The weather may not be cooperating, but we are officially in fall! There’s nothing better than a hearty bowl of gumbo to kick off the season, so be sure to head over to these restaurants for an epic gumbo trail that will make your taste buds explode.

1. Chicken on the Bayou & Boudin Shop

For a home-cooked Cajun meal, you absolutely have to try Chicken on the Bayou & Boudin Shop. Nestled in Breaux Bridge, this charming country store serves amazing food and you can also pick up some local seasonings, boudin, and other Cajun and Creole items for the road.Address: 2942 Grand Point Hwy. #F, Breaux Bridge, LA 70517

2. Buck and Johnny’s

Combining Cajun and Creole cuisine with an Italian flare, Buck and Johnny’s is a must-taste on this gumbo trail. Their zydeco gumbo is a delicious chicken and sausage dish and they also feature the traditional seafood gumbo. Address: 100 Berard St., Breaux Bridge, LA 70517

3. Chastain’s Food & Spirits

Known for having the best gumbo in the Lake Charles area, you can’t go wrong with either their chicken and sausage or their shrimp and crab gumbo. Address: 3922 Ryan St., Lake Charles, LA 70605

4. Chris’ Po’boys

Chris’ Po’boys has been a Lafayette favorite for over 35 years. Their chicken and sausage gumbo is so good, you’ll find yourself licking the bowl! There are multiple locations around the city, so you’re never too far away from one. 1941 Moss St., Lafayette, LA

1930 W. Pinhook Rd., Lafayette, LA

3755 Ambassador Caffery Pkwy., Lafayette, LA

5. Don’s Seafood & Steakhouse

Don’s has been around since 1934, and their gumbo is unparalleled. Their gumbo has been voted best in Lafayette, and it’s their homemade roux and slow simmering style that really makes their gumbo stand out. Address: 301 E Vermilion St. Lafayette, LA 70501

6. Pat’s of Henderson

Serving up mouthwateringly good Creole and Cajun fare for over 50 years, their gumbo has won numerous awards, and it’s worth your while to give it a taste. Address: 1500 Siebarth Dr., Lake Charles, LA 70615

7. Pont Breaux’s Cajun Restaurant

Pont Breaux’s is a casual, rustic restaurant that is one of those places where you feel like family from the moment you walk in. The friendly atmosphere and combined with the traditional Cajun menu will quickly turn you into a customer for life. Address: 325 W Mills Ave., Breaux Bridge, LA 70517

8. Prejean’s

Serving delicious Cajun and Creole cuisine since 1980, their gumbo will knock your socks off. Choose from seafood gumbo, shrimp, chicken & sausage, or duck & andouille. You’ll be coming back again and again to try them all! Address: 3480 NE Evangeline Trwy., Lafayette, LA 70507

Where's your favorite spot to grab some gumbo? Add it to the comments below and maybe we'll do a part two!