Standout Cuisine in Baton Rouge, Louisiana

Bang Bang Shrimp, The Vintage Baton Rouge, Louisiana

   Ah, Baton Rouge. The Capital of Louisiana, and home of Raising Cane's. Live oaks line the streets, and housing meanders around bayous. A small city with a lot of history, these days the biggest draw is Louisiana State University. I completed my Master's program there, and just recently went back to perform with Opera Louisiane in their Christmas show, Becoming Santa Claus. 

   All this being said, I've had lots of opportunity to try local restaurants, so if you're visiting or wanting to try something new, here are a few suggestions from me. 

The Overpass Merchant

Tempura-fried Green Beans, The Overpass Merchant

   Nestled under the interstate, there lay a wealth of little shops and restaurants that boast some of Baton Rouge's best food. The Overpass Merchant is one such restaurant, known for their rotating daily specials and quality burgers. A gorgeous little restaurant with a friendly staff, the Overpass Merchant is popular for their quality spins on classic American and Asian dishes. A laid-back place to relax after a long day, bring a couple of friends and don't forget to share some appetizers.

   Because of the size and popularity of the O.M., I would personally suggest making a reservation, they may not be able to accommodate walk-ins. 

 Sarah's Picks: Tempura-Fried Green Beans,  Grouper Sandwich, Burgers

The Colonel's Lounge

A custom cocktail at the Colonel's Lounge, attached to the Colonel's Club

   It's a chilly December evening, and rehearsal with Opera Louisiane has ended early. It's much too early to return to my hotel and sleep, so I scan around while driving back towards the Crown Plaza. A beautiful, bright sign catches my eye; The Colonel's Club. It takes me significantly longer to find than anticipated, but as I finally park and head in I can't help but admire the facade of the building. 

   Inside lies and even more beautiful atmosphere; pleasantly dim, the staff greets me and asks which way I'm headed. As I step into the Lounge, I'm greeted by live piano and a crackling fire. This, I thought, is exactly what I had been craving. It's admittedly difficult to find a welcoming, cozy lounge that boasts live music and skillfully crafted cocktails in Baton Rouge (other alternatives have aspects of this, but not everything together). I spent the evening getting to know the wonderful staff and trying their own creations, and enjoying the wonderful music of Kiley McDonnel. 

  The Club ( the restaurant on the other side) has a modern southern/seafood menu, and while I did not try their food, it looks stunning, and I've heard nothing but positive things from those who have dined there. 

Sarah's Picks: Espresso Martini, Custom Cocktails

Blue Corn

Mole Enchiladas with Asada, Blue Corn Modern Mexican

  Growing up in Phoenix, I think it would be safe to say that I've been spoiled when it comes to Mexican food. I grew up with Mole de Pollo, Carne Asada fries, and Chilaquiles readily available, so when I moved to Cleveland, and then Baton Rouge for school I was unhappily surprised that there was so little quality Mexican food around. That changed one day in Baton Rouge when my then-partner and I decided to try Blue Corn. I was so happy I could have quality mole again I almost cried. It was a pleasure to visit an old haunt when I was back, their food was just as tasty as I remembered it being.   

   Blue Corn is a bright, open restaurant with a friendly staff and tasty eats that come quickly. I have enjoyed everything I've had from their menu, but their Nopales and their frozen margs are standout. An excellent spot for tacos, enjoy Blue Corn for lunch with friends or as a casual date night dinner choice. 

Sarah's Picks: Nopales Guajillo, Mole Enchiladas with Asada, Tacos

The Vintage

3 Sisters Sandwich, The Vintage

   I fondly remember spending mornings at The Vintage, completing classwork and enjoying a coffee. I was happy to see this casual downtown spot still going strong when I returned, as it still is an excellent place for a bite to eat and to work for a couple of hours. A casual stop for a coffee and beignet, or stay for their small plates and sandwiches. In the evenings, The Vintage transforms into a posh bar and light dinner spot, perfect for happy hour after work with colleagues. 

   Their baked goods are always fantastic, and if you like sweets they have flights of gourmet beignets you can try. Overall, if you're looking for a quick bite and a pick-me-up, The Vintage has you covered. 

 Sarah's Picks: Truffle Parmesan Fries, 3 Sisters Panini, The Vintage Breakfast

Iverstine Butcher & Eatery

Bavette Steak, Iverstine Eatery

   There aren't many whole animal butchers around, these days. There are even fewer with an attached eatery, serving up sandwiches for lunch and perfectly cooked steaks for dinner. Iverstine Butcher is one such place, with a small farm market in the front of the building and a small restaurant in the back. Here, you can pick up a delicious sandwich for lunch, then walk ten stops over to pick up your cuts of meat & dairy for dinner that night.

​    Iverstine Butcher also boasts a $40 Prime Rib Special on Fridays only, which includes smoked Prime Rib and 2 sides. It's hard to imagine such a deal, but the quality of their steaks are so high that I would jump on the chance! Whether you're looking to take home a quality cut of meat, or popping in for their Friday night Prim Rib Special, Iverstine Butcher & Eatery is a gem of a place, and it's a shame more people don't know about what they have to offer. 

Sarah's Picks: Bavette Steak, Lemon Posset, Prime Rib

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   I was happily surprised by what Baton Rouge's culinary scene had to offer. It had been a few years since I had been back, and being able to explore the food culture more was a lot of fun. I look forward to visiting again in the future, and seeing what other surprises await. Dear Reader, please take this as a sign to not discount a place's restaurant scene because it's not a culinary hub. There are always hidden treasures, just waiting to be discovered.