3 minute read
Bayou to Bubbles
New Dining Destinations Worth the Drive.
BY KEVINNIE DREHER, VISIT THE NORTHSHORE EASY ESCAPE INSIDER
Follow for more on Instagram: @kevinniedreher
ON THE NORTHSHORE, FOOD ISN’T JUST A MEAL, it’s a memory in the making. Whether you’re chasing bold Creole flavors, sophisticated spritzes or brunch with a view, these new destinations deliver an unforgettable taste of the South.
Saint August Maison in Slidell serves a plantbased menu that blends wholesome ingredients with elevated presentation and cozy charm. From wellness lattes to seasonal bowls, every bite is a celebration of mindful, modern dining.
Pablo’s: A South American Taste, also in Slidell, offers a bold, authentic journey through South American flavors. From savory empanadas to grilled meats and vibrant chimichurri, each dish is crafted with heart and heritage.
Tucked along the banks of Bayou Bonfouca, Palmettos on the Bayou has long been a Northshore staple. Recently, it added the casual Side Yard BBQ and beer garden, which might just be the area’s new favorite. “Fall off the bone” ribs and smoked gouda grits make the perfect game-day combo, and an evening breeze with fresh beignets? That’s Southern living at its best.
Just minutes away, Creole Sisters Café & Catering brings a different kind of magic. Founded by Chef Tara Williams, this cozy café is known for bold, down-home Creole cooking — shrimp étouffée, fried catfish, jambalaya and gumbo — that feels like a hug from your favorite auntie. Locals swear by the daily plate lunches. The full-service catering? Iconic. From weddings to reunions, their food feeds both the stomach and the soul.
A short drive down I-12, Mandeville is rewriting the script on casual luxury. Aperitif Spritz + Bites, an ultra-chic lakefront spot, blends Italian-inspired cocktails with Louisiana comfort food in a coastal luxe setting. The menu is playful and flavorful — short ribs that melt in your mouth, lobster cheesecake with caviar and fried oysters with bacon and hollandaise. Pair it with a bubbly cocktail and enjoy the lakefront sunset.
Also in Mandeville, Noir Bistrot is a French-inspired café where Parisian elegance meets Southern soul. With an intimate vibe and a menu of delicate pastries, rich coffees and classic dishes, it’s a hidden gem for brunch lovers and romantics alike.
The Hampshire in Covington refines Southern dining, craft cocktails and a chef-driven menu in an elegant setting. From tender steaks to seasonal seafood, it’s perfect for a date night or a special celebration.
Finally, Social is bringing upscale Peruvian cuisine to the Madisonville riverfront. This restaurant is as much a feast for the eyes as it is for the taste buds. Don’t miss the ceviche while taking in the view of the Tchefuncte River.
Together, these spots tell the story of The Northshore’s evolving food scene, deep-rooted in heritage, rich in flavor and filled with unforgettable hospitality. Hungry yet? I know a place.
NEW & NOTEWORTHY
APERITIF SPRITZ + BITES
1943 Lakeshore Drive, Mandeville aperitifspritzbites.com
CREOLE SISTERS CAFÉ & CATERING
1480 Gause Blvd., Ste. K, Slidell creolesistersnola.com
THE HAMPSHIRE
401 N. New Hampshire St., Covington 401thehampshire.com
NOIR BISTROT
2032 Woodrow St., #101, Mandeville noirbistrot.com
PABLO’S: A SOUTH AMERICAN TASTE
2128 Front St., Slidell pablosasouthamericantaste.com
PALMETTOS ON THE BAYOU/SIDE YARD BBQ 1901 Bayou Lane, Slidell palmettosrestaurant.com
SAINT AUGUST MAISON
153 Robert St., Slidell @saintaugustmaison
SOCIAL
708 Water St., Madisonville socialrestaurant.co
