Top Baton Rouge Restaurants and Culinary Experiences

Top Restaurants in the Baton Rouge Area

Roberto’s River Road Restaurant

Roberto’s River Road Restaurant offers a quaint, local vibe. Set in a 200-year-old house alongside the Mississippi River, with small rooms and a cozy atmosphere, it’s worth a wait even on the busiest of evenings. Their signature Shrimp Roberto — seafood-stuffed shrimp wrapped in bacon and fried, set in a beurre blanc and finished with hollandaise and parmesan cheese — is a must-try.

Mason’s Grill

Famous for their bottomless champagne brunch, nationally award-winning Bloody Mary and Cajun Shrimp Burger stuffed with jalapeños and piled high with sautéed shrimp, Mason's Grill has something for everyone in your family.

Zeeland Street

Surrounded by live oak trees and cute bungalows, Zeeland Street buzzes with excited diners on weekends. It was even named one of America's Best Restaurants by the New York Times. From the breakfast menu, the Zeeland Slam is a sure bet. It offers a taste of several Zeeland Street items, like melt-in-your-mouth cheddar cheese grits; warm, fluffy buttermilk pancakes; sizzlin’ bacon; and eggs any way you like them. Beyond the top-notch comfort food, the Zeeland staff is full of sincere smiles and a clear passion for food and their guests. 

Tsunami

Situated on the rooftop of the Shaw Center of the Arts downtown, Tsunami provides the experience of dining on sushi while overlooking the Mississippi River — a view no visitor to Baton Rouge should miss. The view at sunset is spectacular, although the relaxed ambiance here also makes for a perfect lunch spot. For a little Louisiana flair, try the Ragin’ Cajun Roll with panko-fried alligator.

The Little Village

The Little Village is a local Baton Rouge spot for when those Italian cravings hit. Be sure to order their Village Bread — when that bread arrives at your table, warm and extra-soft, topped with parmesan cheese and a good amount of olive oil, you'll be in heaven. And there’s an olive spread on the side!

George’s 

We can't talk about places to eat in Baton Rouge without mentioning George’s. Their selection, ranging from seafood plates to po'boys and including a garden burger, has earned them a place among the city’s best eats more than once. And don't pass on the onion rings. The portions are generous, so you'll leave with both your taste buds and your appetite pleasantly satisfied.

Mansurs on the Boulevard

Crab is among the most delicious blessings that Louisiana receives from the Gulf, and Mansurs in Baton Rouge knows just how to embrace this gift. Their signature cream of brie and crabmeat soup features thick lumps of crabmeat in fresh, melted brie cheese, all melding together to create a rich, creamy bowl of tasty delight.

The Chimes Restaurant

More than a restaurant, The Chimes has long been a Baton Rouge tradition that locals hold dear. From specialties like Catfish Perdu (thin-fried catfish topped with crawfish etouffee) and shrimp and grits, the menu gives a well-rounded taste of Louisiana cuisine just outside the north gates of LSU’s campus. The Chimes is also well-known for its selection of local and international beer. And there are happy-hour specials for both bite and booze Monday through Friday afternoon, like half-off oysters on the half shell.

Louie’s Café

Open 24 hours, Louie’s Café has been welcoming guests into its old-school diner ambiance since 1941. On any late night in Baton Rouge, treat yourself to one of their signature omelets, like the Seafood Louie with shrimp and crawfish, or try the legendary cubed hash browns, griddled to perfection. Forking a warm, hearty omelet at odd hours is a beauty that college students and downtown locals alike embrace here.

Don't-Miss Culinary Experiences

Baton Rouge Food Tour

All About Baton Rouge Tours offers a Baton Rouge Food Tour which includes tastings at local restaurants that reflect the city's history and culture. Definitely have a light breakfast on the day you book this one! 

Red Stick Spice Company 

Spices are the foundation of South Louisiana cuisine, and spices are what Red Stick Spice Company is all about. You won't find foodies here, just home cooks who believe in the power of a home-cooked meal. Whether you're getting ready for Taco Tuesday or a six-course meal, you'll find all the seasoning blends, oils and more you need to spice it perfectly. You can even book a cooking class!

Red Stick Farmers Market

Make the most of each season's harvest every Saturday morning as you join Baton Rouge locals and experience Red Stick Farmers Market's huge selection of fresh produce, seafood, baked goods, dairy and more for yourself. The market is open from 8 a.m. to noon, rain or shine, and features more than 50 vendors, including Louisiana's small family farmers and artisans.