CAN’T-MISS BITES
1 NOBILE’S RESTAURANT & BAR
PLATE LUNCHES
Lutcher
Founded in 1895, when Lutcher was in the midst of a cypress logging boom, Nobile’s originally billed itself as a place for locals to come enjoy themselves over good food and drink. Now, almost 130 years later, it still delivers just that. In addition to Bayou State staples like Chicken-Andouille Gumbo and Seafood Gumbo, Nobile’s offers Crawfish Pies and a number of po’ boys. Keep an eye out for special plates that often include fried catfish with white beans. nobilesrestaurant.com
2 CURED. ON COLUMBIA
BOARDS
Covington
This bright, open bistro on Covington’s Columbia Street bustles with great energy during the breakfast and lunch rushes, when customers order vanilla rose or honey lavender lattes and meticulously crafted boards. The boards range from classic breakfast staples like The Cured Lox (with smoked salmon, caper dill spread, house greens, and a browned butter baguette) and Beets on Beats (a roasted beet medley with honey goat cheese and beet hummus). If that weren’t enough, owners Anna Watkins and Chef Amanda Birdsong’s cozy shop also offers a well-curated selection of wines. facebook.com/curedoncolumbia
3 IN-LAWS CAJUN SPECIALTIES
FRIED RIBS
Iowa
Deep in Cajun Country, there is no shortage of boudin (the area’s signature rice-and-pork sausage). Hungry travelers can find tiny gas stations and grand temples dedicated to the treat and practically anywhere in between. Just off Interstate 10 in Iowa, customers at In-Laws Cajun Specialties are treated to not just superb boudin but also fried ribs. These tender morsels have an irresistible crunch and will hopefully be adopted into the larger Cajun culinary canon. In the meantime, bring a large ice chest and stock up on boudin, cracklin’s, and all manner of Cajun goodies at In-Laws. inlawscajun.com
4 PIONEER PUB
THE WOOKIE
Natchitoches
Natchitoches is known for its signature meat pies, but while you’re in this historic town, be sure to stop by the unassuming Pioneer Pub for some immensely satisfying grub. From Louisiana staples like gumbo and blackened redfish to house specialties including garlic shrimp pizzas and The Wookie (house-made fries topped with brisket and melted cheese). Located right on Natchitoches’ riverfront promenade, Pioneer Pub is an ideal spot to relax and get hot tips from locals. 812 Washington St., Natchitoches
5 MAGIC GRILL
ROAST BEEF PO’ BOY
Monroe
Ray Pierce’s original Magic Grill opened in Ruston in 1959, and longtime employee Michael Rodriguez relaunched
