35 College Towns That Serve Up The Best Food Scenes Across America

34. Bites in the Bayou: Baton Rouge, Louisiana

Baton Rouge, home to Louisiana State University, brings bold bayou flavor to college-town dining. Cajun and Creole influences are everywhere—from crawfish boils on campus lawns to gumbo-filled lunch spots downtown. Soul food meets seafood in flavorful harmony, with deep-fried catfish, boudin, and étouffée gracing local menus. But it’s not all traditional: modern chefs are reinventing Southern staples with gourmet flair, while Vietnamese and Caribbean influences round out a rich, multicultural scene. Whether you’re sipping a chicory cold brew or devouring a spicy shrimp po’ boy, Baton Rouge delivers unforgettable food with Southern swagger.