Mudbug Cajun Po' Boys

I lived in Baton Rouge for three years and miss it terribly. I've come to Mudbug numerous times but chose today to write a review based on the soft shelled crab special. The food came scorching hot---which is a plus. The soft shell crab was perfectly fried (it wasn't thick with batter but almost akin to a light tempura) and with subtle seasoning. I'm aware that perhaps one has to cater to Midwestern palates. Nothing screams "cajun" to me on the menu, but the flavor profiles/textures work. The olive tapenade was a 10/10. I could eat the ramekin it came in and wish there was more. Its acidity added a perfect zing to the slaw but was in divine harmony with the crab. I'm not ever certain what to do with the random 2 cheese slices---because lately I've been subbing out the bread for rice on anything I order at Mudbugs. I think rice complements the food more than the bread. When you eat here, you have the option to sub rice and I highly suggest it. Each time, the rice has been perfectly cooked. From now on, I'm going to make a greater point to seek out the chef's specials. Even more importantly, each time I've eaten here, the atmosphere is wonderful. The music is the best I've ever heard in a food establishment and tables are talking to each other, or the owners are always talking to regulars. The owners also make a point to check on tables personally. It's also obvious the cashier cares and has some hustle to him. Perhaps even more than the food, I admire the diverse environment that it's served in.