Staff really friendly. Food came out so fast & was amazing. Unique little joint I'd definitely recommend.

Our large group of 13 stopped at Buzzard Billy's after weigh-ins on Friday night. We were told the wait would be about 90 minutes, which we understood and were willing to accept. Around the 90-minute mark, we got a text saying we were 2nd in line to be seated. When we let the hostess know, she snapped back, "That doesn't mean you'll be next." She explained--in a very rude, condescending tone--that smaller groups would be seated ahead of us if a table opened for four. Not ideal, but we stayed patient. While waiting, we noticed tables being cleaned and split apart from a larger party near the bar. I politely asked the hostess if those tables could be used for our group. She cut me off mid-sentence and spoke to me extremely slowly and dismissively, as though I didn't understand basic seating. It was unnecessary and unprofessional, but again--we stayed calm. When we were finally seated, our group was split between two different sections, even though the tables were literally touching each other. The boys ended up with two tables of their own, and the adults were placed at two tables next to them. We still had three more adults arriving, so we asked our server (who was wonderful) if we could move one unused table from the boys' area to the adult side. She said she'd need a manager. Who shows up? The same rude hostess--now calling herself the manager. We asked if we could move the unneeded table so our adults could sit together. She immediately refused and started lecturing us about "affecting her waitresses' livelihood." She insisted each waitress needed their own tables and that she wouldn't "take away" from them. She repeated "livelihood" multiple times, even though we clearly explained that we were all on the same bill and were trying to make things easier for everyone, including the staff. We offered multiple reasonable solutions: Seat us together while allowing both servers to split the table and the tips Let the servers collaborate since we were one large group Allow us to use one table that was otherwise empty Every suggestion was shut down. She told us she had been "accommodating enough already." That line alone says everything. Meanwhile, the actual waitresses were fantastic. We tipped them very well because they provided great service. Our frustration was 100% with the "manager/hostess," not the servers. We visit the Buzzard Billy's in Des Moines regularly and have always had excellent experiences. Unfortunately, the La Crosse location handled customer service very differently--and not in a good way. Being talked down to, dismissed, and blamed for impacting staff "livelihood" when we were simply trying to sit together was unacceptable. For large groups: I cannot recommend this location. We won't be returning. Do better, Wisconsin. read more

Recommends by Bfs parents Local spot Cajun I really enjoyed the ambiance of this place, old billboards surrounding the place Great waitress Recommend some local beer And the cheese curds were the best! Only in Wisconsin! read more

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Bloody Mary 8 out of 10 - ask for spice if you like it with a bit of a kick, but it was smooth and came with a Schitty Lite lager chaser Service 9 out of 10 - pretty nice considering we were a large group that ascended upon them Wings 7.5 out of 10 Ambiance 10 out of 10, very large inviting bar with comfortable stools, returning tonight to check out the 2nd floor Starlite Lounge read more

Buzzard Billy's - Buffalo Chicken Wings - American Near Me - La Crosse, Wisconsin

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Food was delicious! Seasoned well and satisfying. I went around 12-1pm and was happy to be seated immediately. Also was seated by the window which I liked, the rest of the restaurant was dimmer and cozier-looking. read more

Buzzard Billy's - Shrimp and Crawfish Fettuccine Alfredeaux - American Near Me - La Crosse, Wisconsin

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Place was packed! Server got to us quickly and made us feel welcome. Food portions were decent for price. Drinks were good also. Upstairs is a dance club/lounge that I'd like to try next time. There was a long wait on the stairs leading up so we went elsewhere. read more

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This is the only cajun place that I know of in the area. It's certainly a good thing they have great food. I always get the crawfish ettouffee and my wife gets the Eggplant something (who cares? It has no meat.) But she loves it and gets it about every time. They have great food and the atmosphere although a bit loud, it's a great place to enjoy cajun food. read more

Well killing time before we leave for the airport, we decide to grab a quick bite to eat water soaking in the sentence sites of the riverwalk The cheese curds were ok, but I liked the dip that it came with....had a hit of pickles?!?!?!? Elise recommended the Cajun combo and it was what we wanted!!!! Catfish was meaty, seafood gumbo has just the right amount of heat to open up the nasal passage, jambalaya looked like Christmas...very good, but hands down my fave was the hushpuppies. 3 big balls, crispy crusty on the outside, sweet and soft on the inside. Tip: active military ask and you'll get a discount...a hefty discount to boot Definitely a must try when you're at Lacrosse. read more

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Excellent food and service. The blackened salmon is always perfect. But how can you not have Prosecco?

The service is great, super fast and very nice people. Quiet little place. The food is awesome. The poutine is so good my mom stabbed my brother with a fork over it. Would recommend, 5 stars. read more

Buzzard Billy's - The Poutine - American Near Me - La Crosse, Wisconsin

Emma is fabulous! But...All the food is over processed and overpriced. This place has a great staff and atmosphere. However, the food is not fresh. All sides and main meals are microwaved and from a can or package. While they do not offer a fresh menu options. Being in Wisconsin potatoes are a crop that can actually be done fresh for the same price (or cheaper) as the microwave fries they provide. Very little accommodations are made for ppl with allergies or anyone seeking healthy options. Even the rice and salads are premixed with no options to avoid cross-contamination. For the money they charge all of this food can be provided fresh. Including hiring a head chef with actual knowledge of Creole foods and their significance without cutting wages. Buzzard Billy's owner please do better! Thank you! P.s. I surveyed employees who also agree. read more

Let's get into it!!! So first and foremost...I had three people rave about Buzzard Billy's, so I had to see what all the hype was about! Well, I must say, for the restaurant to be in Wisconsin, it is definitely serving that Louisiana style and vibes. The energy is great! I wanted to try the wings because if they are good, then I know it will only go up from there! Listen, I had the Cajun wings and whew they were GEWD!!! I could taste the variety of flavors embedded in the seasoning and yes, they were seasoned great! The service was great! From the hostess Steph, to the bartender Anna, to another waitress Meghan, thank you! You made my visit a good one! So, of course I wanted more, but my stomach said, only one dish today because I had to make room for their Seasonal Margarita and it was tasty! If you're In town or just need a place to call home, just stop by The spot, and you will thank me later. Until next time...Cheers! read more

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We went there on a Friday evening and there was a wait for 20 minutes so we went to another bar by the time we finished our drinks the table was ready and we got our table which was GREAT! Food was decent the menu is very extensive so makes you second guess your choice. It has a very old American bar feel and it is great read more

Buzzard Billy's has a great selection of food. I ordered the cajun combo which is blackened catfish filet, Andouille and ham jambalaya and a cup of seafood gumbo and hushpuppies. The catfish and hushpuppies were the best items on this dish!The price was reasonable and I really liked the interior decor. If you are ever in La Cross, WI check them out! read more

Buzzard Billy's - The Bayou Platter - American Near Me - La Crosse, Wisconsin

Among the surprises in downtown La Crosse was Buzzard Billy's. In the old town section stands this classic building with a draw-me-in exterior that says fun! Cajun cooking with some spice. The walls are lined with nostalgic items in a familiar theme of gas station signs, tires, oil etc. There is a two page beer menu as well as specialty drinks and cocktails. There are choices when ordering. I ordered the House Specialty Chicken Sandwich and had five choices in how I wanted it cooked. The sandwich has a choice of sides including hushpuppies which I haven't seen on a menu since a long ago trip to Washington DC. Our group had the Armadillo Eggs which is just in name only. The 'eggs' are bacon wrapped chicken tenders with jalapenos and pepper jack cheese with a ranch sauce. Billy's is a fun atmosphere and patrons of all ages line up by the door to enjoy. read more

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Heard many things about Buzzard Billy's and I'm so glad I finally got to try it out! Service is great. Our waitress was super sweet and attentive to our table. It was a Friday night so you can imagine it was quite busy. Wished I got her name to give her a s/o. Food, everything was perfectly seasoned. The only thing I didn't like was the Oyster poboy - nothing wrong with it. Just too much breading for me. But in all goodness, the Gumbo is by far the best thing I've ate in La Crosse since moving back here after 12 years. Highly recommend it if you haven't tried it. My chef husband approves and was very happy i brought some home for him to try. Will definitely be going back! read more

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This is a solid 4.5 star experience. There was quite the wait to get in, but I had used the waitlist feature on here to add our names to it and when we were going to be arriving and they had our table waiting for us. I very much appreciated that because we had a boat tour scheduled an hour and a half later. As a group we ordered the alligator bites. Everyone enjoyed them and my kids loved them. I had the Cajun platter. It had a little bit of everything on it. The hush puppies were alright but everything else was really good. I'm not a super huge fan of catfish, but I really enjoyed it blackened. We did have an issue where they sent a cheeseburger instead of a hamburger for my picky child; but they brought him a new one out. I would definitely come back and try some more items! read more

Buzzard Billy's - Cajun Sampler - American Near Me - La Crosse, Wisconsin

Great local spot in La Crosse Wi. Energetically casual is how I would describe it. Lots of people out to enjoy an evening of good food and drink. We sat at the bar and thoroughly enjoyed talking with the bartender. Food portions are very good and well prepared. There is a mix of bar food and restaurant food, all was enjoyable, and the atmosphere was fun! read more

Very poor service from female bar manager. She was a lady in her early 50s, dark hair, and when not being rude to us was yelling at the younger associates trying to work at the bar. Terrible people skills. read more

Amazing Food! Great Service!! Wifey and I was in town for a Family wedding. Found this place on accident 30 minutes before closing. The front desk woman was so kind and inviting -got an order to go. The bartender was cool-ordered our selections with him-he was very courteous and gave me a complimentary root beer. On to the food- Cajun Rub wings were excellent! Red beans and rice was superb! Hush puppies were so good!!!! read more

Buzzard Billy's came recommended by the bartender at Pearl Street Brewery just up the road and boy did she know what she was talking about! From the time we walked in the door to the time we walked back out the door, the experience was top notch! Service was genuine, friendly and welcoming and the food was out of this world delicious!! Hubby had the Cajun Combo with the addition of dirty rice and he was blown away by all the flavors and portions! We've been to Louisiana and didn't have food this good, these folks totally know what they're doing! I had the Ca C'est Bon (Saw-Say-Bon) and I swear it was the best meal I've ever had in my life! The Cajun catfish is phenomenal and the sauce that the fried potatoes soak in is worthy of awards! The bread is a slice of heaven, all buttery and crunchy, fresh and soft but that corn... wow... what's with that corn... so good!! There are two other locations of Buzzard Billy's, both on our travel map journey if we're ever in the area. I sure hope we get back to this location some day because I will forever crave this meal! read more

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Talk about fun atmosphere mixed with good Cajun style food. Who'd have thought LaCrosse would be home to a restaurant with awesome hush puppies. I went with the walleye and got a large filet with great taste. My wife got a red beans and rice dish with smoked sausage and blackened chicken. Talk about great flavors combined together. Our server was attentive, despite the place being quite busy. The portion size was large and the place was just fun to be in. Plenty of televisions to catch any sports event that is on. We stopped here on the recommendation of a friend and Buzzard Billy's nailed it. read more

Buzzard Billy's - American Near Me - La Crosse, Wisconsin

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Our go to in La Crosse! Food is so good! Great service and vibe! Forgot to get a picture of the Hurricane, which was also delicious! read more

Buzzard Billy's - Shrimp LaGrange appetizer and Armadillo Eggs - American Near Me - La Crosse, Wisconsin

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Hubby and I had to try alligator and this was the closest place I found. Food was ok. Portions were fair. The server missed a refill here and there and mainly left us be for the majority of the meal. There was over an hour wait so we drove around until we found something. Restaurant wasn't anything special. Table was small but we made due. read more

Fun place to hang out plenty of food and drink options. Friendly service that recommended some really good options.

I love a good Creole restaurant and this one served it up in spades. I had the crawfish etouffee and while the roux was darker (i.e. Northern Louisiana) than I'm accustomed to, it was dynamite. Every single spoonful had at least one crawfish tail which is something you don't always find outside of Louisiana. The Texas Jumbo Shrimp filled with cream cheese, pickled jalapeno, and wrapped in bacon was simply amazing. We ate at the bar and service was pretty darn good for how busy it was getting. The interior is a cross between college town eatery and a watered down Mulatte's. read more

Pretty awesome creole style food!! We went on a Tuesday night and ordered the Bayou Platteratter plus bacon wrapped shrimp - both were delicious & full of good flavor! Our black& tan drinks were poured perfectly! Bartenders were sooo friendly! Clean atmosphere. Fun trinkets around to look at! read more

Buzzard Billy's - Shrimp LaGrange Dinner - American Near Me - La Crosse, Wisconsin

I was in lacrosse for Lion's club convention after draft for the day. I decided to go out. I saw this several times well here visiting my mother-in-law for today I decided to go in and I couldn't be more happy about it. I had a big fan of spice and this food is awesome. I have a fried shrimp came with lots of fries hush puppies if I can ever get back here again I'll be here. read more

The only reason for the extra star is the kind and professional service from our waitress. OK.. so this may have been the biggest batch of dumpster horsesh*t "food" I've ever had in front of me. Everything was brown. It's as if a massive grease fryer engulfed our table and we all jumped in. Flat, dry, cardboard-like excuse for human food. Each of us had three different types of margaritas and each tasted like leaded, unleaded and kerosine. All 3 were left almost full on the table at the end. Honestly I couldn't tell the difference between the fried chicken tenders or the fried shoesole. Anyway, I'm sure this place will keep busy considering that it isn't exactly catering to the upper crust, but hey, calories are expensive, you have choices. read more

Old school brick walls college bar with lots of seating and a monstrous menu. Need yer Cajun fix? This, is the place. read more

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5 !! The best FOOD ! Driving through town and hadn't eaten since early morning so, we stopped at Buzzard Billy's and it did not disappoint!! Not sure what they use to make their shrimp but it was phenomenal!! Plus the meals were absolutely huge! Service, they just did not have enough staff help but that is everywhere. Not sure what the place itself really looks like. Since our table was just a few steps from the front door but the table had Green Bay Packers very old traditions ng cards. How sweet for those GBP fans. We will definitely be back. read more

As we were traveling into La Crosse we needed to find somewhere for dinner.i typed in " where the locals eat" this place was in the top five. If you love Cajun food it's a must!!! Or if you love good food...it's a must! I was asking the staff..."what is your favorite thing on the menu?" I went with the staff pick "Au Gratin chicken & shrimp." Also had the hush puppies to start. My impressive thing... food came to our table piping hot! Love when food is delivered hot. The service was amazing. Hostesses wanted to make sure we were enjoying what we chose. It got busy after we were seated. The patio looked lovely too. Overall excellent place. It's decorated by things you"d see on American Pickers. read more

Buzzard Billy's - Jambalaya - American Near Me - La Crosse, Wisconsin

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Wish I could eat there more! Prices are now crazy! Used to be my favorite go-to. Now $25/plate which chases me away and makes me cook at home. read more

I wouldn't say there's anything overly special about this place, but it's solid. Service was good, food was good, atmosphere is good. Cheese curds were good but you need to eat them fresh. Otherwise it feels like cold fried string cheese if you wait too long. Prefect portion to share. The nachos were eh. I expected the sausage/meat in there to have more flavor.... And chips were stale. So for that reason it's 4 stars. read more

Atmosphere was great! Food portions were plenty. Catfish was delicious and so was the shrimp. read more

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Super slow even when not crowded. We were a party of three. Waited 65 minutes for food that, once served, took 10 minutes to eat. Waitress kept coming to the table to say our order would be out in a few more minutes. Never again. read more

Service here is unbelievable. Great local people. The food is authentic and tasty. Make sure you hungry. Portions are huge. The place is a wild mix of decorations. I'll definitely go back when traveling through. A true gem in Wisconsin. read more

Excellent place. From the moment we walked in we were warmly welcomed and the hostess was very patient with us as we could not decide where to seat. She accommodated our preference of seating next to a window. Our server was friendly, attentive, and fast. My husband order a cup of gumbo and we each had a side salad We shared the Ca C'est Bon with added sautéed shrimp - Andouille sausage, tomato, onion, and garlic sautéed in white wine and butter, tossed with fried diced potatoes, then topped with a blackened catfish filet and garnished with melted parmesan cheese. Served with Maque Choux and grilled bread. Everything was delicious, fresh, and very satisfying They even make me my favorite drink, Boulevardier, even though they never hear of it before. This would be one of my "usual" places if I was living here. read more

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Food took an hour just to get our appetizers, sever did NOT check on us. Food was okay very overpriced for how good it was. Added pickles on my sandwich and got 2 little pickle slices and got charged 50¢ for it. Sever chose her own tip, which was so entitled then wanted us to sign. Not a good experience. read more

Another place that was recommended by friends for our visit to LaCrosse. We were lucky to get a table at around 5:45pm on a Wednesday night. The place was packed. I guess being in Wisconsin people dine early. They have a fun decor if you like old beer advertisements and signs. After a short wait we ordered drinks. Given the New Orleans theme of the restaurant I tried their Hurricane - it was pretty good and a decent price. My brother-in-law never got his drink until we found the waitress 25 mins later. She had never bothered to check-in with us once we ordered our meals. OK it was busy and places are short on help but... After 40 mins we flagged her down again to inquire about our meals and she said the average wait for food was 45 minutes so it should be out soon and it was. Sorry but that is an unacceptable wait. I got the Cajun combo - the blackened catfish was very good, the cup of gumbo was good and the jambalaya was just OK. The hushpuppies were over fried. Another got the beef brisket Mac & cheese and gave it a thumbs up. The menu is full of many authentic New Orleans dishes so there is a lot of potential but they need to get the wait times down. read more

Buzzard Billy's - Hurricane - American Near Me - La Crosse, Wisconsin