If you’re in Lafayette and find yourself craving a meal that’s both inventive and satisfying, Roly Poly is definitely worth a visit. This eatery offers a creative twist on the classic wrap, making it a standout option for a quick and delicious bite.
In 1996, the first Roly Poly Sandwich Shop debuted in Atlanta, Georgia. Linda Wolf and Julie Reid, the company’s founders, had been rolling sandwiches in their shops in New Canaan, Connecticut (1986) and Key West, Florida (1996), before landing in Atlanta to officially launch their franchise system. There are currently more than 50 stores in 16 states, with many more in the works.
On Friday, Sept. 13, I had the privilege of visiting the Lafayette location and got to try the chipotle chicken wrap. I was greeted by the energetic cashier, Michelle, who was very welcoming and had many suggestions to offer to me and my colleague who came along with me.
We had two wraps along with broccoli and cheddar and potato soup. We used a free coupon for one of the wraps plus a drink.
After we ordered our food, we encountered a very happy customer and began to interview him. Jeb Arcement, a former student of the University of Louisiana at Lafayette said, “The food was excellent. I got a taco wrap and one for my wife…it was hot, well seasoned, and not too bland, like right on the money, hot onions, good meat. I enjoyed it a lot, and I will definitely be back.”
We got our food approximately 15 minutes after we ordered. This restaurant has wrap options ranging from hot to cold. My wrap came out fresh and hot with my potato soup while my colleague’s honey and nut wrap came out freshly cold with her broccoli and cheddar soup. They also serve salads, soups and chips with the main course.
My wrap consisted of sliced chicken breast, bacon, jack and cheddar cheese, baby spinach, tomatoes, onion, chipotle ranch, with a side of ranch dressing and potato soup.
My colleague’s wrap consisted of cream cheese, dried cranberries, walnut pieces, cashews, carrots, baby spinach, leaf lettuce, plum tomatoes, avocado and spicy honey mustard.
As we were eating, we noticed that the sauce on the wraps tasted homemade. The honey mustard had hints of ginger, while my chipotle ranch had a taste of chipotle peppers.
Both of our soups were out of this world. The hot soups were served with crackers on the side. My potato soup had a creamy and rich consistency, while my colleague’s broccoli and cheddar soup had a cheesy, rich and flavorful taste.
Both of us dipped our crackers in the soup which added a nice crunch that contrasted well with the creaminess of the soup. As we finished our food, we looked around at the scenery. The interior design features our university memorabilia, bright colors and a maximalist aesthetic that makes the space feel both lively and calming.
The open layout allows for a comfortable dining experience whether you’re popping in for a quick lunch or settling in for a more relaxing meal.
We interviewed Michelle, our cashier, who has been with the establishment for a year and a half. She describes the work environment as a family environment that doesn’t feel like work, but feels like home.
The environment has allowed employees to prosper, most being there for almost a decade, with one woman having worked 20 years at this location.
After the interview concluded, she gave us a free chocolate chip cookie that they homemade. She also informed us that UL Lafayette students get 10 percent off of their meal.
My total turned out to be a reasonable price of $18.49. With this price, I received a drink and a roll (with the coupon) and another roll with two soups and an extra drink. I would say that they are reasonably priced with their meals running from $4.50 to $16.95.
All in all, I had an enjoyable experience at Roly Poly. The food was delicious and the service was phenomenal. I loved the maximalist features of the interior design.
If you want to eat at this establishment, they are open Monday- Thursday from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m., Friday from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m., Saturday from 10:30 a.m. – 3 p.m., and are closed on Sundays.