Louisiana Eats: Local Favorites & Authentic Flavors

WWNO - New Orleans Public Radio | By Poppy Tooker

Published June 25, 2016 at 2:26 AM CDT

Host Poppy Tooker and Pizza Delicious co-owner Michael Friedman at the Bywater hot spot.

The Louisiana restaurant scene has never been hotter. On this week's show, we're touring some special eateries that should be on your radar.

We begin with best buds Aaron Sánchez and John Besh, who reveal the genesis of their collaboration Johnny Sánchez, a restaurant that combines their names and individual culinary sensibilities.

Next, we have a conversation with Chef Alon Shaya, the 2016 winner of the James Beard Award for best new restaurant. We learn how his culinary talent and strong rooted sense of Israeli cuisine led him to open Shaya, which features a menu that transforms the many flavors of the Hebrew diaspora that now converge in present-day Israel.

Tobias Womack of Red's Chinese and Poppy Tooker.

Then, we join roving reporter Chris Jay on a trip to Marilynn's Place, a popular casual dining restaurant in Shreveport, where you never know when a party will spontaneously break out.

Finally, we take a tour of the Bywater neighborhood in New Orleans, a hot new restaurant destination where ambitious young entrepreneurs are making a huge mark on the culinary landscape.

Whether it's a gourmet meal or a slice to go, we've got you covered on this week's Louisiana Eats!