In a vibrant celebration of Mardi Gras, the Preston County Inn hosted its annual event on Tuesday, offering the community an authentic taste of New Orleans. Guests enjoyed traditional Cajun dishes, carefully prepared to reflect the rich culinary and cultural heritage of the Crescent City.
Since 2010, owners Chef Jean and Deb Guillot have been bringing the flavors of New Orleans to Preston County through this annual event, sharing their passion for the city’s food, culture, and traditions.
A Tradition Born from Community Request
The Mardi Gras celebration at Preston County Inn began after a request from the Kingwood Main Street Group for a special event, according to Jean Guillot. “That year we had a small Mardi Gras event, and it caught on,” he said. What started as a one-time celebration soon grew into an eagerly anticipated tradition.
The event holds a special place for the Guillot family, as New Orleans is one of their favorite vacation destinations. Deb Guillot described the city as an “elegant but aging woman,” with its unique combination of rich culture and historic architecture, such as lace railings and Creole colors, which she finds awe-inspiring.
Connecting Through Food, Culture, and Heritage
For Jean Guillot, the event is not only about the food but also about connecting with his French heritage. Born in France, Jean moved to the United States at a young age and continues to visit New Orleans regularly. During his trips, he takes time to source authentic ingredients and seasonings and attends cooking classes at the New Orleans School of Cooking.
“The food is one of the most notable elements of New Orleans,” Jean said, noting the influences from French, German, African, Italian, and Caribbean cuisines that make the city’s food scene unique.
Authentic New Orleans Cuisine in Preston County
The Mardi Gras dinner at Preston County Inn offers signature dishes such as gumbo, shrimp Creole, chargrilled oysters, alligator, and shrimp po’boys, all prepared with the traditional slow-cooked methods that New Orleans cuisine is known for. The preparation for such dishes requires significant effort, as the flavors are built over time through careful cooking techniques.
From a business standpoint, Deb Guillot sees the themed dinners as a way to offer something special to the community. “It’s something unique,” she said, explaining that it allows the restaurant to provide a broader range of experiences beyond their regular menu.
Looking Ahead: More Events to Come
Though the Mardi Gras festivities have wrapped up for this year, the Preston County Inn is already looking ahead to the next celebration. The St. Patrick’s Day dinner is scheduled for March 15, with more exciting events to follow.
For Jean and Deb Guillot, these themed dinners are more than just business—they’re an opportunity to bring the flavors, culture, and memories of New Orleans to the people of Preston County.
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