This month, Acme Oyster House General Manager Ryan Nizzo assumes the presidency of the Baton Rouge chapter of the Louisiana Restaurant Association, and he describes the local market as robust with room to grow. Despite a schizophrenic national economy, the restaurant sector in Baton Rouge has increased substantially, thanks largely to the post-Katrina population surge. “The number of restaurants here has more than doubled since 2005,” he says. “Just look at growth in places like Towne Center, the Mall of Louisiana, downtown and Perkins Rowe.” Nizzo believes that Capital City diners place a high value on family-friendly spots and are particularly loyal, especially to brands that uphold Louisiana’s unique culture. Having a (mostly) winning football team hasn’t hurt the food scene either, Nizzo says. “It means people are coming in a lot earlier in the week to eat and get ready for the games.” Click here to read more.—Maggie Heyn Richardson
New local LRA president says Baton Rouge diners are loyal
