We Are the MRLA: Lagniappe Cajun Creole Eatery

Owner Name: Chef Don Durley
City: Marquette
Year Founded: 2006
Website: www.marquettecajun.com
MRLA Member Since: 2012
What is your business’ niche or specialty?
Lagniappe Cajun Creole Eatery, the Upper Peninsula's first Cajun restaurant, has been serving up authentic Southern fare and Cajun cuisine since 2006. Nestled in the heart of Downtown Marquette, just steps from the stunning shores of Lake Superior, Lagniappe offers a made-from-scratch menu with over 80 items. Our guests know us for not only our quality and consistency, but for our high level of hospitality and care we put into each experience.
Why is the MRLA important to you and your business?
The Michigan Restaurant & Lodging Association has been an invaluable resources for our business. From the readily available tools and information on their website, to their informative webinars and and prompt responses to direct questions, they provide a wealth of knowledge and support. Over the years, their resources have consistently helped us navigate challenges, stay informed, and improve our operations.
Lagniappe Highlights:
City: Marquette
Year Founded: 2006
Website: www.marquettecajun.com
MRLA Member Since: 2012
What is your business’ niche or specialty?
Lagniappe Cajun Creole Eatery, the Upper Peninsula's first Cajun restaurant, has been serving up authentic Southern fare and Cajun cuisine since 2006. Nestled in the heart of Downtown Marquette, just steps from the stunning shores of Lake Superior, Lagniappe offers a made-from-scratch menu with over 80 items. Our guests know us for not only our quality and consistency, but for our high level of hospitality and care we put into each experience.
Why is the MRLA important to you and your business?
The Michigan Restaurant & Lodging Association has been an invaluable resources for our business. From the readily available tools and information on their website, to their informative webinars and and prompt responses to direct questions, they provide a wealth of knowledge and support. Over the years, their resources have consistently helped us navigate challenges, stay informed, and improve our operations.
Lagniappe Highlights:
- Consistency is Key: We take pride in ensuring the menu items you enjoy today tastes just as incredible as the one you savored 10 years ago. Every dish is carefully prepped, measured, and prepared with passion - whether it's our food or our cocktails, excellence is always our standard.
- The Gris Gris Shop: Opened in 2009, our expanded space quickly became a favorite stop for downtown visitors, offering the enticing aromas of smoked meats. Over time, the Gris Gris Shop evolved into a dedicated space where we prepare our specialty meats, house-made sausages, and smoked items. This in-house creation adds a unique twist to our menu, showcasing our commitment to authenticity and craftsmanship.
- Our Guests are the Heart of Everything We Do: Over the past 19 years, we've had the privilege of meeting, sharing with, and serving countless people, always striving to give each one a little something extra - that's the very meaning of the word "Lagniappe." When you step into our restaurant, you won't find TVs, Keno, or even windows. Instead you'll be transported to an experience that feels like a slice of New Orleans itself. Just don't be too surprised when you step back outside to 3 feet of snow!
- The Voodoo Bar: Opening just six months after Lagniappe's debut, the Voodoo Bar quickly became known for its robust selection of cocktails, martinis, Upper and Lower Peninsula beers, brews straight from Louisiana. Nearly two decades later, while our menu has evolved, the heart and soul of the bar remain unchanged. Whether you're in the mood for a locally crafted beer, or a meticulously crafted Sazerac, we've got something for everyone. And don't mind the dust on the Voodoo altar - we're not allowed to touch it!
- It's Not All Spicy. Seriously, it's not. When people hear "Cajun Creole food," they often think of fiery heat but we're here to remind you that spice is about flavor, not heat. While some of our dishes might bring a little tingle, our menu is crafted to be approachable for any palate, offering over 70 not-spicy choices.