Mmm…. can’t you just taste the succulent crispy catfish? How about a gourmet burger and a craft beer on draft? Or a sweet wedge of comforting bread pudding? Louisiana’s twin cities of Monroe and West Monroe serve up a variety of mouthwatering culinary experiences that range from traditional Creole to reimagined Southern. Across the region, explore Instagram-worthy dishes at eclectic food trucks, down home cafés and fine dining establishments.
Outdoor, riverside dining at Trapps Restaurant
For a taste of inventive food and spirits, check out Restaurant Cotton, a hip and trendy eatery in downtown Monroe that delights diners with signature craft cocktails, an adventurous beer and wine list and lively dishes including venison meatloaf, duck fat fries and Nashville hot chicken. It’s a winning place for a date night or a girl’s night out … or both!
One of the biggest draws for gastronomes, especially this time of year, is a meal on the waterfront. The scenic Ouachita River flows through Monroe and West Monroe, and the riverfront is home to many restaurants. Don’t miss the iconic Warehouse No. 1, a favorite local spot set in a former cotton warehouse. The restaurant first opened in 1980 and has long attracted culinary fans for its celebration-worthy menu, which features juicy steaks, fried and broiled seafood, and Creole delicacies like crab cakes and crawfish-topped blackened redfish over jalapeno cheese grits.
Waterside views over Bayou Desiard from Waterfront Grill, which was recently featured in Southern Living.
Elsewhere in town on beautiful Bayou Desiard, diners flock to storied Waterfront Grill. The restaurant was featured in Southern Living and features popular dishes that put a tasty spin on traditional Creole dining. The famed catfish Desiard presents baked catfish gussied up with tender shrimp, mushrooms, green onions, and parmesan cheese. For dessert, save room for tableside, rum-flambéed bananas Foster!
More to explore: Visit monroe-westmonroe.org/eat-drink
