This past March we were introduced to cajun cooking in New Orleans, and it’s safe to say that our taste buds have never been the same. The zesty spices, the hearty jambalayas and gumbos, the fusion of fresh seafood and fried, buttery sides.. It’s unlike any other cuisine we’ve had, and it’s absolutely addicting. Our mouths are watering just thinking about it!
While it’s easy to immediately pair Cajun and Creole-influenced cooking and southern comfort food exclusively with New Orleans, this vibrant cuisine can actually be found all over the great state of Louisiana! One particular spot where we’ve found this fare really shines is the Louisiana Northshore - and while we only had a few short days to indulge, we found some not-to-miss spots to eat (and drink)!
HAMBONE
Located right in the heart of Old Mandeville, Hambone is a family-run restaurant that specializes in locally-sourced, creative and fresh dishes served in a casual and homey atmosphere.
It’s the kind of place where you walk through the doors and you instantly feel like family - and it’s also the kind of place that you can smell from a mile away. (Three words: freshly baked biscuits.) From their Ham and Cheese Croquettes, to their Oysters Marci, to their famous Chicken Biscuit, it’s Southern comfort food at its best. (And we’re happy to report that their outdoor seating is puppy-approved!)
We’d come back for the Chicken Biscuit
THE CHIMES COVINGTON
You can’t beat the views - or the extensive and hearty menu at The Chimes Covington. Grab a table outside (once again, dog friendly!) and chances are you’ll see their resident goats roaming the property, and maybe even a turtle or two!
Order some hushpuppies, Louisiana Alligator, Chargrilled Oysters, and maybe even a Crawfish Etouffee - and you’ve got the ultimate Louisiana Northshore lunch experience. (If you’re really hungry, order one of their famous Po’ boy sandwiches too!) You’ll definitely need a nap after this one.
Hush puppies and alligator… YUM
Chargrilled Oysters… the culinary highlight of Bobby’s trip
THE CYPRESS BAR AT THE SOUTHERN HOTEL
There’s nothing like a refreshing cocktail (or mocktail - if you’re pregnant like me), after an afternoon of sightseeing and feasting on Southern comfort food. The Cypress Bar at The Southern Hotel in Downtown Covington is as charming as it is inviting, with a cozy sitting area and friendly bartenders that are eager to please.
They offer everything from specialty cocktails to whiskey tastings, and if you’re lucky, you might even catch some live music! The historic Covington murals on the walls will have you feeling as though you’ve transported to a different era, and the bar snacks are downright tasty, too!
OXLOT 9
Also located inside The Southern Hotel, Oxlot 9 is an upscale southern bistro that specializes in innovative and sophisticated dishes that are fresh, seasonal, and downright delicious. We highly suggest their Sunday Brunch, which features a rotating menu of gulf-inspired classics - from Crab Cake Benedict to Shrimp & Stone Ground Grits!
If you’re feeling adventurous, try their famous Fried Frog Legs, which Chef Jeffrey Hansell prepared when he competed on Food Network’s Beat Bobby Flay.
Amazing live music at Oxlot 9
Give us ALL the Crab Cake Benedict
THE LAKEHOUSE MANDEVILLE
Our pick for a romantic and intimate date night, The Lakehouse Mandeville is a favorite among Mandeville locals and visitors alike, and for good reason! Not only do they have breathtaking lake views, but they have an upscale menu that’s both decadent and beautifully presented.
We recommend indulging in their iconic “1840 Supper”, which includes soup or salad, a Hereford Filet or the Gulf Fish of the Day, and their White Chocolate Bread Pudding a la Mode. And yes, that dessert is as rich and gooey and delicious as it sounds!
The Lakehouse Mandeville - a beautiful date night spot
There’s no doubt that the culinary scene in Louisiana's Northshore is impressive, and it’s growing rapidly, too. We can’t wait to return and see what new restaurants have popped up throughout the coast… send us a message and let us know if we missed any of your favorites!