When you think of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, you might first think of swamp tours (which we highly recommend) or even Louisiana State University, (where attending a home game is also highly encouraged). Or, maybe the first thing you’d think about is the food — and if it’s not, it should be.
To experience the Baton Rouge culinary scene, you must immerse yourself, and that means never turning down a meal when it’s offered to you by the friendly locals. To help elevate your Baton Rouge food experience, we’ve come up with a few suggestions.
The Ultimate Lesson – Take a Cooking Class with a Local
There’s no better way to experience Cajun cuisine than by learning how to cook it yourself. Red Stick Spice Co. is a family owned and operated business that specializes in brining the freshest spices and custom blends to your pantry. Here, you’ll find spices from around the globe plus blends and rubs that capture the unique flavors of South Louisiana. Anne Milneck, the proprietor of the spice shop, worked for years as a caterer in Baton Rouge and has set out to source the best spice blends from local chefs, award-winning grill masters, and regional farmers, in addition to blending some of their own. Anne also offers cooking classes in a demo kitchen located inside her spice shop.
Legendary Dining
When the Juban family opened their restaurant in 1983, it was hailed as one of the best in America. The eatery has since continued to set the standard for excellence in the Gulf South. Juban’s is where you go to seek out unique, creative expressions of contemporary Creole cuisine. To fully experience the best of Juban’s menu, try the Frog Legs Vacherie — eight flash-fried frog legs served with Cajun slaw, lemon butter, and hot sauce, followed by Turtle Soup Au Sherry, served with whipped sherry cream, shaved boiled egg yolk, and fried spinach garnish.
Seafood and Steaks
Looking for elevated Southern cuisine? Look no further than Stroube's, located in downtown Baton Rouge. One of the city’s finest seafood and steak menus features delicious southern cuisine that's inspired by local ingredients and the abundance of fresh seafood that the Gulf of Mexico provides for Louisiana. Their hand-cut steaks, seared duck breast, fresh seafood, and takes on classic preparations are a tribute to their attention to detail that provides a dining experience that is second to none.
Gourmet Southern Cuisine
Located adjacent to the lobby of The Watermark Baton Rouge — which is housed in the former Bank of Louisiana — The Gregory is the perfect blend of a spacious kitchen and full bar. Inside, you're surrounded by vintage murals painted by Angela Gregory, the restaurant’s namesake. The menu is centered around the flavors of Baton Rouge and uses locally grown produce and organic ingredients to concoct fun twists on classic Southern dishes and drinks (think banh mi burgers, pumpkin poblano bisque, and alligator sausage sandwiches).
...And Where to Stay
Nearly a century ago, this iconic skyscraper that overlooks the majestic Mississippi River was built as the headquarters of Louisiana Trust & Savings Bank. Today it’s the Watermark Baton Rouge. As you enter through the Art Deco-inspired lobby, you are greeted with vibrant enclaves in the form of restaurants and social lounges. Spend time marveling at the massive carved marble walls and grand staircase. Take in the stunning hand-painted murals that adorn their ceilings and indulge in one of their two restaurants. The rooms and suites are a fusion of luxurious décor and modern amenities with historic details.