LA FONDA

La Fonda was opened on December 10, 1957, in a nondescript building on Johnston Street. Its founder, Leebob Cox, was hoping to be able to make a living selling Tex-Mex food and charcoal-broiled steaks. At first, he struggled, wasn't sure he was going to make it. La Fonda did okay at its original location, then moved several blocks down Johnston Street, then blossomed into one of the most popular restaurants in all of Louisiana.

Primary location: Lafayette United States