Summer is right around the corner, so it’s time to soak up the sun. We can’t all head off on a summer getaway just yet, but students can find some incredible outdoor atmosphere right here in Baton Rouge at local restaurants.
The top floor of the Shaw Center for the Arts houses what is arguably the best sushi restaurant in the city, Tsunami. This hidden gem has spectacular views of the Mississippi River and the Baton Rouge skyline, and the patio is a wonderful place to take in the summer sunset.
The menu is extensive and is sure to please even the most dedicated sushi lovers, but the real treat is the restaurant’s signature drinks. For a fun twist on a classic cocktail, try the wasabi bloody mary. Tsunami is open Tuesday through Thursday from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. and Friday and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m.
The Bulldog on Perkins Road is famous for its beer tap fountain, but it also has extensive patio seating and a surprisingly great menu. Go for the more than 70 beers on tap, but stay for the gorgeous patio and delicious food.
The Bulldog’s bar is open Monday through Saturday from 11:30 a.m. to 2 a.m. and Sunday 11:30 a.m. until midnight.
The Rum House on Perkins Road takes the cake for best outdoor bar. The patio seating is huge, featuring traditional tables, picnic tables and bar seats that double as swings. The restaurant’s colorful decor adds to its fun atmosphere and is only topped by their incredible menu. The fried plantains are a crowd favorite that you won’t find anywhere else.
The Rum House is open Monday through Thursday from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., Friday and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. and Sunday 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Superior Grill will be opening a new location later this year on Highland Road. The restaurant will be in a new building in the old Arzi’s Restaurant location.
The new Superior Grill location will have a more extensive patio area than the Government Street location. Superior Grill is known for its out-of-this world Tex-Mex and incredibly strong margaritas.
The Velvet Cactus on Corporate Boulevard. has the most festive patio area in Baton Rouge. From its eclectic art collection to its light-up tequila bottle decorations, the restaurant has a unique vibe that pairs well with its incredibly diverse menu. Be sure to stop by the Cinco De Mayo block party on May 5 and 6 for live music and delicious food and drinks.
The Velvet Cactus is open Sunday through Tuesday 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Wednesday through Saturday 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Gallery • 5 Photos

Caroline Magee

The Velvet Cactus offers a unique Tex-Mex style open patio year round on Tuesday, April 25, 2017, on Jefferson Highway.