Covington's Culinary Community
Home to a robust culinary scene with first-rate restaurants aplenty, chefs and foodies are flocking here
The Northshore town has attracted award-winning chefs over the past several years and as a result, created a robust, booming culinary scene abundant with farm-to-table ingredients and restaurants well-deserving of their accolades. While perhaps more subtle than its southern counterpart in the Big Easy, the high-quality fine dining experience in Covington is no less impressive.
Chef Jeff Mattia of Pyre Provisions specializes in wood fire cooking techniques, and his 18-hour barbeque smoked meats have made this restaurant a popular spot for locals and visitors alike.
When translated from Italian, Mattina Bella means “Beautiful Morning,” and it certainly is when it begins with brunch at this downtown Covington breakfast eatery. Owned and operated by the Riccobono family, the restaurant is a favorite among locals and known as one of the best—and most hospitable—breakfast spots on the Northshore. We recommend trying the Blue Crab Benedict, which also happens to be Mattina Bella’s most popular dish.
Gallagher’s Grill may call itself your neighborhood steakhouse, but it's not just any run-of-the-mill joint. The upscale grill offers a menu chock full of fresh Gulf seafood and premium meats, including steaks, veal and lamb chops, and chargrilled quail.
Barrel Wine Bar is Covington’s own Napa-inspired tasting room, with over twenty wines available by the glass or by flight. Small plates of menu items like bacon wrapped dates and baked brie aim to please, and the bar hosts a happy hour fit for Dionysus himself. Special events, artist receptions, wine dinners and more monthly.
One step beyond the threshold into The English Tea Room, you may think you've been transported to London. The cozy tea house in downtown Covington draws tea lovers from at home and around the world to sample authentic English fare and sample from a tea list that tops two hundred flavors.
When it opened the doors last March, The Blind Tiger has already attracted a base of loyal gameday patrons with its island-inspired fare and bright, beachy patio atmosphere at the base of the Bogue Falaya creek. An icy Abita and a pound of Royal Reds have never tasted better.
You’d be hard pressed to find a morning brew that has more flavor than a cup from Campbell's Coffee. Campbell's roasts its specialty coffees in house daily, so your caffeine fix is always fresh. Campbell's packaged blends are also available for purchase in store and online.
No matter where you stop for a bite, you’re sure to be in for a treat. Consult a full lineup of the sleepy Northshore town’s best dining spots at the Covington Business Association, and be sure to make a reservation and allot time for more than a few meals during your stay—you’ll be glad you devoted some extra time to trying all the delightful, delectable bounties Covington has to offer.