New Orleans may get all the attention, but Baton Rouge’s heart is just as big. So in honor of the "Red Stick," we're counting down the 10 best soul food restaurants in the city.

#10 Baton Rouge Soul Food Joint: Pot & Paddle Jambalaya Kitchen


Pot & Paddle is a Louisiana chain with seven locations. Some soul food aficionados may give it a pass, but we think it's a solid introduction to cajun cuisine for the Starbucks set. As the name suggests, Pot & Paddle's signature dish is jambalaya, and it is the best thing on the menu.

#9 Baton Rouge Soul Food Joint: Cou-Yon’s Cajun Bar-B-Q


Cou-Yon's is a real-deal barbeque restaurant. Sure, the atmosphere rivals McDonald's, but the food is Michelin-worthy. Though it's one of the best soul food restaurants in Baton Rouge, Cou-Yon's sticks to a tender Texan flavor profile with a cajun kick.

#8 Baton Rouge Soul Food Joint: Cafe Express


It's easy to miss, and the outside isn't anything to write home about, but the food that comes out of Cafe Express's kitchen is otherworldly — in a good way.

#7 Baton Rouge Soul Food Joint: Zeeland Street


Located in the Garden District, Zeeland Street offers up healthy soul food options. But don't plan on a Zeeland dinner because the restaurant is only open from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Mondays through Fridays. On Saturdays, it opens a half-hour later, and the Sunday window is 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

#6 Baton Rouge Soul Food Joint: Stroubes Chophouse


Stroubes Chophouse is a southern fusion, farm-to-table dining experience. The cocktails are handcrafted, the portions are hefty, and the atmosphere is upscale. For something deliciously out of the ordinary, try the duck and andouille gumbo.

#5 Baton Rouge Soul Food Joint: Dorothy’s Soul Food Kitchen


A mom-and-daughter business that opened its doors over 20 years ago, Dorothy's defines good old-fashioned, home-cooked soul food. They may not have fancy tableware, but the flavors and warmth more than cover the difference.

#4 Baton Rouge Soul Food Joint: Pappa’s Soul Food


One of the most recognized restaurants in Baton Rouge, Pappa's soul food could qualify as famous. The service is fast, and the red beans will make you quiver for more!

#3 Baton Rouge Soul Food Joint: Lane’s Corner Cafe


Located in West Baton Rouge, Lane's is known for its lemon chicken wings and cozy atmosphere. It's every bit a mom-and-pop restaurant with soul food, southern cuisine, and wraps. Note that they close between 2 p.m. and 5 p.m. daily to transition from lunch to dinner.

#2 Baton Rouge Soul Food Joint: Chef Charles House of Creations


Chef Charles has been slaying in the kitchen for over 40 years, and his dedication paid off. You won't find a bland option on the menu, and his creations will have your eyes rolling back in your head. Both traditional and fusion dishes are available, but it closes at 3:30 p.m. — so plan accordingly!

#1 Baton Rouge Soul Food Joint: DC Eats


Chef Dejon Cage is the culinary talent behind DC Eats — where the food is fantastic. Cage uses secret spices to make his signature "crack wings," and everyone who pops in for a meal leaves raving! More than just a restaurant, Cage champions the community and goes out of his way to uplift the people and businesses of North Baton Rouge.



That's our list of the 10 best soul food restaurants in Baton Rouge. Bon appétit!