Cajun Soul Bistro & Bar: A Vibrant Culinary Oasis in Cocoa Village

Nestled on the edge of Cocoa Village, Cajun Soul Bistro & Bar is a gem that captivates diners with its vibrant ambiance, friendly service, and a menu that celebrates the bold flavors of Louisiana. This quirky establishment, with its colorful decor and family-friendly atmosphere, offers a unique dining experience that blends the best of Cajun and Creole cuisines.

Discover the Delectable Delights of Cajun Soul Bistro & Bar

A Feast for the Senses

As you step into Cajun Soul Bistro & Bar, you're immediately struck by the vibrant, informal atmosphere. The bright aqua exterior and the eclectic mix of graphic art and other decorative elements create a welcoming and inviting ambiance. Inside, the eastern dining room, with its colorful booths, tables, and bar seating, sets the stage for a memorable dining experience.The restaurant's décor reflects its evolution, with remnants of its previous Mexican-inspired concept still visible, such as the Dia de los Muertos-inspired artwork and a white neon sign defining the tequila bar at the back. Despite these quirky touches, Cajun Soul Bistro & Bar remains firmly rooted as a family-friendly establishment, catering to diners of all ages.

Exceptional Service and Authentic Flavors

The service at Cajun Soul Bistro & Bar is immediate and attentive, with the staff readily accommodating requests for customized meals. The menu boasts a Louisiana flair, but without any gimmicky spellings or attempts to mimic the cuisine. Instead, the dishes showcase the authentic flavors and techniques of the region.One standout dish is the Cajun Poutine ($14.95), which our reviewer's companion proclaimed the best he had tasted in Florida. This fusion of Quebec and Louisiana delights the palate, with the shrimp étouffée, cheese curds, and sizzling, non-coated fries creating a harmonious blend of textures and flavors. Even for those who are not typically fans of poutine, this dish is a revelation, proving that the combination of these regional specialties can be a culinary triumph.

Balancing Act: Étouffée and Beyond

The étouffée at Cajun Soul Bistro & Bar is a testament to the chef's skill, with a seasoning that is as balanced as its texture. Unlike the traditional roux-based version, this étouffée offers a unique take that is both satisfying and well-executed. The red beans and rice ($5.95) and the savory cornbread also receive high praise, with the chef striking a perfect balance between flavors that can often veer towards the extremes of blandness or overpowering heat.The shrimp po' boy ($15.95) is another standout, offering a generous portion of perfectly cooked, blackened shrimp, complemented by lettuce, tomato, and a delectable remoulade drizzle, all nestled in a New Orleans-style French roll. This sandwich is a testament to the kitchen's attention to detail and the chef's mastery of Cajun cuisine.

Fried Chicken Perfection

The Cajun buttermilk fried chicken sandwich ($14.95) dispels the notion that Brevard County restaurants struggle with fried chicken. This sandwich is a triumph, with the chicken marinated in buttermilk, resulting in a tender and juicy interior, encased in a crisp yet not overly bready coating. The slaw, a homemade mixture of julienned carrots and cabbage, provides a crunchy contrast to the sandwich, while the remoulade sauce adds a tantalizing finishing touch.

Voodoo Child Smashburger: A Surprising Delight

Even the Man Formerly Known as the Child Gourmet, who typically shuns the same old smashburgers, couldn't resist the allure of the Voodoo Child Smashburger ($14.95). This burger, topped with onions, jalapeños, provolone, and remoulade, proved to be a delightful surprise, earning the diner's enthusiastic approval.While the review team was too full to indulge in the New Orleans-style desserts, the overall dining experience at Cajun Soul Bistro & Bar left them thoroughly satisfied and eager to return.Navigating the restaurant's parking situation can be a bit of a challenge, as the shared lot with neighboring businesses can get crowded, especially on weekends. However, the municipal lot off Florida Avenue offers an alternative option for those willing to explore.Cajun Soul Bistro & Bar may not be a high-end establishment with tablecloths, classic decor, and tuxedoed servers, but it doesn't need to be. The restaurant's charm lies in its vibrant, informal atmosphere, where the focus is on delivering exceptional Cajun and Creole cuisine in a welcoming, family-friendly setting. Judged against the breed standard, Cajun Soul Bistro & Bar excels, offering a dining experience that is truly worth celebrating.