It’s been about three years since I last visited Uncle Darrow’s and I must say, I’m feeling a bit guilty for not coming back sooner, considering my lineage.
You see, my father’s from Mississippi, and in1985, I remember trolling through the South, hunting for my family roots in Canton, Jackson, and other areas of the state.
The slow drawl of the region, and its lazy bayou days took me through some of the smaller towns, where we parked our palates at many diners to try such things as hush puppies, chicken fried steak, fried pickles and grits.
That trip gave me my first experience with this type of regional cooking, and it was “off the chain,” to quote my pal Penny. When we finally got to New Orleans, all my taste buds were ignited, and I enjoyed some of the finest food I’ve found in the United States.
Sadly, I’ve not ventured into the South since then, but I’ve got my memories, and now, having sampled from the menu at Uncle Darrow’s, I’m back at the bayou once again.
Ever tried such things as gumbo, jambalaya, or red beans and rice? All of these are staples at Uncle Darrow’s along with such delights as fried catfish, soft-shelled crab and fried oysters. It’s a family-run business, and the care they take with the menu is clearly evident. They even offer a few free samples if you’ve never been a guest in their restaurant. Nice touch.
Some things are seasoned lightly and fried in either cornmeal or flour, or simply grilled if you prefer. Think healthy Cajun cuisine, and you’ll get the drift. It’s not hot. It’s not heavy. It’s just darn good.
They even have a “stimulus package” a sort of medley of several types of fish and sides. Of course, there’s also fried and grilled chicken, bar-b-que, potato salad, Po’ Boys (we tried the catfish and the oyster, both were great!) and many other delectable items, including their Voo Doo Supper that will “cast a spell on you!”
Special occasions sometimes spawn live music at Uncle Darrow’s, but you don’t need a special occasion to visit. Just bring your appetite and a taste for adventure and you’ll be charmed like I was.
Uncle Darrow's
www.uncledarrows.com
2560 Lincoln Boulevard
Venice, CA 90291-5043
(310) 306-4862
Comments