Every city in Louisiana has its own distinct personality; for example, New Orleans is exciting and free-spirited, Lafayette is artistic and communal, and Shreveport is quirky and growing. As for the capital, Baton Rouge’s charm is a mix of all the best traits of our great state.
From culture to food, if you’re looking for a way to experience Louisiana’s best all in one location, you’re in luck! Here are some of Louisiana’s favorite local eateries that have made a home in Baton Rouge.
Dat Dog
With three locations in New Orleans and one in Downtown Lafayette, locals have been eagerly waiting for the arrival of Dat Dog in the capital. Dat Dog is a New Orleans classic for its incredibly unique and quirky location and menu. From brightly colored-booths to beer-soaked hot dogs, this is a joint you can’t miss. You can soon experience hot dogs like you never have before right here in Baton Rouge.
French Truck Coffee
If anyone thinks a city doesn’t need more cute coffee shops - they’re wrong. A New Orleans native cafe now has its own location in Baton Rouge! Louisiana cuisine is all about getting the freshest ingredients to the table quick and coffee is no exception. And since Baton Rouge is home to some of the largest coffee enthusiasts, this location feels right at home. Come for the fresh coffee, stay for the bright atmosphere, and take a selfie or two.
District Donuts
Leave it to New Orleans to make some of the most unique donuts known to man. District Donuts is known in Louisiana for having large cake donuts with flavors that rotate every day, so you’ll never see the same menu every single time. Located in Towne Center of Baton Rouge, this location has had its line going out the door since its opening in May of 2018. The BR location prides itself on making everything fresh from scratch just as its mother shop intended. Donut miss out on this great breakfast spot.
Bud’s Broiler
Even the largest natural disaster in New Orleans couldn’t keep Bud’s Broiler away. Founded in 1952, Bud’s Broiler was a NOLA favorite amongst burger lovers. After Hurricane Katrina hit, seven new locations popped up in the area. An old classic is now serving the Baton Rouge college crowd since it opened this summer. Stop by this New Orleans staple to either relive old memories or make new ones.
The Bulldog
Most Baton Rouge residents that are 21 and over have frequented The Bulldog bar. And most may not believe you if you tell them the original location is in uptown New Orleans. The Bulldog is notorious for having around 80 draft beers (mostly craft and local) and over 200 bottled beers with a large patio that is dog-friendly! Even though this establishment was born in New Orleans, it is a Baton Rouge staple that is loved by everyone who visits.
Velvet Cactus
Winning awards such as Best Mexican Restaurant, Best Outdoor Dining, and Best Margarita have made Velvet Cactus a favorite in Baton Rouge. This restaurant with New Orleans roots has been a favorite in BR for its creative Mexican food and fun drink specials. The Velvet Cactus is a hot spot for birthday celebrations, so plan your next bday dinner here!
Tsunami
Every Lafayette local knows about this luxurious sushi establishment downtown. But after coming to Baton Rouge in 2004, it has been the talk of the town. The Baton Rouge location offers the same incredible menu items with an outstanding view of the Mississippi River (the perfect photo op). Both the Lafayette and Baton Rouge locations offer sushi classes so you can learn to make your own.
Burgersmith
This Lafayette burger joint has expanded to two locations in Baton Rouge. With fresh, local ingredients and premium New Orleans ice cream, Burgersmith has a made a name for itself in South Louisiana.
Monjuni’s
A Shreveport Italian favorite made its way to Baton Rouge. This establishment has been around Shreveport since the 1990s and the building since the 20s. It has been referred to as a “cozy little Italian bistro in the heart of BR” in reviews. The staff at both locations strive to serve authentic Italian comfort food to the Louisiana community.