A Baton Rouge Restaurant Blends Two Culinary Traditions
Jim Urdiales, founder of Mestizo, joined Brian Haldane on Mornings With Brian Haldane for Foodie Friday to discuss the restaurant’s history, signature dishes, and unique approach to Mexican cuisine.
Located near Acadian Thruway and Interstate 10 in Baton Rouge, Mestizo combines traditional Mexican flavors with Louisiana’s Cajun and French culinary influences. Urdiales, a third-generation restaurateur, draws inspiration from his Mexican and Cajun French heritage to create a distinctive dining experience.
As Mestizo approaches its 28th year in business, the restaurant continues to stand out with fresh ingredients, creative recipes, and a menu that features seafood, grilled shrimp, crawfish, salmon, tuna, and skirt steak.
Jim Urdiales Demonstrates Mestizo’s Signature Guacamole
During the broadcast, Urdiales showed listeners how to prepare fresh guacamole in just a few minutes. His recipe combines ripe Hass avocados, pico de gallo, salt, pepper, garlic, and an unexpected ingredient: Italian dressing.
The restaurant also elevates its guacamole with creative toppings. One version pairs house-cooked bacon with feta cheese, while another combines feta with seasonal pomegranate seeds for a refreshing balance of tartness and sweetness.
Urdiales also highlighted Mestizo’s versatility with avocados, including its panko-crusted fried avocado topped with shrimp, crab, and queso.
Mestizo Expands Catering for Baton Rouge Events
Beyond its regular menu, Mestizo continues to grow its catering services. Urdiales explained that the restaurant creates personalized menus for events, including weddings, rather than simply relying on existing menu items.
The restaurant’s location near a major route to LSU also makes it a convenient stop for customers preparing for football tailgates. Guests can order guacamole, margaritas, and catering packages for game-day gatherings.
Listeners can explore the menu, request catering, and learn more about Mestizo at MestizoRestaurant.com or call (225) 387-2699.
Urdiales’ appearance highlighted how Mestizo continues to celebrate Louisiana’s culinary traditions while bringing fresh creativity to Baton Rouge dining.