The Local Palate

Get To Know Biloxi, Mississippi

Posted on March 5, 2026March 5, 2026 by TLP Editors

From deviled crab dip to biscuits with a cult following, Biloxi, Mississippi, is emerging as a must-visit food-lover’s destination. While this Gulf Coast city has long been known as the Vegas of the South, its culinary scene is not-so-quietly stealing the spotlight. Rooted in French Creole tradition and fueled by fresh Gulf seafood, Biloxi blends history with modern creativity. James Beard-nominated chefs share the stage with local eateries, serving everything from elegant fine dining to casual coastal bites. It’s no wonder Mississippi Gulf Coast tourism generates $1.6 billion annually—accounting for a third of the state’s total tourism revenue. Whether you’re indulging in seafood gumbo, shrimp and grits, or a perfectly flaky biscuit, Biloxi proves it’s more than beaches and casinos—it’s Coastal Mississippi’s ultimate culinary jackpot.

Best Places to Eat, Drink, and Explore

Beau Rivage Coraline's restaurant entrance — Coraline’s

Best Seafood Indulgence: Coraline’s

Located inside Beau Rivage, Coraline’s specializes in Gulf and Cajun-inspired flavors. The Snapper Coraline is a signature entrée, but the deviled crab dip—lump blue crab baked into a creamy blend of swiss cheese, leeks, and sherry, served bubbling hot with crisp flatbread—is heavenly.

Impressive Historic Dining: Mary Mahoney’s Old French House

Housed in a 1737 home, this landmark restaurant has hosted presidents and celebrities. Expect white-linen service, Southern charm, and classics like seafood gumbo, crab au gratin, and perfectly seasoned shrimp and grits.

Coolest Beach Vibe: Shaggy’s

Most Decadent Biscuit Joint: Greenhouse Biloxi

One of the city’s biggest surprises is Greenhouse Biloxi, a cozy café with a biscuit menu locals rave about. Flavors rotate, but sweet potato and bacon cheddar are staples. Any specialty biscuit with roasted tomatoes and “OG fluff” spread is a can’t-miss.

Best Modern Southern: White Pillars Restaurant & Lounge

For laid-back dining with a view, Shaggy’s delivers fried shrimp, po’boys, and spectacular sunsets on the water. Family-friendly and casual, it’s the perfect spot to relax after a day on the sand. Led by James Beard nominee chef Austin Sumrall, White Pillars shines with seasonal, locally sourced plates in a beautifully restored mansion. From Gulf seafood to inventive vegetable sides, it’s a fresh-yet-refined experience in Biloxi.

Unmissable Everyday Eats: Blind Tiger

Part of Biloxi’s charm is its casual, crave-worthy dining. Mugshots serves up gourmet burgers. The Blind Tiger pairs Royal Red shrimp with creamy Bushwackers. Brick & Spoon thrills with fancy cocktails and Instagram-worthy breakfast dishes. Half Shell Oyster House delivers Cajun-Creole dishes that rival those of the Big Easy itself.

Biggest Claim to Fame

Royal Red Shrimp

Biloxi’s claim to fame lies in its rich shrimp harvesting heritage, earning it the title “Seafood Capital of the World” in the early 20th century. Today, this Gulf Coast gem continues to thrive on its deep-rooted fishing traditions and fresh coastal cuisine. The city’s culinary pride shines brightest with its Royal Reds—sweet, deep water shrimp celebrated for their rich, lobster-like flavor—a real treat to eat.

beau rivage buffet — Beau Rivage Resort & Casino

Where to Stay

Beau Rivage Resort & Casino

The Beau Rivage Resort & Casino is Biloxi’s all-in-one destination—part luxury hotel, part culinary hub, and part entertainment hotspot. With 1,740 fabulously decorated rooms (including dog-friendly options), a gaming floor with 1,200 slots, table games, poker, and BetMGM Sportsbook, it’s action packed. Dining dazzles, from Australian Wagyu steaks at BR Prime to housemade pasta at Stalla. For a true indulgence, book a Gulf-view room and soak in the sweeping coastal scenery and picturesque pool area.

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Celebrating Our Heritage: An America-250 Invitation

Posted on March 4, 2026March 4, 2026 by TLP's Partners

Discover family adventure and historic charm in the Heart of North Carolina.

As we celebrate America 250, we invite you to the heart of North Carolina, where our nation’s vibrant history and spirit of discovery come alive through unforgettable family adventures. Begin your journey at the North Carolina Zoo, the world’s largest natural-habitat zoo, where you can feed giraffes at the Acacia Station or explore the whimsical Kidzone. For a taste of classic American farm life, head to Millstone Creek Orchards to enjoy seasonal “u-pick” fruit, hayrides, and their famous apple cider slushies.

The American story continues at Linbrook Heritage Estate, where kids can marvel at the massive collection of restored tractors in the Neal Agricultural and Industrial Museum or tour the historic Hoover House. For those who feel the “needfor speed,” no trip is complete without visiting the Petty Family Attractions. Explore the Petty Museum to see the legendary cars and trophies of “The King,” of NASCAR, Richard Petty, celebrating a true American racing dynasty.

If you are looking for a creative spark, the legendary Seagrove Pottery community offers a “Pottery Highway” of nearly 100 shops where families can watch artisans preserve a centuries-old American craft. For a change of pace, stroll through downtown Liberty to explore its charming local parks and small-town boutiques, or embrace our natural heritage on the Deep River State Trail. This scenic path is perfect for a family hike or bike ride, offering beautiful river views and a chance to explore the historic Faith Rock. Whether you are picking peaches, spotting rhinos, or discovering a new favorite piece of art, our community is ready to welcome you home for this historic milestone.

Request Travel Inspiration here: heartofnorthcarolina.com/visitor-guide/

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A Charming Weekend Getaway in Historic Hillsborough, NC

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A Guide to Charlottesville’s Black-Owned Restaurants

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On a rustic, wooden table, a plate of two tacos, triangle tortilla chips, vibrant guacamole, and a crisp drink showcase some of the offerings available in Greensboro, North Carolina.

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A Taste of Southern Flavor in Greensboro

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Cookbook Review: The Weekday Vegetarians Get Simple

Posted on March 3, 2026March 3, 2026 by Erin Byers Murray

It was a New Year’s resolution that inspired me to pick up Jenny Rosenstrach’s latest cookbook, The Weekday Vegetarians Get Simple. I started the year determined to make at least one vegetarian dinner a week for my family as a way to help two teenagers connect more deeply with their vegetables. My son and daughter are good eaters, but they’re also protein junkies and insist that a meal isn’t a meal without chicken, pork, or beef on the plate. After listening to a podcast interview with Rosenstrach, who admitted she’d been dealing with the same, I realized I needed to help them reframe their idea of protein by sharing a wider world of vegetable-focused foods.

The Weekday Vegetarians Get Simple Cover

As a follow up to her previous book, The Weekday Vegetarians, Rosenstrach published Get Simple to give cooks the tools to pull off easy-yet-filling, weeknight-friendly, vegetarian dishes. I’ve been an avid follower of Rosenstrach’s since her first cookbook, Dinner: A Love Story—my now worn-out copy contains recipes that have been in my rotation since I got the book as a gift more than 15 years ago. (She made a case for creating a nightly meal journal that I decided to start doing when my daughter was born and have kept it up ever since. Want to know what I made for dinner on this day 2017? Chicken cutlets with sauteed spinach and cherry tomatoes. Thank you, journal!)

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20 Places to Eat & Drink in the South Carolina Mountains

Posted on March 2, 2026March 2, 2026 by TLP Editors

Explore some of the best restaurants and cafés in the South Carolina mountain region. Indulge in local, hidden favorites throughout Greenville, Spartanburg, Easley, Pendleton, and other sought after areas. We’ve picked 20 places for you to choose from during your travels.

SUM BAR

Greenville
If you’re craving dim sum in Greenville, this is the spot to visit. Menu standouts are the pork belly rice bowl; sambal lettuce wraps with shrimp, romaine, and coconut; and siu mai, a shrimp and pork dumpling with roe. And don’t miss the daily dessert with seasonal fruits.

ISLAS ON THE SQUARE

Spartanburg
The clam linguine with fresh littleneck clams and the artichoke grilled swordfish will hit the spot at Islas. Creative cocktails like the El Chupacabra with mezcal, passionfruit liqueur, balsamic blackberry shrub, lime, and a red wine floater are fun to pair with a plate of oysters.

MON AMIE MORNING CAFÉ

Spartanburg
Stop by this petite café for brunch and try decadent dishes like pommes frites with melted brie, the blueberry crepe filled with Meyer lemon creme, and the French burger with brie, caramelized onions, and a fleur de sel butter spread. Grab a seat at the bar to watch the chefs make crepes.

GERHARD’S CAFÉ

Spartanburg
For more than 30 years, Gerhard’s Café has served classic German and Austrian cuisine to happy diners. Standouts are the beef stroganoff with mashed potatoes and The “Wurst” Pizza in Spartanburg with mustard, swiss cheese, knackwurst, bratwurst, and sauerkraut.

SCOUNDREL

Greenville
Bring a date to this swanky French restaurant led by James Beard semifinalist chef Joe Cash and try menu items like the deviled blue crab served artistically in the crab shell, the Dirty Rotten Scoundrel burger with melty cheddar and Scoundrel sauce, and duck fat frites.

Award-winning Beverage Program

Soby’s

Greenville, South Carolina

Soby’s, recent recipient of Wine Spectator’s 2025 Grand Award, offers a celebrated wine program complete with the state’s largest temperature- controlled wine cellar beneath the restaurant. Grower Champagne and red burgundy are standout pours; craft cocktails, local beers, and excellent Southern chophouse fare are also strong selling points.

TRAPPE DOOR

Greenville
Make reservations at this beloved Belgian restaurant in downtown Greenville. You’re missing out if you don’t order the braised short ribs with mashed potatoes and brussels sprouts and the steak frites with au poivre sauce to share.

ENTRE NOUS

burger from Mac Smith's Country Store — Burger at Mac Smith’s Country Store

Greenville
Head to Maestro’s Bistro and ask for the code to Entres Nous, a well-hidden speakeasy in downtown Greenville. Enter through a sliding bookshelf and find yourself in a stylish lounge with live music, award-winning cocktails from mixologist Adam Kirwin, and chef-curated plates.

DACUSVILLE PIZZA STOP

Easley
Attached to a gas station on the side of the highway, Dacusville Pizza has fed locals (and lucky travelers) hot, heavenly pizza for almost 30 years. And you couldn’t ask for nicer owners. Get the super deluxe pie with the works and a drink from the new-ish coffee bar.

THE PINT STATION

Easley
Stop in for a pint with seasonal beers on tap like the Blood Orange Gose, Aloha Beaches, and the Post Shift Pilsner. Pair with bites like crispy fried pickles and the BOB, bratwurst with beer-soaked caramelized onions on a pretzel roll. Come on Thursday for trivia night.

MAC SMITH’S COUNTRY STORE

Pendleton
Mac Smith’s is a casual, Southern-style diner where the shelves are lined with nostalgic photos and trinkets and guests happily dig into delicious old-fashioned burgers and hot dogs for cheap.

Noteworthy New Concept

Little Secret

Taylor, South Carolina

This ongoing pop-up concept by chef Conner Hinderks operates out of Junto Coffee from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Friday through Sunday and serves an artful, surprising brunch packed with Southeast Asian flavors, with rotating dishes like lemongrass mochi pancakes, curried eggs shakshuka, and Szechuan pepper-cured pork belly.

THE SMOKIN’ P IG

Pendleton
Visit the OG location of this slow-smoked barbecue joint in Pendleton for tender brisket and classic sides like fried okra, seasonal cobbler, mac and cheese, and banana pudding. Stick around after you eat and play putt putt and bocce for free.

SUNNYSIDE CAFÉ

Clemson
Breakfast and lunch are served all day at this “farmhouse chic” café just outside Clemson. Come hungry for the pecan praline mascarpone and apple butter-stuffed french toast and the Appalachian plate loaded with all the classics, from eggs to biscuits with gravy.

TUK TUK THAI AND VIETNAMESE KITCHEN

Taylors
The menu at Tuk Tuk offers colorful and flavorful meals of everything from pho to Thai curry to stir-fry, inspired by Bill Lam and Nattha Wiyawut’s Thai and Vietnamese backgrounds. Dishes from both cultures are served distinctly, as opposed to fusion.

TANDEM CREPERIE AND COFFEEHOUSE

Travelers Rest
Find sweet and savory crepes galore, like the Grazing Goat with goat cheese, blueberry compote, and walnuts, or the lemon sugar with lemon zest and juice topped with whipped cream. They also offer waffles and maple pecan granola, made in-house.

UPCOUNTRY PROVISIONS

Travelers Rest
Sit on the patio at Upcountry Provisions and dig into handhelds like The Upcountry, Up-A-Letta, and Swamp Rabbit, then shop the grocery for items like cranberry chutney, horsey sauce, chipotle mayo, and take-n-bake cinnamon rolls (these tend to sell out, so go early).

Best Culinary Hotel

Hotel Domestique

Travelers Rest, South Carolina

Hotel Domestique’s Restaurant 17, led by 2022 South Carolina Chef Ambassador Haydn Shaak, combines European flavors with the area’s sea- sonal produce from local partners like GrowFood Carolina in Charleston, Ashe Acre Farms in Travelers Rest, and Table Rock Tea Company in Pickens.

L’INCANTO

Greer
The romantic, unrushed dining experience at L’Incanto will whisk you away to Northern Italy for the evening. Curated by chef Carlos Echeverri, the menu includes rich dishes like lumache (helix snails) in butter sauce and bone marrow Bolognese.

THE GALLEY

burger and fries at Southern Growl — Southern Growl

Anderson
This lakeside restaurant offers seafood classics, steak, and a sushi bar. Menu standouts include the hand-battered fried Gulf shrimp, the pecan crusted Carolina mountain trout with a lemon butter sauce, and the strawberry cake made from scratch daily and topped with fresh berries.

PAPA’S & BEER MEXICAN RESTAURANT

Anderson
This regional chain with outposts across the Carolinas is known for their tableside guacamole made to order with fresh avocados and jalapeños to your spice preference. Sip on a couple cervezas and chow down on giant burritos filled with beans, pico de gallo, and cheese.

SOUTHERN GROWL

Greer
Stop in for lunch in the garden at Southern Growl and dig into classic handhelds like the crispy chicken sandwich with pickles and Duke’s Mayo. Pair your meal with beers like the Left Dog Lager and the Tropical Sauce Fruited Sour, both available to go.

PAESANO’S ITALIAN RESTAURANT

Seneca
Since 1992, Paesano’s Italian Restaurant has been serving Sicilian-inspired dishes to the Seneca community. Order Sicilian-style pizza, seafood pasta, and wine for the table, and keep an eye out for specials. Add lump blue crab to your pasta for extra oomph.

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Greenville

Tucked in the folds of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Greenville has been quietly gaining momentum as a Southern food town worth knowing.

Get To Know Athens, Georgia

Posted on February 28, 2026 by TLP Editors

There’s more to Athens, Georgia, than football. Even die-hard University of Georgia Bulldog fans can admit that Athens’ famed music scene, responsible for the formation of R.E.M. and The B-52s, deserves some credit for its “cool town” billing.

Then there’s the food. With a solid foundation of classic, decades-old restaurants still operating, a new class of chefs, bakers, brewers, and roasters is finding both inspiration and support in the college town. Athens’ flirtation with new cuisine isn’t exactly new, but the appetite for even more exciting and diverse options has increased. Athens now boasts dozens of restaurants, cocktail bars, breweries, and a host of experimental pop-ups from James Beard nominees, Top Chef contestants, and other notables from Atlanta and beyond.

To top it all off, the growing brewery scene, spearheaded by Creature Comforts, is garnering attention from a whole new market. Once home to the longest running beer fest in Georgia, the Classic City Brew Fest, Athens is now host to the Classic Center Cultural Foundation’s Athens Beer Fest. These and other newcomers on the culinary and beverage scene are equipped and willing to carry on this cool town’s tasty legacy.

Best Places to Eat, Drink, and Explore

Top of the Class: Puma Yu’s

The seamless blending of traditional Thai nam prik and tom kha with regional ingredients like Bradford Farm blue crab and red drum is but one area Puma Yu’s excels. Explore thoughtful cultural expression throughout the former pop-up led by Pete Amadhanirundr, James Beard semifinalist for Best Chef: Southeast (2024) and bar program lead Ally Smith.

Oldest and Best: Five and Ten

Athens’ flagship fine dining restaurant founded 25 years ago by James Beard Award-winner Hugh Acheson is now in the capable hands of former apprentice Peter Dale (The National, Condor Chocolates, Maepole, Seabear Oyster Bar). Dale, more than most, understands the assignment to honor Five and Ten’s Southern culinary legacy.

Most Glutinous: Independent Baking Co.

Perhaps milling its own flour is the secret to this bakery’s dozen successful years, or it could be its bakers’ pedigrees, with stints at Blue Hill at Stone Barns, the NoMad Hotel, and more. Likely a combination of quality ingredients and training have led to their ability to put out both impressively flaky croissants and crusty baguettes.

Best-Kept Secret: Hidden Gem

The musical programming of this local favorite spans Debussy, Dvorak, DJs, and demos, and the themed specialty cocktails fall in line. Never a dull moment and always inclusive, this quirky 21+ bar defies categories in the best way.

Most Riveting: Osteria Olio

Tucked away inside the Rivet House boutique hotel but worthy of its own identity, the latest modern Italian concept from the Indigo Road Hospitality Group is a true scratch kitchen Nonna could appreciate. Even their off-menu gluten-free pasta and pizza dough are made in-house.

Broadest Culinary Range: Cali N Tito’s

The original Five Points location draws a lively university crowd, but don’t let that be a deterrent to enjoying some real Latin American standouts across multiple regions. Burritos, fish tacos, ceviche, and lomo saltado are only a handful of highlights worth the hype.

Most Palate-Pleasing: White Tiger Gourmet

A celebrated barbecue spot in North Georgia might not be groundbreaking in terms of genre, but the relative ease with which a meat-heavy kitchen churns out convincing vegetarian fare might be the biggest surprise. Even vegan palates are welcome here.

Most Recognizable: 1000 Faces Coffee

This retro soda fountain and diner in Jackson’s Fondren neighborhood, serving breakfast, lunch, and brunch, is a nostalgic spot where locals gather for good food and sweet treats. The biscuits are incredible— they taste like someone’s grandma is in the kitchen making them.

Claim to Fame

Weaver D’s Delicious Fine Foods

Weaver D’s Delicious Fine Foods has stood the test of time—nearly 40 years—as not only an Athens staple for soul food but also the city’s most internationally recognized restaurant, thanks to local rock band R.E.M.’s taste in Southern cooking. Owner Dexter Weaver’s iconic slogan, “Automatic for the People,” that bandmembers must have heard dozens of times in the 80s, is the title of R.E.M’s Grammy-nominated album released in Since then, Weaver D’s has attracted alt-rock fans along with fried chicken enthusiasts.

Where to Shop

Athens Cooks

No need to return home empty-handed from an Athens visit. For the entertainer, Athens Cooks has the staff expertise and stock to meet nearly any kitchen utensil or gadget need.

Birdies

For turophiles and oenophiles, Birdies offers a selection of cheese and wine that meets even a critical Parisian’s standards.

Nest Athens

Next door to Birdies, Nest Athens offers a curated abundance of vintage glassware, embroidered napkins, candles, books, and art from local and regional artisans that make for perfect hostess gifts or souvenirs.

Where to Stay

The Athenian

Being a Bulldog isn’t a requirement to stay at The Athenian, the mid-1800s former residence of UGA grad and Bank of Athens founder Stevens Thomas. But a fair warning is in order for those not yet ready to yell “Go Dawgs” intermittently: The Ares suite fully embraces the collegiate red and black while others include more subtle nods with a blend of Grecian and Southern inspiration. Whether you’re in town for business or pleasure, you’ll find the location—steps from The National restaurant and Creature Comforts Brewery—particularly invaluable.

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Black-Owned Bites in Columbia, South Carolina

Posted on February 27, 2026 by TLP's Partners

It’s no secret that Columbia, SC’s culinary scene is up-and-coming. Here, new and exciting restaurants pop up all the time, while seasoned chefs continue to marvel diners with their mouth-watering creations. You’ll even find James Beard and Michelin recognized establishments. This February, celebrate Black History Month by paying a visit to these six Black-owned spots in the capital city.

Chayz Lounge

If you’re looking for great jazz music and even better food, head over to Chayz Lounge in West Columbia. This sophisticated and cozy spot is the perfect place to kick back, raise a glass, and any enjoy performances from local or national acts while you nibble on the tapas-style dishes. And don’t forget to save room for dessert!

Railroad BBQ

With a motto like “Best darn BBQ on both sides of the tracks,” you know the folks at Railroad BBQ take their craft seriously. Slide into a booth and take in the collection of college memorabilia, artwork, Civil Rights newspaper clippings and vintage political signage. Their brisket is a local favorite and sells fast! Try it on the potato wedges and be sure to get a side of hush puppies.

Goat’s

Located in the Five Points district, you’ll find Goat’s. Possibly one of the best-kept secrets in Columbia, Goat’s has an eclectic, unexpected vibe that is sure to surprise and delight. You’ll love their famous 3 Cheese Lobster Mac and the wide selection of wine and signature cocktails.

Trini Lime Caribbean Cafe

Discover a slice of island life across the river in Cayce at Trini Lime Caribbean Cafe. Owned by Trinibagoian native, Sullange Solomon, Trini Lime offers authentic Caribbean dishes that embody the diversity of Trinibagoian culture. You can’t go wrong with trying the Allo Pies or Roti.

Vino Sabor

Judging by the buzz, you’re going to want to make a pit stop at Vino Sabor, the newest wine bar in the heart of SC. Located in the Main Street District, take in the classy theme and decor while sipping on sommelier-led tastings of their boutique wines or trying something new with their menu of wine cocktails.

Kiki’s Chicken and Waffles

Follow the locals to Kiki’s Chicken and Waffles for their homemade soul food. Ordering their seasoned fried chicken wings on top of a warm Belgian waffle is a must. Pair it with a side of fried green beans and cream corn nuggets, and you’ll leave with a full belly longing for more. You’ll find yourself there for the food, but returning for the prompt service and family-friendly staff. Fun Fact: The owners, Kiki and Tyrone Cyrus, were semifinalists for the James Beard Award’s Best Chef of the Southeast in 2024!

Find even more Black-owned small businesses to support at ExperienceColumbiaSC.com

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Get To Know Easton, Maryland

Posted on February 26, 2026February 26, 2026 by TLP Editors

Maryland’s Eastern Shore is a quintessential getaway for sailing, sun sets over the Chesapeake, and nautical flair. Posh Saint Michaels has all that in spades, but in recent years, Easton has put up a little friendly competition for the title of Talbot County’s best dining destination. The small town, remarkable for its picturesque downtown with brick sidewalks and historic architecture, outdoes itself when it comes to dining out. That’s in large part due to the efforts of Bluepoint Hospitality, which leads with an “if you build it, they will come” mentality. Founder Paul Prager, who made his fortune in the energy business, went about opening tasteful restaurant after tasteful restaurant here, enlisting talent from the likes of New York’s three-MICHELIN-star French restaurant, Le Bernardin. Take a journey through the 20 wine regions within Italy paired with handmade pasta at the newly reimagined The Wardroom. In between meals, art galleries and boutiques await.

Best Places to Eat, Drink, and Explore

Best Alfresco Dining: The Ivy

A brick-lined courtyard featuring a striped awning and greenery including ivy (naturally) is a charming setting for sandwiches and salads or cocktails like cranberry crushes.

Bluepoint Bonheur Tea Courtesy of Bluepoint Hospitality — Bonheur

Best Coffee Shop: Rise Up Coffee Roasters

The Eastern Shore’s favorite caffeine source roasts all its coffee in its Easton location—and sells very cool merch in addition to lattes. Grab a bite with your coffee like the Happy Cow vegan burrito or bacon, egg, and cheese on a scratch-made biscuit.

Best Fine Dining: Bas Rouge

Gracious service and a sophisticated menu that riffs on European traditions (think pastry-enveloped crabcake Wellington) are calling cards for this white-tablecloth establishment, which offers three- or four-course prix fixe menus.

Best Place to Raise a Pint: Washington Street Pub

This Easton classic recently made a comeback under the Bluepoint Hospitality banner, decked out with a handsome new bar that feels like it’s been there forever. Post up in a leather booth for fried chicken and a round from local brewery RAR.

Best Sweet Treat: Bonheur

Ice cream or pie? It’s a tricky decision at Bonheur, which scoops up flavors like coffee toffee crunch and slices like chocolate mousse. The sweets shop looks just as pretty as its desserts, thanks to hand-painted Gracie chinoiserie-style wallpaper.

Best Happy Hour: Legal Assets

From spritzes to espresso martinis, Legal Assets takes cocktails seriously. The restaurant is all in on happy hour, which stretches from 11:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturdays.

Claim to Fame

Chef Harley Peet

Bas Rouge executive chef Harley Peet is the Eastern Shore’s first-ever James Beard Award winner, earning the Best Chef: Mid-Atlantic title in 2024. Peet, who sails in his free time, uses both European delicacies and hyper local ingredients to create Bas Rouge’s elegant dishes— from fish plucked from the Chesapeake to tomatoes grown in a backyard garden. Peet’s culinary sensibilities touch all of Bluepoint Hospitality’s restaurants, from salads at Sunflower & Greens to slices of pizza at Roma.

Bas Rouge Dinner Scene Courtesy of Bas Rouge jpg — Bas Rouge

Where to Shop

Welcome Home

Need an oyster plate or oyster knife to bring home as an Eastern Shore souvenir? Downtown shop Welcome Home has it covered, along with tasteful French table linens and all sorts of cooking and baking equipment like de Buyer crepe pans.

Curlicue

Funky crab tea towels, pretty cloth napkins, and intriguing cookbooks (like How to Cook the Finest Things in the Sea [Artisan, 2025]) make Curlicue another shop downtown that’s worth perusing for home chefs.

Market at Dover Station

If you prefer the thrill of the hunt, the Market at Dover Station is packed with antiques and vintage finds meant for entertaining. The vendors within this
historic building’s walls sell everything from handwoven baskets to artsy cocktail glasses.

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The Heart of the Southwest Louisiana Boudin Trail

Posted on February 25, 2026 by TLP's Partners

Meet the people keeping Southwest Louisiana’s boudin tradition alive.

At the heart of the Southwest Louisiana Boudin Trail are family kitchens, time-tested recipes, and makers who treat every link like a legacy.

Famous Foods in Lake Charles, image by Candy Rodriguez — Guillory’s Famous Foods, Image courtesy of Candy Rodriguez

At Guillory’s Famous Foods, boudin is a family affair. Darby Guillory Sr. and Darby Jr. continue a proud Creole tradition, crafting boudin that’s rich, smoky, and deeply rooted in heritage. Their links tell a story of culture passed down through generations, best paired with their beloved “wet” cracklins—an indulgent local favorite. Whether you’re grabbing lunch or stocking up to go, Guillory’s delivers more than a meal; it’s Creole comfort with soul.

In Sulphur, B&O Kitchen & Grocery feels like a warm welcome home. Since 1983, the Benoit family has been serving Cajun classics, and today Jeff Benoit carries the torch as a third-generation keeper of the recipes. He still hand-mixes every batch of boudin—regular and smoked—alongside boudin balls and egg rolls. While the classics anchor the menu, Jeff isn’t afraid to push boundaries with creations like the Gaudidaun Burger or a keto-friendly boudin dip. If it doesn’t pass his taste test, it doesn’t hit the counter.

Tradition and teamwork define Gillis Meat Market and Gillis Grocery & Café. Founded by Navy veteran Steve Gaudet, these sister shops have been turning out Cajun favorites since the late ’90s. Small-batch boudin is still mixed by hand, and smoked boudin demands constant attention over a wood-fed pit. With more than 19 sausage varieties and the next generation now learning the craft, Gillis proves that tradition only gets stronger with time.

Just off I-10 in Vinton, creativity takes center stage at Insane Sausages. Owner Derek Gaspard produces small-batch boudin in more than 30 rotating flavors drawn from over 100 recipes. From pork and smoked classics to crawfish étouffée, bacon queso, and breakfast boudin, every link balances bold ideas with Cajun roots. Open on weekends, this award-winning stop draws curious road-trippers and loyal regulars alike.

At Rabideaux’s Sausage Kitchen, simplicity reigns. Owner Glenn Daigle has made the same boudin since 1991—fresh pork, Louisiana long-grain rice, and a seasoning blend that never changes. No variations, no shortcuts. What began as a small shop has grown through word of mouth, one perfectly seasoned bite at a time.

Ready to taste your way through the trail? Discover these stops and start planning your boudin adventure at visitlakecharles.org.

B&O Kitchen and Grocery, Image courtesy ofKathryn Shea Duncan — B&O Kitchen & Grocery, Image courtesy of Kathryn Shea Duncan

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Cookbook Review: Tapas España

Posted on February 24, 2026February 24, 2026 by Amber Chase

For many years, I was known for hosting “appetizer parties,” because, in all honesty, putting together main dishes for large groups was a surefire way to send me spiraling. Then, in college, my eyes were opened to the world of Spanish tapas when I visited Barsa in Charleston. Finally, a way of gathering that encourages simple, small plates shared across the table. Since then, I’ve loved exploring the expansion of tapas culture and restaurants within the American South, including two standout favorites of mine: Cúrate in Asheville and Malagón in Charleston.

When I saw the release for Tapas España, a new tapas-centric cookbook by Catherine Cogliandro Alioto releasing March 24, 2026, I knew it was going to become my hosting staple.

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