I love food. From a family background which centered its celebrations around food, to an upbringing in one of the greatest food cities in the country, to an extensive personal history of cooking, fresh, delicious food is something I’ve always valued. Countless studies have shown the benefit of eating fresh, whole foods, defined as food that has been processed as little as possible and contains no other added ingredients, over processed foods. Whole foods are more nutrient-dense, contain less unhealthy chemicals, and most importantly, taste better.
This brings me to the Baton Rouge food scene, which I feel is criminally underrated. While there may be no Michelin-star restaurants in the city, there are several restaurants producing high-quality, fresh food. During my time driving for a food delivery service, I would often pick up deliveries from restaurants devoid of patrons.
Places like City Pork Deli & Charcuterie, which smokes all of its own products and makes everything from scratch, and Southfin Southern Poke, which sources all of its seafood from Gulf fishermen and uses locally produced rice. Curbside Burgers, featured on the Food Network, uniquely grinds their own patties for each burger.
These types of restaurants need your help. The next time you have to plan a date, choose to eat local over a chain. I guarantee you, the food will be better and if your date enjoys their meal, the date will go better. Additionally, it makes for a better atmosphere. I know that when I get out of my car at City Pork Deli, the smell of cooking and smoking meat instantly puts me in a good mood. That’s atmosphere you can’t pay for.
This type of care and artisanship deserves to be rewarded. Based on my experience within the food industry, it’s rare to see people put so much effort into their craft. Without your help, small businesses cannot continue. Next time, eat local.
A 17-hour smoked pork shoulder sandwich topped with Carolina-style BBQ sauce and cole slaw on a brioche bun, known as the Big Pig, is one of the food items on City Pork's menu.
