Louisiana Restaurant and Dining Guide

Louisiana, a culinary crossroads where different cultures coalesce into a delightful array of tastes! This gastronomic paradise goes beyond delectable cuisine; it's a vibrant mosaic of history, culture, and heartwarming dishes. Traversing from the pulsating heartbeat of New Orleans to the lush marshlands of Lafayette, from Baton Rouge's metropolitan allure to the vivacity of Shreveport, Lake Charles, and Alexandria – we're about to dig our teeth into the bayou’s best. Dive fork-deep into the colorful world of gumbo and jambalaya, explore the distinct charm of local diners, and tour the tantalizing tourist spots that add that extra zest to our foodie expedition. So, loosen those belt buckles and get ready for a culinary carnival as we munch and meander our way through the delicious diversity that is Louisiana!

New Orleans: Delighting in The Big Easy

New Orleans, the epicenter of Jazz and a culinary titan in the world's arena. New Orleans isn't just a spot on the map - it's a symphony of experiences, a medley of cultures reflected in its electrifying food narrative. Begin at Copper Vine, an eatery that thrums with life all day, boasting a menu as diverse as the city itself. The Blue Mussels & Herbsaint is a love letter to the city's passion for seafood, featuring an enticing mix of fennel, garlic, crushed chilies, herb butter, French bread, and cane-cured tomato. The Short Rib Ragu & Pappardelle, braised in red wine and paired with stewed tomatoes, rosemary, and parmesan, is a testament to the city's profound Southern heritage, rich and satisfying.

For a more casual ambiance, make your way to the Oceana Grill. Their Crawfish Étouffée, a traditional Southern Cajun stew served over steamed rice, is an absolute must. The Shrimp Creole celebrates Louisiana's French and Spanish influences, featuring Gulf shrimp served atop white rice - a culinary delight with every mouthful. And of course, Mother's Restaurant, a stalwart serving time-honored dishes like Maes File Gumbo and Jerrys Jambalaya. Their Turkey Ferdi Po-boy, a hearty sandwich loaded with turkey, ham or roast beef and doused in debris and gravy, guarantees a memorable feast. And who could overlook Brigtsen's Restaurant, famed for its Pan-Roasted Pork Chop, served with Fontina cheese grits & Andouille pan gravy, and Sautéed Veal, complemented by oysters, mushrooms, and Brie in a red peppercorn sauce. Here, meat and flavor are treated with equal reverence - a hallmark of the New Orleans food scene.

While in the city, you'd be remiss to not partake in the annual Mardi Gras, a city-wide party that's unlike any other in the world. History buffs can explore the National WWII Museum, while jazz lovers can enjoy the soulful sounds of the Preservation Hall. Each attraction is a testament to the city's rich cultural tapestry.

Baton Rouge: Cajun Flavors on the Banks of the Mississippi

Baton Rouge, Louisiana's capital, is a city that wears its history on its sleeve and its culture on its plate. Eliza Restaurant is a must-visit for food lovers. Their Eliza Cheeseburger, with locally sourced ground chuck, sweet onion jam, American cheese, a brioche bun, and hand-cut fries, is a love letter to American cuisine. And their Shrimp & Grits dish, featuring seared Gulf shrimp, stone-ground grits, lemon beurre blanc, applewood bacon, and green onion, will transport you to the coastal towns of the South.

Over at The Chimes, get ready to delight in their Charbroiled Catfish, New Orleans Style BBQ Shrimp, and the irresistible Catfish Perdu. This is comfort food that speaks to the soul of Louisiana. For a more refined dining experience, visit Beausoleil Coastal Cuisine and try their Oyster Rockefeller, with herb saint infused cream spinach, apple-smoked bacon crumbles, aged parmesan, and cornbread gremolata. Their Catfish Sliders, with cornmeal crusted Mississippi catfish, house-made pickles, wasabi tartar, and southern slaw, are a must-try. Finally, Zorba's Greek Bistro, where the Chicken El Greco, featuring a zesty olive oil and garlic sauce, sauteed mushrooms, tomatoes, and kalamata olives, will transport you straight to the Mediterranean. Don't miss their Gyros Sandwich, wrapped in toasted pita with onions, tomatoes, cucumbers and tzatziki - a Greek culinary classic.

Baton Rouge isn't just about food, it's also home to several historic attractions like the Magnolia Mound Plantation, a testament to the city's history. Visit the Bluebonnet Swamp Nature Center for an adventure in the wetlands or immerse in local arts at the Shaw Center for the Arts. So, while your belly is full, your heart will be too.

Lafayette: A Bayou Banquet

Lafayette, the heart of Acadiana, promises an authentic Cajun and Creole culinary expedition. The town's deep-rooted French Canadian history - courtesy of the Acadian settlers - gives it an unparalleled culinary distinction. Let's set the ball rolling with Bon Temps Grill, where the swamp-edge cuisine is packed with flavors and stories. Their Signature Jumbo Lump Crab Cakes, creamy with a bechamel sauce, fried with cornflake and almond breading, and served on a bed of herb cream and Sriracha chili sauce, are a nod to the city's love for seafood. The Shrimp & Grits, featuring Gulf shrimp cooked in a New Orleans-style BBQ sauce, served over roasted jalapeno cheese grits, is a plateful of Southern comfort that's hard to beat.

Continue your epicurean tour at Deano's Pizza Bertrand. Their Cajun Executioner pizza, topped with pepperoni, Louisiana smoked sausage, spicy shrimp, fresh onions, bell peppers, and a whole lot of jalapenos, is a fiery tribute to the city's spicy palate. And the Marie Leveaux pizza, topped with "Blue Point" crabs sautéed with mushrooms, onions, and spices, is an absolute seafood delight. Pamplona Tapas Bar should be your next stop for a Spanish twist. Their Paella Valenciana, Paella Verduras, and Charcuterie & Cheese Board showcase the city's knack for embracing international cuisine. Finally, swing by Pop's Poboys. The Whole Catfish Poboy with buttermilk-fried catfish and tomato, and the Whole Grilled Chicken Poboy are reminders of why Louisiana's sandwiches are the stuff of legends.

But Lafayette isn't just about the food. The city is also an art hub, housing the Hilliard Art Museum, featuring rotating exhibits of local and international art. For nature lovers, Avery Island, home to the famous Tabasco Sauce and lush botanical gardens, is a must-visit. While in town, make sure to drop by the Acadian Cultural Center to immerse yourself in the rich local history. In Lafayette, there's no shortage of sights, sounds, and, of course, flavors to explore.

Shreveport: A Southern Soirée

Shreveport, sitting along the Red River, brings together Texas bravado, Arkansas hospitality, and Louisiana flavor in a culinary harmony that's unique and exciting. Start off at Crawdaddy's Kitchen, where you can savor Crab Cakes & Étouffée, a classic that highlights the richness of Louisiana's waters. Their Prime Boneless Pork Rib Eye, served fried, either mild or spicy, along with your choice of side, is a dish that speaks of Southern love for comfort food. But don't forget to try their Grilled Chicken Tacos, served on flour tortillas and drizzled with Cajun remoulade sauce.

A skip and a hop away, Marilynn's Place offers a taste of authentic Louisiana. Their Crawfish Etouffée, a stew simmering with Louisiana Crawfish-tails in a bed of vegetables and dark roux, is not to be missed. If you are looking for something hearty, their Chicken & Andouille Jambalaya or Seafood Gumbo, loaded with Louisiana Gulf Shrimp, Crab, Oysters, and Andouille, will not disappoint. Don't leave Shreveport without popping by Superior Grill, where the Pescado Rojo, mesquite-grilled Red fish served with Mexican rice and a variety of flavorful sides, takes center stage. The Superior Chile Relleno, a Poblano pepper stuffed with mesquite grilled skirt steak or chicken, will leave you pleasantly surprised at this Louisiana-Mexican fusion.

Beyond food, Shreveport offers a feast for the eyes and the mind. Visit the Shreveport Aquarium to marvel at marine life, or explore the fascinating exhibits at Sci-Port Discovery Center. Wander through the stunning American Rose Center, a 118-acre park dedicated to roses, the largest in the United States.

Lake Charles: Gumbo of Goodness

Lake Charles, a spirited city known for its live music and festivals, offers a flavorful feast that's as lively as its reputation. Begin at Seafood Palace, where dishes like Crab Jalapenos and the gumbo trio - Shrimp & Crab Gumbo, and Chicken & Sausage Gumbo - make it a must-stop for seafood enthusiasts.

Next up, Buffi’s Peaux Boys serves up a sandwich fiesta with the All American Poboy. This marvel is loaded with boiled shrimp, lettuce, jalapeno mayo, and an assortment of cheese. Their Kicken Chicken Poboy, loaded with grilled chicken, jalapenos, bacon bits, shredded cheese, jalepeno mayo & bacon ranch spread, is a delicious mouthful of Louisiana zest. Finally, Restaurant Calla should be on your radar for its upscale and inventive dishes. The Mesquite Compart Pork Chop served with sweet potato hash and apple chutney compound butter is a gourmet's delight. The Spinach Soup, made even more delectable with strawberries, candied pecans, red onions, lardons, Dubliner, warm bacon vinaigrette, and a boiled egg, is comfort in a bowl.

After feasting, work off the calories exploring the natural beauty of Sam Houston Jones State Park and Prien Lake Park. Drive along the Creole Nature Trail All-American Road to catch a glimpse of Louisiana's untamed landscapes. Lake Charles, with its bounty of culinary treats and tourist attractions, ensures that your Louisiana adventure is truly fulfilling.

Alexandria: A Taste of Antebellum Allure

Lastly, we drift into Alexandria, a city replete with Southern charm and a hearty, history-rich cuisine to match. Start the day off at Atwood's Bakery. The Creamy Shrimp & Grits is a heart-warming feast for the senses. A rich Tasso cream sauce is perfectly paired with grilled domestic shrimp served over Papa Mark’s grits, crowned with three more grilled shrimp. The Florentine, featuring two slices of French toast topped with sugar-roasted almonds and strawberries accompanied by either applewood smoked bacon or sausage links, makes for a breakfast fit for a king.

Next on the gastronomic tour is Rosie Jo's, a local delight that has mastered the art of comfort food. Their Chicken Fried Steak, served with gravy, Cajun potatoes, and corn on the cob, is comfort food defined. Not to be overlooked is their Bayou Steak Fries, an overloaded feast of Cajun Philly steak French fries smothered in cheese, grilled onions, and mushrooms, served with a side of jalapeno and sour cream. Our final culinary destination is Diamond Grill. This elegant restaurant offers dishes that are as refined as they are delicious. Try the Lobster Quesadilla, filled with claw meat, pico de gallo, and pepper jack cheese served with sweet tomato jam. If you're a fan of fish, the Panko Halibut, seared and topped with blackened shrimp and maple beurre blanc, is a must-try.

Apart from its culinary treats, Alexandria boasts several places of interest. Visit the Alexandria Museum of Art, where you'll find an impressive collection of contemporary and Louisiana folk art. The Alexandria Zoological Park, home to over 500 animals, makes for a great family day out. Round off your journey at the Coughlin-Saunders Performing Arts Center, a modern architectural gem with a diverse roster of performances.

And so, our tastebud-tingling trek through the heart and soul of Louisiana comes to a close, leaving us full to the brim with more than just the finest fare this state has to offer. From the jazz-filled streets of New Orleans, where every bite of Short Rib Ragu and sizzling beignets hums a melody of rich flavors, to the homey comfort of Baton Rouge with its generous Eliza Cheeseburger and tantalizing Catfish Perdu, Louisiana's spirit is deeply embedded in its cuisine.

We ventured onward to Lafayette, indulging in succulent Jumbo Lump Crab Cakes and tantalizing pizzas, then to Shreveport, where the seafood gumbo and the mesmerizing taste of grilled Red fish at Superior Grill brought a symphony of flavors to our lips. And who could forget Lake Charles' seafood delights or the southern comfort of Alexandria’s Lobster Quesadilla? The diversity, the tradition, the joie de vivre - it's all baked, fried, and simmered into every Louisiana dish. Pair this with an array of intriguing attractions like the mystic Avery Island, the scenic Prien Lake Park, or the vibrant Alexandria Zoological Park, and you have an adventure for all the senses.

So here's my challenge to you: Don’t just read about it—go live it, taste it, experience the wonder that is Louisiana. Its cultural and gastronomical riches are waiting for you with open arms and empty plates, ready to be filled with memories of good food and even better times. Until then, "Laissez les bons temps rouler", or as we say in English, "Let the good times roll!"

Must-Try Restaurants in Louisiana

Copper Vine

1001 Poydras St, New Orleans, LA 70112

our server and the receptionist went above and beyond to make our celebration special. we had an infant with us and the receptionist came to check up on ...

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Superb525 Reviews4.5

Zorba's Greek Bistro

5713 Essen Ln b, Baton Rouge, LA 70810

Outstanding as always. I love the hidden feel of Zorba's and how you feel like you stumbled on a gem in the middle of BR. The staff are always pleas...

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Superb71 Reviews4.8

Eliza Restaurant

7970 Jefferson Hwy j, Baton Rouge, LA 70809

This is one of our favorite restaurants located in Mid-City South. As always, the food and service are stellar! Great selection of wine too. Ask for the ...

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Superb177 Reviews4.4

Atwood's Bakery

1125 MacArthur Dr, Alexandria, LA 71303

The deserts we bought were great. We showed up about 30 minutes before closing and we're treated courteously. The woman who was working helped us wi...

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Good49 Reviews3.9

Restaurant Calla

1400 Market St, Lake Charles, LA 70601

I was really hoping I would like this place.
Excited to try their burger. Unfortunately
I was very disappointed. They used some kind ...

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Superb83 Reviews4.3

Oceana Grill

739 Conti St, New Orleans, LA 70130

We had a wonderful time, and a huge thank you to Ramsey and Mario for the excellent food and atmosphere.

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Superb981 Reviews4.4

The Chimes

3357 Highland Rd, Baton Rouge, LA 70802

Can’t complain about this place. I prefer takeout over eating there though. But the food is always great! They are consistent with getting the food out f...

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Superb222 Reviews4.3

Crawdaddy's Kitchen

9370 Mansfield Rd, Shreveport, LA 71118

I ordered a roast beef poboy expecting tender and juicy roast beef like I'm used to in New Orleans. It was very dry and hard to chew. Also I was mis...

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Good201 Reviews4.1

Marilynn's Place

4041 Fern Ave, Shreveport, LA 71105

The food here is arguably the best in Shreveport if you're looking for Cajun food. As good as the food is, it was not as good as the service. Ryan, ...

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Superb175 Reviews4.5

Rosie Jo's

3140 S MacArthur Dr, Alexandria, LA 71303

Rosie Jo’s is absolutely fantastic!! The crawfish are spicy, cooked perfectly, and delicious. You can taste the smoke in the smoked sausage, obviously ho...

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Good167 Reviews4.2

Diamond Grill

924 3rd St, Alexandria, LA 71301

Appetizers were great wedge salad off the chart, marinated rib eye was just okay taste more like a Hawaiian steak. Will go back again and order rib eye...

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Superb69 Reviews4.3

Buffi's Peaux Boys

345 Broad St, Lake Charles, LA 70601

Previously my coworkers and I would come and grab lunch at Buffi’s and it was always delicious and fresh, just a few minutes ago my husband and I stopped...

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Superb59 Reviews4.4

Beausoleil Coastal Cuisine

7731 Jefferson Hwy, Baton Rouge, LA 70809

Delightful and relaxing

Vegetarian options: There are great options

Parking: Plenty

Wheelchair a...

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Good117 Reviews4.2

Superior Grill

6123 Line Ave, Shreveport, LA 71106

Great service! Very diverse and friendly crowd. I suggest this place to all. I'm very serious when I say the person you're seated closest to w...

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Good154 Reviews4.1

Seafood Palace

2218 Enterprise Blvd, Lake Charles, LA 70601

Shelley was by far the worst waitress we have ever had. She was extremely rude from the time we sat down to the time we left. She didn’t greet us when sh...

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Good132 Reviews4.2

Pamplona Tapas Bar

631 Jefferson St, Lafayette, LA 70501

We are traveling through Louisiana, and we love Tapas, so my husband picked this place. Best meal I had this year. Every drink delicious, evey bite wonde...

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Good82 Reviews4.1

Pop's Poboys

740 Jefferson St, Lafayette, LA 70501

Blowing through town on the way home from NOLA. This place was highly recommended from a local, and it didn’t disappoint! Grilled shrimp po-boy was 5/5, ...

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Superb92 Reviews4.3

Deano's Pizza Bertrand

305 Bertrand Dr, Lafayette, LA 70506

Great pizza, server was excellent and friendly, misunderstood our order (our table was loud, not his fault) but what we received was totally delicious.

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Superb109 Reviews4.3

Bon Temps Grill

1211 W Pinhook Rd, Lafayette, LA 70503

Amanda was an incredible server she recommended the catfish etouffe that was insanely good and the banana bread pudding was probably the best dessert I’v...

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Superb256 Reviews4.3

Brigtsen's Restaurant

723 Dante St, New Orleans, LA 70118

My new favorite. We just hopped off the streetcar and walked in without a reservation and the hostess was so sweet. I love when anyone calls me “angel!” ...

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Superb82 Reviews4.6

Mother's Restaurant

401 Poydras St, New Orleans, LA 70130

Was exactly what I was looking for in New Orleans food and at a great price. The bread pudding is amazing.

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Good826 Reviews4.2

Recently Opened Restaurants

B Well Nutrition

90 Depot St, Robeline, LA 71469

Poor0 Reviews0

Food sin fronteras

9273 LA-23, Belle Chasse, LA 70037

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Poor0 Reviews0

Rex House Kitchen & Courtyard

619 Bourbon St, New Orleans, LA 70130

Food was great. Kash provided great customer service and he made sure we had everything we needed until we left!!

Superb91 Reviews4.6

Uchi Sushi

5454 Bluebonnet Blvd, Baton Rouge, LA 70809

First time trying this place and it was great! Our food came out very quick and prices are very reasonable. The service was awesome as well. Everyone was...

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Superb46 Reviews4.9

Moe's Cafe Greek and Lebanese and more

13375 LA-73, Geismar, LA 70734

I'm working in the area from out of town and decided to try this place out. I ordered the meditation hummus (pretty sure it was the best hummus I�...

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Superb24 Reviews4.8

Salad Station

1935 Lutcher Ave Ste C, Lutcher, LA 70071

So I went to this location and started fixing my salad there was a bug in the romaine lettuce. I made the team member aware of this she took my bowl thre...

Superb18 Reviews4.8

Krispy Krunchy Chicken

702 US-90, Patterson, LA 70392

Poor0 Reviews0

Latinos504

2917 U.S. Hwy 51, Laplace, LA 70068

Family oriented establishment. Great atmosphere. Great people and the food is authentic and delicious.

Superb8 Reviews5

Dumpling Hour

3535 Ambassador Caffery Pkwy, Lafayette, LA 70503

Excellent service and exceptional food. It strongly reminds of the some of the dishes at Chopsticks, which was a restraint that replaced Brazilian steak...

Superb74 Reviews4.4

Dilly & Sons Bagelry and Cafe

2040 LA-59, Mandeville, LA 70448

Stopped in this morning for 1st time. I'm not a bagel expert but I tried a breakfast bagel sandwich and it was GREAT! Coffee's a little pricey ...

Superb8 Reviews5

Triangle Deli

101 Westbank Expy, Gretna, LA 70056

I absolutely loved staying across the street from this establishment. We stumbled upon it while patronizing the gas station it is nestled in and from tha...

Average6 Reviews3.2

Pita & Company

2424 Williams Blvd, Kenner, LA 70062

Great food, best stuffed grapeleaves beef kabob pita was excellent, can't wait to go back. If you like Mona's you will love this place.

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Superb18 Reviews4.9

Swole’s Sausage Connection

3791 LA-29, Bunkie, LA 71322

Repeat customer. Moved away and still make the trip because it is THAT good! I’ll be back.

Superb15 Reviews5

Nola Boss Cafe

6131 LA-10, Greensburg, LA 70441

It was a delight to sit and dine in, also the atmosphere and jazz music were amazing.
Not to mention the food was fantastic and filling. I reall...

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Superb1 Reviews5

Beck's Fried Chicken

727 Ave G, Kentwood, LA 70444

The chicken is always good but we got burgers tonight and they were delicious!! Onion rings were also fantastic and their apple pies are yummy too.

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Good8 Reviews3.6

Recent Reviews

Pizzacake

228 Poydras Street Caesars, New Orleans, LA 70130

I was surprised at how delicious the pizza was-and so fairly priced.! The restaurant was clean and the workers took good care of us! Loved it!

Average45 Reviews2.8

Kham Koon Thai Restaurant & Lunch Buffet

607 Kaliste Saloom Rd, Lafayette, LA 70508

Absolutely delicious food and such a cozy setting! So many options to choose from so it's a win for everyone, I do wish they had photos with the var...

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Good32 Reviews4.2

Lou & Laura's

1301 Windsor Pl, Alexandria, LA 71303

I go there several times a week. NO More!!! The food is great, though high, but every single time the price is different!!! Same order most of the time ...

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Good53 Reviews4.1

Sportsman Fish & Grill

1598 Carter St, Vidalia, LA 71373

The burgers were fantastic! Building and decore is a little dated but didn't effect the taste of that burger one bit. ;)

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Good32 Reviews4.2

Hot Rod Bar-B-Q

1911 Farmerville Hwy, Ruston, LA 71270

Myself and Miss Judy have been driving to Ruston with out any food intake from Madisonville, La for 25 years waiting to eat at Hot Rods. Saturday we got...

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Good58 Reviews4.2

Chili's Grill & Bar

1820 W Airline Hwy, Laplace, LA 70068

The thing that makes this particular Chili’s location a great place to go and the reason I give five stars in all areas is for one reason and one reason ...

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Good116 Reviews3.5

Hebert's Boudin and Cracklins

2013 Rees St, Breaux Bridge, LA 70517

Nastiest boudin balls I’ve ever tasted
She looked and acted like she didn’t wanna be there
Will never return here

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Superb42 Reviews4.5

Brewster's Restaurant

8751 W Judge Perez Dr, Chalmette, LA 70043

The burger had good taste, but you can not convince me that it’s worth the price. I know it’s real ground meat but! Almost $30 for a ...

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Good68 Reviews3.9

Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen

5275 Government St, Baton Rouge, LA 70806

I made a doordash order for a 8 piece family meal, I called this location BEFORE placing my order and asked if my order could contain DARK MEAT ONLY with...

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Good107 Reviews3.4

McDonald's

1406 N 18th St, Monroe, LA 71201

My fish burger was eel!came out fast fries hot and my drink good.I’d order again!!!

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Average49 Reviews3.1

Corporation Bar & Grill

931 S Peters St, New Orleans, LA 70130

Most wonderful bar in new Orleans great food atmosphere people going back in September for 45th anniversary tell them shotgun sent you

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Superb104 Reviews4.6

PrimoHoagies

8228 Oak St, New Orleans, LA 70118

I really want to like this place, but their bread is always rock hard, to the point that my jaw hurts after taking a bit.

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Good55 Reviews4

Abuela's Mexican Cuisine

1304 Lamy Ln, Monroe, LA 71201

We have been goin on Sundays for dinner & each time we've gone the food, from the chips salsa & queso' to the meal has been very good! ...

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Superb93 Reviews4.4

Roux 25

82010 LA-25, Folsom, LA 70437

Confused on other reviews, don’t order pork chop in a Louisiana restaurant, if the reviews are good yeah make a RESERVATION ( HELLO!) Place ha...

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Good23 Reviews4.1

Charles Seafood

8311 Jefferson Hwy, Harahan, LA 70123

The best Gumbo in the metro area. Order the soft shell crab and gumbo and a cold beer. Get the crab on french bread. The buns are sweet snd take away fro...

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