As we all remember, last year started out with a hopeful surge toward the future, with plans for populating every new eatery in town. And even though things didn’t quite match up with our social schedules, Baton Rouge still made room for a few new restaurants that defied the odds and fed our bellies when we—and the city—needed it most. From the pre-COVID opening of the fan-favorite Drago’s to the casual-chic vibes of Millennial Park’s food stands, Baton Rougeans showed up for gift cards and takeout whenever they could, dined outside when feasible, and never set aside a good sip of spirits.

To see a roundup of the most talked-about openings in the city this year, check out this story from our sister magazine, 225.