Cafe Beignet is a welcome alternative for those of us who are turned off by the powdered sugar-choked air and huge crowds of Cafe du Monde. Cafe Beignet does, however, tend to draw a big crowd for the weekend breakfast hour, with the line spilling out onto the sidewalk. But with its courtyard dining area it is far less claustrophobic than Cafe du Monde, and the wait is well worth it. This tiny yet quintessential New Orleans style cafe, open from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily, offers the legendary beignets ($1.50 for 3) as well as traditional breakfast and lunch items. They also have a wine bar. Most breakfast and lunch selections are in the $6-$7 range. Place your order at the counter and wait for your number to be called. Try the andouille hash browns with eggs ($7) for a wonderful New Orleans style breakfast. We had lunch at Cafe Beignet on this visit. I had a muffeletta ($7), and my girlfriend Chris ordered the jumbalaya ($7). Her only complaint: she wished the jambalaya was a bit more spicy. Cafe Beignet does not accept credit cards. Our 1-10 ratings:
Ken: Food - 8 Service - 8 Atmosphere - 9
Chris: Food - 7 Service - 8 Atmosphere - 8.