New Cajun Restaurant Open In Cheyenne – Nom Nom nom nom [VIDEO]

Rick Loveless is a Mississippi boy who knows how to prepare Cajun food. But until yesterday, only his close friends were in on his great southern culinary skills. They told him to open a restaurant and finally, after twenty years, the doors are open for Camille’s Gumbo House at 1613 Capitol Ave, where Don Rey’s used to be.

I got there a couple of hours after they opened on day one and I saw a lot of people busier eating than talking to each other. If that doesn’t speak well of the quality, then maybe this will.

I was looking for gumbo, but it was so popular, they were out of their to-go bowls. In fact, they were so busy; they were working on another batch in the kitchen while I was waiting for what I ended up ordering, Billy Moore’s “Hog Sized Catch.” It had generous portions of fresh wild caught fried gulf shrimp, oysters, scallops, French fries and a very tasty crab cake. When I got the order home and split it with my wife, we had it for lunch, and there was even enough left over for dinner, for both of us.

Like I said, generous portions.

Generous is a good word to describe owner Rick Loveless, a man with strong ties to his church. He says he wants to end up putting more money into local charities than he will in his own pocket.

Camille’s Gumbo House employs 6 full time waitresses that I found to be energetic, bright and cheerful, even under the pressures of opening day. I will probably get to know them all by name because I will be going back. I’ve got to try their Po-boys. .Oh and their gumbo with Andouille sausage and chicken, and their jambalaya, shrimp creole and the intriguing Cajun Taco Soup. Heck, I may even end up trying the hamburger that resides at the bottom of the menu for those who have no taste for the adventure of great southern cooking.

From what I tried, I will be back for more. I also like to support good people in our community and heavily favor spending my money on a local small business. Good luck Rick, and crew, you’re off to a great start.

Camille’s Gumbo House is at 1613 Capitol Ave, the old Don Rey’s restaurant. Open Tuesday through Saturday from 11 – 7. Getcha some!