Capital City Classics: 1967 — 1982

Anthony’s Italian Deli (Since 1978)

5575 Government St.

Walk into this cheerfully cramped family-owned deli on Government Street, and you might think you’ve landed in New York’s Little Italy. Red and white checked tablecloths set the mood, along with walls covered in Italian memorabilia. Jovial diners fill up on authentic fare as servers flit about, laughing with customers like they’ve known them for years.

Place your order at the front counter, choosing from numerous sandwiches, pastas and salads, and the deli’s self-proclaimed “best muffaletta in town.” The New Orleans-born sammie features layers of mortadella, capicola, ham, salami and provolone, as well as the restaurant’s own olive salad. While traditionally not warmed, Anthony’s is served pressed, resulting in savory melted goodness. True fans will recall its former digs on Florida Boulevard before the deli’s 2015 move to Mid City.

Poor Boy Lloyd’s (Since 1967)

201 Florida St.

Po-boys piled high with your favorite protein and fully dressed on authentic New Orleans French bread are a mainstay in Louisiana. And what better place to sink your teeth into one than Poor Boy Lloyd’s, the same spot once visited by President Barack Obama. The throwback vibe channels the ’60s with its unchanging menu, wood paneled interior and old school candy counter. Chatty and welcoming staff and a big menu that also includes breakfast and plate lunches make this downtown Baton Rouge icon an enduring classic.

Hunan Chinese Restaurant (Since 1979)

4215 S. Sherwood Forest Blvd.

Asian fare is currently one of Baton Rouge’s trendiest culinary subsets, but Hunan Chinese Restaurant is ground zero for a trip down retro lane. The establishment’s buffet scratches the itch for craveable dishes like sesame chicken, broccoli beef and lo mein, and its dining room has long been a favorite among dinner companions who like to pass plates. Since its opening in the late ’70s, the restaurant has hosted scores of celebrities, captured in dozens of framed photos with founder Jeffrey Chen.

Magnolia Cafe (Since 1982)

5689 Commerce St., St. Francisville

Smack-dab in the middle of St. Francisville’s main drag, the Magnolia Cafe has been the heart and soul of this small town for decades. Locals pull up a chair multiple times a week, while visitors beeline to “the Mag” after a day of shopping and touring. The cafe’s charming rustic interior, complete with creaky hardwood floors, local art and a large patio, feels disarming and homey—the perfect setting for some alligator bites, a French dip po-boy or a juicy Mag Burger.

Read about more Capital City Classics here.