Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Your Trusted Family-Owned Italian Restaurant Since 1966
Established in 1966 by the Marino family, Gino's Restaurant has remained a family-owned cornerstone of Baton Rouge's culinary scene for over five decades. Originating from Siculiana, Sicily, the family introduced traditional southern Italian cuisine prepared with Mediterranean techniques, fresh seafood, and premium steaks. Our signature dishes, including Arancini and the proprietary Laurence Bread, reflect decades of culinary heritage passed from Mama Grace, who personally oversaw kitchen operations until her passing in 2017. Recognized for excellence through numerous awards in categories including Best Italian, Most Romantic, and Date Night destinations, we continue Mama's legacy of using imported Italian ingredients and time-honored recipes.Our historic restaurant features an extensive 300-bottle wine cellar, regularly honored in Best Of lists, and hosts acclaimed Thursday Jazz Nights featuring international artists. The warm ambience showcasing etched glass, copper tabletops, and candlelit dining maintains our reputation as a premier destination for authentic Italian dining in Louisiana.
Services
Arancini
Chicken Parmigiana
Veal Sorrentina
Filet alla Laurence
Thursday Jazz Nights
Details
- Year established: 1966
Highlights and features
- Family-owned since 1966 with recipes passed through generations
- Award-winning wine cellar featuring over 300 Italian selections
- Home of signature Arancini and proprietary Laurence Bread recipe
- Recognized multiple times as Best Italian in Baton Rouge
- Weekly live jazz performances from local and international artists
What people say
Best Italian food
Romantic atmosphere
Live jazz nights
Award-winning wines
Family recipes
Services
Arancini
Our signature Arancini feature crispy fried rice balls filled with savory ingredients, representing generations of Sicilian tradition. Made with imported Italian cheeses and herbs, this dish exemplifies our commitment to authentic flavors. Perfect as an appetizer or main course component for experiencing true Italian street food.
Thursday Jazz Nights
Weekly live jazz performances featuring local, national, and international artists create a vibrant atmosphere that's become a Baton Rouge tradition. These events enhance our dining experience with professional musicianship while maintaining focus on our culinary excellence. Guests enjoy premium service during these popular evenings.
Private Dining
The dedicated private room accommodates special occasions with elegant Italian ambiance. Available for weddings, corporate events, or family gatherings, this space maintains our restaurant's traditional decor while offering personalized service. Reservations required for exclusive bookings.
Wine Cellar
Holding over 300 carefully curated Italian wines, our cellar has earned repeated accolades. Featuring rare vintages and regional specialties, the collection complements our menu perfectly. Staff can recommend pairings that enhance both traditional and contemporary Italian dishes.
Laurence Bread
Our proprietary bread recipe, created by family patriarch Laurence, remains a table staple. Made daily with imported Italian flour and olive oil, this fresh bread serves as the perfect accompaniment to meals. The unique preparation method reflects our dedication to preserving family culinary traditions.
Questions
What makes Gino's Restaurant unique?
Gino's maintains 55+ years of family ownership with authentic Sicilian recipes, a 300-bottle Italian wine cellar, and weekly live jazz performances in a romantic setting.
When was Gino's Restaurant established?
Gino's Restaurant opened in 1966 when the Marino family relocated their Baton Rouge culinary tradition from Perkins Road to Bennington Avenue.
What are Gino's signature dishes?
Our signature offerings include Arancini (stuffed rice balls), Filet alla Laurence, Chicken Parmigiana, and Veal Sorrentina, plus the proprietary Laurence Bread recipe.
Are reservations available at Gino's?
Reservations require phone booking only through our main number (225-927-7156) as we don't accept online or email reservations.
Does Gino's offer private dining?
Yes, we provide private room rentals for special events with the same exceptional Italian cuisine and service that defines our main dining experience.
What awards has Gino's won?
Gino's has earned multiple Best Italian, Most Romantic, and Best Date Night awards, plus Mama Grace received the Lifetime Achievement Award from the Baton Rouge Epicurean Society.
