Baton Rouge Epicurean Society

Meet Epicurean Society Board Member Jim Urdiales.
A third generation restaurateur, Jim was raised in his family's restaurant, Carlos Mexican Food, where his passion for hospitality began long before opening his own doors. After graduating from LSU with a degree in Marketing and spending two years in hospitality at the Riverside Hilton in New Orleans, he returned home to create what would become one of Baton Rouge's most beloved restaurants.

This year, Jim celebrated 27 years of Mestizo Louisiana Mexican Cuisine. The name "Mestizo" translates to "of mixed blood, two cultures," a reflection of his Mexican and Cajun French heritage. Born and raised in Baton Rouge, Jim built Mestizo as a place where both sides of his culture could come together on the plate, creating a restaurant that has become a true culinary destination for our city.

Beyond the restaurant, Jim has spent decades serving Baton Rouge through board leadership, community involvement, and countless fundraisers. He has attended Epicurean Society events since the beginning and joined the organization more than a decade ago. Drawn to its mission and the friendships built along the way, he remains a passionate supporter of the work we do.
When he's not at the restaurant, you'll likely find him enjoying a great bottle of wine, tending to his plants, spending time with his dogs, or finding peace in the garden.

We're proud to spotlight Jim and grateful for the passion, leadership, and hospitality he continues to bring to our community.

We are excited to announce that all tables for the Grace "Mama" Marino Lifetime Achievement Award Dinner honoring Ruffin Rodrigue have officially sold out!

Thank you to everyone who secured a table and continues to support the mission of the Baton Rouge Epicurean Society. We look forward to gathering on June 23rd to celebrate a true champion of our culinary community while raising funds to support hospitality education and the future of our industry.

We can't wait to share an incredible evening of food, fellowship, and recognition with all of you.

Meet BRES Board Member, Brad Watts.

As the owner of Cecelia Creole Bistro and The River Room, Brad has helped shape downtown Baton Rouge’s hospitality scene through elevated dining experiences, thoughtful concepts, and a deep appreciation for Louisiana culture and cuisine.

Since opening Cecelia Creole Bistro in 2018, Brad has built one of Baton Rouge’s most recognized upscale Creole restaurants, while The River Room has become known for its refined cocktail program and intimate atmosphere in the heart of downtown.
Beyond his restaurants, Brad also serves as President of the Louisiana Restaurant Association’s Baton Rouge Chapter and as a Director on the State Board of Directors, continuing to advocate for and support the hospitality industry across Louisiana.

When asked why he is involved with the Baton Rouge Epicurean Society, Brad put it simply:
“I am involved for the people. I truly love being around the very best people in our industry.” We are proud to have leaders like Brad helping further our mission of culinary excellence in service of children.

At the Baton Rouge Epicurean Society, we believe food has always been about more than what’s on the plate ❤️ It’s about community. It’s about bringing people together. It’s about using culinary excellence to create meaningful impact far beyond the table.

Through chefs, hospitality professionals, local businesses, and community leaders, we’re proud to support initiatives that give back, create opportunity, and help strengthen our community through the power of food. Because when passionate people come together for a cause, incredible things can happen 🍽️

Our Board had the opportunity to learn how to make avocado crema while hearing more about the growing “Culinary in Medicine” movement 🥑

The idea is simple but powerful: food can play a major role in overall health, healing, and quality of life. Across the country, medical schools and healthcare programs are beginning to teach future doctors and healthcare professionals how nutrition and cooking can directly support patient care.

At the Baton Rouge Epicurean Society, we believe food has always been about more than what’s on the plate. It brings people together, creates community, supports wellness, and has the power to make a real impact in people’s lives.

This Memorial Day, we pause to remember and honor the brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice for our country 🇺🇸 As we gather around tables with family, friends, and community this weekend, we are reminded how meaningful those moments truly are because of the freedoms protected by so many before us.

From all of us at the Baton Rouge Epicurean Society, thank you to those who served, sacrificed, and continue to inspire us through their courage and dedication.

We never need much of an excuse to get dressed up… but celebrating Ruffin Rodrigue gives us the perfect reason. This year, the Baton Rouge Epicurean Society is proud to honor Ruffin at the Grace “Mama” Marino Lifetime Achievement Award Dinner — a night dedicated to great food, meaningful conversation, and the people who continue shaping our culinary community.

Ruffin built more than a restaurant. He created spaces where people come together to celebrate, connect, and make memories around the table, and that spirit is exactly what this evening is all about. An unforgettable night, incredible company, and a celebration of a legacy that has impacted Baton Rouge hospitality for generations ❤️

Today we want to show appreciation for one of the incredible hospitality professionals who helps make the Baton Rouge Epicurean Society so special, Rekeia Gallien ✨

Rekeia serves as the Event & Sales Coordinator for Bergeron’s City Market Fine Foods & Catering and brings over 15 years of hospitality experience spanning Food & Beverage Management, Wine & Spirits Sales, Event Coordination, and curated guest experiences.

Known for her creativity, attention to detail, and passion for bringing people together, Rekeia plays an important role in helping create memorable experiences both within our community and throughout the hospitality industry.
We are grateful for the energy, professionalism, and heart she brings to the Baton Rouge Epicurean Society and proud to have her involved in our mission of culinary excellence in service of children ❤️

One of Keia’s favorite quotes:
“The End is Uncertain
And I've Never Been So Afraid
But I Don't Need A Telescope
To See That There's Hope
And That Makes Me Feel Brave”

We still can’t stop reminiscing on this incredible day. 🦞🔥

From packed crowds and live music to unforgettable crawfish and culinary talent, Crawfête 2026 was everything we hoped it would be and more. Most importantly, every ticket, bite, and boil helped support the Baton Rouge Epicurean Society’s mission of Culinary Excellence in Service of Children. Take a look back at some of the moments that made this year so special — and trust us, you’re going to want to be at the next one.