Friday 5: Ben Powers of Developing Lafayette

It all started with a Sunday family lunch for Ben Powers. The graphic designer's interest was piqued when he noticed new construction. But, unlike most of us, Ben wasn't satisfied with NOT finding out what was being built. 20k+ Facebook likes later and Ben, the creative force behind local Facebook sensation Developing Lafayette, is building a bit of a social network empire. Check out Ben's picks in this week's Friday 5.

Friday 5: Chef Jason Huguet of Steamboat Warehouse Restaurant

We travel to St. Landry Parish this week and check out the picks of Chef/Owner Jason Huguet from the Steamboat Warehouse Restaurant.  A lot has happened for Chef Huguet since he started at Steamboat as a dishwasher/busboy. He has worked his way up the ladder, officially becoming owner on June 28th 2006. He graduated from The Chef John Folse Culinary Institute in 2000, worked with chefs such as Chef John Folse himself and was an intern under Chef Paul Prudhomme. He has won numerous medals over the years in local cooking competitions and was voted “Best Chef” in ’06, ’07, ’08, ’09, ’10, ’11, ’12, ’13, ’14 & 2015 in the Daily World’s Best of the Best, and knows a thing or two about good food.

Make Everyday Taco Tuesday

When Ricardo Valerio of Urbano's Taqueria says he puts the whole world inside of a tortilla, he isn't joking. One look at the menu and you'll see culinary inspiration from all corners of the globe. This innovation is something that Ricardo, a native of Hondorus who worked his way up the ladder from dishwasher, is proud of. He is on a mission to push the envelope of people's conception of a humble taco.

Friday 5: Jenny Eason of Mortar & Pestle

Photo: Sara Yongue

A gluten-free, sugar-free & allergen friendly establishment cranking out tasty meals and treats? That place is Mortar & Pestle and that is where you're going to find the guest of this week's Friday 5, Jenny Eason. With great choices from late night munchies to dining solo, Jenny has all the bases covered.

Say Hello to Lafayette's Official Cocktail

From the slow sipping Manhattan of New York to New Orleans' official libation, the Sazerac, each great culinary city has that one signature cocktail that compliments the perfect meal.With its number of innovative award winning restaurants Lafayette was well overdue for an official cocktail of its own. Well, as of today, Lafayette joins the ranks of other great cities. 

Friday 5: Hunter Hebert of Hub City Beerworks

Hunter Hebert is the founder and master brewer behind Acadiana's own Hub City Beerworks. HCB, located right here in Lafayette, is steadily growing and offers brews that reflect the culture of our area. Follow them on Facebook for tastings of Hub City Humidity, Houserocker Saison and Plate Lunch Pale Ale.