Cafe Reconcile - (504) 568-1157

Cafe Reconcile was founded under the leadership of a Jesuit priest, the late Harry Thompson, S.J., to provide training in the hospitality industry to at-risk youth from the economically distressed Central City neighborhood. Check out their website for more info. I first ate at Reconcile, because I was enthusiastic about the concept. I love to go back, because I am now equally enthusiastic about the food. Reconcile has a handful of entrees that they serve every day with a choice of two sides. The entrees and the sides are all delicious. The fried catfish is light and hands down the best I have ever eaten. The fried chicken is good, as are their daily specials. Now that I've tried the catfish, however, it's always a struggle to pass it up. The Bananas Foster bread pudding is great too, even if you--like me--are not crazy about bananas. The environment is loud, but friendly and fun.

This spot is fills your tummy and your heart. Everyone who works here is so honest, friendly, and welcoming. It's a freshness that you cannot find in chain-restaurants or uptight establishments. At Reconcile they treat you like family (and feed you that way too). Lunch is served cafeteria style and everyone pays one price. Don't be surprised to see tables of business folk, clergy, and elected officials. No can beat the home-cooked taste of veggies, fried chicken, smothered chicken, or catfish, drink, dessert and bread for under $8-9 bucks. Worth the wait at the door. Go in and help out this excellent intitative.