In the divine spirit of expanding my palate beyond that of traditional eateries, I found myself indulging in some of the most delightful bar-b-que located in the heart of Bastrop, Louisiana.

Established in 1962, Slayden’s Bar-b-Que is an ever present staple in the heart of downtown of Bastrop.  Founded by Mrs. Helen Slayden, this eatery offers signature homemade pies and a sassy bar-b-que sauce, all of which have been sought after items at dinner tables from South Arkansas to right here in Ouachita Parish for many years. Today Slayden’s legacy has been carried on by Mrs. Slayden’s daughter, Ms. Johnye Armistead and her trusted right-hand pie maker, Ms. Dorothy “Dot”, with the exact same recipes Mrs. Slayden used so artfully over 4 decades ago. 

But please don’t let your culinary journey stop with the soft silky texture of those homemade chocolate, coconut, pineapple, banana and strawberry pies!  This establishment offers some of the most delectable meat smoked right on-site in Slayden’s signature smoke house. From their robust ribs to their smoked pork tenderloin and beef brisket -sliced so delicately thin that it absolutely melts in your mouth! In addition to their mouthwatering meats, Slayden’s tactfully tart potato salad possesses a creamy delectable texture that is carefully prepared each morning, along with their perfectly seasoned slow cooked pinto beans, by Ms. Marilyn. 

Now for the good stuff, Slayden’s treasured bar-b-que sauce! This timeless classic sauce isn’t syrupy sweet, but yet is thick enough for dipping, thin enough for drizzling and has a signature flavor that is absolutely delectable to the last drop! 

For those younger diners in your midst, Slayden’s Bar-b-Que offers menu items certain to please those pint-sized appetites with gooey grilled cheese sandwiches, as well as crispy chicken tenders paired with those delightfully entertaining curly fries.

As for me, I never can seem to pay homage to this wonderful eatery without making certain I have portions by the pound to take back home to my family.  So whether you’re visiting this lovely little town for shopping around the historical town square or for a family outing to Simmon’s Sporting Goods, no trip to Bastrop would be complete without popping in at Slayden’s Bar-b-Que!

For a palatable sampling of historical eateries one need not travel outside the lovely confines of our own surrounding areas, so start your journey down “Flavor Avenue” with this locale and many more! Just remember to roll up your sleeves and don’t be afraid to dig in to savor the local flavor!