Located in central Lafayette, Judice Inn is a cherished local spot renowned for its mouthwatering burgers and sandwiches. With a history dating back to the 1940s, this eatery has become a beloved destination for locals and visitors craving authentic flavors. My recent visit to Judice Inn showcased its classic menu and the warm, welcoming atmosphere that defines this culinary gem.
First opening in 1947, the restaurant has remained in the hands of the Judice family, preserving its originality and dedication to quality food. The family’s commitment to using fresh, local ingredients has helped maintain the restaurant’s reputation.
University of Louisiana at Lafayette students and alumni continue to frequent Judice Inn long after graduation, highlighting the restaurant’s lasting impact on their college years. This loyalty speaks to the restaurant’s ability to create a sense of nostalgia and belonging.
They have an enticing yet small menu containing hamburgers, sandwiches, ice cream and beer of all kinds. With prices ranging from $2.75 to $13.95, Judice Inn offers a menu that is both affordable and diverse, making it an ideal choice for students and families alike. Whether looking for a quick snack or a good meal, the restaurant provides plenty of options to satisfy every appetite.
My photographer, coworker and I had the pleasure of visiting this family establishment on Wednesday, Oct. 9. As we walked in, we seated ourselves at a nearby table. Our waiter approached us within two minutes, and we ordered our drinks to start. Looking through the menu, I noticed many enticing options, such as double cheeseburgers, grilled cheese and steak sandwiches.
For our main course, I chose the steak sandwich while my colleague and photographer opted for the double cheeseburger. Our meals arrived wrapped in parchment paper with chips of our choice. My steak sandwich was packed with flavor and perfectly cooked. The double cheeseburger, with one topped with an egg for an indulgent twist, featured perfectly grilled patties with a beautiful char on the outside while remaining tender and juicy inside.
Our meals were served with a side of chips instead of fries which I thought was odd, so I asked our waiter and he informed us that they have never served fries as a side and that they are known as the restaurant with no fries.
Looking around the restaurant, you’re greeted by a charming, no-frills ambiance that feels both nostalgic and inviting. The walls are decorated with vintage photographs and memorabilia, reflecting its long-standing presence in the community. The rustic wooden tables and booths create a cozy setting for families, friends and couples alike. The lively chatter of patrons fills the air, making it a vibrant place to enjoy a meal.
The staff exudes Southern hospitality, welcoming diners with genuine smiles and prompt service. Whether you’re a first-time guest or a regular, you’ll feel right at home in this friendly environment.
After finishing our meals, I decided to interview one of the managers, Jordan Diaz. “I’ve been working here for four years, and it is unlike any job, it’s teamwork oriented, everyone’s focus is to get better and faster at every position that we’re at. Since we expanded six months ago, we have doubled the staff.”
“Employees are carefully selected based on the people that already work here. We usually hire people that they have to know so we can get a personal background on them” Diaz stated.
After asking him about his relationship with his coworkers he said “I love working with these people. I can call any of them outside of work and hang out with them personally. We are all like a family.”
I could tell that the workers are a mix of seasoned veterans and enthusiastic newcomers, all sharing a passion for great food and customer service. They are knowledgeable about the menu and always ready to recommend favorites, whether it’s the classic sandwiches or the juicy burgers.
I also noticed how the staff worked seamlessly together, efficiently taking orders, preparing meals and ensuring that diners had everything they needed. Their friendship was evident, contributing to the restaurant’s lively vibe.
After our interview concluded, my coworker was prompted to try their famous ice cream. Known for its creamy texture and rich flavors, the ice cream is a perfect way to cap off a meal at Judice Inn. They opted for a classic vanilla and chocolate swirl scoop, which was both refreshing and indulgent. Each bite was smooth and satisfying, providing a sweet contrast to the savory dishes we had enjoyed.
Our total came to just $43.68, which included two burgers, one sandwich, three drinks, three bags of chips, and an ice cream cone. The value was impressive, especially considering the generous portion sizes and the quality of the food.
All in all, I enjoyed my experience at Judice Inn. The food was delicious and the service was impeccable. If you want to try this famous Lafayette restaurant, they are open Monday-Saturday from 10 a.m. to 9:30 p.m.
