Unless you’ve been living under a rock, you know the infamous Viva La Waffle has made it’s triumphant return! I was lucky enough to get a few questions answered from the master mind himself, Chef Collin Cormier.
Chef Collin has become a known name around Lafayette over the past years. He, his wife Jasmyne, business partners and his amazing teams have successfully opened three brick and mortar restaurants in Downtown Lafayette (Pop’s Poboys, Central Pizza & Bar and Tula Tacos + Amigos) along with the original food truck that was Viva. Each restaurant completely different from the other giving the diner a unique experience like no other!
Eureka Waffle Moment
Where does one even come up with the idea of a waffle sandwich?! One day, all those years ago when Collin was the Executive Chef at Blue Dog (see y’all… this dude has been making magic for years!) he came up with the idea while grabbing a bite before the brunch rush. He nestled two pieces of bacon in a waffle and ate them as a sandwich and BAM, MAGIC! That was the moment he knew he had something special. This was when he knew making a portable way to enjoy a delicious waffle and toppings without the use of utensils was where it was at!
Oh My God We’re Back Again!
When word got out that Cormier would be opening a brick and mortar for Viva la Waffle word spread like wild fire around Lafayette. The following of the waffle sandwiches is insane! There have been a few pop ups since the end of the food truck where the lines seemed to have stretched all throughout the downtown area.
Collin humbly said he never imagined the following that has come from the food truck. He noted he met a couple that had driven in from New Orleans to dine on the delectable waffles. The couple had their first date at the food truck all those years ago. They, I’m sure, are one of many people who have fond memories of the food truck.
I, like many others, wondered why they chose to open Viva in the location chosen. All of the other restaurants are downtown so why not keep the pattern going. Apparently the idea to bring Viva to a brick and mortar has been in the works for years… YEARS PEOPLE! They found the old Dix Daiquiris on Kaliste Saloom when it became available. The former life of this building was also a KFC. It had the food service backing and also the ability for the drive thru with the capability to pull back around if needed. And if you didn’t know… the dining area is now open!!
The Real Question… Figgy Piggy or Nah?
A few of us mommas wanted to know if our beloved Figgy Piggy would be back. Thankfully IT IS and is selling well! The menu is full of oldies and some newbies that will sure to make a tasty mark on all of our tummies.
Not only are there the amazing waffles sandwiches both sweet and savory on the menu, but you also have the option to try the waffle dog and a chicken tender box.There’s absolutely something for everyone in the family. And don’t forget about the fries… cinnamon sugar sweet potato, garlic butter and the trusty original.
We all thank Collin, Jasmyn and their crew for bringing back a treasure. It was truly missed and something I think we all needed at this time. Make sure you stop by, show your love, post all the pictures and enjoy the flavor pockets.
