Milford’s on Third, a New York-style deli, will open for business Tuesday on the ground floor of The Watermark, Mike Wampold’s new Marriott Autograph Collection hotel.
The deli will be the only authentic, New York-style deli in Baton Rouge, says Wampold, who named the establishment after his late grandfather, a Jewish grocer in Alexandria.
The 2,000-square-foot restaurant, which will front Third Street and also will be accessible from inside the hotel, will have bar and table seating for 30. It will feature dishes made from the family’s traditional recipes. Chef Chad Galiano, who is chef of The Watermark’s fine dining restaurant, The Gregory, will also oversee Milford’s on Third.
The Watermark opened Oct. 12, and in the weeks since business has exceeded expectations, Wampold says. During the week, occupancy at the 144-room hotel has been averaging around 77%. Over the recent weekend, it was 100% occupied, thanks in large measure to crowds in town for the LSU-Alabama game.
“It’s been the buzz and people have been really enthusiastic about it,” Wampold says. “We were packed over the weekend. It was like being in New York City. It has a really a good vibe.”
Room rates, which are variable depending on the day of the week and current demand, are competitive with those of The Hampton Inn downtown and the Hilton Baton Rouge Capitol Center.
Milford’s on Third did not open when the hotel celebrated its ribbon cutting last month because it wasn’t ready. Wampold says everything is on track for Tuesday’s lunchtime opening. Beginning Wednesday, Milford’s will serve breakfast and lunch,and will also be open from 3-6 p.m. for grab-and-go service with beer and wine. For now, the deli will offer sit down and take-out service. Eventually, Milford’s on Third will also deliver to downtown offices.
—Stephanie Riegel
