What a disappointment this restaurant was. I'm only giving it two stars because I liked the background music and the sweet tea was decent. Unfortunately, the food was less than one star. A special for the day was boiled crawfish. It is crawfish season, and since I hadn't had any since last year, I ordered the special: 3 lbs. for $17 with corn and potatoes. A really big pile of smallish crawfish was delivered, sans corn and potatoes. When I pointed that out to the waitress, she brought two cold potatoes and a cold piece of corn that had definitely seen better days. Oh, well, I was there for the crawfish. Once I turned my attention to the crawfish, I found they were room temperature, too. But that wasn't the worst part. Out of about the pound that I tried to shell and eat, only five or six were edible. The others had tough shells and almost liquid (a ground up texture) interior where the meat should have been. I've never seen anything like it. More than a handful of the crawfish were smashed and/or had damage to the heads, which meant they were not alive when cooked. This batch had to be either overcooked, dead before being cooked, or frozen. Or maybe all three. One thing's for sure, it was the worst meal I've had put in front of me in years. And I dine out often. The waitress was cheerful but either clueless or untrained, and only defended the meal by saying she didn't cook it. If you've never eaten good crawfish before, you would think all crawfish are bad after eating at Ralph & Kacoo's in Lufkin, Texas. I know R&K's is a chain, but I expected more as Louisiana is certainly THE place to go for good crawfish. Lufkin, not so much. Lesson learned. Another of our group ordered the fried Gulf shrimp. It certainly looked better than my meal but was completely flavorless, making me wonder if it was farm raised shrimp instead of Gulf shrimp. I'd definitely recommend skipping this restaurant, if you're hungry in Lufkin. read more

Food was pretty good. Service was horrible. I got up twice and went to the wait station to ask for more ice and drinks. Our little waitress would think it was funny that she kept forgetting something. I asked her for more tea and she would head off, I thought, to get more. Next time she passed by, I asked again and her response was oh, ha ha, I guess I forgot. There was a large party of business men next to us. We overheard them commenting that it was such a shame that McDonald's had better service than this really nice restaurant. The manager on duty checked on no-one. Not even the large party. We always tip good service very well but left out last night without leaving a tip and felt good about it. They have a few outstanding waiters (unfortunately, they weren't working last night) but the rest of their staff doesn't even care to try and earn a good tip. We would rather drive 80 miles in any direction and eat at a restaurant with good service than to eat where the servers don't care. You may want to consider Cotton Patch next door. They are very friendly and have good service. read more

Good atmosphere, awesome service, food came out quick and the rolls served first were amazing! The only complaint I have is the menus kinda smelled... but other than that, the chips and queso and chicken fried chicken I ordered was good! The two others with me were highly satisfied with their meal also. Annnddd the lunch special prices were not bad. read more

This is how they package ToGo condiments. The quesadilla I ordered was so wet I had to put it in the oven. read more

Ralph & Kacoo's - Seafood Near Me - Lufkin, Texas

Huge mistake going at lunch today, the waiter left us sitting for 30 mins with a glass of tea. No silverware and did not comeback to place our order, when we dared to say something to the hostess she was extremely rude. I love Ralph and Kacoo's but the service has slowly gone to nothing. This was it for us, the tired menu and bad service are a solid no return for us read more

Ok, from other reviews it seems a bit hit-or-miss but I went on a Sunday evening and it was grand. I'm more familiar with the Bossier location, and have stopped here in Lufkin in the distant past as well. I consider it a credible representation of the specialty chain. It was a slow night, I had Irving as my server and he was quite attentive despite serving one older guy at a side table. The ambiance is great, it's a good looking restaurant with zydeco playing JUST loud enough to be heard to set the mood. I ordered the Mahi with cajun cream sauce, lump crabmeat, and grilled shrimp. All were done very well, were very flavorful and an ample portion, along with their "loaded mashed potatoes" that were to me a bit dry, but Irving got me some hot cream gravy to lubricate it with, and that made it REALLY good, if not healthy. But I was there for the taste, not my waistline. So naturally I had desert, an ENORMOUS portion of bread pudding with whiskey sauce, so good with a cup of good coffee for the drive to the hotel. I recommend just getting an appetizer if you really want the bread pudding. read more

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Best steaks in Texas! Wow. Simply wow. Best steak I've ever had in the state of Texas. I got the 12 oz sirloin with mixed vegetables. I'm glad I did, as it was the best experience I've had with a restaurant steak in years. I was informed by the staff they cut their own steaks fresh every day; I believe it! The restaurant was busy, but my server, Holly, was very friendly and courteous. The atmosphere was laid back, yet lively. The patio seating had ample space with lots of heaters around to keep you warm. Freshly baked bread complimentary and tasted great! My compliments to the chef and all other staff. I will be back! read more

Stopped here on a road trip and was truly underwhelmed. I ordered a Cobb salad minus shrimp. The salad is supposed to come with bacon and one of their "scratch made dressings." The ranch was definitely bottled ranch, and the salad had no bacon. Once the server came to check I asked for the bacon. What was brought out was completely burned and bitter, which I realized after I put the bacon on the salad. The waitress came by once the other person in my party was almost done eating and I asked her to take the food off the bill since it was completely inedible, which she said she would. She did offer a salad Togo but I did not feel that what was presented was worth the price at this point. She came back and asked for the salad saying the manager needed to see in order to comp, so I figured at some point a manager would come by to apologize for my disappointing experience but that did not happen. All-in-all very disappointing and I will certainly not be visiting any of the other locations either. read more

Ralph & Kacoo's - Cobb salad - Seafood Near Me - Lufkin, Texas

Every time we eat here, their food is simply amazing. I wish I would've took pictures! The blackened alligator, and the gumbo all wonderful I don't think there's anything bad here at all. read more

Here now almost though eating. The sampler oysters are so good, had redfish with crabmeat and shrimp, loaded baked potato. Really so so good. Rolls are amazing. My server is excellent, his name is Carlos so ask for him. I'm from Daingerfield but will definitely stop again on my way back from dropping my husband off at the airport in Houston. This stop helped my stress level from the drive. read more

I'm seriously shocked at the 3.5 Stars. In a small town like Lufkin options are limited. You have your chain restaurants, fast food galore, and then you have your local spots. R&K's has to be the best out of all options. Here on business and I'm sad I sacrificed 2 suppers before trying this place. First I had a dozen oysters on the half shell with a frosty cold Shiner and for my meal I ordered the Ruby, again accompanied by a frosty cold Shiner. The oysters were great and the Red Snapper (Ruby), phenomenal. Safe to say I'll be back tomorrow night. Kudos R&K Team!!! ExcellentService, Phenomenal Food, and that Amazing Texas Love! read more

Just moved to Lufkin and this was the first place we decided to try. I had the Seafood gumbo and my Fiance had the oysters. We also shared the alligator bites as an appetizer. Everything was Great! The Gumbo was the normal version (you can order spicy if you like) and it was the perfect blend. It was delicious. I find myself craving the gumbo often. We have gone back and I gave the Chicken Gumbo a try and it was great as well. I prefer the Seafood version but if you don't like shrimp than its a good option. The service was good both times we went. It would be a good place to take a family as the prices are reasonable in my opinion, compared to other seafood restaurants I have eaten at. Overall a solid choice!! read more

Food and service were both subpar. I wouldn't go back. The locations in Louisiana are much better.

Good food, Great service and perfect ambiance, you can come and enjoy the best seafood in whole Texas

We arrived about 3 pm on Saturday afternoon, so not at a peak time. But the service & food were at its peak! From the welcome when we entered the door to the kindness afforded when we called back about a forgotten item, from the waiter to the manager, everyone treated us like special guests! Chicken fried steak & pork chop in a seafood restaurant was done to perfection. The fried oysters were done to a turn. My crawfish etouffe was the most Cajun dish ordered and was a subject of envy at our table. We often eat at the Bossier City location but were very impressed with the Lufkin version. read more

I first ate at Ralph & Kakoo's in Bossier City, 1995. I was impressed then with the menu and the service and declared it my favorite seafood restaurant. Since then I've followed the restaurant through its ups and downs. The Lufkin location is a winner to me. The wife & I have been there twice and have been impressed both times. read more

Really a classy joint-- certainly a cut above most establishments in this neck of the woods. The hostess and wait staff are all top notch and friendly. This is my second visit in about a month. The menu reflects regional tastes and cajun but also offers steak and lobster. The decor is also upscale as is the bar area. Most recently my wife had an étouffée smothered pork chop and I had the ribeye steak. The pork chop was a little over the top for my tastes but the ribeye was tender and well prepared. Overall a safe bet and I can feel comfortable recommending it to anyone. Give them a try. I think you will like it. read more

Our first time here was pretty great. Way way too much food for us, but hey, now we have a second meal. We had the crab trap and Ralph's platter as our main. They come with a variety of fried things a side and a hush puppy. The stuffed crab and softshell crab were both a favorite for us. The stuffed crab is spicy, but so good! The hushpuppy was really the only thing lacking flavor the entire meal. They have a patio so we sat there and our server was very attentive even with us being outside and the rest of her table in. Our gumbo on the ralphs platter got forgotten, and the only reason we knew is because they brought it about 5 minutes into the main dishes, it wasn't a problem as the platters have as much food or more compared to what their cost is. You are definitely not going home hungry after eating here! Next time I will try something not fried, and adjust rating if it falls short. read more

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I always pass Ralph and Kacoo's on my way to Rosenberg and always regret I couldn't stop. Unfortunately, timing has not been in my favor until today when I specifically planned my trip around a visit. I was not disappointed and thoroughly enjoyed the experience. Now, I only wish they were closer to home. This upscale restaurant has such a warm and inviting atmosphere. Rich burgundy jewel tones with warm woods and hints of sunlight peaking through the wooden blinds made for a cozy lunch. The large aquariums with brilliant blue fish, and a turtle, are not only beautiful but so relaxing and peaceful to watch. Lots of tables, booths along with a large bar area provides ample seating. There is even a large room which appears is set up for large groups or meetings. As you enter, to the left is a cute gift shop area with souvenirs, masks, beads and other cajun favorites. A really cute alligator shot glass made it's way home with me for a friend. The menu was right up my alley from the very moment I opened it. A few highlights that peaked my interest in the Appetizers was the Taste of Louisiana with a trio of fried crawfish tails, alligator and popcorn shrimp. Or try the Louisiana Jumbo Lump Crab Cakes, Crab Fingers or Oysters on the half shell. The Soups had me immediately at Shrimp Stew, Crawfish Etouffee and Seafood Gumbo. Seafood abounds even within the salads with King Louie Salad, Crawfish Salad, Avocado & Crab salads just to name a few. The Bayou Specialties will keep me coming back just so I can try them all. The Atchafalaya is a grilled fresh filet topped with crawfish etouffee or the Pontchartrain, a sauteed fish topped with shrimp, jumbo lump crabmeat, tomatoes and lemon butter wine sauce had me drooling. The Louisiana Platters has a Crawfish Festival with fried, blackened and grilled crawfish tails and crawfish Etouffe. And let's not overlook the Shrimp Street Charles stuffed with crabmeat dressing, fried and topped with Hollandise sauce and lump crabmeat. To round out the menu are rich pasta dishes, grilled fish, chicken and salmon for more options. For you fried classics lovers try the crawfish and alligator. Steak lovers you'll find several options with a Ribeye, a 9 oz Center Cut, a King Filet, the 12 oz Sirloin or checkout the Steak and Lobster. I could not pass up the Seafood Gumbo which I'm told is a guarded recipe. It was delicious with a deep, rich roux flavor, a generous portion and very satisfying. My entree was the Chicken Lafitte which was not only delicious but a beautiful presentation. The grilled chicken breast was topped with onions, tomatoes, bell peppers, mushrooms and Lafitte sauce served with braised potatoes and steamed green beans. The chicken was fork tender and the Lafitte sauce was dark, rich and flavorful. The roasted potatoes were seasoned and cooked perfectly. The generous portion of steamed green beans rounded out the flavors nicely. Oh, the tray of desserts looked amazing! Since I was traveling for several more hours it was unwise to grab a carryout! Next time I'll start with dessert. If you're in the area I recommend a visit especially if seafood and cajun food is a love of yours. I'll definitely be back when I drive through on my next trip. read more

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The food was great and the prices were very reasonable. I enjoyed this place enough to eat there 3 day in a week.

Nice building. Staff is old and grumpy. Food was piss poor. Boudin balls were dry and the rice was hard. Had a weird taste that was unpleasant. The crawfish poboy....yuck! Bread was hard and dry and crawfish was tough. This might have been good at some point but now I have to go find a dogs ass to lick to get this god damn taste out of my mouth. read more

Fresh fish!! Amazing:):) Always a great and dependable stop. Good service, good food.

One word sums this place up. Horrible. Had the seafood platter. I just have just ordered some rolls and went back to the hotel. Disgusting.

The food was okay, nothing over the top for me, but presented well, and had good flavor, service was good and the server stayed on top of it

Ralph & Kacoo's used to be inconsistent, but that's changed! Now they're just bad. Overpriced could be overlooked if the food was good, but it's not even decent, pretty sad, I remember the days when they actually were good, but that's been years ago, and since they're still in business, must be something that people overlook to enjoy sitting in an exceptionally unremarkable dining room. Just because there aren't a lot of, "fancy" restaurants in little ol' Lufkin, doesn't mean us here local yokels ain't never been to any in the big cities, and when you compare what's available within a relatively short drive to what you get at R & K's, it really puts into perspective how truly terrible the place really is. read more

The food and service here is always great, but the bread really steals the show. Save some room for the beignets!!!

The lunch menu is available all week! We had the jambalaya and the grouper. Baskets of rolls were hot and fluffy. Everything was very good. The music was Christmas hymns and the decor included a manger scene. Not inclusive at all. This location serves better tasting food than the one in NOLA. read more

This place knew I was coming and still ruined my 60th birthday dinner. Emails to ownership were fruitless. read more

5 stars to Zachary for the perfect service. Do not hold back on the happy hour menu. $6 and under for all the apps. Onion rings were perfectly fried and not greasy. $4 glass of wine . The salmon was baked perfectly and all the fried fish was surprisingly fresh. We finished off the meal with the white chocolate bread pudding. It. Was. Perfect. Sweet gem found in ok' Lufkin. read more

Ralph & Kacoo's - Seafood Near Me - Lufkin, Texas

Worst ever from top to bottom. Walked in was not greeted to be seated. Finally sat myself at the bar. Some of the food was cold and stale sides were soggy and the service sucked. Please don't waste your money l! read more

My siblings and I were in Lufkin for a reunion, and on our first night we dined at Ralph & Kacoo's. We were so glad we did; it was a delightful experience! Upfront, you should know that neither my brother nor I like Cajun food, and as it ended up, all three of us had a salad for our main course. So our experience with the menu was somewhat limited. But I will tell you that every single thing we ordered was delectable! We started with the fried dill pickles, which were lightly battered and fried to perfection; not too oily, but flavorful and with a tasty ranch dressing. We each ordered the avocado crab salad, which was delicious and served as generous portions. The complimentary dinner rolls were hot, soft and yeasty, literally melting in our mouths. And for dessert we had the white chocolate bread pudding, which was heavenly; one portion was definitely enough for three of us to share! Our server, Yoram, was absolutely the best! He was friendly, efficient, attentive and seemed pleased to be serving us. He gave us excellent recommendations regarding the menu and bid us a good evening at the close of our meal. The restaurant is in a handy location, just off Hwy 59 (First Street) outside the loop of the city, so very easy to get to. We sat in a booth by the aquarium which provided very nice ambience. We were impressed that the manager stopped by our table and chatted with us, letting us know about upcoming changes in the menu for the next time we visit--which we certainly will do! We had a lovely time and will definitely be back! Ralph & Kacoo's is a great option for seafood in this swell little East Texas town! read more

Nice atmosphere, great/fast service, and really tasty food. We had chicken and sausage gumbo, seafood gumbo, and crawfish ettouffee. We have had better ettouffee other places, but it was still good. We also ordered the hush puppies. They were pretty good, too. Iced tea was meh. read more

Main feedback is about the new oyster bar. Went a couple times, checks are nice but a couple times it felt awkward to try and get service (I guess they use the bartender as your server). Main complaint is that oysters are NOT shucked real time fresh. They must shuck them earlier in the day because when I ordered (even when it wasn't busy) the chef pulls out a tray of pre-shucked oysters from a fridge under the bar. Was hoping for a more real oyster bar experience. read more

Used to be really good. Our waiter was awful, kept having to remind him to get our food and drinks. Asked for our gumbo before the meal and got it after.. won't be back read more

Well the Bar Tender Was Great for a couple days. Then I complained about the Chewy Alligator and she had a Fit!!! I always order a Fillet Mignon at Lunch and A King Ranch Fillet at Dinner Well they exploded. The Manager tried to put me down and I would not accept their behavior especially since the food was so good and then the food was Crap I will never eat here again in Lufkin I will eat anywhere but here. It was so good for so long. Then one Day they really messed everything up Never Again read more

WASTE OF MONEY!!! What to say about our dinner? Well, totally unsatisfactory. My large shrimp etoufee had literally 3 small shrimp in it. My husband had a steak sandwich and the entire left "half" of the steak was pure fat. The au jus sauce you could see about 1/2" layer of oil on top. It was so off and it tasted awful. We will not be returning to this restaurant at all. This is not their standard and I hope the owners see this. read more

I have to say I have the opposite opinion of Ralph and Kacoos. I admit I've never had the fries seafood there. I've had grilled seafood, steak, and stuffed bell peppers (super yummy stuffed bell peppers) all becoming vegetarian. Since then I've had the salad and fried dill pickles. They also have incredibly yummy cheese biscuits that I assume are made with a blend of crack and heroin. They are crazy addictive. I must start a new paragraph to extol the virtues of the bread pudding. If I see bread pudding on a restaurant I am COMPELLED to order it. I have sampled bread pudding all over the country, and they have the best I've ever had. They have two equally yummy varieties... Traditional with rum sauce and white chocolate. I even called when I was passing nearby and had them pack one up so I could bring it home to let my husband try it. It is fantastic!!! To finish things up, the restaurant is very quiet and romantic. Perfect for a nice dinner with your sweetie or quiet enough to enjoy a dinner alone with a good book. The service is friendly and top notch. read more

Ralph & Kacoo's - White chocolate bread pudding - Seafood Near Me - Lufkin, Texas

The mixed reviews on this place truly puzzled me. Many of the reviews give it four or five stars while some reviews give it one or two. With that being said, I will take the average of them all. I'm going three stars. The fried seafood is average to slightly better than average. My business partner said the grilled was good. This place claims to have a New Orleans background but I do not think the gumbo is as good as what I have eaten in New Orleans. It wasn't horrible but wasn't great. Some reviews complain about the cost. I guess because I live in a large city, I did not find this place to be overly expensive. Remember, it is seafood and seafood isn't inexpensive. Granted, it's not the cheapest place in town but it probably isn't the most expensive either. Next time, I will order the grilled seafood and see if I like this place better than I did this time. Tip: They do have a large private room for private events. read more

Popular local seafood zydeco restaurant with gift shop. Good service. Comfortable booths to sit in. Lots of free parking. My first trip to Lufkin from California. Wasn't crazy about the yellow gravy on my stuffed shrimp. But the stuffed shrimp were good. The green beans seemed like soggy canned beans rather than fresh. Wonderful hot rolls. read more

Ralph & Kacoo's - Stuffed Shrimp - Seafood Near Me - Lufkin, Texas

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Great service, great atmosphere, great food and incredible deserts!!! Our waiter "Zach" took great care of us and was super friendly! We went for Valentines dinner and they had live music and he was amazing and even took requests!!! read more

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