When J.J. Boudreaux was growing up in New Orleans, every evening around 8:00 or 9:00, everyone would go out and walk down the street for a Sno-Ball. Now that he’s lived in Louisville for 35 years or so, when he goes back to New Orleans for visits, he eats his way through the city, and goes out in the evening to walk down the street for a Sno-Ball. Some things don’t need to change.
“It’s a tradition in New Orleans. There’s a Sno-Ball shop in every neighborhood. You know what it is, don’t you? It’s like a Hawaiian Shave Ice or Snow-Cone, only 100 times better,” Boudreaux says, “no chewing needed!”
With a little prodding from his son, Jason, J.J. decided it was time to bring the Sno-Ball to Louisville. And as of April 1, Boudreaux’s New Orleans Style Sno-Balls is open for business in Middletown.
You can spend all summer working your way through the flavored syrups at Boudreaux’s, but you might want to start with one of the favorites. Jason says Blueberry, Pina Colada and Tiger’s Blood seem to be the hot sellers so far. What’s Tiger’s Blood? I’ll tell you so you won’t have to ask (everyone does): It’s a mixture of Raspberry and Strawberry with a hint of Coconut. Or try the Hawaiian, which a family member describes as an exotic Hibiscus-Ginger blend. Make any flavor creamier with sweetened condensed milk or evaporated milk, or give it serious tang with a layer of snosour.
While I was sampling the Key Lime (fresh and tangy) and the Blueberry with condensed milk (like a cream pie), another patron had her day made when she saw that Cotton Candy flavoring is available.
“It’s sweet,” warned J.J.
“I know!” she squealed.
In the fall, the attached patio will likely be offering New Orleans style beignets and café au lait. Look for the addition around September or October, J.J. says, if plans fall into place.
(Kid tip: J.J.'s got free beads just for you!)
Even Louisville’s crazy spring storms didn’t prevent Boudreaux’s from having a strong opening week, and summer promises to make it a popular hangout spot in the neighborhood, just like J.J. remembers.
Boudreaux’s is located at 11816 Shelbyville Road.
Photos: Kachina Shaw
