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

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Cities

Alexandria

Baton Rouge

Bossier City

Covington

Denham Springs

Gonzales

Gretna

Hammond

Houma

Kenner

Lafayette

Lake Charles

Mandeville

Metairie

Monroe

New Iberia

New Orleans

Shreveport

Slidell

West Monroe

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