Chris's Specialty Foods, known for its classic Cajun cuisine, has opened its first restaurant concept at 18135 E. Petroleum Drive, Baton Rouge.
The butcher shop established itself in Baton Rouge 30 years ago as a spot for quality steaks, sausages and other smoked and cured products. Now, they offer pre-prepared meals and sides in Prairieville, New Orleans and Baton Rouge.
However, the location on East Petroleum Drive, in the former Maxwell's Market, is Chris's first venture into the restaurant space.
The market and cafe will offer to-go and lunch options.
Tressy Leindecker, who is originally from Vermilion Parish and co-owner of Chris's Specialty Foods, says she hopes that the cafe will build community and bring people back together — especially after COVID-19, which left many people working from home.
"Growing up in small, rural Louisiana, we've always had the benefit and luxury of a home-cooked meal," Leindecker said.
She says that many families are not eating at home these days — a loss not only from a nutrition perspective but from a family and gathering perspective.
Chris's Specialty Foods is opening its first cafe and market at 18135 E. Petroleum Drive, Baton Rouge.
The new space offers traditional dishes, as well as daily specials like wagyu hot dogs, including plate lunch with pork, rice and gravy, smothered chicken, braised pork shoulder, rice and gravy, salads and house-ground ribeye burgers.
The seating area includes seating for between 30 and 40 people.
"Our vision at Chris's has always been to try to bring people back together at the table," Leindecker said. "Serving lunch is a way to do that."
Customers can expect live music, gift card giveaways and door prizes at the June 29 grand opening, which kicks off at noon.
Hours for Chris's Specialty Foods at 18135 E. Petroleum Drive are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday and 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday.