Spoonbill Watering Hole & Restaurant

Situated at the intersection of Jefferson Street and Lee Avenue, Spoonbill Watering Hole & Restaurant occupies the space of a former gas station, exuding charm and character. Since its opening in November 2018, this quaint establishment has transformed into a vibrant hub, boasting an intimate dining area adorned with a lively bar indoors and an expansive patio outdoors, reminiscent of its past as a filling station. The conversion of the foreclosed 1939 Conoco gas station into a modern, bubble gum pink restaurant was a collaborative effort involving Flywheel Co. and Vermilion Architects LLC.

Reflecting on the project, Angelique Hernandez of Vermilion Architects emphasized the significance of design intent over scale, aiming to “fully develop and build with intention.” With meticulous attention to detail, the interior of Spoonbill echoes the industrial origins of the 1930s structure. Together, the bar and restaurant offer 1,252 square feet indoors and 1,082 square feet outdoors, accommodating up to 74 patrons. Spoonbill Watering Hole & Restaurant stands as a unique culinary destination in downtown Lafayette, Louisiana, where every aspect, from the menu to the bar program to the restaurant’s build-out, contributes to an exceptional dining experience.

We are immensely proud to say that our work with Spoonbill has been nominated by the James Beard Foundation for the 2020 James Beard Awards. Spoonbill was recognized in the “Outstanding Restaurant Design'' category. It’s truly an honor to be recognized by such a prestigious foundation and we couldn’t have done it without the Spoonbill team. Their drive and creativity is infectious.