Fat Tuesday is the last day of Carnival and the day before for Ash Wednesday. It is the intertwining of a period of festivals and feasts that lead to a time of fasting and reflection. To celebrate Fat Tuesday, my wife suggested that we order food from Harold and Belle’s, a long-time standing Creole restaurant and I quickly agreed.
People that partake on Fat Tuesday usually flock to cajun or creole restaurants and both cuisines are native to New Orleans. Creole food is red in color and typically uses tomatoes and tomato-based sauces in its composition. Often, it is accompanied by a rich sauce like a spice-laden roux. Conversely, Cajun food is more rustic food and not spicy in nature.
I arrived at 5 p.m. on Fat Tuesday and their small on-premise parking lot was full. Not only that but some cars were parked on the sidewalk and in the red zone on the street. There were about 12 people socially distanced in front of the take-out window and the temperature was probably in the high 50’s. I made some discreet inquiries from those in line and it appeared that they had recently placed their order.
Fortunately, I placed my order online, a day in advance. I risked the ire of everyone in line by crashing it and asked to see if my order was ready. Two minutes later, I was rewarded when the lady behind the window nodded to me and handed me my large brown paper bag. I thanked her and avoided making eye contact with everyone else in line.
After I arrived at home, I eagerly unpacked and plated everything. We were both wide-eyed and could not believe the huge portion sizes. You could tell right away that there was no way we were going to be able to consume the meal in one sitting and perhaps it may take three sittings to finish it off.
The seasoning on their Southern-style Catfish is very good. Each piece has had a slight crunch. While tartar sauce is supplied, I preferred adding hot sauce. For the sides, I selected a mixed green salad and red beans and rice. The dish was simmered with sausages which significantly boosted the flavor.
My wife selected jambalaya and that is a dish that I ordered once in the past and discounted it because it was too bland. What made Harold and Belle’s jambalaya remarkable was its creole seasoning blend. Even the day after, the dish was delicious. I recommend ordering this dish.
My wife appreciated that the macaroni and cheese was creamy with the right balance of pasta versus cheese sauce. Further, the pasta was tender as it was cooked slightly beyond al dente.
The Louisiana Bread Pudding was moist and yet super dense. We drizzled it with the Jack Daniel’s whisky sauce that was supplied.
Harold and Belle’s, 2920 W Jefferson Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90018; 323.735.9023
haroldandbelles.com