Times change and so does the ever-evolving dining scene in Baton Rouge.
Since May, 12 new dining and drink spots have opened. To break it down, there are five restaurants (one of which is a jazz club), three walk-up food spots, two coffee shops, one dessert shop and one speakeasy bar. The palate is diverse, from Sichuan to Cajun fusion to Indian fare.
Get hungry, and check out the list below.
Dearman’s South at 174 South Blvd.: Currently soft-opened with a grand opening slated for Aug. 29 — serving burgers, hot dogs, onion rings and more.
Blues Cafe and Jazz Lounge, 8345 Florida Blvd.: This jazz club hosts several events and performers along with a food menu and Sunday brunch.
Big Chicken, 410 Tower Drive: On LSU’s campus, this Shaquille O’Neal-owned chicken joint opened Aug. 17.
Joelle’s Soul & Savour, 3015 Westfork Drive: Currently soft-opened and slated for a grand opening on Sept. 11, this restaurant serves elevated southern cuisine and cocktails.
Rougaroux Capitol Bodega, 701 Spanish Town Road: Beginning as a pop-up, this business just opened inside Spanish Town Market serving Cajun fusion fare.
House Brew, 278 North St.: Downtown coffee shop serving espresso drinks, matcha, paninis and more.
Tiger Tang, 7056A Siegen Lane: Build-your-own Malatang, also serving appetizers, boba and dessert.
Hearsay Social Club, 1857 Government St.: This speakeasy opened inside Circa 1857 with cocktails and antiques.
Vals, 7242 Perkins Road: Born in New Orleans, Vals serves tacos, margaritas and chips and dips.
Crepe Haven, 7474 Corporate Blvd. Suite 105: Dessert shop serving crepes, ice cream, coffee and more.
Spice Junction, 11777 Coursey Blvd.: Indian restaurant serving classic appetizers, curries, desserts and drinks.
Cafe Verdino, 6626 Jones Creek Road, Suite H: This emerald green coffee shop serves espresso drinks, pastries and more.
Dining and Cooking