Lagniappe Magazine editor Diana Vallette shares her journey from Lake Charles to Baton Rouge and her passion for showcasing Louisiana people, food and culture.
Connecting Lake Charles and Baton Rouge
Diana Vallette joined “Mornings with Brian Haldane” during the Louisiana Travel Association’s annual summit to discuss her work in Louisiana media and the connections she has discovered between Lake Charles and Baton Rouge.
Vallette, an editor with Lagniappe Magazine, said she enjoys highlighting the people, restaurants and communities that make Louisiana unique. Her move between Lake Charles and Baton Rouge has given her a fresh perspective on both regions and strengthened her appreciation for the state’s interconnected tourism and hospitality industries.
She also shared how her relationship with Heath Schroyer, an LSU athletic department executive and former McNeese athletic director, helped connect her to both communities.
Discovering Baton Rouge’s Food Scene
Vallette has quickly developed a list of Baton Rouge favorites. She praised Nino’s for its handmade gnocchi and said the restaurant’s new owners have brought renewed energy and passion to the longtime local favorite.
She also enjoys exploring the Perkins Road overpass area and other local restaurants. Her enthusiasm for food reflects one of her favorite parts of her work: telling stories about the people and places behind Louisiana’s culinary culture.
Lagniappe Magazine Keeps Print Alive
Vallette also discussed the success of Lagniappe Magazine, which has served Southwest Louisiana for about 40 years. The publication now produces a 143-page issue every three weeks and covers food, people, sports and community stories.
Unlike many modern publications, Lagniappe remains primarily a print experience. Readers must pick up a physical copy rather than access the entire magazine online.
Vallette said that strategy has helped the publication thrive in its market.
Celebrating Louisiana’s Communities
From Lake Charles to Baton Rouge, Vallette sees Louisiana as a collection of connected communities with distinct personalities and stories. She said the welcoming nature of Baton Rouge residents has especially impressed her.
Her message remains simple: Louisiana’s people, food and culture provide endless stories worth sharing.