Copyright Baton Rouge Advocate
Red oil wontons at Dumpling & Bao Eating the red oil wontons at the newly opened Dumpling & Bao felt almost like a spiritual experience — overwhelming, in the best way. First, I couldn’t believe I was tasting food with this much depth and layers of flavor in a former BurgerSmith in a strip mall on Siegen Lane in Baton Rouge. They’re as good — maybe better, and I’m not exaggerating — than the versions I’ve eaten in China, Singapore, San Francisco and New York City. These slippery, stuffed wontons swimming in tangy, flavorful oil are legit — especially alongside the spicy garlic cucumber salad. Granted, Dumpling & Bao's soup dumplings (pork, chicken and shrimp xiao long boa) are exquisite, as well. The pan-fried dumplings come with sizzling, crispy skirts that made my heart sing. But it was those incredible red oil wontons that I couldn't stop thinking about. I went home talking about them and had to take my husband back two days later, only to find a line out the door to get in. I am not good at waiting, but I happily took my place in line. Once again, they did not disappoint. Dumpling & Bao opened mere weeks ago, and it seems too good to be true. Truth be told, I can't wait to go back. Is three times in four days too much? Dumpling & Bao, 6212 Siegen Lane, Baton Rouge (Jan Risher, Louisiana culture editor) Cacio e Pepe from Cugino Lafayette's newest spot for high-end Italian dining, Cugino, opened last week from restaurateurs Hunter Moody and Gene Todaro, who opened Marcello's in Lafayette in 1981. This new venture is an Italian-Sicilian spot focusing on pasta and steaks, with an eye toward fresh ingredients and authentic recipes. The Cacio e Pepe, simply presented with parmesan and pecorino romano cheese and freshly-ground black and pink peppercorns, is a master class in presenting exquisite flavor without a lot of fuss. Cugino, 117 S. College Road, Lafayette (Joanna Brown, staff writer) Chicago dog from Frankie's Dawg House Usually after work, I'm pretty tired and go straight home to wind down for the evening, but on Thursday, I felt ravenous for a hot dog. After a quick Google search, Frankie's Dawg House looked like the place to be. This experience taught me that sometimes a hot dog is best enjoyed still in your work clothes after a long day. I ordered the Chicago dawg (never had one before), and it hit the spot. The hearty bites of the hot dog paired well with the kick of onions and fresh tomato. I love pickles, so that added bonus points. The side of tater tots were just the right amount of salty and soft on the inside. Sipping a crisp Dr Pepper throughout the meal was the cherry on top. Some mustard stained my shirt, but I wasn't even that mad because how could I be mad in a state like this? I'll have to try the chili dog on my next visit. Frankie's Dawg House, 2318 Cedardale Ave., Baton Rouge (Maddie Scott, features reporter)
