Bistro Italia

11903 Coursey Blvd, Baton Rouge, LA 70817, United States
+1 225-227-2695
$$$ Italian restaurant
(377 Reviews)
Price Range $10–20

Bistro Italia offers a comfortable spot for those looking to enjoy classic Italian flavors in Baton Rouge’s Coursey Boulevard area. This full-service restaurant balances a cozy, inviting atmosphere with a touch of upscale elegance, making it a fitting choice for both family dinners and casual date nights. The spacious dining area at the newer location feels relaxed yet thoughtfully designed, providing plenty of room without feeling too formal.

What stands out at Bistro Italia is the menu variety that caters to different tastes—whether you’re craving a hearty lasagna, a freshly baked pepperoni pizza, or something a bit different like build-your-own calzones or Italian quesadillas. Freshness and attention to detail come through in each dish, with ingredients that hold their own whether dining in or taking food to go. The balance of traditional Italian options alongside more inventive dishes means it works well for families, couples, or groups of friends.

The casual yet put-together vibe is complemented by friendly, attentive service. Locals often mention the staff’s warmth and the owner’s welcoming presence, which adds to the overall feeling of comfort here. The space also includes a full bar and plenty of parking, making it a convenient choice for those coming from around Baton Rouge.

For a relaxed afternoon or evening out, Bistro Italia’s atmosphere suits visitors who want a laid-back spot with solid Italian fare without the fuss. The restaurant’s consistent quality and balanced menu approach make it a practical benchmark for Italian dining in the area. Whether stopping in for chicken parmesan sandwiches, a fresh Caprese salad, or finishing with something sweet like their Nutella brownie sundae, you’ll find a place where food and hospitality create a familiar, welcoming experience.

Highlights
Has fast service
Has great wine list
Popular for
Popular for lunch
Popular for dinner
Good for solo dining
What they serve
Serves alcohol
Serves beer
Serves cocktails
Serves coffee
Serves comfort food
Serves food
Serves small plates
Serves spirits
Serves wine
Best for
Serves lunch
Serves dinner
Has catering
Serves dessert
Has seating
Accessibility
Has wheelchair-accessible car park
Has wheelchair-accessible entrance
Has wheelchair-accessible seating
Has wheelchair-accessible toilet
Parking
Free of charge street parking
Free parking lot
Plenty of parking

Openings Hours

Checking

Monday

Closed

Tuesday

11:00 AM - 2:00 PM

,

5:00 PM - 9:00 PM

Wednesday

11:00 AM - 2:00 PM

,

5:00 PM - 9:00 PM

Thursday

11:00 AM - 2:00 PM

,

5:00 PM - 9:00 PM

Friday

11:00 AM - 2:00 PM

,

5:00 PM - 9:00 PM

Saturday

4:00 AM - 9:00 PM

Sunday

Closed

377 Reviews
Ethan Talbot

04 Jan 2026

This Italian restaurant exceeded our expectations. The atmosphere felt cozy and inviting, and every dish we tried was full of flavor. It was a joy to see our little one excited about a meal beyond the typical chicken nuggets and egg rolls. We look forward to returning soon.

L Canfield

02 Jan 2026

The food was seriously great with attention paid to the details. The new location is spacious with comfortable elegance. Much thought and elbow grease has made this location a gem! Plenty parking and full bar.

Barry Esnault

29 Dec 2025

Really great Italian food, service is always excellent, and the owner is very friendly. I love the pizza, baked ziti, and lasagna. The peanut butter pie is a nice end to their dishes as well. Give it a try, you won't be disappointed.

Rogue Diner

12 Dec 2025

Update: it’s really cool to visit somewhere that is consistently great. I have gone to other Italian restaurants and find myself using this restaurant as a benchmark. I ordered some food to go, customers service is still going strong, and the food has not skipped a beat. The person on the phone was upbeat and when I received my order, everything was there. Food is still great and the portions are enough for two meals for me. It doesn’t look like an Italian restaurant from the outside. It is a casual dining experience filled with locals. Restaurant is clean. Service was quick. We were greeted within thirty seconds of sitting down. They have fresh brewed sweet and unsweetened tea. Food presentation was nice and came out in a timely manner. This place was packed out and our food still made it to our table quick. Mama Mia! (Italian man voice) portions are big and the price is fair. This is my go to spot to wear casual clothes ( meaning my elastic band pants so I can overeat- no judgement ) and eat some delicious food.

Hannah Walters

19 Nov 2025

Checked out the new Bistro Italia location and we loved it! We ordered the tomato basil soup, Big Lou pizza, Shrimp Primavera, and Diablo shrimp. Everything came out hot, was delicious and you could tell the ingredients were fresh! The team was friendly, the atmosphere was upscale but still very comfortable, and the prices are very reasonable (sharing the menu pics for anyone curious). The updated restaurant is beautifully done. Also love that it’s a family owned and run restaurant.

Fadi Ayoub

18 Nov 2025

I ordered the chicken Alfredo for the first time and it is good! While picking up the food I met the owners Mom. Very friendly and nice lady. I promised her I'd bring my wife for date night one day. The place has a nice atmosphere and very authentic Italian food. Give it a try. You won't regret it.

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