On Tuesday, October 29, Mayor Nic Hunter and the City of Lake Charles, joined by state and local elected officials, and developers announced plans for the proposed Crying Eagle Lakefront Restaurant and Microbrewery.

The announcement, held at the proposed site location immediately west of the Lakefront parking garage, was in response to a recent request for proposals for a Lakefront restaurant issued by the City. 

“Crying Eagle, at its current location, has been wildly successful at creating a gathering space for nearly 60,000 people each year. These patrons are not only local residents, but also tourists, drawing both in-state and out-of-state visitors,” said Lake Charles Mayor Nic Hunter. “The Avery family has a proven track record of success in this community. We are excited to work with them on the development of their full-service restaurant on the Lakefront.”

The proposed project will consist of a family-friendly, full-service restaurant, small brew house to service the restaurant, covered patio, rooftop seating and an open courtyard. The modern façade will showcase the many offerings of Southwest Louisiana and will create an attractive and alluring first impression for motorists traveling on Interstate 10 through the City. 

“Since its opening Crying Eagle has served as a community hub and gathering space for many,” said Eric Avery, President and Co-Founder of Crying Eagle Brewing. “It’s a source of identity and pride for our community as it has become an epicenter of arts, culture and entertainment for the entire family. This is something we are committed to carrying over to Crying Eagle’s Lakefront location”

Pending the outcome of Lake Charles City Council approval, construction on the restaurant could begin as early as next summer with a target completion date of spring 2021.

Also located on this tract of the Lakefront will be the $20+ million Port Wonder project announced last November. Slated to be home to the Children’s Museum and Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries Science and Educational Complex, site improvements, such as raising the base flood elevation and renovation of the parking garage, are expected to begin before the end of this year.