Beloved Victor’s Cafeteria Closes After Nearly 55 Years in New Iberia

Victor’s Cafeteria, a New Iberia staple serving the heart of downtown for nearly 55 years, has closed its doors. Known for its authentic Southern cuisine and welcoming atmosphere, Victor’s has been a staple of Southern hospitality since it opened in 1969.

Owner Victor Huckabee, who has been at the helm since 1984, announced the closure with a heavy heart. “It’s a little difficult, it’s a little hard, but…I think it’s the right thing,” he told KATC. The decision, while painful, comes after years of declining foot traffic on Main Street and increasing operational challenges.

In an interview with KATC's Iberia Parish Report Anna Fischer, Huckabee explained that his father founded the cafeteria when downtown New Iberia thrived with bustling activity. However, changing times and economic conditions have taken their toll. “We don’t have the walk-in traffic on Main Street like we once had,” he said. Despite efforts to sell the business over the past few years, potential deals fell through, leaving Huckabee to make the tough call.

At almost 72 years old, Huckabee cited physical limitations, rising food costs, and staffing difficulties as critical factors in his decision. “Physically I just wasn’t able—and then the help-wise, food costs, everything was going against us. I’m almost 72 years old and I just couldn’t fight it no more so I decided it was time.”

Initially planning to close on Wednesday (May 22), staffing issues and dwindling food supplies prompted an earlier shutdown on Monday (May 20). “Most of my girls had gotten other jobs and all, and I didn’t have a crew—not enough people to work,” Huckabee said, highlighting the challenges that hastened the closure.

The future of the beloved cafeteria remains uncertain, but there is a glimmer of hope. Victor’s daughter, Loren, is actively seeking a loan to revive and potentially continue the family legacy. “I hope my brother and I get approved for a loan so we can buy it; that's what my hope is,” she shared.

See the whole story and interview here via KATC.