2020 has big shoes to fill. Last year, Baton Rouge got its first self-service tap room, multiple rooftop restaurant spaces and more bubble tea places than we could count on one hand一and it’s only up from here. This year, Baton Rouge residents can expect hot new bars, locally owned breweries and restaurants serving everything from Tex-Mex to charbroiled oysters. Here are some of the openings we’re looking forward to in 2020 compiled by 225 magazine:
• Drago’s Seafood Restaurant一This New Orleans seafood restaurant is known for its charbroiled oysters, grilled seafood and gumbo. Though originally slated for November 2019, Drago’s is expected to open on Constitution Avenue this year.
• Good Bird一This New Orleans chicken joint serves rotisserie chicken in sandwiches, salads and wraps. It is expected to open on West Chimes Street later this year.
• Modesto一Bring on the Tex-Mex. This January, Ozzie Fernandez (the man behind Izzo’s, LIT Pizza and Rocca) plans to open a taqueria and bar on Burbank Drive at the Southgate Village Shopping Center space formerly occupied by Breck’s Bistro.
• Pelican to Mars一Mid City will soon get another place where you can bring your dog, catch up with friends and sip craft beer. This spring, the pet-friendly bar Pelican to Mars will be opening on Government Street next to The Pink Elephant Antiques.
• The Vintage一The former downtown Magpie Cafe space was taken over by Onepack Hospitality Group (the team behind the former Provisions on Perkins) with plans to turn it into a spot for gourmet beignets, craft coffee and cocktails. The Vintage is expected to open this spring.
• The Tunnel at Hilton Baton Rouge Capitol Center一The Hilton Baton Rouge Capitol Center plans to reopen its historic dining venue, The Tunnel—once used by former governor Huey P. Long as an escape route—as a luxury private event and dining space downtown. The 30-person venue is expected to officially reopen this year.
Read the full list from the latest edition of 225 Dine, and subscribe to the free e-newsletter to keep up with Baton Rouge food and events.
