The first product to carry the Certified Authentic Louisiana Wild Seafood label was announced at LSU Tuesday by officials behind the certification and branding campaign. The Vermilion Bay Sweet White Shrimp gumbo pack is the first of what officials at the Louisiana Seafood Promotion and Marketing Board hope will be many products in the state to carry the seal. For more information on the new program and the shrimp, read the full article from Baton Rouge Business Reporthere.
Louisiana restaurateurs and retailers who have been holding off on a renovation could soon get some encouraging news. A measure is winding its way through Congress that would permanently extend the 15-year recovery period for qualified improvements on restaurant and retail properties. Proponents, including local restaurant owner Jim Urdiales, say the extension would spur construction. "If you guarantee a 15-year schedule over 30 years, we'll see some restaurants who were putting this off from last year go ahead and do it now," says Urdiales, who owns Mestizo Restaurant. For more information on what this measure means for the restaurant industry, check out April Castro's article from Baton Rouge Business Report's Daily Report.
The Dolce Vita Wood Fired Pizza and Three Bones BBQ food trucks will set up shop in the shopping center parking lot on South Acadian Thruway and Perkins Road for dinner five nights a week and all day Saturday starting tonight. Dinner starts at 5 p.m. For more information, visit Dolce Vita's Facebook page and Three Bones BBQ's Facebook page.
At 12 years old, Louisiana native and kid chef Eliana de Las Casas is already a famous author, radio show host and personality. She's been named one of the top 10 most famous critics and cooks by Fox News and New Orleans' Gambit and has been featured around the country for her use of big international flavors. Friday night at Barnes and Noble Citiplace, Eliana will be on hand to discuss her new book, Cool Kids Cook: Louisiana. The event starts at 7 p.m. Afterward, she'll host a cooking demonstration.
Young entrepreneurs put forth their best recipes in the Best Tasting Lemonade Day contest last Saturday at the Mall of America. Of the six competitors, Brianna Ducote won first place for her blackberry-infused take on the sweet drink. Lemonade Day is May 4. For more information, click here.
The Louisiana Food Bank Association will hold a rally at the State Capitol at 10 a.m. today to lobby on behalf of an amendment to House Bill 1 to provide $5 million to the association. The money will be used to purchase food from state farmers, fishermen, manufacturers and vendors for the hundreds of thousands of men, women, children and seniors in Louisiana who live with food insecurity. Displays and presentations will begin at 9 a.m.
New Orleans city council president Stacy Head has introduced a proposal to revise the Crescent City's food truck laws, which so far have seemed to deter many food trucks from entering the local market. A vote could come as early as today. Among the new provisions are to increase the number of food truck permits the city could issue, and eliminate or reduce the city's 600-foot proximity restriction. Three other provisions—an increase in permit fees, a trash pickup requirement for trucks, and general commercial liability insurance claim on trucks—have also been supported by Head and the NOLA food truck coalition.
VooDoo BBQ and Grill has a new, second Baton Rouge location. The popular, Louisiana barbeque joint takes over the former Fish City Grill location right by the movie theater in Perkins Rowe and is now open.
Community Coffee has introduced new single-serve coffee cups. The cups are to be used in single-serve coffee machines and come in three flavors—Dark Roast, Café Special and Breakfast Blend. The cups are available in grocery stores now. For more information, visit CC's website.
Ruffino's will offer an Abita Beer dinner menu tonight at 6:30 p.m. The menu includes standard starters as well as entrees paired and prepared with Abita brews. Some the dishes include beer-battered crawfish beignets with green onion coulis, stuffed pork tenderloin with butternut squash risotto, and a ribeye cap. For dessert, there's a strawberry shortcake with the now-famous Abita Strawberry Ale. The dinner is $70 per person. Call 753-3458 to make your reservation.
The mobile pantry concept caught on in a big way in Scotlandville in the last year, serving thousands of pounds of local fresh fruits and vegetables at often-monthly events at St. Michael's Episcopal Church on Scenic Highway. Now, organizers are formalizing the process, hosting the first orientation and organizational meeting for volunteers next Thursday, March 14, at 6 p.m. at First United Methodist Church downtown. The project, through Together Baton Rouge and the Greater Baton Rouge Food Bank, seeks to address food access problems in North Baton Rouge. Organizer Edgar Cage sent an email to volunteers recently noting that, "We have come a long way with our execution of the mobile pantry, from chaos to comfortable." For more information, email Cage here.
Slow Food Baton Rouge, the local chapter of the educational food nonprofit Slow Food USA, will host its March Local Social tonight at Magpie Café on Perkins Road. The event starts at 6:30 p.m. and will feature food enthusiasts, local food and light refreshments. For more information, visit slowfoodbr.org or on Facebook at facebook.com/slowfoodbr.
Tabasco is more than a condiment; it also makes a spectacular cocktail mixer as well. Several classic shots and cocktails—some with names we don't dare print!—utilize this versatile ingredient. We've got two recipes that will have you sipping and sweating.
A healthy table: Cooking Healthy For Your Kids takes place tomorrow, 10 a.m.-noon, at Young Chef's Academy. The class will teach techniques any parent can use to create a wholesome menu for the whole gang. Click here for more information. Spice it up: A complimentary class at Red Stick Spice Co. happens Saturday, 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Exploring the Spices of India will be an entertaining talk by Sumita Roy, Southern University professor and a native of Kolkata, India. Roy will cover many topics, including the health benefits of Indian spices, and explain how to incorporate them into dishes you already love. The lecture is free but space is limited, so be sure to reserve a seat.
Talkin' 'bout a revolution: On Saturday, Slow Food Baton Rouge presents a live webcast of the TEDx Manhattan event "Changing the Way We Eat" at the Manship Theatre. Speakers with various backgrounds in food and farming will share their insights and expertise via the webcast. Afterward, local foodies will speak about exciting initiatives in Baton Rouge, including Carl Motsenbocker, head of Slow Food Baton Rouge, and Lyndsi Lambert of Fresh Beginnings. Get the scoop on what's happening on Baton Rouge's food scene and how you can help make it even better. Bar opens at 11 a.m., talks begin at noon. manshiptheatre.org
Manliest fan: South Louisiana food and beverage blogger and radio host Jay Ducote has been selected as a finalist in the 2013 Major League Baseball Fan Cave competition, reaching the final 52 out of thousands of applicants. Ducote is the only resident of Louisiana in the top 52, and the only fan of the Houston Astros to make it to the finals. Fans can help him advance to the top 30 by voting for him here.
It's how they roll: Learn to make your own sushi from the pros at Tsunami by booking a sushi session. Next class happens Saturday, Feb. 16, at 10:30 a.m. and includes hands-on rolling experience and a meal to munch. $50 per person. Call 346-5100 to make your reservation. Mosey to Mozart: Head to White Oak Plantation on Sunday, March 3, for a benefit event featuring the Baton Rouge Symphony Orchestra. Sip cocktails in White Oak’s luxuriant gardens while you’re serenaded by classical music, and then enjoy a delicious dinner prepared by Chef John Folse. The evening will end with a live auction. Tickets are $135 per person. Find out more at brso.org.
Beausoleil bella: Book a table at Beausoleil Jan. 30 at 7 p.m. for their Italian wine dinner, pairing delectable reds and whites with Chef Nathan Gresham's innovative culinary creations. Call 926-1172 for reservations. And the Oscar goes to…: Sup and sip among friends while you wait to see if your predictions for Best Picture proved correct at the Oscar Night Dinner at Ruffino's. Held Sunday, Feb. 24, at 6:30 p.m., you can enjoy a multi-course meal for $100 per person while you take in the glitz and glamour of the red carpet. Call 753-3458 for reservations.
Bite into the new year: On Jan. 29, 225 food blogger and radio host Jay Ducote will host his first pop-up restaurant event of the new year, at Blend on Laurel Street downtown. The meal will feature an Argentinean theme, with wines and cuisine from that region. Dishes will include lamb carpaccio, beef short ribs and spiced flan, among others. Grab a sneak-peek of the menu and make your reservations by clicking here.
Shaken or stirred: New cocktail bar Olive or Twist is offering classes designed to highlight and teach guests about unusual liquors, starting on Jan. 26 with a class on legal moonshine. Bernie Ralston, representing Catdaddy Spiced Moonshine and Junior Johnson’s Midnight Moon, will host an hour-long class on the history of moonshine, with sample cocktails and trivia. The cost is $20 per person. Space is limited, so call 326-0718 or 456-2188 for more information, or e-mail scott@oliveortwistbr.com.
It may be too chilly for many people to enjoy a bite of gelato, but that shouldn't keep you from stopping by Latte e Miele during the cold months for a unique chocolaty treat. The hot chocolate—jokingly referred to as “hot gelato” by owner Luca DiMartino—uses the café's signature gelato base to make a warming drink that's decadent and rich. Topped with sweet whipped cream and cocoa powder, it makes for a sweet indulgence while you wait out the winter season.—Rachael Upton
'Blend' in: The downtown wine bar Blend is hosting a fabulous New Year's Eve bash with a live big band, wine, champagne, house liquor and hors d'oeuvres. Tickets are $80 per person or $150 per couple. Grab yours by e-mailing blendnye@gmail.com. Doors open at 8 p.m. Light it up: Catch New Year's Eve fireworks at midnight on the levee at Nottoway Plantation, along with a special New Year's Eve menu a la carte. Servings begin at 5 p.m. Call 545-2730 for more information.
Americans throw away a staggering amount of the food they buy—nearly 40%, according to a recent Gallup poll, with an average cost of $2,275 per year. And it’s easy to see why—sometimes you simply forget what you’ve got in your fridge or pantry before it’s too late to use it. But the new app Freshbox can help avoid such needless waste by letting you record an item’s shelf life and reminding you to consume it before it expires, which helps keep food out of landfills and money in your pocket. Simply snap photos with your camera phone, record the expiration date—or production date and shelf life—and the app will keep track for you. Finished off your milk or potatoes? Deleting items from your inventory is as simple as a finger tap. Free in the iTunes store.
Party down: Chef Chris Wadsworth of Restaurant IPO is featured in the January issue of Louisiana Cookin’, and he’s hosting a party to celebrate Dec. 18 at 6:30 p.m. The Office Bar will be jumping, with Wadsworth’s signature tapas, wine tasting, a cash bar and live music. Call 448-3036 for more information. Holidays with Whole Foods: Whether you’re short on time this holiday season or need tips on how to improve your party offerings, Whole Foods has a way to help. On Saturday, noon-2 p.m., team members will be demoing grab-and-go dishes perfect for the holiday season—and on Wednesday, Dec. 19, 4 p.m.-6 p.m., you can sample delicious hors d'oeuvres, and determine if you’d like to bring one home for the holidays. Get more information by clicking here.
'Water' colors: Wednesday, Dec. 12, join the BR Walls project for a live-collaborative painting experience with an art auction fundraiser to follow at downtown bar Mud and Water. Food will be provided by local food trucks, and drinks will flow across the newly renovated bar from 8 p.m. to 2 a.m. Click here for more information.
Brewers, bloggers and bakers: Chef Jay Ducote from Bite and Booze and Chef Aaron Brown from Taco de Paco will combine their considerable culinary skills for a pop-up beer dinner at Tin Roof Brewing Company. Each mouthwatering course is paired with a signature Tin Roof brew, finishing with a delectable dessert by cupcake baker Christina Stephens. Tickets are still available, so click here to preview the full menu and make your reservations. $60 includes the six-course meal plus gratuity, and all the beer you can drink. Thursday at 7 p.m.
Hot cocoa is the most quintessential drink of winter. For thousands of years, a cup of chocolate has been everything from a comforting pick-me-up to the hallowed drink of the gods. Even today, it's enjoyed in various ways, from Italy's cioccolata densa, more a hot chocolate pudding than a drink, to Belgium's warme chocolade, a cup of steamed milk in which to dissolve your plate of bitter chocolate chunks. The American version is more straightforward—a warm mug of chocolate-infused milk, with marshmallows or whipped cream on top. And what better drink to bring with you on a cold morning to wait in line on Black Friday? Click here for a tasty hot cocoa recipe with a minty twist.
Turkey and cranberry just go together—both traditional and delicious, the combination of sweet and salty instantly brings Thanksgiving to mind. But cranberries can do more than complement the bird. Fact is, there’s no reason to limit the tangy flavor of cranberry to a bowl on the table. This year, buck the usual beer or wine offerings and try one of these delicious cranberry cocktails for your guests.
Brews and benefit: Next Friday, raise a glass and enjoy a bite to benefit Cancer Services of Greater Baton Rouge. Food Truck Friday happens Nov. 16 from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Tin Roof Brewing Company's location off Nicholson Drive. The event will feature a gathering of Baton Rouge food trucks, including Taco de Paco, Curbside, Fresh, and Pullin' Pork. The free event is open to the whole family, and those 21 and older can get a taste of Tin Roof beer as well. A portion of the proceeds will benefit CSGBR. For more details, click here or contact Cancer Services at 927-2273.
When a bar’s cocktail list includes ingredients most of us haven’t heard of—like falernum, orgeat or averna—it’s clear they’ve put some thought into their mixes. The Radio Bar on Government Street not only gets creative; they change up the menu regularly to fit the season. The popular bar’s summer menu featured gin-, rum- and tequila-based drinks with hints of citrus liqueurs and even habańero bitters. While waiting on the fall menu, we couldn’t help but check out the bar’s regular lineup of classics. The Crosley ($8), with Old Overholt rye whiskey, raw ginger syrup and grapefruit bitters, hit the spot with just enough of a ginger kick at the end to keep you on your toes. The rye, a dash of Angostura bitters and soda keep it smooth. And the mixologists at Radio Bar know how to do a lemon peel right, rubbing it along the edge of the glass before dropping it in. It’s all in the details.—Benjamin Leger
Add some color to your drinks: Baton Rouge-based Mobstir has developed a new margarita salt tailor-made for Louisianans. The salts come in either purple and gold or black and gold. The "Lick Dat" salts blend sea salt infused with lime and orange with a dash of sugar and coloring. Check them out at the company's web store here. The company says it will also be available through local retailers soon.
Cook like a Viking: The Viking Cooking School will hold a culinary demonstration tonight from 5 p.m.-8 p.m. at the LSU Museum of Art on the third floor of the Shaw Center. The demo will feature Louisiana cuisine to complement the museum’s Uniquely Louisiana exhibition. Don't miss this chance to see Chef Matthew Brewton from the Hilton Capitol Center's Viking Cooking School whip up some historical Louisiana goodness. Visit lsumoa.com for more details.
Taste the tapas: On Wednesday, Oct. 17, join the Baton Rouge Symphony League for Tapas and Wine with Timothy and Torns at Zolia Bistro Enoteca. Beginning at 5:30 p.m., guests can enjoy some vino and sample a variety of delectable antipasto and crostini while socializing with Maestro Timothy Muffitt, Assistant Conductor David Torns and Colton Peltier, 17-year-old Juilliard student, pianist extraordinaire and the guest artist for the Investar Bank Masterworks II concert. All proceeds from this event benefit the Baton Rouge Symphony Orchestra and the Louisiana Youth Orchestra to amplify the power of music appreciation among all ages. Tickets ($20) can be purchased at the door.
Tasty Tallulah: Cocktail aficionados have their chance to learn about fine rums at a handcrafted dinner on Thursday, Oct. 4., at the Tallulah restaurant inside the Renaissance Hotel. Each of the meal’s four courses arrives paired with a delicious Old New Orleans Rum cocktail. $65. E-mail Tallulah@renaissancebatonrouge.com to make your reservations. Dining for a good cause: On Oct. 10, the Louisiana Restaurant Association holds its 10th annual Silent Auction at Juban’s Restaurant. Doors open at 6 p.m. with great live and silent auction items, celebrity waiters, delicious food and more. All proceeds benefit the organization’s ProStart education programs. Call 346-8422 to make your reservations.
Fire it up: Galatoire's announced the promotion of Baton Rouge native Kelley McCann to executive chef of the new Galatoire's Bistro, under development at Perkins Road and Acadian Thruway. The restaurant, which recently broke ground in Acadian Village, is slated to open its doors in December. McCann was part of the original Galatoire's staff in Baton Rouge, beginning his career as a back waiter and working his way to sous chef, a position he has held for three years. He currently serves as sous chef at Galatoire's Restaurant in New Orleans.
They be jammin’: The Capital Area United Way announced the planned date for their popular annual Jambalaya Jam. This year, the Jambalaya-cooking competition will take place Oct. 11, and will bring together dozens of teams from all over the state to see whose Jambalaya reigns supreme. Click here for more information.
Rising costs: Local restaurants are already feeling the early effects of a U.S. drought that has caused corn and soybean prices to soar to record highs, and more dramatic price hikes from suppliers may be coming soon, according to several local restaurant owners. Click here for the whole story.
Earn your ‘stripes’: Get inspired for LSU's upcoming football season at the annual Taste of Tiger Tailgating expo at the Baton Rouge River Center this Saturday. Sample food and drinks from some of the city's best caterers and restaurants, and pick up some new merchandise to wear on game day. It's the biggest tailgating party around—at least until football season starts! Tickets are $25 at brrivercenter.com. 5 p.m.-8 p.m.
Connecting farm and table: Louisiana Market Maker, a new online database for finding farm-fresh produce and off-the-boat seafood, is the latest effort to connect hungry individuals and restaurant kitchens with those catching fish and growing crops nearby. A program of the LSU AgCenter, it’s a free, Google-based search program with more than 1,500 Louisiana farmers, ranchers and seafood producers in the system. Click here to read the whole story, and click here to check out the database for yourself.
Love your farmer: To celebrate National Farmers Market Week, kids can decorate “Love your Farmer” cards at the Saturday Farmers Market downtown to show their appreciation for local farmers. In the “Fresh From The Market” Cooking Demo, Chef Celeste Gill will highlight seasonal produce in summer recipes. The cooking demo will be held in the North Street seating area at 10 a.m. Also, local guitarist Kevin Johnson will also perform his signature tunes while you browse the stalls. More information at redstickfarmersmarket.org.
Can’t ‘Abita’ this: Mansurs on the Boulevard and the Abita Brewing Company are teaming up for one of Abita’s delicious beer dinners, where each course on the menu is paired with a complimentary Abita brew. And on this menu, many of the items are even prepared with the tasty brew. Enjoy cedar plank-roasted salmon with Abita Barney, root beer-glazed pulled pork with Fall Fest, and Abita Turbodog and chocolate bread pudding paired with vanilla Doubledog. Click here for reservations and more information. Thursday, Aug. 16. $65 per person.
London from the Londoner: Local English brew-pub the Londoner will host a special evening for the opening ceremonies of the Olympic games this Friday. Delicious drink specials and more will be on tap. Call 292-9291 to make your table reservation. Feelin' blue: So small, sweet and juicy, it's the perfect snack—why not dedicate a whole month to the blueberry? Join the Baton Rouge Whole Foods teams as they serve up some goodies to sample that all feature the blueberry, this Saturday. Click here for more information.
Trucks and brews: This Friday, head to Tin Roof Brewing Company from 5 p.m.-8 p.m. for the first-ever Food Truck Friday. Baton Rouge's favorite food trucks will be out in force, ready to provide fresh, delicious food while Tin Roof provides two free samples per person and free brewery tours. Click here for more information.
World of Wine: Join Martin Wine Cellar at Juban's Restaurant on Sunday from 4 p.m.-7 p.m. for the 3rd annual Tour De Vin. Guests will be able to sip, swirl and savor more than 100 fine wines from around the world, complemented by catering creations from Juban's of Baton Rouge. Tickets are $60 per person. Call 346-8422 for more information.
Slow food, fast service: Head to the Slow Food meetup at Oscar's Ice Cream & Pizza Joint tonight for Slow Foodie special samplings, $5 pizzas, 50 cent wings, $2 drafts and more. Click here for more information. 6:30 p.m. Gelato a go-go: This Saturday, Whole Foods Baton Rouge holds its second annual Ice Cream Social. Each Whole Foods team will prepare a new and unique gelato flavor—anyone for bacon gelato? Guests will then sample the new, exciting flavors and vote for their favorite. Free and open to the public. Noon-2 p.m. Click here for more information.
No 'Burden' to attend: Get an idea of just how well your garden can grow—and how delicious it can taste—at the annual Burden Center Garden Festival June 30. Garden tours, displays from master gardeners at the Herb Society and the Burden Horticultural Society and more will give you a feast for the eyes. The Louisiana Culinary Institute will give you a proper feast as well with samples of dishes prepared from vegetables produced at the Burden Center. Live music, a food truck roundup, ice cream from the LSU AgCenter Dairy Store and much more will also be going on all morning. 8 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday at the LSU AgCenter's Burden Center. Admission is $5 per person. Call 763-3990 for more information.
No ‘Burden’ to attend: Get an idea of just how well your garden can grow—and how delicious it can taste—at the annual Burden Center Garden Festival June 30. Garden tours, displays from master gardeners at the Herb Society and the Burden Horticultural Society and more will give you a feast for the eyes. The Louisiana Culinary Institute will give you a proper feast as well as they offer samples of dishes prepared from vegetables produced at the Burden Center. Live music, a food truck roundup, ice cream from the LSU AgCenter Dairy Store and much more will also be going on all morning. 8 a.m.-1 p.m., Saturday, June 30, at the LSU AgCenter’s Burden Center. Admission is $5 per person. Call 763-3990 for more information.
On a roll: The folks with Tony Chachere's took to the State Capitol steps on Monday—the final day of this year's legislative session—to unveil a new line of sandwich sauces. The company says the new sauces—which come in Creole, Bar-B-Que, Zesty, and Spicy-Sweet flavors—will hit the shelves of major grocery stores in Louisiana in June.
Quick progress on slow food: Do you love the farm-to-table movement? Dying to join Baton Rouge’s local chapter of Slow Food? Join Slow Food Baton Rouge tonight at MJ’s Café for the first-ever Local Social. Mix and mingle with fellow foodies while you enjoy drinks and appetizers made with local products. Click here for more information. Scrumptious sides: Grill enthusiasts of Baton Rouge, head to Williams-Sonoma this Sunday to learn how to make side dishes on the grill that will have your guests begging for more. The staff from Monjardin Farm will divulge recipes and techniques for making perfect sides without ever having to leave your barbecue. Call 757-0016 to make reservations.
Get down at Zolia: It's dinner and dancing at Zolia (Map it!) this Friday at 6 p.m. when the V-Tones present a rare intimate concert. Enjoy some of Zolia's distinctive Italian bistro cuisine while you get down to the greatest hits of the '60s to '90s. Click here for more information.
New La. seafood certification program gives seal of approval to first product
The first product to carry the Certified Authentic Louisiana Wild Seafood label was announced at LSU Tuesday by officials behind the certification and branding campaign. The Vermilion Bay Sweet White Shrimp gumbo pack is the first of what officials at the Louisiana Seafood Promotion and Marketing Board hope will be many products in the state to carry the seal. For more information on the new program and the shrimp, read the full article from Baton Rouge Business Report here.
Restaurateurs, retailers eye legislation to improve access to capital
Louisiana restaurateurs and retailers who have been holding off on a renovation could soon get some encouraging news. A measure is winding its way through Congress that would permanently extend the 15-year recovery period for qualified improvements on restaurant and retail properties. Proponents, including local restaurant owner Jim Urdiales, say the extension would spur construction. "If you guarantee a 15-year schedule over 30 years, we'll see some restaurants who were putting this off from last year go ahead and do it now," says Urdiales, who owns Mestizo Restaurant. For more information on what this measure means for the restaurant industry, check out April Castro's article from Baton Rouge Business Report's Daily Report.
Food trucks set up for regular dinners on Perkins and Acadian
The Dolce Vita Wood Fired Pizza and Three Bones BBQ food trucks will set up shop in the shopping center parking lot on South Acadian Thruway and Perkins Road for dinner five nights a week and all day Saturday starting tonight. Dinner starts at 5 p.m. For more information, visit Dolce Vita's Facebook page and Three Bones BBQ's Facebook page.
Kid Chef Eliana at Barnes and Noble Friday
At 12 years old, Louisiana native and kid chef Eliana de Las Casas is already a famous author, radio show host and personality. She's been named one of the top 10 most famous critics and cooks by Fox News and New Orleans' Gambit and has been featured around the country for her use of big international flavors. Friday night at Barnes and Noble Citiplace, Eliana will be on hand to discuss her new book, Cool Kids Cook: Louisiana. The event starts at 7 p.m. Afterward, she'll host a cooking demonstration.
Lemonade Day's Best Tasting Lemonade Contest a success
Young entrepreneurs put forth their best recipes in the Best Tasting Lemonade Day contest last Saturday at the Mall of America. Of the six competitors, Brianna Ducote won first place for her blackberry-infused take on the sweet drink. Lemonade Day is May 4. For more information, click here.
Rally at the State Capitol for Food Bank Association today
The Louisiana Food Bank Association will hold a rally at the State Capitol at 10 a.m. today to lobby on behalf of an amendment to House Bill 1 to provide $5 million to the association. The money will be used to purchase food from state farmers, fishermen, manufacturers and vendors for the hundreds of thousands of men, women, children and seniors in Louisiana who live with food insecurity. Displays and presentations will begin at 9 a.m.
Food truck laws in New Orleans up to vote today
New Orleans city council president Stacy Head has introduced a proposal to revise the Crescent City's food truck laws, which so far have seemed to deter many food trucks from entering the local market. A vote could come as early as today. Among the new provisions are to increase the number of food truck permits the city could issue, and eliminate or reduce the city's 600-foot proximity restriction. Three other provisions—an increase in permit fees, a trash pickup requirement for trucks, and general commercial liability insurance claim on trucks—have also been supported by Head and the NOLA food truck coalition.
VooDoo BBQ and Grill open today in Perkins Rowe
VooDoo BBQ and Grill has a new, second Baton Rouge location. The popular, Louisiana barbeque joint takes over the former Fish City Grill location right by the movie theater in Perkins Rowe and is now open.
CC's single-serving cups now available
Community Coffee has introduced new single-serve coffee cups. The cups are to be used in single-serve coffee machines and come in three flavors—Dark Roast, Café Special and Breakfast Blend. The cups are available in grocery stores now. For more information, visit CC's website.
Abita dinner at Ruffino's
Ruffino's will offer an Abita Beer dinner menu tonight at 6:30 p.m. The menu includes standard starters as well as entrees paired and prepared with Abita brews. Some the dishes include beer-battered crawfish beignets with green onion coulis, stuffed pork tenderloin with butternut squash risotto, and a ribeye cap. For dessert, there's a strawberry shortcake with the now-famous Abita Strawberry Ale. The dinner is $70 per person. Call 753-3458 to make your reservation.
Volunteer with the Scotlandville mobile pantry
The mobile pantry concept caught on in a big way in Scotlandville in the last year, serving thousands of pounds of local fresh fruits and vegetables at often-monthly events at St. Michael's Episcopal Church on Scenic Highway. Now, organizers are formalizing the process, hosting the first orientation and organizational meeting for volunteers next Thursday, March 14, at 6 p.m. at First United Methodist Church downtown. The project, through Together Baton Rouge and the Greater Baton Rouge Food Bank, seeks to address food access problems in North Baton Rouge. Organizer Edgar Cage sent an email to volunteers recently noting that, "We have come a long way with our execution of the mobile pantry, from chaos to comfortable." For more information, email Cage here.
Slow Food Baton Rouge hosts March Local Social
Slow Food Baton Rouge, the local chapter of the educational food nonprofit Slow Food USA, will host its March Local Social tonight at Magpie Café on Perkins Road. The event starts at 6:30 p.m. and will feature food enthusiasts, local food and light refreshments. For more information, visit slowfoodbr.org or on Facebook at facebook.com/slowfoodbr.
Tabasco tippling
Tabasco is more than a condiment; it also makes a spectacular cocktail mixer as well. Several classic shots and cocktails—some with names we don't dare print!—utilize this versatile ingredient. We've got two recipes that will have you sipping and sweating.
Cooking healthy with Young Chef's Academy … Spicy tour of India
A healthy table: Cooking Healthy For Your Kids takes place tomorrow, 10 a.m.-noon, at Young Chef's Academy. The class will teach techniques any parent can use to create a wholesome menu for the whole gang. Click here for more information.
Spice it up: A complimentary class at Red Stick Spice Co. happens Saturday, 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Exploring the Spices of India will be an entertaining talk by Sumita Roy, Southern University professor and a native of Kolkata, India. Roy will cover many topics, including the health benefits of Indian spices, and explain how to incorporate them into dishes you already love. The lecture is free but space is limited, so be sure to reserve a seat.
Tedx talk at Manship ... Tin Roof dinner in March
Talkin' 'bout a revolution: On Saturday, Slow Food Baton Rouge presents a live webcast of the TEDx Manhattan event "Changing the Way We Eat" at the Manship Theatre. Speakers with various backgrounds in food and farming will share their insights and expertise via the webcast. Afterward, local foodies will speak about exciting initiatives in Baton Rouge, including Carl Motsenbocker, head of Slow Food Baton Rouge, and Lyndsi Lambert of Fresh Beginnings. Get the scoop on what's happening on Baton Rouge's food scene and how you can help make it even better. Bar opens at 11 a.m., talks begin at noon. manshiptheatre.org
225 food blogger and local personality finalist in “Fan Cave” Competition
Manliest fan: South Louisiana food and beverage blogger and radio host Jay Ducote has been selected as a finalist in the 2013 Major League Baseball Fan Cave competition, reaching the final 52 out of thousands of applicants. Ducote is the only resident of Louisiana in the top 52, and the only fan of the Houston Astros to make it to the finals. Fans can help him advance to the top 30 by voting for him here.
Sushi classes at Tsunami … Mozart on the Lake at White Oak
It's how they roll: Learn to make your own sushi from the pros at Tsunami by booking a sushi session. Next class happens Saturday, Feb. 16, at 10:30 a.m. and includes hands-on rolling experience and a meal to munch. $50 per person. Call 346-5100 to make your reservation.
Mosey to Mozart: Head to White Oak Plantation on Sunday, March 3, for a benefit event featuring the Baton Rouge Symphony Orchestra. Sip cocktails in White Oak’s luxuriant gardens while you’re serenaded by classical music, and then enjoy a delicious dinner prepared by Chef John Folse. The evening will end with a live auction. Tickets are $135 per person. Find out more at brso.org.
Italian wine dinner at Beausoleil … Oscar night wine dinner at Ruffino's … Bistro Byronz launches Mardi Gras specials … Sushi classes at Tsunami
Beausoleil bella: Book a table at Beausoleil Jan. 30 at 7 p.m. for their Italian wine dinner, pairing delectable reds and whites with Chef Nathan Gresham's innovative culinary creations. Call 926-1172 for reservations.
And the Oscar goes to…: Sup and sip among friends while you wait to see if your predictions for Best Picture proved correct at the Oscar Night Dinner at Ruffino's. Held Sunday, Feb. 24, at 6:30 p.m., you can enjoy a multi-course meal for $100 per person while you take in the glitz and glamour of the red carpet. Call 753-3458 for reservations.
Bite and Blend Argentine wine dinner … Baton Rouge Uncorked returns for 2013
Bite into the new year: On Jan. 29, 225 food blogger and radio host Jay Ducote will host his first pop-up restaurant event of the new year, at Blend on Laurel Street downtown. The meal will feature an Argentinean theme, with wines and cuisine from that region. Dishes will include lamb carpaccio, beef short ribs and spiced flan, among others. Grab a sneak-peek of the menu and make your reservations by clicking here.
Cocktails 101 at Olive or Twist
Shaken or stirred: New cocktail bar Olive or Twist is offering classes designed to highlight and teach guests about unusual liquors, starting on Jan. 26 with a class on legal moonshine. Bernie Ralston, representing Catdaddy Spiced Moonshine and Junior Johnson’s Midnight Moon, will host an hour-long class on the history of moonshine, with sample cocktails and trivia. The cost is $20 per person. Space is limited, so call 326-0718 or 456-2188 for more information, or e-mail scott@oliveortwistbr.com.
Hot gelato at Latte e Miele
It may be too chilly for many people to enjoy a bite of gelato, but that shouldn't keep you from stopping by Latte e Miele during the cold months for a unique chocolaty treat. The hot chocolate—jokingly referred to as “hot gelato” by owner Luca DiMartino—uses the café's signature gelato base to make a warming drink that's decadent and rich. Topped with sweet whipped cream and cocoa powder, it makes for a sweet indulgence while you wait out the winter season.—Rachael Upton
NYE Bash at Blend … Fireworks, champagne at Nottoway
'Blend' in: The downtown wine bar Blend is hosting a fabulous New Year's Eve bash with a live big band, wine, champagne, house liquor and hors d'oeuvres. Tickets are $80 per person or $150 per couple. Grab yours by e-mailing blendnye@gmail.com. Doors open at 8 p.m.
Light it up: Catch New Year's Eve fireworks at midnight on the levee at Nottoway Plantation, along with a special New Year's Eve menu a la carte. Servings begin at 5 p.m. Call 545-2730 for more information.
Freshbox
Americans throw away a staggering amount of the food they buy—nearly 40%, according to a recent Gallup poll, with an average cost of $2,275 per year. And it’s easy to see why—sometimes you simply forget what you’ve got in your fridge or pantry before it’s too late to use it. But the new app Freshbox can help avoid such needless waste by letting you record an item’s shelf life and reminding you to consume it before it expires, which helps keep food out of landfills and money in your pocket. Simply snap photos with your camera phone, record the expiration date—or production date and shelf life—and the app will keep track for you. Finished off your milk or potatoes? Deleting items from your inventory is as simple as a finger tap. Free in the iTunes store.
Release party at The Office Bar … Whole Foods classes
Party down: Chef Chris Wadsworth of Restaurant IPO is featured in the January issue of Louisiana Cookin’, and he’s hosting a party to celebrate Dec. 18 at 6:30 p.m. The Office Bar will be jumping, with Wadsworth’s signature tapas, wine tasting, a cash bar and live music. Call 448-3036 for more information.
Holidays with Whole Foods: Whether you’re short on time this holiday season or need tips on how to improve your party offerings, Whole Foods has a way to help. On Saturday, noon-2 p.m., team members will be demoing grab-and-go dishes perfect for the holiday season—and on Wednesday, Dec. 19, 4 p.m.-6 p.m., you can sample delicious hors d'oeuvres, and determine if you’d like to bring one home for the holidays. Get more information by clicking here.
BR Walls invites you to paint … Gingerbread workshop at LCI
'Water' colors: Wednesday, Dec. 12, join the BR Walls project for a live-collaborative painting experience with an art auction fundraiser to follow at downtown bar Mud and Water. Food will be provided by local food trucks, and drinks will flow across the newly renovated bar from 8 p.m. to 2 a.m. Click here for more information.
Tin Roof dinner tonight … Santa Breakfast at Bravo … Tours and cocktails downtown
Brewers, bloggers and bakers: Chef Jay Ducote from Bite and Booze and Chef Aaron Brown from Taco de Paco will combine their considerable culinary skills for a pop-up beer dinner at Tin Roof Brewing Company. Each mouthwatering course is paired with a signature Tin Roof brew, finishing with a delectable dessert by cupcake baker Christina Stephens. Tickets are still available, so click here to preview the full menu and make your reservations. $60 includes the six-course meal plus gratuity, and all the beer you can drink. Thursday at 7 p.m.
Sipping in line
Hot cocoa is the most quintessential drink of winter. For thousands of years, a cup of chocolate has been everything from a comforting pick-me-up to the hallowed drink of the gods. Even today, it's enjoyed in various ways, from Italy's cioccolata densa, more a hot chocolate pudding than a drink, to Belgium's warme chocolade, a cup of steamed milk in which to dissolve your plate of bitter chocolate chunks. The American version is more straightforward—a warm mug of chocolate-infused milk, with marshmallows or whipped cream on top. And what better drink to bring with you on a cold morning to wait in line on Black Friday? Click here for a tasty hot cocoa recipe with a minty twist.
Cranberry cocktails
Turkey and cranberry just go together—both traditional and delicious, the combination of sweet and salty instantly brings Thanksgiving to mind. But cranberries can do more than complement the bird. Fact is, there’s no reason to limit the tangy flavor of cranberry to a bowl on the table. This year, buck the usual beer or wine offerings and try one of these delicious cranberry cocktails for your guests.
Tin Roof hosts a food truck fundraiser … Annual Christmas Tea at Strands Café
Brews and benefit: Next Friday, raise a glass and enjoy a bite to benefit Cancer Services of Greater Baton Rouge. Food Truck Friday happens Nov. 16 from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Tin Roof Brewing Company's location off Nicholson Drive. The event will feature a gathering of Baton Rouge food trucks, including Taco de Paco, Curbside, Fresh, and Pullin' Pork. The free event is open to the whole family, and those 21 and older can get a taste of Tin Roof beer as well. A portion of the proceeds will benefit CSGBR. For more details, click here or contact Cancer Services at 927-2273.
Bar drinks with bite
When a bar’s cocktail list includes ingredients most of us haven’t heard of—like falernum, orgeat or averna—it’s clear they’ve put some thought into their mixes. The Radio Bar on Government Street not only gets creative; they change up the menu regularly to fit the season. The popular bar’s summer menu featured gin-, rum- and tequila-based drinks with hints of citrus liqueurs and even habańero bitters. While waiting on the fall menu, we couldn’t help but check out the bar’s regular lineup of classics. The Crosley ($8), with Old Overholt rye whiskey, raw ginger syrup and grapefruit bitters, hit the spot with just enough of a ginger kick at the end to keep you on your toes. The rye, a dash of Angostura bitters and soda keep it smooth. And the mixologists at Radio Bar know how to do a lemon peel right, rubbing it along the edge of the glass before dropping it in. It’s all in the details.—Benjamin Leger
B.R. company launches 'Lick Dat' margarita salts
Add some color to your drinks: Baton Rouge-based Mobstir has developed a new margarita salt tailor-made for Louisianans. The salts come in either purple and gold or black and gold. The "Lick Dat" salts blend sea salt infused with lime and orange with a dash of sugar and coloring. Check them out at the company's web store here. The company says it will also be available through local retailers soon.
Museum after Dark … Abita beer dinner at Stroube’s
Cook like a Viking: The Viking Cooking School will hold a culinary demonstration tonight from 5 p.m.-8 p.m. at the LSU Museum of Art on the third floor of the Shaw Center. The demo will feature Louisiana cuisine to complement the museum’s Uniquely Louisiana exhibition. Don't miss this chance to see Chef Matthew Brewton from the Hilton Capitol Center's Viking Cooking School whip up some historical Louisiana goodness. Visit lsumoa.com for more details.
Tapas and Wine with Timothy & Torns … Martin’s Wine Cellar to host whiskey tasting
Taste the tapas: On Wednesday, Oct. 17, join the Baton Rouge Symphony League for Tapas and Wine with Timothy and Torns at Zolia Bistro Enoteca. Beginning at 5:30 p.m., guests can enjoy some vino and sample a variety of delectable antipasto and crostini while socializing with Maestro Timothy Muffitt, Assistant Conductor David Torns and Colton Peltier, 17-year-old Juilliard student, pianist extraordinaire and the guest artist for the Investar Bank Masterworks II concert. All proceeds from this event benefit the Baton Rouge Symphony Orchestra and the Louisiana Youth Orchestra to amplify the power of music appreciation among all ages. Tickets ($20) can be purchased at the door.
Rum tasting at Tallulah … LRA silent auction at Juban’s
Tasty Tallulah: Cocktail aficionados have their chance to learn about fine rums at a handcrafted dinner on Thursday, Oct. 4., at the Tallulah restaurant inside the Renaissance Hotel. Each of the meal’s four courses arrives paired with a delicious Old New Orleans Rum cocktail. $65. E-mail Tallulah@renaissancebatonrouge.com to make your reservations.
Dining for a good cause: On Oct. 10, the Louisiana Restaurant Association holds its 10th annual Silent Auction at Juban’s Restaurant. Doors open at 6 p.m. with great live and silent auction items, celebrity waiters, delicious food and more. All proceeds benefit the organization’s ProStart education programs. Call 346-8422 to make your reservations.
Baton Rouge native named Galatoire's Bistro executive chef … Reginelli's picked as one of the “Best Pizzas In America” by The Daily Meal
Fire it up: Galatoire's announced the promotion of Baton Rouge native Kelley McCann to executive chef of the new Galatoire's Bistro, under development at Perkins Road and Acadian Thruway. The restaurant, which recently broke ground in Acadian Village, is slated to open its doors in December. McCann was part of the original Galatoire's staff in Baton Rouge, beginning his career as a back waiter and working his way to sous chef, a position he has held for three years. He currently serves as sous chef at Galatoire's Restaurant in New Orleans.
United Way announces date for annual Jambalaya Jam
They be jammin’: The Capital Area United Way announced the planned date for their popular annual Jambalaya Jam. This year, the Jambalaya-cooking competition will take place Oct. 11, and will bring together dozens of teams from all over the state to see whose Jambalaya reigns supreme. Click here for more information.
Drought increasing costs for B.R. restaurants
Rising costs: Local restaurants are already feeling the early effects of a U.S. drought that has caused corn and soybean prices to soar to record highs, and more dramatic price hikes from suppliers may be coming soon, according to several local restaurant owners. Click here for the whole story.
Taste of Tiger Tailgating … Big top birthday for Brew Ha-Ha
Earn your ‘stripes’: Get inspired for LSU's upcoming football season at the annual Taste of Tiger Tailgating expo at the Baton Rouge River Center this Saturday. Sample food and drinks from some of the city's best caterers and restaurants, and pick up some new merchandise to wear on game day. It's the biggest tailgating party around—at least until football season starts! Tickets are $25 at brrivercenter.com. 5 p.m.-8 p.m.
Market Maker database connects consumers to farm fresh food … Todd Graves receives Restaurateur of the Year award
Connecting farm and table: Louisiana Market Maker, a new online database for finding farm-fresh produce and off-the-boat seafood, is the latest effort to connect hungry individuals and restaurant kitchens with those catching fish and growing crops nearby. A program of the LSU AgCenter, it’s a free, Google-based search program with more than 1,500 Louisiana farmers, ranchers and seafood producers in the system. Click here to read the whole story, and click here to check out the database for yourself.
Celebrate National Farmers Market Week with BREADA
Love your farmer: To celebrate National Farmers Market Week, kids can decorate “Love your Farmer” cards at the Saturday Farmers Market downtown to show their appreciation for local farmers. In the “Fresh From The Market” Cooking Demo, Chef Celeste Gill will highlight seasonal produce in summer recipes. The cooking demo will be held in the North Street seating area at 10 a.m. Also, local guitarist Kevin Johnson will also perform his signature tunes while you browse the stalls. More information at redstickfarmersmarket.org.
Abita Beer Dinner at Mansurs … Cooking classes at Ruffino’s
Can’t ‘Abita’ this: Mansurs on the Boulevard and the Abita Brewing Company are teaming up for one of Abita’s delicious beer dinners, where each course on the menu is paired with a complimentary Abita brew. And on this menu, many of the items are even prepared with the tasty brew. Enjoy cedar plank-roasted salmon with Abita Barney, root beer-glazed pulled pork with Fall Fest, and Abita Turbodog and chocolate bread pudding paired with vanilla Doubledog. Click here for reservations and more information. Thursday, Aug. 16. $65 per person.
Catch the Olympics at the Londoner … Blueberry Month at Whole Foods
London from the Londoner: Local English brew-pub the Londoner will host a special evening for the opening ceremonies of the Olympic games this Friday. Delicious drink specials and more will be on tap. Call 292-9291 to make your table reservation.
Feelin' blue: So small, sweet and juicy, it's the perfect snack—why not dedicate a whole month to the blueberry? Join the Baton Rouge Whole Foods teams as they serve up some goodies to sample that all feature the blueberry, this Saturday. Click here for more information.
Food truck Friday ... Tales of the Cocktail in New Orleans
Trucks and brews: This Friday, head to Tin Roof Brewing Company from 5 p.m.-8 p.m. for the first-ever Food Truck Friday. Baton Rouge's favorite food trucks will be out in force, ready to provide fresh, delicious food while Tin Roof provides two free samples per person and free brewery tours. Click here for more information.
Juban’s Tour de Vin … Tin Roof tasting at Tallulah
World of Wine: Join Martin Wine Cellar at Juban's Restaurant on Sunday from 4 p.m.-7 p.m. for the 3rd annual Tour De Vin. Guests will be able to sip, swirl and savor more than 100 fine wines from around the world, complemented by catering creations from Juban's of Baton Rouge. Tickets are $60 per person. Call 346-8422 for more information.
Slow Food Social tonight … Ice Cream Social at Whole Foods
Slow food, fast service: Head to the Slow Food meetup at Oscar's Ice Cream & Pizza Joint tonight for Slow Foodie special samplings, $5 pizzas, 50 cent wings, $2 drafts and more. Click here for more information. 6:30 p.m.
Gelato a go-go: This Saturday, Whole Foods Baton Rouge holds its second annual Ice Cream Social. Each Whole Foods team will prepare a new and unique gelato flavor—anyone for bacon gelato? Guests will then sample the new, exciting flavors and vote for their favorite. Free and open to the public. Noon-2 p.m. Click here for more information.
Burden Center Garden Festival … All-American Burger Bash at Whole Foods
No 'Burden' to attend: Get an idea of just how well your garden can grow—and how delicious it can taste—at the annual Burden Center Garden Festival June 30. Garden tours, displays from master gardeners at the Herb Society and the Burden Horticultural Society and more will give you a feast for the eyes. The Louisiana Culinary Institute will give you a proper feast as well with samples of dishes prepared from vegetables produced at the Burden Center. Live music, a food truck roundup, ice cream from the LSU AgCenter Dairy Store and much more will also be going on all morning. 8 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday at the LSU AgCenter's Burden Center. Admission is $5 per person. Call 763-3990 for more information.
Garden Festival at Burden Center
No ‘Burden’ to attend: Get an idea of just how well your garden can grow—and how delicious it can taste—at the annual Burden Center Garden Festival June 30. Garden tours, displays from master gardeners at the Herb Society and the Burden Horticultural Society and more will give you a feast for the eyes. The Louisiana Culinary Institute will give you a proper feast as well as they offer samples of dishes prepared from vegetables produced at the Burden Center. Live music, a food truck roundup, ice cream from the LSU AgCenter Dairy Store and much more will also be going on all morning. 8 a.m.-1 p.m., Saturday, June 30, at the LSU AgCenter’s Burden Center. Admission is $5 per person. Call 763-3990 for more information.
Tony Chachere's rolling out new sandwich sauce line
On a roll: The folks with Tony Chachere's took to the State Capitol steps on Monday—the final day of this year's legislative session—to unveil a new line of sandwich sauces. The company says the new sauces—which come in Creole, Bar-B-Que, Zesty, and Spicy-Sweet flavors—will hit the shelves of major grocery stores in Louisiana in June.
Slow food social at MJ’s Café … Cooking classes at Williams-Sonoma
Quick progress on slow food: Do you love the farm-to-table movement? Dying to join Baton Rouge’s local chapter of Slow Food? Join Slow Food Baton Rouge tonight at MJ’s Café for the first-ever Local Social. Mix and mingle with fellow foodies while you enjoy drinks and appetizers made with local products. Click here for more information.
Scrumptious sides: Grill enthusiasts of Baton Rouge, head to Williams-Sonoma this Sunday to learn how to make side dishes on the grill that will have your guests begging for more. The staff from Monjardin Farm will divulge recipes and techniques for making perfect sides without ever having to leave your barbecue. Call 757-0016 to make reservations.
V-Tones at Zolia ... Father's Day brunch at Fleming's
Get down at Zolia: It's dinner and dancing at Zolia (Map it!) this Friday at 6 p.m. when the V-Tones present a rare intimate concert. Enjoy some of Zolia's distinctive Italian bistro cuisine while you get down to the greatest hits of the '60s to '90s. Click here for more information.