Tasting Room of Louisiana — Restaurant in Alexandria

I came to The Tasting Room of Louisiana on the recommendation of a fellow traveler I met on my flight—thank you, Mitzi! The atmosphere here is cozy, dark, and inviting, perfect for relaxing after a long day.

I started with a Rusty Nail, which I rarely see on menus anymore, and it was spot on. Though I hadn’t planned on eating, the menu looked too good to pass up, and the aroma of their Pan Fried Tortelloni (the special of the day) sealed the deal.

The dish was fantastic—five cheese tortellini pan-fried in bacon grease, tossed with cured meats, mushrooms, artichoke hearts, sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh basil, then topped with pulled chicken and Parmesan. Every bite was rich, flavorful, and satisfying.

I didn’t catch the bartender’s name, but the service was excellent—friendly and attentive without being overbearing. While I couldn’t take full advantage of their impressive whiskey and scotch selection this time since I was driving, I’ll definitely be back. I’m already looking forward to trying That Bacon Thing on my next visit.

Great food, great drinks, and great...

Tonight we decided to give the TRoL another chance. Our first experience approximately 3 years ago, shortly after they opened, was less than stellar. At that time we ordered a charcuterie tray that looked like it was, as described, a grown up Lunchable. This was overpriced and not very palatable. We also ordered a grilled cheese that was not cooked completely. I believe at the time they did not have a functioning kitchen. Still, we chalked it up to being a new business. Tonight, no excuses. Pitiful service! Ordered drinks that were delayed to the table, mind you one was a bottled drink. This happened twice. We ordered food, the nachos, that still had not arrived after 30 minutes. Finally, a bar tender/manager came and told us our food had been given to another patron. She offered to make yet another order. We canceled. I wanted so badly to support local and I wanted to give them yet another chance, but apparently a good experience at the Tasting room isn't meant...

This has become one of my favorite places to eat for lunch. The lunch menu is excellent;I've never had a meal I didn't love. Their dinner menu is good too, I just don't go out for dinner as often.

Melissa the owner is a certified whiskey sommelier (one of the few in the state). So it is no surprise that she knows her craft. She is makes excellent recommendations every time I go in, and is regularly acquiring new bottles.

I highly recommend stopping by and checking the place out. It's located downtown, and is across the street from both...