San Antonio's Big Easy Café

This week's review takes us a bit outside our normal area to our sister city of San Antonio. Alex had been talking about this great Cajun place in San Antonio for a while and since we happened to be in the area, why not try 'em? 

The Austinites out there are probably thinking, "You mean there's more than just Mexican food in San Antonio?" Yes there is. There is much, much more than that, and one of these places is the unassuming Big Easy Café. Located right off a busy intersection, this place is easy to miss, but you'll regret it if you do. The staff is friendly and the food is authentic and very tasty. Here's what we had...

It may seem sacrilegious to some, but I've never been a huge fan of oysters. I've always thought them to be a bit overrated. However, the fried oysters here are well worth trying. The oysters are perfectly tender and flavorful, and the batter is good and crunchy, providing a nice contrast to the texture of the oysters within. They are served on a large roll with lemon, tomato, and lettuce. Dave also got the dirty rice as a side. A very generous and filling plate, well worth trying. 

Fried shrimp are one of my favorites, especially when tossed with Cajun seasonings. The shrimp were good sized (no puny popcorn shrimp here) and fried to a nice tender texture. Like the oysters, the batter is nice and crunchy, providing a good contrast of textures. This plate comes with three sides. I chose potato salad, green beans, and the mac-and cheese. The potato salad and green beans are as good as any I've had anywhere else. As far as the mac and cheese goes, you have to understand that I am a bit spoiled.

I realize that with mac and cheese, the variations are nearly endless and it can spark rather passionate debates over whose is the best. Personally, I'm used to my mother's and Alex's, and quite frankly no other mac and cheese can measure up. There is no further discussion. All differing opinions are simply incorrect. Having said that, I have to admit that this one ranks among the better versions I have tried. It may not be Mom's or Alex's, but you certainly can't go wrong with it.