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A Guide From Your Local REALTOR®

Baton Rouge Local Guide

When I first moved to Baton Rouge, I felt overwhelmed by all the incredible options — food, activities, things to do with my dog, all of it. So I started keeping a running list of the places I wish I'd found sooner. Most are locally owned, and all of them are spots I find myself going back to again and again.

Baton Rouge sunset garden view near the Capitol Riverboat on the Mississippi at sunset Historic Baton Rouge street at dusk

Dining and Restaurants

Where I actually eat

Sammy's Grill Highland

The casual local go-to, serving seafood, po'boys, and Southern staples. Easy, quick, and always hits when you want something classic and satisfying.

Elsie's Plate and Pie

A locally beloved Southern eatery in Mid-City that blends Cajun-Creole flavors with creative comfort food.

Ruffino's

An elevated dining experience with a warm Louisiana touch. High-quality steaks, fresh seafood, and Italian-inspired dishes, perfect for date nights and birthdays.

Louie's Cafe

A classic, late-night staple near LSU. Laid-back diner feel and comfort food favorites, especially popular for breakfast any time of day.

Portobello's

A long-time local favorite blending Creole, Italian, and American flavors. Cozy and reliable, from casual dinners to family celebrations.

Bakeries & Coffee Shops

Fuel for the day

Pura Vida Coffee Bar

A popular two-story coffee shop known for its vibrant atmosphere, lush plants, and modern decor. Plenty of seating for students, remote workers, and social gatherings.

Coffee Call

A long-standing, family-owned coffee shop famous for New Orleans-style beignets, cafe au lait, and coffee.

Highland Coffee

A student favorite right off campus, known for roasting its own beans and a super cozy, hidden vibe.

Maddie's Pick

CC's Coffee House

A Louisiana-based specialty coffee chain that started as a retail spin-off of Community Coffee. My go-to every morning.

The Ambrosia Bakery

A well-known bakery famous for its specialty cakes, especially the fresh strawberry cake, plus king cakes, cupcakes, and donuts.

Local Boutiques & Thrifting

Where I find the good stuff
Maddie's Pick

The Pink Elephant

Easily one of my favorite finds in all of Baton Rouge. Twenty different vendors across 7,000 square feet, the biggest antique mall in the city.

The Royal Standard

A thoughtfully curated mix of fashion accessories, home decor, holiday pieces, and entertaining essentials, perfect for hosting or gifting.

Shop Embark

Jewelry for every stage of life, from everyday staples to meaningful milestones. Pieces are designed to be layered and lived in.

Designs by Grace

High quality, 18k gold-plated jewelry designed to last. Water resistant, tarnish resistant, hypoallergenic, and very affordable.

Good Choices Co.

One of my personal favorite secondhand clothing stores, rooted in community, creativity, and sustainable fashion.

Beauty & Spa

Treat yourself

The Aesthetic Studio

One of the best medical aesthetics practices in Baton Rouge, specializing in natural-looking results through provider-led care.

Honey Nails Suites

By far the most unique nail spa in the area, known for themed pedicures and amazing nail designs.

Maddie's Pick

Cut & Cloth

My hairdresser's personal brand. I've been going to her for almost three years and she always does amazing work.

The Retreat Spa

Your escape to comfort, relaxation, and rejuvenation. Treat yourself to something special, you deserve it.

Glo Beauty Bar

A chic studio in Southdowns specializing in customizable skincare and organic spray tans.

Pet Services

For the four-legged family members

The Royal Treatment

A premier pet resort and spa dedicated to luxury care for dogs and cats, with structured play indoors and out.

BREC Dog Park

Features an on-site pond for dogs that love to swim, along with a washing station to rinse off mud before heading home.

Maddie's Pick

Jefferson Animal Hospital

Where I take my own dog. A local provider with over 40 years of experience in preventative care, dentistry, and acupuncture.

Sherwood South

A comprehensive veterinary center offering 24/7 emergency and critical care alongside routine services.

The Smiling Dog

Your pup can join you on the covered patio and order off the "pupper menu."

Quick Eats & Sweet Treats

For when you need a little something

Bonjour

A popular French-inspired dessert cafe known for gourmet coffee, crepes, waffles, and ice cream.

Playa Bowls

A tropical, surf-themed spot in Arlington Marketplace serving customizable acai, pitaya, and coconut bowls.

Tiger Nutrition

Specializing in customizable loaded teas and meal-replacement protein shakes.

Counter Culture

A local eatery operating since 1977, famous for its frozen yogurt, especially the signature Humphrey Yogart.

Andy's Frozen Custard

A local dessert staple known for rich, dense custard made fresh every hour.

Drinks and Activities

For nights out

Hayride Scandal

A speakeasy-style whiskey and craft cocktail bar known for its intimate, dimly lit atmosphere.

Red Stick Social

State-of-the-art bowling, live music, a pet-friendly beer garden, and a rooftop patio.

Zee Zee's Bar

Dim lighting, art-filled atmosphere, and a hidden vibe. Elevated bar food alongside specialty drinks.

Court To Table

An innovative dining and entertainment venue blending chef-inspired cuisine, craft cocktails, and pickleball courts.

The Texas Club

Baton Rouge's premier live music venue, hosting major country artists.

Around Town

Shelters & farmer's markets

Local Shelters

Companion Animal Alliance
2550 Gourrier Ave, Baton Rouge, LA 70820
Friends of the Animals
8476 Highland Rd, Baton Rouge, LA 70808
CAAWS
6357 Quinn Dr, Baton Rouge, LA 70817

Farmer's Markets

Red Stick Farmers Market
501 N 5th St, Baton Rouge, LA 70802
Main Street Market
501 Main St, Baton Rouge, LA 70801
Southside Produce Co Inc.
8240 Perkins Rd, Baton Rouge, LA 70810