Buddha Bowls with spinach, edamame, avocado, cucumber, broccoli, bell peppers, green onions, basil, and nori over steamed rice.
2. The welcoming patio and irresistible aromas draw crowds to The Bekery. Chef Rebekah Hoffpauir's cozy shop shines rain or shine. Opt for a chicken salad croissant, tomato mozzarella pesto baguette, homemade soups, or quiches. Indulge in lemon, cinnamon, or blueberry scones or decadent brownies for dessert.
   
3. Chat with your bestie on the inviting patio at Luna Bar and Grill. Savor platter-sized salads and creative galactic-themed sandwiches. Elevate your meal with a signature cocktail like a lemon drop martini.
4. Green House Salad Company is a salad lover's dream, akin to Subway for sandwiches. Build your own from dozens of fresh ingredients or select from 10 signature salads. Kale-Yea!
5. Lakeshore Café offers stunning Lake Charles views from the fifth floor of the Capital One Building. This soup-and-sandwich spot features daily specials, soup du jour, and gumbo.
6. Chicken salad reigns supreme for ladies' lunches, and Chez Caffé delivers this Southern classic alongside deli sandwiches, wraps, loaded potatoes, soups, salads, and premium teas and coffees.
   
7. Pair your lunch with exceptional coffee at Stellar Beans, voted one of Louisiana's coolest coffee shops by Best Things Louisiana. Enjoy gourmet sandwiches, salads, soups—and top-notch brews.
8. For a relaxed vibe, head to Pujo St. Café in Historic Downtown Lake Charles. This local gem serves fresh Cajun and Creole dishes like creamy Shrimp Bisque and the Hollywood Salad with roasted tomatoes, feta, spiced pecans, and baby greens.
   
9. A regional staple, Harlequin excels in steaks and seafood. Women rave about their salads; for heartier options, try the 4-oz filet with creamed spinach and side salad.
10. At 121 Artisan Bistro, indulge in the Mona Lisa (Gulf shrimp and lump crab in light cream sauce over angel hair), shrimp and corn bisque, spicy tomato basil soup, or salads like Chicken Cobb.
    
11. For a unique Italian twist, visit The Villa. Favorites include Villa Shrimp Salad, Eggplant Parmigiana, Lasagna, or 1/2 Muffuletta with soup. Don't miss the fresh daily Sangria with citrus and wine.

Whether you're a local or visiting for a girls' retreat, these spots offer something for every palate.