Revving Up Lunchtime: Discover the Retro Vibes of Spoonbill Watering Hole in Lafayette! | Ken Hulsey


What could be a cooler place for lunch than a restaurant located in a vintage Conoco gas station? 

The Spoonbill Watering Hole & Restaurant, situated in the downtown district of Lafayette, Louisiana, immediately catches the eye of passersby. The building was once a gas station, and the owners made a smart decision to maintain as much of the vintage aesthetic as possible. Although the gas pumps are gone—replaced by outdoor dining—it’s easy to imagine a classic Thunderbird pulling up for a tank of gas.

My wife and I knew nothing about Spoonbill, but it looked so cool that we had to eat there.


We were truly delighted with our dining experience. The ambiance inside was just as retro and charming as the exterior. The staff was cheerful, polite, and helpful. Our food arrived quickly and was absolutely wonderful. The prices were very reasonable for a trendy place.

My wife ordered a hamburger and fries that she couldn’t stop raving about, while I had the fish tacos, which were delicious. 

Overall, we hadn’t enjoyed a dining experience like this since we left California. We couldn’t help but notice that Spoonbill had a distinct California feel, from the décor to the cool t-shirts the staff wore. I did a little research and found out that one of the owners spent several years in Los Angeles learning the restaurant business, and it’s clear that he infused everything he learned in SoCal into Spoonbill.

For a moment, my wife and I felt like we were back in California—if only for lunch—which left us both with a warm, happy feeling.

I can't recommend Spoonbill enough. If you ever travel to Lafayette, a meal at the Spoonbill Watering Hole & Restaurant is an absolute must!

- Ken Hulsey

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