Fast break: Rue Orleans

The hot sausage poboy at Rue Orleans is hard to beat. Photo by Amanda Capritto

Baton Rouge is in for a pleasant surprise at Rue Orleans.

The space at 3145 College Drive used to be a Casa Maria Mexican Café and now houses an authentic New Orleans-style lunch joint.

This restaurant screams “Crescent City” as soon as you walk through the doors. Smooth jazz and friendly staff members welcome guests as they come in, seating them at tables surrounded by décor reminiscent of the Big Easy.

The easy, laid-back atmosphere at Rue Orleans perfectly contradicts the zesty, bold flavors of the food. The current menu boasts a variety of po-boys and fried seafood platters, as well as several salads and sides.

The hot sausage po-boy was reminiscent of something you’d find in a tucked-away place on Magazine Street. Spicy sausage dressed on perfect french bread — soft and sweet under a crunchy outer layer — and a plate of hot fries make this dish the perfect lunch for someone who wants a taste of New Orleans without making the drive.

Manager Prince Course says the restaurant is working on expanding the menu and the hours. The new menu will include breakfast and brunch items like grits, omelets, beignets and pancakes. Current hours are Monday-Friday, 11 a.m.-6 p.m. and Saturday 11 a.m.- 5 p.m. The restaurant is also working on getting its liquor license.

Rue Orleans is still in its soft opening phase, but Course says a grand opening is in the works.

—Amanda Capritto