On the corner of Davis and East Main St. is Santa Paula’s hidden gem, Rabalais’ Bistro. As one enters, they are surrounded by the sounds and smells of Cajun culture, the New Orleans style interior and music creates a welcoming atmosphere that greets diners.
General manager Leo Vazquez has been working at Rabalais’ since it first opened almost 14 years ago. He is truly dedicated to the people of the town.
“I take a lot of pride in serving Santa Paula,” Vazquez said.
As Rabalais’ Bistro grew over the years, so did the support of the locals. They have played a big part in supporting the bistro, even helping it to stay open with their overwhelming support during COVID-19.
Not only do the locals enjoy the friendly atmosphere of Rabalais’, but the staff do as well. “I’ve also just built a community with all the staff. We care not [only] just for our customers and the people that we serve; we care about the employees a lot [as well],” Vazquez said.
Co-owner Tracy Lippert, shared an inspiring and touching story behind Rabalais’, a restaurant established as a tribute to her grandmother, who was a great Southern cook.
“[Lippert] decided to open it up and was hoping that it would impact some people, but it really has impacted, in my opinion, the entire town…she just saw a need for a communal place in Santa Paula…and she kind of took her upbringing and the heritage of her family and just brought it here,” Vazquez said. Many of the recipes used in the restaurant today are passed down through generations of her family, making every dish even more special and meaningful.
Lippert prides herself on using farm to table ingredients. The house lavender syrup is made fresh from lavender grown in Lippert’s own garden and the house-made bread for sandwiches and pastries made from scratch. These are some examples of how much care, effort and love is put into the food and drinks at Rabalais’.
“Everything we have here is made here… We make everything as best as we can, just because we care,” Vazquez said.
Vazquez shared some of his favorites from the menu, some of which are: The Pulled Pork Po’ Boy sandwich, banana cream pie, bumbleberry pie, hot latte with house-made brown sugar and chicory syrup and their famous beignets.
Rabalais’ is more than just its food as they host special events throughout the year. One of their main events that they are known for is Fat Tuesday, also known as Mardi Gras.
“It feels like all of Santa Paula is here [during that event]…We have live music; we have drink specials, food specials, and it feels like a big party…It doesn’t matter how busy it is because everyone’s having such a good time,” Vazquez said.
When dining at Rabalais’, one is greeted with friendly and personable service, authentic and delicious cajun food, a beautiful and welcoming atmosphere and the most heavenly beignets. The restaurant and its employees truly care and are passionate about giving their customers wonderful service and a quality experience.
