Alligator on the Menu this Lent in Shreveport

Catholics across the Shreveport area typically change their diet during Lent. Meat is not allowed on Fridays during Lent. Many turn to crawfish, catfish or other seafood dishes. But some wonder if alligator is ok during Lent.

That question was answered about 15 years ago from the Archdiocese of New Orleans. That message is circulating again this year. The message is clear. You CAN eat alligator on Fridays during Lent.

Then-Archbishop Gregory Aymond responded to a question from a Catholic man questioning if gator was acceptable to eat during the Lenten season.

Bishop Aymond wrote:

Yes, the alligator is considered in the fish family and I agree with you, God has created a magnificent creature that is important to the state of Louisiana and it is considered seafood.

Ash Wednesday marked the beginning of Lent this week. Today is the first Lenten Friday of the season, when many Catholics will skip beef, chicken and pork in favor of seafood. In Louisiana, that can now officially include gator.

Several local churches have fish fries during Lent. Some are at lunch while others are in the evening. And the prices are reasonable.

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What Shreveport Bossier Restaurants Typically Serve Gator?

Orlandeaux's has a gator options including gator bites and a gator po-boy.

Ralph & Kacoo's also has fried gator on the menu.

Bergeron’s Boudin & Cajun Meats serves alligator sausage.

Crawdaddy's Kitchen has a fried alligator tail basket,

Drago's Seafood Restaurant has fried Gator Bites.

Fertitta's Delicatessen has "The Godfather," an alligator Italian sausage sandwich.

Shane's also offers a fried alligator po-boy.

Walk-On's also has fried alligator po-boy.