Lola Stephens provides Thanksgiving dinner to the homeless at her restaurant, Nubian Queen Lola’s Cajun Kitchen, in 2009 Credit: photo by John Anderson

Her story is as genuine as her food. Six days a week you’ll find diner-style Cajun soul food from pork chops to po’boys, plus daily specials and all-you-can-eat Friday gumbo. Closed on Sundays, Lola Stephens gives back with free food in the cafe’s backyard for those in need. – Jessi Cape

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