I didn’t realize this was a food truck! I was a little surprised when I arrived and there was the truck parked on the grass instead of a restaurant. They had a couple benches to sit on and eat. The food was very good! The catfish was really meaty and had a nice breading! The crawfish Mac and cheese was AMAZING! So creamy and rich, and it had so much crawfish! The green beans and broccoli had a good flavor! The service was great, but it took a while for them to make it. Not really a complaint because I knew it was super fresh and made to each order! The gumbo had a strong rich flavor that I really enjoyed! I would come back, but probably only for take out.
Overview
Tucked away on Randol Mill Road in Fort Worth, Always Cooking Nola feels like a slice of Louisiana brought straight into Texas. The moment you step inside, the aroma of Cajun spices and soulful Southern cooking greets you, instantly setting the mood for a hearty meal. Friends recommended I stop by while exploring local dining spots, and the experience lived up to the hype. From the moment I scanned the menu, I knew this wasn’t just another casual diner but a place where the dishes carry both tradition and personality.
What stood out to me first was the gumbo, simmered low and slow until the flavors blended into something rich and comforting. Research on Cajun cuisine often highlights how layering flavors through a roux, stock, and local ingredients creates depth, and this bowl was a clear case study. The crawfish étouffée was another must-try, creamy with just the right kick of spice. A local food blog I read mentioned that consistency in seasoning is key in Louisiana-style cooking, and the kitchen here nailed it. For anyone curious, the fried catfish also deserves attention—it’s crispy outside, flaky inside, and pairs beautifully with house-made tartar sauce.
Talking with other diners at the next table, I learned many are repeat visitors, especially locals who crave authentic New Orleans flair. One family mentioned they’ve been coming weekly for months, which says a lot about the trust the community has in this place. Reviews online echo the same sentiment, often pointing out the friendly staff and generous portions. Having visited plenty of restaurants across Texas, I can say it’s rare to find a spot that balances authenticity with the warm, laid-back vibe of a neighborhood hangout.
The location at 6301 Randol Mill Rd makes it easy to reach, whether you’re passing through Fort Worth or live nearby. Parking is straightforward, and the atmosphere inside is casual enough for a quick lunch but welcoming enough for family dinners. The team behind the counter seemed genuinely invested in making sure guests enjoyed their food, answering questions about spice levels and even recommending dishes based on what we liked. That personal touch adds a layer of trust that’s often missing in chain restaurants.
Looking back, what impressed me most wasn’t just the flavors but the consistency and care put into every dish. It’s one thing to serve Cajun food; it’s another to make guests feel like they’re sitting at a table in New Orleans. Whether you’re here for gumbo, po’boys, or simply to try something new, this place brings together good food, community spirit, and genuine hospitality—all in one spot.
Good to know
Service options
✓ No-contact delivery ✓ Delivery ✓ Takeaway ✓ Dine-inPopular for
✓ Lunch ✓ Dinner ✓ Solo diningAccessibility
✓ Wheelchair-accessible car park ✓ Wheelchair-accessible entrance ✓ Wheelchair-accessible seatingOfferings
✓ Comfort food ✓ Quick bite ✓ Small platesDining options
✓ Lunch ✓ Dinner ✓ DessertAtmosphere
✓ Casual ✓ TrendyCrowd
✓ TouristsPayments
✓ Credit cards ✓ Debit cardsParking
✓ Free of charge street parking ✓ Free parking lot ✓ ParkingPhotos
1 / 4
Location
Reviews
- No ratings yet 64 reviews
The service alone will have you coming back. Today, 8/19/24, was my first time visiting this place, and I was not disappointed. I felt cared for by today strangers. I didn't get the feel that the owners were trying to make me buy anything. They were so patient with me, kind, and loving. I got three pecan candy(Pralines), beignets, shrimp and grits, and a piece of catfish. The catfish was so flaky and white on the inside. Everything was great! The food is made FRESH, so you will have to wait a few for your food, but it's worth it. I recommend this place. 10/10. For my whole order, I spent 39$
Let me tell ya whodie!! That gumbo is some of the best I've tasted(its boiled with soft shell blue crab that brings the flavor)!!! Redfish awesome, greens banging, catfish po boy you get two of em!! Oh my god!! Everything was fresh and on point, Chef D will chop.it up with you super Kool nice people and everyone that was at his little trailer were all super Kool! If you want real deal cajun, hit up chef D in Ft. Worth, Randol Milll Rd!! It's banging!! ** For Video> FlexVon2 on TikTok!!
OMG Chef D put his whole foot in it!!! The food is absolutely delicious! He and his wife are the nicest people! If you are looking for Cajun look no further baby! I had the fried catfish, greens (turnip), dirty rice, and Cajun potatoes. Hubby had fried catfish, red beans and rice, spinach, and Cajun potatoes! Scoot on over to River Oaks! You better hurry!
If I could give this place 10 stars I would excellent customer service and FINALLY a Nola restaurant that won’t let you down. I knew when he put that cowboy hat on he meant business. I thought I wanted my catfish friend hard until I bit into it. Seasoned perfectly. The crawfish has the perfect seafood taste with enough cheese. I ordered the broccoli light cheese to be healthy and I actually ended up loving it. And those BEIGNETS…..Jesuesss that strawberry sauce it came with was excellent. He can bottle up and save that, honestly would be great in lemonade. Follow me on IG: Wherebebe for other great places in the DFW area.
This is the best and most authentic food we’ve had outside of New Orleans. Proprietors Damien and CiCi are great hosts as well and make sure everything is done to your liking. They make bi-monthly trips home to buy supplies and it shows. The seafood had that gulf coast flavor that only comes from that area. The setting is not fancy ( it’s in a Chevron gas station) but the reason to come is the food. We’ll be back soon! P.S. And breakfast is served all day!