Take a seat at the family table as third-generation restaurateur Holly Girouard unwraps the rich, flavorful history behind Ton's Restaurant, a Lafayette institution celebrating 60 years of Cajun culinary tradition.
The story begins with Holly's grandparents, Rosemary and Alton "Ton" Girouard, who worked downtown—she at a dress shop, he at a hardware store—saving every penny until they could open their humble Broussard drive-in back in 1963. What sprouted from those modest beginnings has grown into a multi-generational legacy that perfectly captures the essence of Acadiana's food culture.
Holly reveals how some things never change—their signature burger recipe, made with house-seasoned breadcrumbs, remains exactly as her grandmother created it. Their legendary gumbo, now crafted in massive 40-gallon batches by Holly's boyfriend (and acclaimed Cajun musician) Roddy Romero, continues to draw crowds. Yet the downtown Lafayette location, opened on their 60th anniversary, has allowed Holly to add contemporary touches like fresh juices and vegan options while honoring traditional recipes.
What truly distinguishes Ton's, however, isn't just what's on the plate—it's their approach to hospitality. "We'll mom you," Holly explains, sharing their philosophy of treating every customer like family. This extends to their staff, with several employees having worked alongside the Girouard's for over 40 years. From their farm-to-table practices (including eggs from their own chickens) to their steadfast rule that nothing leaves the kitchen they wouldn't serve to their own family, the Girouard legacy reminds us that the best food comes from the heart.
Stop by either Ton's location to taste three generations of tradition, served on plates that might just remind you of Sunday dinner at your grandmother's house. After all, as Holly puts it, making people feel welcome isn't just good business—it's showing love through service, exactly as her grandmother taught her.
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