Uncle Darrow’s was around long before the latest group of po-boy shops entered the LA market. Prior to their current location in Carson, they originally opened in Mid-City in 1994 and moved to Marina del Rey in 2001. Their planned expansion to Carson quickened after the Marina Del Rey landlord suddenly raised the rent to an unforeseen amount and they were forced to close.
Over the years, they built up a sizable following. In fact, their annual Mardi Gras celebrations were legendary, often lasting well past Fat Tuesday. They featured live bands such as T- Lou & His Super Hot Zydeco Band and 2 U-Neek. After opening in Carson, they had to rebuild their customer base.
During my visits, their dining room wasn’t open and they were limited to outdoor seating and take-out. Social distancing is enforced and customers are required to wait outside for their order. Expect to wait 20-30 minutes for your order.
Uncle Darrow’s is known for its po boys ($8.99 – $12.99). They run the gamut from chicken, shrimp, oyster, soft-shell crab, and a couple of interesting specialties, the Voodoo Chicken and the signature Zeek Po-Boy. The chicken po boy is available grilled or fried and is combined with lettuce, dill pickles, tomatoes, and mayo. The Zeek made with catfish, shrimp, and a layer of Creole potato salad.
While the po-boys are tasty, I became enamored with their Filé Gumbo ($12.99). The gumbo base is thick, rich, and not overly spicy. It comes loaded with shrimp, chicken sausage, chicken andouille, and imported Louisana blue crab. Of the gumbos I’ve tasted, this has to rank among the best. It is available with plain rice or as gumbo “ya ya”, which includes a large lump of jambalaya in place of the steamed rice.
Seafood lovers will appreciate Uncle Darrow’s Plate Specials. Catfish, Shrimp, Oyster, or combination suppers include a generous serving of seafood, a choice of two sides, and fresh-baked french bread. The shrimp are large and have a delicious coating. The bean balaya side is a combination of red beans with rice and jambalaya.
Street parking is extremely limited; fortunately, there is ample parking available behind the restaurant. Access to the lot is from Carson St. Due to the pandemic, they are only open Thursdays through Sundays.
Darrow’s New Orleans Grill, 21720 Avalon Blvd., Carson CA; 424.570.0531; darrowsneworleansgrill.com