Des Allemands is a quiet community along Bayou des Allemands
Among the low-lying wetlands and slow-moving bayous of South Louisiana, Des Allemands is a quiet, outdoorsy community of about 2,500 known for its isolated location and wealth of catfish. Locals call it the "Catfish Capital of the Universe" for its healthy population of the bottom-feeder, caught and served at local seafood spots. "It's a little bit of country living meets a sportsman's paradise," says local Realtor Alison Andrews of Realty One Group. She's sold homes across the region for just over a decade. "Everybody knows everybody," Andrews says. "It's very close-knit." The overall Cap Index Crime Score is 1 out of 10, lower than the national average of 4.
Various housing styles near or along the bayou
Des Allemands has a variety of housing styles from several eras, with a median sale price of around $227,000. "Des Allemands is a mixed bag," Andrews says. "We have some older homes mixed with mobile homes mixed with brand new construction." Buyers will mainly find ranch-style and Acadian-style homes, along with cottages and bungalows that date back to the early 20th century. Some of the community's established homes may need a few repairs. Homes are relatively close to one another on narrow, sunbaked streets, but a few houses sit on sizable lots. While many homes overlook Bayou des Allemands, private docks are uncommon.
St. Charles Parish Public Schools earn high remarks on Niche
Two school districts serve Des Allemands. The Lafourche Parish School District scores a B on Niche, and the St. Charles Parish Public Schools scores an A and is ranked the best school district in the New Orleans area. The A-rated Allemands Elementary School serves pre-kindergarten through second grade students, and R.J. Vial Elementary School enrolls third through fifth grade students and scores an A-minus. J.B. Martin Middle School receives an A on Niche, and Hahnville High School scores a B-plus. The high school offers various student clubs, including Art Honor Society, debate team and theater.
Navigating Bayou des Allemands
Fishing is popular on Bayou des Allemands and Dufrene Ponds. While some anglers take a boat out, Andrews says, you don't need to hit the water to cast a line. "The waterway is right off the main strip," Andrews says. "Someone is always fishing off the side of the road." A boat launch is open to the public just off Down the Bayou Road under the twin bridges of U.S. Route 90. The launch provides direct access to Bayou des Allemands, connecting with Lac des Allemands. Another public boat launch is available along Bayou Gauche, near the Simoneaux Ponds. This is a popular spot to reach Lake Salvador quickly. Locals often take a boat to the Salvador Wildlife Management Area, where hunting is permitted.
Dinner at Spahr's and groceries at Frank's
Among Des Allemands' minimal commercial activity is Spahr's Seafood, a popular restaurant along Bayou des Allemands that has served the community for over 55 years. The locally owned restaurant is known for its Cajun and Creole generational recipes, particularly the catfish chips and seafood gumbo. Locals also enjoy the made-from-scratch Bloody Mary mix. Frank's Lounge, located within a mile of Spahr's, is a popular hangout spot with beer, cocktails and a pool table. Locals grab grocery essentials and snacks from Frank's Supermarket or Family Dollar before heading 10 miles to the Walmart Supercenter in Boutte for larger grocery hauls.
Traveling over the bayous
Des Allemands is a car-dependent community, and U.S. Route 90 is the only drivable route out of the area. The highway connects residents with busier communities like Luling, about 11 miles northeast, and Raceland, 11 miles southwest. Des Allemands is equidistant from St. Charles Parish Hospital and Ochsner St. Anne Hospital, and Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport is about 21 miles away. Downtown New Orleans is a 32-mile trip.
Flooding risks in South Louisiana
According to the FEMA National Risk Index, Des Allemands has a relatively high risk of coastal flooding. Much of the area is considered a Special Flood Hazard Area, and flood insurance is required.
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Written By
Brennen Martin
