9 minute read
A Northshore Culinary Tour
Couples, Duos and Multi-generational Owners Bring Their Unique Character to the Menus.
BY COLETTE BOEHM
The Northshore has a flavor all its own, from the character of its downtowns to the variety of ways to enjoy its waters. Most of all, that flavor can be found on the menus of its impressive list of restaurants. Louisiana favorites — the heart of the culinary scene — are joined by fresh takes and new tasty combinations as couples, duos and multi-generational owners bring their unique personalities to their dishes.
The Northshore is just 40 minutes north of New Orleans, an hour east of Baton Rouge and an hour west of the Mississippi Gulf Coast, with easy access off Interstate 12. And if location is everything, The Northshore has it all: historic elegance, hip downtown vibes and relaxing waterfront views are all options here. Once here, visitors can enjoy one of Louisiana’s most famous and loved assets: its food. When it comes to Louisiana cuisine, the expectations are high. Chefs on The Northshore meet the challenge daily, bringing big flavor and creative concepts to the table for all to enjoy.
THERE IS NO SWEETER WAY to experience The Northshore's food scene than to enjoy a king cake from Randazzo's Camellia City Bakery (3501 Pontchartrain Drive, Slidell; (800) 684-2253). The family business was established in 1965 and is now in its third generation, with Tricia and Lou Zornes and their son Zach, at the helm. Their fourth-generation heir bears the coveted responsibility of “Chief Tasting Officer". The bakery continues the family tradition of crafting handmade, braided king cakes from scratch. Felix and Joel Randazzo Forjet are also keeping the tradition alive at Nonna Randazzo's Italian Bakery and Café (2033 N. Hwy 190, Suite F, Covington; (985) 893-1488), a full-service Italian bakery featuring fresh-baked breads, pastries and desserts. The café menu includes specialty coffees, antipasti, panini and insalatas, as well as king cakes during Mardi Gras season.
Pardos (5280 LA-22, Mandeville; (985) 893-3603) is named in honor of a grandfather who loved his family, his South Louisiana home and the opportunity to share good food and good times. His inspiration has resulted in a family of three restaurants that are part of the fabric of The Northshore community. Pardos seasonal menu features traditional Southern cuisine with French and Spanish influences. Here, signature lunch and dinner dishes are created with the goal of providing an exceptional dining experience. At Tchefuncte's (407 St. Tammany St., Madisonville; (985) 323-4800) the classic Louisiana and American cuisine is artfully prepared and presented. The elegant yet comfortable riverfront setting, especially at sunset, has arguably one of the best views in the region. In the same location on the first floor, The Anchor (407 St. Tammany St., Madisonville; (985) 323-4804) is an open-air, family-friendly restaurant overlooking the Tchefuncte River, offering a Gulf-focused menu of regional favorites. The spacious dining area and deck and playground welcome diners to make themselves at home.
At Odelia (3529 Hwy 190, Mandeville; (985) 778-0034), mother-and-son duo Caroline and Blake du Brock have created a bistro with an atmosphere that is refined but never stuffy. This favorite spot offers specialty coffees and a carefully curated wine list. The drink menu ranges from flavored lattes to bottomless mimosas, champagne and caviar pairings. The food menu highlights seasonal ingredients with breakfast specialties, as well as lunch and dinner offerings. Popular dishes include French Onion Soup, Curry Chicken Salad, Parmesan Truffle Fries and a Salmon BLT with house-made caper dill sauce. Dinner standouts include Steak au Poivre with white truffles and shaved Brussels sprouts.
LOLA (517 N. New Hampshire St., Covington; (985) 892-4992) is home to award-winning fare from husband-and-wife chefs Keith and Nealy Frentz. The couple has been serving their Louisiana-inspired specialties since 2006, using ingredients from local farmers and suppliers. The upscale menu includes soups, salads and sandwiches for lunch and dinner entrées featuring delectable seafood and the finest meats. Lola is also known for its distinctive desserts, made in-house daily.
Downtown Covington boasts another husband-and-wife chef duo, David and Torre Solazzo, three-time James Beard Award nominees. Since 2002, their upscale Del Porto Ristorante (501 E. Boston St., Covington; (985) 875-1006) has been a go-to for date nights and special occasions, offering a seasonal, farm-inspired menu. The restaurant has an elegant private dining space and a wine room. In 2022, the Solazzos opened The Greyhound (705 E. Boston St., Covington; (985) 400-5828), named for the former bus terminal that once occupied the Boston Street location. The European gastropub features wood-fired pizzas, shareable plates, sandwiches, entrées and desserts influenced by Italian and German cuisine, along with an impressive selection of craft beers, wines, signature cocktails and unique beverages.
At Sal and Judy’s (27491 Hwy 190, Lacombe; (985) 882-9443), Chef Sal Impastato’s culinary roots trace back to Sicily in the 1950s. He brought generations-old family recipes to America, where his passion for authentic Sicilian cuisine led him to work in top restaurants before settling on The Northshore. Today, in his 80s, he continues to take orders, greet guests and oversee daily operations.
At Valencia Restaurant (315 N. Vermont St., Covington; (985) 900-2151) the menu pays homage to the traditional dishes and vibrant cuisine of Valencia, Spain, a tribute to Chef Efrain Bermudez’s grandfather's and great-grandfather’s homeland. Culinary artistry features an eclectic combination of flavors that showcase the distinctive flavors of Spain. Chef Efrain also operates EmpaTaco (101 Hwy 22 W., Madisonville; (985) 792-7157) and Geaux Pizza & Wings (82361 LA-25, Folsom; (985) 796-4207).
Jason and Danielle Martin named Pearl's Seafood Market and Restaurant (502 Gause Blvd., Slidell; (985) 214-9014) in honor of their daughter, Aubry Pearl. Crab claws, boudin balls and piled-high seafood platters are joined by hamburgers, wraps and one-of-a-kind debris fries on the menu. Danielle worked for years with her mom in a landmark family market in New Orleans, and today, many of the seasonings perfected there are used in Pearl’s recipes. Some of those recipes were created by Jason, who was formerly a Captain in the New Orleans Fire Department, where he originally prepared, improved and perfected them while cooking in the engine house.
The Dakota Restaurant (310 E. Boston St., Covington; (985) 892-3712) was originally opened in 1990 by business partners Kenny LaCour and Executive Chef Kim Kringlie. In 2023, the upscale restaurant relocated to downtown Covington, where it continues to serve contemporary Louisiana cuisine featuring fresh, seasonal ingredients. Signature dishes include Lump Crabmeat and Brie Soup, Redfish Pontchartrain and Pan-Seared Duck Breast. LaCour’s award-winning wine collection is displayed in an impressive wall of bottles near the restaurant’s entrance.
The Dakota is just one of a surprisingly diverse number of upscale dining spots found on The Northshore. The Gloriette (428 E. Boston St., Covington; (985) 202-8090), located inside the historic Southern Hotel, leads the way. The menu combines local and French-inspired cuisine, and the atmosphere is filled with genuine Southern hospitality and enhanced by custom murals from international artist Grahame Ménage. At Palmettos on the Bayou (1901 Bayou Lane, Slidell; (985) 643-0050), diners can enjoy their meal inside or outside on decks overlooking Bayou Bonfouca. Seasonal menus are focused on locally sourced ingredients, and weekends bring brunch and live music.
Sometimes family isn’t all about blood. It’s about feeling loved. Southside Café (3154 Pontchartrain Drive, Slidell; (985) 6436133) is a bar and grill that specializes in comfort food and good times, making everyone who walks through their door feel like family. Sandwiches, steaks, salads, seafood and daily specials are served up in a lively, welcoming atmosphere.
No place is better at sharing the love — and spreading the flavor of The Northshore — than Liz’s Where Y’at Diner (2500 Florida St., Mandeville; (985) 626-8477). Here, Liz Munson and her staff make everybody feel welcome. “Come in, get some love and then take it out and share it,” she says. Before going out to pass the love along, patrons enjoy breakfast and lunch favorites with a local flair, like Where Y’at Bennies, Momma’s Grillades & Grits, Who Dat Scrambler, Crabmeat Grilled Cheese and the Y’at Burger.
As the new MICHELIN Guide American South is set to debut its showcase of regional gems across six Southern states, Louisiana is poised for recognition. There is no doubt that the creativity, passion and excellence of the state’s exceptional array of culinary artists and unique restaurants will rise to the top of the list. It’s easy to see that The Northshore has some delicious options to choose from, and it’s time to make a reservation.
If this list doesn’t whet your appetite, go to visitthenorthshore.com/restaurants to see nearly 500 other delectable options.
The Northshore has its own “chain” with chef Pat Gallagher’s restaurants across the parish, including Gallagher’s Grill & Courtyard (509 S. Tyler St., Covington; (985) 892-9992), Gallagher’s on Front Street (2306 Front St., Slidell; (985) 326-8350), Pat Gallagher’s 527 Restaurant & Bar (527 N. Causeway Blvd., Mandeville; (985) 778-2820) and his lakefront destination, Pat’s Rest Awhile (2129 Lakeshore Drive, Mandeville; (985) 951-2173).
Dining Out On The Northshore
Book Ahead for Hot Spots
The best patios, waterfront views and live music-loving eateries fill up fast — especially on weekends. A quick reservation can save you a long wait.
Look Beyond the Main Roads
Some of the most unforgettable meals hide in historic downtowns, marina docks or quiet neighborhoods.
Dine Local
The Northshore’s dining scene is built on independent, chef-owned restaurants. Expect creativity, passion and menus that change with the seasons.
Order the Specials
Trust the chef. Seasonal Gulf seafood and local produce shine in daily features.
Portions Are Generous
Start light with oysters or gumbo, split an appetizer and always leave room for house-made desserts — you’ll thank us later.
Dress Smart-Casual
Elevated casual, coastal chic or business casual is The Northshore vibe. Some upscale spots may have dress codes, so call ahead if you’re unsure.
Sip Local
Many restaurants feature craft cocktails, local beers and Louisianadistilled spirits. Don’t miss the chance to toast with something made nearby.
