Dustie Latiolais, executive chef at Crawfish Town USA, started his culinary career at the age of 14 when he honed his skills at Pat’s Fisherman’s Wharf. While working his first stint at Crawfish Town USA, owner Johnny Hebert encouraged Latiolais to attend culinary school, which he did at Louisiana Culinary Institute. After receiving his associate degree in culinary arts, Latiolais joined the culinary team at Stroubes in Baton Rouge as sous chef. He then headed to Lake Charles to work for L’Auberge Du Lac Casino & Resort a 1000-room resort. There, he was the sous chef at Le Café, the 24-hour food outlet. From there, he went on to become the executive chef at Hilton Garden Inn in Baton Rouge, a 200-room hotel with a full-service restaurant that included banquets, breakfast, lunch and dinner. After a year there he returned to Crawfish Town USA where he was named executive chef.
“It’s no wonder Louisiana has the reputation for the best food in the nation,” Latiolais said, on versatility of Louisiana products. “Look at the fresh ingredients we have to work with. From seafood to produce, Louisiana offers the most creative opportunities in the nation.
While still attending culinary school, he took first place in the student category at the 2008 Baton Rouge American Culinary Federation competition. He also took third place in the Louisiana Alligator Soiree Competition Team 2009. Also in 2009, Latiolais garnered second place in the Baton Rouge Culinary Classic. During school, he also did weekend stages at Commander’s Palace, Nottoway Plantation and Old Metairie Bistro.
Outside of the restaurant, Latiolais enjoys spending time with his wife and son, camping and being outdoors.
Our cuisine here at Crawfish Town USA consists of a wide array of Cajun selections from classic platters to pastas, po’boys, steaks and Louisiana Seafood cooked any way you like it.
National Recognition

Eating the Enemy, Animal Planet
Bizarre Foods with Andrew Zimmern, Travel Channel
Anthony Bourdain: No Reservations, Travel Channel
Swamp People, A&E
Swamp Pawn, CMT
Seafood Paradise, Food Network