If you’ve visited New Orleans, you definitely appreciated your visit to the original Cafe Du Monde (where they specialize in coffee and beignets.) I may not be a big coffee drinker, but the fluffy pastries with generous sprinkles of powder sugar could warrant a trip. The last time I was there, I had to find an excuse to return after the breakfast helping. Needless to say, these delectables consumed my heart as I consumed them.

Upon returning to Dallas, I missed them terribly. A specialty shop in Houston offers them, but even I know driving 259 miles to Chez Beignet seemed irrational. But on one beautiful, Sunday morning, something serendipitous happened. I discovered Pala Cafe. In the tradition of New Orleans, intermingled with Vietnamese influence, Pala offers fresh coffee with my much-yearned-for beignets. I ordered two portions and devoured too eagerly.

Oh yeah, the rest of the menu isn’t too bad: pho, Philly cheesesteak sandwich, lemongrass chicken on rice, hoagies. Any of those items will satiate at a decent price. Not to mention the friendliest ownder on the face of Earth. I return regularly and receive the same affection that makes any cold day warm.

UPDATE: Pala Cafe has fallen prey to the vicious and unforgiving economy. It recently closed and I am back on the beignet market. Suggestions?