Restaurateur Mike de Alwis and his sons, Mikey and Jehan, brought their Creole flavors to Tacoma with Chez Lafayette Creole Brasserie, which recently marked its one-year anniversary.
Originally from Sri Lanka, de Alwis studied in Lafayette, Louisiana, before moving to New Orleans, where he developed his love for Cajun and Creole cuisine. After spending more than 10 years back in Sri Lanka, he brought his family to the Pacific Northwest in 2010.
Located at 1101 Tacoma Avenue South, Chez Lafayette has quickly become a go-to destination for its refined Creole flavors and welcoming atmosphere — blending Louisiana charm with fresh Northwest ingredients.
Since joining the team last June, classically trained Executive Chef Matt Oldja-Rincon lends his artistry to an ever-evolving menu.
When asked to name the restaurant’s most popular dishes, he hesitates, because nearly everything on the menu has struck a chord with diners. Still, a few dishes stand out.
“For my more foodie focused people, I try to steer them towards some of my personal favorites, like the duck leg. We make a duck confit in-house,” he says. “Other popular dishes include the fried chicken gumbo, Andouille tartine with goat cheese, caramelized onions, creole mustard, and apricot preserves, as well as Cajun deviled eggs topped with crispy chicken skin.”
For the de Alwis family, dining isn’t just about what’s on the plate; it’s about the people at the table. It is more than a business—it’s a shared passion. “Having lived in the heart of Cajun Country, in Louisiana, we don’t eat to live, we live to eat,” Mike de Alwis says, “Our biggest asset is the common interest we have as a family, helping out and being involved in the business.”
With Chez Lafayette’s success, the de Alwis family’s culinary legacy continues to flourish.
Experience it for yourself at the Tacoma location, or visit their sister restaurant, Bourbon Street Kitchen and Bar, 401 S. Meridian, Puyallup.
By Emily Molina