As the capital of the state and a culinary outpost, Baton Rouge, Louisiana restaurants have a larger reputation than you likely know. And. that’s saying alot given that New Orleans is just up the interstate.

This article will show you some of the best places to eat in Baton Rouge.

What Are the Best Restaurants In Baton Rouge?

Situated on the Mississippi River, Baton Rouge is in an ideal location to capitalize on a bustling seafood industry featuring crabs, shrimp, crawfish and more. But the city’s restaurants are more than just seafood havens. Baton Rouge has burgers, pasta joints and more.

Let’s have a look-see, shall we?

Bayou Affect

670 O’Neal Ln, Baton Rouge, LA 70816 | (225) 250-5254

Bayou Affect is the best restaurant in Baton Rouge.

Here’s what one customer says about Bayou Affect. “This place if amazing! Service is good and food is 10/10 hands down!! This one of those plates where if you put it in the fridge and someone eat it yall have to fight !!!!! Baby they season them lamb chops like somebody life was on the line!!! The creole pasta 10/10 amazingly creamy and flavorful!!! The Mac & cheese is different from back home in NC but still 10/10!!! Everything was absolutely delicious! We certainly will be back. I appreciate the cleanliness of the establishment as well. Just makes the guest experience even more enjoyable. To the owner and chef we absolutely appreciate the love you put into this food I wish your company much success and prosperity!”

Louisiana Lagniappe

9990 Perkins Rd, Baton Rouge, LA 70810 |  (225) 767-9991

Louisiana lagniappe in Baton Rouge has the best food.

Known for its seafood and Cajun cuisine, Louisiana Lagniappe offers a fine dining experience with a scenic view of the lake.

Here’s what one customer says about Louisiana Lagniappe: “Amazing seafood. Not a huge soft-shell crab fan but they changed my mind. The fish of the day was done perfectly. However, the best item I had was that home-made pecan pie ala mode!”

Chimes

  • 3357 Highland Rd, Baton Rouge, LA 70802 |  (225) 383-1754
  • 10870 Coursey Blvd #4019, Baton Rouge, LA 70816 | (225) 296-4981
Chimes is the best restaurant in Baton Rouge.

A popular spot near the LSU campus, The Chimes is known for its extensive beer selection, Cajun-inspired dishes, and vibrant atmosphere.

Here’s feedback from one customer about Chimes. “eing a Southern girl, loving every battered, fried, and dripping with sauce, I was right at home at Chimes. We stopped in for lunch at the location just outside LSU’s campus and it was awesome. The place is large and cooly decorated. The staff were nice and accommodating but most importantly, the food is finger licking DELICIOUS! We ordered a bunch of sides (crab claws, sausage balls, onion rings, and wings). The sausage balls were heavenly and as an onion ring connoisseur, I rank Chimes’ in my top 5 best of all time. I can’t wait to go again.”

Ruffino’s Italian Restaurant

18811 Highland Rd, Baton Rouge, LA 70809 | (225) 753-3458

Ruffino's is the best restaurant in Baton Rouge.

Offers a blend of traditional and modern Italian cuisine in an upscale setting.

Here’s what one customer says about Ruffino’s. “My husband and I went for the first time last weekend; the food was delicious, and the service was awesome! Unfortunately, we went during what appeared to be a work dinner party, so it was extremely loud, so we had trouble hearing the specials. However, we definitely plan to go back based on the food and service!”

Doe’s Eat Place

3723 Government St, Baton Rouge, LA 70806 | (225) 387-5331

Doe's Eat Place is the best restaurant in Baton Rouge.

A local favorite known for its steaks and tamales, Doe’s Eat Place has a casual atmosphere and a history dating back to the 1940s.

Here’s what one reviewer says about Doe’s. “You will not be disappointed. This is just like the other, Doe’s. You will definitely not leave this place hungry or disappointed. Great food, great service and great times. If you are in or near Baton Rouge, you have to pay this location a visit.”

Jolie Pearl Oyster Bar

 315 North Blvd, Baton Rouge, LA 70802 |  (225) 615-7172

Jolie Pearl has the best restaurant in Baton Rouge.

If you’re a fan of oysters, this is a popular spot. They offer a variety of oyster dishes and a laid-back atmosphere.

Here’s what one customer says about Jolie Pearl’s. “The atmosphere was great, Friday evening after work. The service was excellent, bartenders were great all evening. The oysters were ok, not bad but nothing spectacular. Overall it’s not a bad place to try if you’re looking for a nice spot after work sometime.”

Parrain’s Seafood Restaurant

3225 Perkins Rd, Baton Rouge, LA 70808 | (225) 381-9922

Parrain's is the best seafood restaurant in Baton Rouge.

Known for its seafood and Cajun specialties, Parrain’s is a casual restaurant with a welcoming ambiance.

Here’s what one reviewer says about Parrain’s. “Nice family friendly restaurant with an old timer feel. It was very popular so I thought the food would be really delicious. Everything was yummy except for the eggplant. It was extremely salty and hard to eat. The kids shrimp was a perfect portion and honestly would have been eaten by an adult. Overall I definitely suggest stopping by and checking this place out. It has a little bit of everything for everyone.”

Mansurs on the Boulevard

5720 Corporate Blvd STE A, Baton Rouge, LA 70808 |  (225) 923-3366

Mansurs is the best restaurant in Baton Rouge.

An upscale restaurant offering a diverse menu with a focus on Louisiana flavors.

Here’s what one diner says about Mansurs. “We had a great experience for a Friday lunch at Mansurs. We ordered some cocktails; the Not Your Granny’s Manhattan was very tasty and my husband enjoyed his Old Fashioned.

We started with two orders of the charbroiled oysters, one regular and one with everything (bacon, crabmeat, jalapeños). We preferred the “plain” charbroiled; the extra toppings on the other dozen drown out the flavor of the oysters. Everything was still really good.”

City Pork Brasserie and Bar

 7327 Jefferson Hwy, Baton Rouge, LA 70806 |  (225) 615-8880

City Pork is the best restaurant in Baton Rouge.

Known for its creative menu, including gourmet sandwiches, charcuterie, and craft beers.

Here’s what one customer says about City Pork. “First time here and I have to say not a bad place for a nice lunch or brunch. Food is excellent, a place to just get away once in awhile because it is a bit pricey but well worth it. You won’t be disappointed.”

Tsunami Sushi

 100 Lafayette St, Baton Rouge, LA 70801 |  (225) 346-5100

Tsunami is the best restaurant in downtown Baton Rouge.

If you’re in the mood for sushi, Tsunami offers a range of sushi and Asian-inspired dishes in a stylish setting.

Here’s what one reviewer says about Tsunami. “Great restaurant with a view! The food is delicious as well! The outdoor dining/patio area over looks the Mississippi River and the bridge, which makes for a perfect sunset dinner ! Lots of staff on hand, it didn’t take long to get seats either. I found the sushi rolls were priced very reasonably, they also have nightly specials, be sure to ask for those. They even gave us some birthday mochi! Highly recommend for dinning in Baton Rouge.”

Final Taste

There are many more stellar eateries in Baton Rouge, which makes it easy when you’re on the Mississippi River.

Remember to check recent reviews, as the popularity and quality of restaurants can change over time. Additionally, new establishments may have opened since my last update.

Aside from Baton Rouge, New Orleans also has a great restaurant scene, and with state of Southern cooking and an emphasis on the culinary arts at an all-time high, that’s saying something.

When New Orleans’ food is mentioned on a national level, it somehow always reverts back to gumbo, which is the best around, although the city’s eateries certainly represent those dishes well, there’s so much more.

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