Black-Owned Restaurants & Eateries in Baton Rouge
Baton Rouge has no shortage of incredible places to eat, and some of the best meals in the city come from Black-owned restaurants and eateries that have been feeding this community for years.
From soul food that feels like home to new flavors that are putting Baton Rouge on the map, these spots are worth every visit. Whether you're a local looking to try something new or a visitor wanting to eat where the locals do, this list is a great place to start. Check out some of our favorites below.
The Bullfish Bistro
Step inside The Bullfish Bistro, where tropical vibes meet Southern charm. Chef Angel Lombrage brings the bold flavors of his Caribbean roots to Baton Rouge, crafting dishes that cater to every palate. His signature tender lamb chops are a must-try, perfectly seasoned and seared to perfection. With a full vegan menu available, The Bullfish is a flavorful experience for everyone looking for a bite to eat.
Chicken Shack
As the oldest restaurant in Baton Rouge, Chicken Shack knows a thing or two about fried chicken. Pair their renowned chicken with a side of macaroni and cheese or their red beans & rice and you have the perfect soul food meal to cure the "Sunday Scaries!"
The Cozy Griddle
The most important meal of the day means taking breakfast to the next level at The Cozy Griddle. Build your own omelets with seafood, have your eggs sunny side up, or your bacon extra crispy. Either way, this restaurant has you covered.

Crafted Nibbles
What started as a pandemic pop-up has grown into something Baton Rouge didn't know it needed: Louisiana's first build-your-own cheese box bar. Crafted Nibbles lets you customize your own charcuterie box with meats, cheeses, and pairings. Gluten-free, vegan, and kosher options are also available, plus catering if you want to bring the spread to your next event.
DC Eats
DC Eats has built a loyal following over the years for their passion for soul food. Whether you're digging into one of their specials of the day or taking on their homemade burgers or wings, DC Eats promises to satisfy.
Dorothy's Soul Food Kitchen
Imagine all of your soul food favorites on one plate that's so huge you can barely close it – this is what to be expected at Dorothy's Soul Food Kitchen! For over 40 years, Dorothy's has featured classic soul food dishes that's enough to feed an entire family (or two).
Empire Wingz
Featuring locations across the city, including around both LSU and Southern University campuses, Empire Wingz has become a go-to for students craving a break after a long week of classes and loads of homework. Their VJ fries with BBQ and ranch are always a favorite, as well as their endless menu of wing flavors and combos.
Owen's Grocery Market & Deli
Owen's has been a Baton Rouge staple since the late 1930s, and loyal locals will tell you it never gets old. From fried fish and fried chicken to smothered pork chops and lasagna, this is the kind of soul food that keeps people coming back. If you're looking for a taste of the real Baton Rouge, Owen's is a great place to start.

Smoke Bayou
Earning the Keith Lee stamp of approval in 2024, Smoke Bayou serves up some of the best BBQ in Baton Rouge. From tender brisket to fall-off-the-bone ribs, every bite is packed with smoky, slow-cooked flavor. Can’t decide what to try first? Go for the BBQ platter as it offers a little bit of everything and never disappoints.
Zeeland Street
For the past 30 years, Ms. Stephanie has poured her heart and soul into every dish she touches and we're all the better for it. Named a New York Times Best Restaurant (yes, you read that right!), Zeeland Street is known for its daily lunch specials and hearty breakfast options that satisfy every craving.
More Black-Owned Restaurants & Eateries
- The Bayou Affect
- BB & PF
- Beignet Baton Rouge
- Bull Chicks
- Cafe Express
- Dr. FeelGood - Coursey
- Dr. FeelGood- Highland
- Ethel's Snack Shack
- Jamaican Vibes Cuisine
- Jay's Bar-B-Q
- KOK Wings and Things
- Lillie's Kitchen & Catering
- Odom's Kitchen
- Pit-N-Peel BBQ & Seafood
- Roly Poly Downtown
- Royal Taste of Jamaica
- Ruffin's II
- Southern Chicks Cafe & Daiquiris
- Sunshine's Place
- The Smokey Pit
- Triplet's Blue Store Chicken - Plank Road
- Zen-Jus


































