By Kaitlyn Shehee
Cookies by Freddie
BATON ROUGE | cookiesbyfreddie.com
Nestled in Baton Rouge, Cookies by Freddie is a small-batch bakery truck born from founder Frederique “Freddie” Bekale’s love for creating the perfect cookie, one that’s soft in the center, crisp on the edge, and rich with flavor. What started as a small hobby has grown into a community favorite, known for its signature cookie bars, customizable boxes, and warm, neighborly charm. Beyond satisfying sweet cravings, the bakery gives back by donating a portion of every sale to local nonprofits. Whether you stop by the truck or order online, Cookies by Freddie delivers simple joy in every bite.
Doc’s Pop-In
LAFAYETTE | popspoboys.com/docs-popin
Tucked beside Pop’s Poboys in downtown Lafayette, Doc’s Pop-In is a modern twist on the neighborhood corner store. It offers a little bit of everything—grab-and-go snacks, cold drinks, local goods, and ready-made meals perfect for busy days. The space has a cozy, community-first spirit that feels authentically Lafayette, with part of each purchase benefiting Team Gleason and its support for people living with ALS. Whether you’re stopping in for lunch or a last-minute grocery run, Doc’s Pop-In blends convenience, local flavor, and a touch of heart into one inviting stop.
Bayes Oyster Bar
BATON ROUGE | bayesoysterbarbr.com
Located on North Boulevard in downtown Baton Rouge, Bayes Oyster Bar brings a fresh, modern take on the classic Gulf Coast oyster house. Led by father-and-son team Rick and Ricky Volland, the restaurant celebrates oysters in every form. From raw and chargrilled to indulgent baked versions like Rockefeller and Bienville. The menu extends into Louisiana seafood staples, paired perfectly with local brews and cocktails during a lively happy hour. With its relaxed yet refined atmosphere and focus on quality and freshness, Bayes Oyster Bar has quickly become a go-to spot for Baton Rouge locals craving coastal flavor and easygoing charm.
Delacroix
NEW ORLEANS | delacroixrestaurant.com
Nestled along the Mississippi River at Spanish Plaza, Delacroix blends rustic hunting-camp charm with refined Southern hospitality. Chef Wiley Lewis crafts a menu that celebrates the region’s waters. Think smoky gumbo, Gulf fish with crab butter, and just-shucked oysters kissed by salt and spice. Inside, warm wood tones and river views set the stage for unhurried meals and thoughtful conversation. At Delacroix, guests are invited to taste the spirit of the bayou.
Central Pizza & Bar
BROUSSARD | eatdrinkcentral.com/broussard
Central Pizza & Bar brings a slice of downtown Lafayette’s energy to the Southside. The restaurant is known for its wood-fired pizzas baked in a pecan-wood oven that gives every crust a smoky, golden finish. Signature pies like the Smoke Show, loaded with sausage, smoked chicken, and pineapple, or the Paulie, topped with pepperoni, jalapeños, and honey, keep things bold and creative. With a full bar, spacious patio, and welcoming atmosphere, Central Pizza & Bar offers a spot where families, friends, and food lovers can gather over great pizza and easy conversation.
Ode to King Cake
ROUSES SUPERMARKET rouses.com
With more than 50 locations across south Louisiana (plus 13 more in Mississippi and Alabama), Rouses Supermarket is a reliable king cake stalwart that now sells more than 500,000 cakes a season. Shoppers will be pleased to find many new and exciting flavors this year: wedding cake, cookie dough, banana foster, brownie, and more.
Crying Eagle Brewing Company
LAKE CHARLES | cryingeagle.com
Crying Eagle Brewing Company has spread its wings to a stunning new lakefront home in Lake Charles. Blending laid-back Louisiana charm with modern sophistication, the new location offers sweeping water views, two levels of indoor-outdoor seating, and a vibrant mix of craft beer, cocktails, and coastal cuisine. Guests can dock by boat, sip a cold lager brewed just steps away, and savor dishes inspired by the Gulf. More than a brewery, it’s a community gathering place and a celebration of flavor, friendship, and local spirit that perfectly captures the soul of southwest Louisiana’s growing lakefront scene.
