For Lenten observers, Pat’s of Henderson offers diners excellent meals that fall within the boundaries of their spiritual needs.

Bobby Dower, Mike Cooper and I traveled to Pat’s last Friday to test the luncheon menu, and walked away well satisfied.

We almost bypassed Pat’s because the parking lot looked full from Interstate 210, but Bobby, our driver, made the correct call by stopping. Pat’s is spacious enough to hold a crowd, and oftentimes the traffic includes folks eating in large, private meeting rooms. We were quickly seated in the main dining room and quickly attended to by an ample and energetic wait staff.

I like Pat’s atmosphere: a sedate, green dining room, tastefully decorated with Louisiana-appropriate art, and low lighting. It encourages relaxed conversation.

Dower opted for the baked red snapper, which came with a salad and baked potato.

Cooper chose the crawfish fettuccine, also with salad and a sweet potato.

My choice was the catfish courtbouillon, my own quiet tribute to Wayne Toups, Steve Riley and Wilson Savoy, who won a Grammy this year for their album performed under the band name Courtbouillon. The CD, and the meal are both great selections. The meal comes with a salad.

Dower’s judgment on the red snapper came quickly and without equivocation: “The fish is done just right; the seasoning was done well.” Then his fork descended for another bite.

Cooper found the fettuccine “cheesy” — he is a “cheese” guy — and was especially pleased with the amount of crawfish in the dish. He found it too lightly seasoned, but Cajun seasoning was right at hand on the table.

I found the courtbouillon salty — of course, salt is part of what makes courtbouillon — but especially enjoyed the tomato base, which was pronounced in the meal. Good thing: I knew what I had ordered and this was it. The catfish was moist and the portion plentiful. Presentation — I don’t usually wait long enough to notice — was pleasing.

Rolls, baked on site, were warm, tasty and sweet.

All three meals were offered on the luncheon specials, all offered at $11.95 or $12.95. Luncheon special options include Louisiana specialties such as gumbo, ‘gator or etouffee, and an abundance of fish. Pat’s also offers po-boys, luncheon salads and children’s meals.

Service was prompt, especially considering the brisk Friday business. We left an hour after we entered, and never felt rushed.

If you go

• Pat’s of Henderson

• 1500 Siebarth Drive, Lake Charles

• 337-439-6618

• www.patsofhenderson.com

The crawfish fettuccine comes with salad and sweet potato and the meal has a generous portion of crawfish. (Michael Cooper / American Press)

Pat’s of Henderson is located at 1500 Siebarth Drive in Lake Charles. (Michael Cooper / American Press)