5656 Nelson Rd., Lake Charles
By Bill Coyne
The holidays are a treasured time spent with family and friends, but there’s no denying the anxiety and pressure that can come with them. The pressure to do, to please, to buy, to make, to travel, or to host can be overwhelming.
Our kids have grown older and are scattered across the country, each with their own set of obligations and needs and their own networks of friends and family. Shyla and I like to take advantage of our alone time which was once rare, but now is increasingly common. Yes, we dine out often. But, when we get to sit back and relax over a nice meal with the hustle, bustle and stresses behind us, it takes on a well deserved relaxing feel.
Tonight, our little dinner for two takes us to Luna South, Dave Evans’ latest restaurant endeavor located in Oak Crossing. In preparation, I broke my cardinal rule and reached out through social media for a reservation. I love to go into restaurants without having anyone know I’m there. It turns out Luna was not taking reservations, but they assured me seating shouldn’t be an issue during our intended arrival.
Shyla and I have been in this building a time or two … or three, visiting previous restaurant attempts, all which floundered for various reasons. The layout at Oak Crossing is tasteful with a unique character design to the buildings which host a variety of businesses and an elegant outdoor venue at the gazebo. Entering Luna South, it’s evident thoughtful renovation and interior design had taken place. The dining room is uninhibited and comforting, the walls are adorned in Luna fashion of artistry, paintings, and album covers, while the brick-laid open air courtyard surrounds the old growth oak centerpiece in pure southern charm.
Shyla and I take a seat at the relatively empty (aside from a couple of young ladies to our right) bar. Little do we know as we’re welcomed by the dynamic bartender duo, Emmalee and Hannah, we’re about to embark on an evening of exemplary food, drink and service. 
I start off with a Moscow Mule and the hints of ginger, zesty lime and mint make for a refreshing drink, while we look through the menu. We agree on the Pre-Launch appetizer, the fresh baked focaccia loaded with Louisiana crawfish and a melty blend of cheese is a great way to start. Shyla adds an order of battered and fried green beans to back it up.
While en route to the restaurant, Shyla mentions she will probably get a burger or maybe a slider she was craving. That all changed when she began to examine the menu. I was between two entrées, and I could’ve easily gone either way. Shyla decides on the Filet Patricia, and that makes my mind up. I admit, I was jealous for a second as Hannah placed the entree in front of Shyla, but I knew I was at least going to get a bite.
My steak envy was short-lived thanks to the vision of the Redfish Ian. The sizable grilled redfish fillet lay nested in a seasoned creamy seafood sauce, topped with delicately sautéed leaves of spinach and mushroom and a generous portion of lump crab in each flaky bite. The kitchen knows what they’re doing back there, and it shows.
We couldn’t allow this amazing evening to conclude without dessert and a seasonal specialty drink. Asking Emmalee and Hannah their professional input, Shyla and I received the best of both worlds, the Yin Yang. As if a slice of chocolate cake isn’t enough, add in an opposing slice of cheesecake, and drizzle them both with vanilla and chocolate. As for the specialty drink, we opted for the Santa Baby–a blend of vanilla vodka, Disaronno and Baileys, with fresh whipped cream topped with Christmas sprinkles.
We honestly experienced a wonderful holiday evening. The personable service and detailed attention we received from Hannah and Emmalee was remarkable, accompanied by the outstanding food and the relaxing ambience. It was all so worth every dime spent. When a restaurant and the valued staff can hit all four of those values, you know they’re going to be here for a while.
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