Experience Ruston Blog

Desi Bourgeois Recognized as a Louisiana Chef to Watch

Desi Bourgeois, owner of Grown & Grazed and the Heard Freighthouse Food Park in downtown Ruston, has been named a 2023 Chef to Watch by Louisiana Cookin’ Magazine. He was presented the award at the Chefs to Watch Dinner on Thursday, October 12 at the Southern Hotel in Covington, La.  [...]

Ruston’s Bad Wolf BBQ Receives Two Awards at Louisiana Food and Wine Festival

Bad Wolf BBQ, housed in the Heard Freighthouse Food Park in downtown Ruston, was awarded the Judge’s Choice for “Best Overall” dish and People’s Choice for “Best Meat” at t [...]

Ruston's Best Interstate Eats

If you are passing through Ruston, you might be hungry and looking for a quick and easy place to stop and eat. Skip the regular fast-food chain restaurants and opt for one of these local favorites instead. There are several options for a quick stop off the interstate, here are a few! Brister’s Smokehouse This [...]

Cold Treats

This summer heat means it’s time to find a sweet cold treat! Here are some of our favorite go-to places to get just what you need to cool off and enjoy the taste of Ruston! Ice cream Ice cream is a classic way to cool off in the summer! Mitcham Farms offers peach ice cream, a [...]

2023 Peach Restaurant Roundup

Peach Restaurant Week is making a grand return to Ruston, LA, and it promises to be more scrumptious than ever before! Throughout the entire week, a variety of local restaurants will be joining in on the fun by offering delectable peach-themed specials that are sure to tantalize your taste buds. [...]

Local Mardi Gras Food and Flavors

Homemade King Cake | Photo Courtesy of Grown and Grazed

Laissez le bon temps rouler! It’s Mardi Gras season in Louisiana - which means all your favorite themed dishes and delectable bites are back in Ruston & Lincoln Parish. Celebrate this Carnival season by exploring local takes on the flavors of Mardi Gras and classic Louisiana cuisine.  Mardi Gras Staple: King Cakes [...]

Ruston Coffee Trail

No matter the weather, it is always coffee time. Ruston has a variety of local coffee options for everyone to enjoy. Iced or hot, these businesses know how to create the perfect beverage for you! [...]

Best Burgers in Ruston

Most people can agree that there's just nothing like a good burger. And here in Ruston, there's no shortage of great burgers to choose from. Whether you like your burger traditional, piled with bacon, or topped with a fried egg, there's something in town to satisfy every craving.  Take a look at the list we've compiled below featuring some of the best burgers in town (in no particu [...]

Restaurants Open on Sunday and Monday

A tradition of small towns is that Sunday and Monday are reserved for a day (or two) of rest. While some of our locally owned restaurants are loyal to this tradition, there are still a number of restaurants where you will find the open sign on and a friendly staff ready to serve you. We’ve compiled a list of all of those local restaurants for you below.  [...]

Relax on these Ruston Patios

This downtown landmark is a go-to spot for those who want to enjoy outdoor dining. Sundown’s large and breezy patio is downright charming with its fun and assorted décor that creates an eclectic atmosphere. The menu boasts southern favorites and their bartenders are skilled at mixing up a refreshing cocktail. An added bonus: Sundown’s spacious patio is pet friendly.

With spring weather comes one of our favorite times of the year - patio season. The season where a light breeze and warming temps make for a perfect outdoor dining experience. Throw in some southern charm and a cold cocktail and you'll want to linger for hours on these Ruston patios.  Sundown Tavern [...]

5 Places for Craft Beer in Ruston

As the popularity of craft beer has increased, Ruston has been quick to adopt the culture that is craft beer. More places are beginning to incorporate different craft brews into their menu, while others built their entire establishment around serving beer they brewed themselves. Listed below are a few spots you can visit to join in on the craft beer craze.  1. Utility Brewin [...]

10 Totally Romantic Ways to Experience Ruston

One thing is for sure. Ruston knows Romance. From budding crushes of our college community to sweethearts celebrating their 50th, many couples call Ruston their favorite Romantic escape. From delicious dining spots to ways to get creative together, next time you want to sweep them off their feet, try these 10 ideas to woo them. Known for the historic downtown district, thriving arts cul [...]

Local Flavors of Mardi Gras

Mardi Gras is a time of celebration here in Louisiana. While we’ve been known to celebrate with parades, balls, and festivals, one of our favorite ways to celebrate the Carnival season is with food. Here is a look at where you can find all the flavors of Mardi Gras in Ruston this time of year. Traditional Flavors [...]

2021 Peach Restaurant Week

Participating Restaurants

Peach Restaurant Week is back and more delicious than ever! Participating local restaurants will be serving up peachy specials for patrons to enjoy all week long, starting May 30 through June 5. See the full list of participating restaurants below.  [...]

Plan Your Ruston Staycation

Everyone needs an escape, but you don’t have to travel far to find yours. Outdoor adventure, unique shopping, local flavor, and a thriving arts culture are practically in your backyard. Here’s a look at what to do, see, and eat in the area. For an unforgettable getaway, make yourself at home in Ruston! Do  [...]

Why You Should Spend Your Vacation Days Locally

The high price of travel is one of the main reasons people don't use all of their vacation days. Vacation days are part of your salary, though. If you don't use them, you're giving money back to your employer and wearing yourself [...]

Full Course Feature Bonus: Ruston Lunch

This fall, we’ve been celebrating our local Ruston restaurants in our Full Course Feature series. We highlighted a handful of signature menu items from local restaurants for each course – from drinks to dessert. But we couldn’t help but feel like we were missing some of our favorite local eateries and [...]

Full Course Feature: Ruston Desserts

This fall, we’re celebrating our local Ruston restaurants and the signature drinks and dishes that have made them must-visit dining spots. Each week, we’ll highlight a handful of signature menu items from local restaurants for each course – from drinks to dessert. This week, we’re putting a cherry on top of the Full Course Feature series with some of our favorite [...]

Full Course Feature: Ruston Entrées

This fall, we’re celebrating our local Ruston restaurants and the signature drinks and dishes that have made them must-visit dining spots. Each week, we’ll highlight a handful of signature menu items from local restaurants for each course – from drinks to dessert. This week, we’re shining the spotlight on some of the most-loved entrées in Ruston. These sig [...]

Full Course Feature: Ruston Appetizers

This fall, we’re celebrating our local Ruston restaurants and the signature drinks and dishes that have made them must-visit dining spots. Each week, we’ll highlight a handful of signature menu items from local restaurants for each course – from drinks to dessert. This week, we’re highlighting some of the most noteworthy appetizers in Ruston. These signature apps [...]

Full Course Feature: Ruston Drinks

This fall, we’re celebrating our local Ruston restaurants and the signature drinks and dishes that have made them must-visit dining spots. Each week, we’ll highlight a handful of signature menu items from local restaurants for each course – from drinks to dessert. This week, we’re getting the dining experience started with some of the best cocktails and drinks ar [...]

Dawg House: The Spot for LA Tech Football & More

The Dawg House Sports Grill is a Ruston, La. landmark, famous for its mouth-watering burgers and loved by locals for its laid-back, collegiate atmosphere. The Dawg House is conveniently located within walking distance of the Louisiana Tech campus, which makes it a prime location on football game days.  [...]

Where to Get Ruston Peaches

There's nothing quite like delectably sweet, locally-grown peaches. They're the highlight of summer and cause for celebration. Enjoyed right from the tree, made into delicious treats, or frozen and canned for another day, Ruston peaches are a must-try (and must-buy!) for anyone visiting the area. Take a look below for farms and roadside stands offering Ruston peaches. Note: Please call or [...]

Ruston Eats Reopen

Ponchatoulas Crawfish Ettouffe      With limitations on restaurants during this time, many local eateries are offering take-out options and curbsid [...]

Crawfish Season in Ruston, LA

It’s crawfish time! Whether you’re a seasoned (pun intended) pro or new to this crustacean craze, we’re excited to share our favorite places around town serving up mudbugs and all the fixings. [...]

A Vegetarian's Guide To Ruston Louisiana

**Before visiting, we encourage you to check with individual businesses on any potential changes to their availability and/or hours. Rest assured that Experience Ruston is working closely with our partners to ensure your safety and health is the top priority.** [...]

Quickest Ruston Eats for Interstate Travelers

If you find yourself passing through Ruston, La. on I-20 with just enough time to grab a quick bite to eat, do yourself a favor and skip the fast food chains. Instead, try a local spot that offers quick service and dynamite food. We’ve picked a handful of fast, local Ruston eats that are sure to leave you coming back for more on your next trip through town. La Bamba Mexican Resta [...]

Top 5 Places To Get Cocktails In Ruston Louisiana

Ruston Louisiana may be a college town, but when it comes to adult beverages, it's much more than cheap beer specials. Many of the great restaurants in town are home to some seriously upscale cocktails. [...]

5 Top Restaurants in Ruston Louisiana

Ruston Louisiana is a quaint little town in north Louisana. While the size of the town may be small, the local restaurants are big on flavor. Several years ago, we us [...]

Top Cool Down Locales in Ruston

The perfect way to beat Louisiana heat is to cool down with a frozen treat! We’ve compiled a list that highlights a few cool down locales in Ruston that’ll help curb your sweet tooth. We highly encourage you to check them out and share your sweets using #RustonEats!  Eskamoe's [...]

BBQ Eats in Ruston

There’s no doubt some of the best and most comforting food can be found at local BBQ restaurants. It’s something about southern BBQ served to you by smiling faces that makes you feel right at home no matter where you find yourself. Ruston has no shortage of options when it comes to comfort food, and whether it’s traditional southern BBQ you crave or something with a little mo [...]

Downtown Food Park – The Latest in Ruston’s Culinary Scene

Located in the heart of Historic Downtown Ruston is Heard Freighthouse Food Park. Food parks are quickly growing in popularity largely because of their unique dining concept. Many sell popular and traditional items while some offer otherwise unavailable ethnic cuisine, specialty dishes, and experimental recipes. Heard Freighthouse Food Park is no exception offering all of the above with ou [...]

Date Night in Ruston

There’s not much that sets a romantic mood for an evening quite like fine dining and a night out on the town. Whether it’s a special occasion, anniversary, or some much-deserved time away from responsibilities at home, you’ll find the perfect little getaway right here in Ruston. Start planning a special date night with your significant other with this list of re [...]

Unique Eats: Seafood

Dining out can be an experience all its own, especially when you get to enjoy unique menu items and twists on traditional favorites. Check out this list of ten dishes you may not be able to find anywhere else than Ruston, LA! [...]

Sundown Tavern: A Ruston Landmark

Atmosphere: Sundown Tavern, known in this area for its live music, is a quaint little restaurant/bar in downtown Ruston that has an atmosphere all its own. The restaurant is dimly lit and complete with eclectic décor that pulls in local influences. The inside is split into two sections with tables and booths in the front for dining and a bar area in the back of the restaurant. If you feel like having a beer, playing pool, throwing darts or listening to some great live music, then the bar at Sundown is your spot. 

Sundown Tavern is a quaint, local restaurant located at 111 E. Park Ave in Ruston, La. Loved by locals and visitors alike, Sundown is a landmark restaurant that's had a presence in Ruston for 40 years.  [...]

Local Seafood Favorites

Ruston, LA is in no short supply of great seafood options. Whether you're looking for good old-fashioned fried catfish, an all-you-can-eat buffet, or something a little less battered and fried, this list of local seafood favorites has you covered.  [...]

Breakfast Stops in Ruston

Grown and Grazed
The people, food, and location of Grown and Grazed are as local as it gets. Their breakfast includes a Louisiana sweet potato hash, homemade buttermilk biscuits with whole milk gravy, breakfast pot pie, local farm eggs, house-made pork sausage patties, and thick-cut bacon. Their lunch menu is ever-changing with dishes made from only locally produced ingredients, guest chefs, and new experiences with each visit. Grown and Grazed is set up at 93 E Railroad Avenue, on the edge of historic downtown Ruston.

Ruston has its share of great restaurants, and we're happy to see so many taking the most important meal of the day seriously! Whether you’re seeking true breakfast or a brunch hotspot, we've prepared of list of go-to's. The Bistro at Courtyard by MarriottNot to be [...]

New Ruston Eats

If you haven’t made a trip to Ruston, LA recently, you’ve been missing out on some seriously good eats! Downtown Ruston is now home to the area’s first brewery, a sports bar serving up tasty dishes from morning to night,  and a food truck with an ever-changing menu. Also new to the area is a quickly growing, Louisiana- based Italian joint. Read more below! [...]

Brunching at Beau Vines

Sundays are a time for rest and relaxation. In Louisiana, Sundays are also for brunch. Whether you dine solo, with your best friend, special someone, or with the whole family – Beau Vines knows how to do brunch right. Beau Vines Steakhouse in Ruston, LA serves up a gourmet brunch from 10 a.m. to 2 [...]

Meal Deals for the College Students

In our Meal Steals post, we’re highlighting restaurants with big Louisiana flavors and Southern tastes. These Ruston hotspots give us students the opportunity to enjoy a night out with friends and family, without breaking the bank. We highly encourage you to check out these local establishments. You won’t be disappointed! [...]

Staying Healthy in Ruston, LA

The start of the new year often brings a long list of resolutions for most. Get organized, travel more, pay off debt, learn a new skill... The list can be endless. One of the most common resolutions out there is to commit to a healthier lifestyle - eat better, buy smarter, and exercise more. Staying the course is often difficult, especially when traveling. With so many dining options he [...]