From the plants hanging in the vintage, white-paneled windows to the sectioned-off wooden booths in the front of the shop, Elsie’s feels like home.
Elsie’s Plate & Pie, located at 3153 Government Street, serves a menu of sandwiches, drinks and pies in a comforting atmosphere. The eatery has been on owner Paul Dupré’s mind for a long time according to his staff.
Bartender Jessica Vinning has known Dupré for five years, and opening Elsie’s is the one thing he has consistently talked about for the last five years.
“He has wanted to open this place up ever since I’ve met him,and to see him open it up finally it is a dream come true,” Vinning said.
The spot is perfect for a quick lunch bite, drinks after work or a quiet dinner. With hunter green-painted floors, high top tables and booths in a more intimate section in the back, the space is diverse, offering a setting for all occasions.
“You can grab a coffee and read a book toward the end of the night when it slows down, or you can come enjoy some drinks with friends, but all are welcome in here,” Vinning said.
The idea for the shop was inspired by Dupré’s grandmother, Elsie. Her photograph hangs at the front of the restaurant, along with a short biography explaining her love for food and bringing people together. Elsie was known for her cooking, a trait Dupré also possesses, as he can usually be found in the kitchen to ensure the food is cooked just right.
“That’s like his baby, he loves the food,” Vinning said.
Vinning recommends the apple pie for a dessert. As for their savory pies, the crawfish pie is a “boil in a small pie” that Louisianians love. The classic pot pie has also been a favorite in its one week tenure at the spot.
The so called “plates” are not to be overlooked either. Elsie’s offers melts, like the Pesto Melt, at a moderate price.
The sandwich includes tomatoes, spinach, mozzarella and pesto sauce, which Vinning claims as her favorite. The ingredients are simple, but Dupré whips them up in a way that can only be tasted to be understood.
In a short 30 minutes of the shop opening on Wednesday afternoon, the hustle and bustle was apparent, but the staff was unwavering. Elsie’s Plate & Pie is a well-oiled machine, and is here to stay with its decadent menu, “grandma’s house” vibe and attention to customer service.

Gallery • 3 Photos

Christa Moran

Fresh bowl of fried okra at Elsie's on Government Street on Wednesday, Sept. 20, 2017.