My Three Favorite Restaurants in Central, Louisiana
Just on the outskirts of the hustle and bustle of Baton Rouge is the City of Central, where you can find some great dining experiences for you and your family.
On the nights where I’m exhausted from work and just don’t have the energy to cook, but I still need to feed my family, I have a few favorite staples that I can rely on.
I find these three favorite restaurants to always be consistent and worth the money.
Sweet Rice
This Thai restaurant is the newest on the block but has already garnered quite a following. It is owned by a dynamic husband and wife team who greet all their customers with a smile. The atmosphere is cute and cozy with a fresh clean look and a little taste of Thailand decorating the walls.
My personal favorite appetizer is the Crab Rangoons with the Thai chili sauce. The Tom Kha Chicken soup is my go-to with its soothing hot mix of coconut, lemongrass, lime, mushrooms and cilantro. I’ve ordered this the most when I’m under the weather and need a little TLC. Favorite entrees I have tried have included the Pad Thai noodle dish and the Pepper Steak. There are so many dishes to choose. These include curry’s, salads, fried rice and even vegetarian options. The desserts look delicious, but the one time I wanted to try the Khao Niao Mamuang (Mango Sticky Rice) they were out that day so that gives me an excuse to go back.
Cafe Phoenicia
This Greek restaurant is the most requested by my daughter so it’s in my top three for their friendly staff and the option to sit outside under the small, covered patio for a peaceful dinner. We’ve never had a bad meal, and my daughter can eat her weight in hummus and pita bread. For a more economical meal, my daughter and I can order the hummus appetizer and a Chicken Shawarma entree to split and the portions for both are generous enough for two. My favorite appetizers include the Veggie Mousaka, which is fresh eggplant grilled and smothered in garlic, onions, green bell peppers and tomato sauce, The Fried Halloum Cheese, and the Golden Falafel. The Chicken Gabriel, chicken breast grilled and topped with white cream sauce over rice pilaf and sauteed veggies is another favorite along with the Veggie Sampler or a traditional Gyro. There are plenty of soups and salads to choose from and even a reasonably priced kid’s menu. On the times I get to splurge, the Tiramisu dessert is my go-to, but there is cheesecake and Baklava too.
Las Palmas Mexican Restaurant
Sometimes there are days when only a basket full of hot fresh tortilla chips with salsa and queso with a frothy margarita are in order. I choose this Mexican restaurant for the friendly staff, and the inside and outside dining options. The hostesses are always there to greet you with a smile, and you can even listen to an occasional live band. My daughter has been enjoying their child menu since she was a toddler. The portions are always generous, and we usually have leftovers for the next day. There are plenty of options to choose from and you could eat out for a month and never have the same thing twice. Some favorites of mine include Tortilla soup, Tacos, Chili Rellenos, Tamales and of course Grilled Fajitas. The menu is extensive, so you are sure to find a Tex-Mex fave. The lunch menu is an economical choice and the desserts such as fried ice cream, Flan, Sopapillas and sizzling Apple Pie are delightful.
