Unique Al Fresco Dining in Baton Rouge

Two ways to think outside the box when planning your next meal in Baton Rouge.

Okay, so does it get much better than this for an outdoor kitchen?  How about you put the gleaming state-of-the-art culinary command post by Viking pictured at left, on top of an historic building overlooking the Mississippi River?

“It gives a different feeling, a different spin and a beautiful view to look at," explains Nikki Tanner, of the Viking Cooking School Outdoors. It’s located on the pool deck at the Hilton Capitol Center—the first of its kind for the company. Unlike Viking's indoor cooking schools, this one is focused on Southern food best served under a sky than a ceiling.

Upcoming summer classes include "Do-Ahead Weekday Dinners," "Homemade Sauces Workshop," "Chicago Steakhouse," and even a "Sushi Workshop." Tanner adds that learning how to cook is also a great team-building exercise for conventions and conferences that may take place at the Hilton Capitol Center. "It's more entertaining than the usual icebreakers and entertainment."  201 Lafayette Street. (225) 906-5882 or website.

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Every Wednesday night, Baton Rouge's food trucks gather in one spot to provide a street food festival of sorts. The Wednesday Wroundup lands in the parking lots of Calandro's, Tin Roof Brewing Company, law firms or apartment complexes, and attracts diners of all ages. From stroller-pushing parents to university hipsters, from old-timers to wide-eyed first-timers, there's room for everyone and plenty of napkins to go around. 5 pm–8 pm. www.facebook.com/BRWroundup for the next location.