Special to
L’Observateur

LAPLACE — Nationally renowned chef Avis Lightfoot started her culinary education under her grandmother when she was 6 years old.

The entrepreneur made it to the top 14 in the reality TV competition show “Master Chef” in 2012 and continued her work this week with the grand opening of Avis�� Kitchen.

The soul-food location hosted a ribbon cutting Monday at 2003 W. Airline Highway in LaPlace. On the menu was the special of red beans and rice and cornbread, in which Lightfoot delivered a generous helping for no cost to each attendee.

The chef prides her establishment and cooking techniques on being homegrown and homemade, coupled with a collection of culinary knowledge and original recipes. Avis’ Kitchen is a home-style restaurant with fried fish, fried chicken, catfish plates, stews, greens and more.

Lunch and dinner specials are incorporated each day, and catering can be arranged.

The self-made chef is active in the community and will be participating in the Andouille Festival this year as a food vendor.

“Avis’ Kitchen is a family-friendly restaurant with great food and one that my daughter and I often frequent for dinner,” Councilwoman at Large Division B Jaclyn Hotard said. “St. John is truly blessed to have Avis as a business owner, and we look forward to her continued success and long-standing future here.”

Avis’ Kitchen is open from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday. For more information, call 985-651-8684.