Nestled in the heart of Baton Rouge, Calandro’s Perkins has become more than just a grocery destination—it’s a culinary landmark cherished by locals and travelers alike. The moment you step inside, you’re greeted by the inviting aroma of fresh-baked bread, simmering Southern classics, and the unmistakable buzz of friendly conversation.
The Calandro’s Perkins menu is celebrated for its unique blend of traditional Louisiana comfort food, innovative deli creations, and a dedication to sourcing the finest local ingredients. Whether you’re seeking a hearty breakfast, a quick but memorable lunch, or the perfect take-home dinner, this neighborhood gem offers choices as diverse as its clientele.
From Cajun-inspired specialties to classic American fare, every dish reflects a passion for quality and a deep respect for regional flavors. Exploring the menu is like taking a culinary journey through the best of what Louisiana has to offer, all served with genuine Southern hospitality.
For anyone passionate about food, community, and authenticity, Calandro’s Perkins stands as a beacon of taste and tradition, making it an essential stop on any Baton Rouge itinerary.
Breakfast Staples: Morning Delights at Calandro’s Perkins
Mornings at Calandro’s Perkins are a celebration of classic breakfast traditions, elevated with a distinct Southern twist. The breakfast menu features time-honored staples alongside innovative options, ensuring everyone starts their day with a satisfying meal.
Using locally sourced eggs, artisanal breads, and house-made jams, breakfast here is far from ordinary.
The menu offers a range of options for early risers and late brunchers alike. From fluffy buttermilk biscuits smothered in sausage gravy to signature omelets brimming with fresh vegetables and smoky meats, each item is crafted with care.
The kitchen’s attention to detail is evident, whether you’re savoring a stack of pancakes or a breakfast burrito packed with flavor.
For those seeking lighter fare, Calandro’s Perkins provides fresh fruit bowls, Greek yogurt parfaits layered with local honey, and steel-cut oatmeal topped with roasted pecans. These selections cater to a variety of dietary preferences, without compromising on taste or satisfaction.
- Signature Biscuits & Gravy with house-made sausage
- Vegetarian Omelet loaded with seasonal vegetables
- Buttermilk Pancakes with pure maple syrup
- Farm-fresh Egg Sandwiches on toasted brioche
“Breakfast at Calandro’s Perkins isn’t just a meal—it’s a morning ritual, crafted to comfort and energize.” — Local patron
Coffee lovers will especially appreciate the expertly brewed local roasts, available in both hot and cold varieties. For a sweet start, try their famous cinnamon rolls, generously glazed and perfectly spiced.
It’s no wonder the breakfast menu draws regulars who swear by its consistency and heartwarming flavors.
Deli Classics: Sandwiches, Wraps, and More
The deli counter at Calandro’s Perkins is a hub of activity, boasting an array of sandwiches, wraps, and hand-crafted specialties. Every selection is made to order, using premium meats, cheeses, and freshly baked bread sourced from local bakers.
This section of the menu is a lunchtime favorite among busy professionals and families alike.
Sandwich lovers are spoiled for choice, with classic combinations and inventive creations sitting side by side. The Roast Beef Po’boy is a standout, loaded with thinly sliced beef, tangy pickles, and rich gravy, all nestled in a crusty French baguette.
For a lighter option, the Turkey Avocado Wrap offers a refreshing blend of lean protein and creamy avocado, wrapped in a whole wheat tortilla.
Cheese aficionados can indulge in the Grilled Pimento Cheese, a Southern staple reimagined with sharp cheddar and Calandro’s signature pimento spread. Vegetarian and vegan diners are also catered for, with selections such as the Marinated Veggie Panini, packed with grilled zucchini, peppers, and a hint of basil pesto.
- Classic BLT with thick-cut bacon and heirloom tomatoes
- Chicken Salad Croissant, made in-house daily
- Ultimate Club Sandwich triple-layered with turkey, ham, and bacon
- Veggie Wrap featuring hummus and roasted vegetables
| Sandwich | Main Ingredients | Bread Type |
| Roast Beef Po’boy | Roast beef, gravy, pickles | French Baguette |
| Chicken Salad Croissant | Chicken salad, lettuce, tomato | Buttery Croissant |
| Grilled Pimento Cheese | Pimento cheese, cheddar | Texas Toast |
Each sandwich is customizable, allowing guests to add or substitute ingredients to suit their preferences. Sides such as kettle-cooked chips, house-made pickles, and seasonal fruit complete the deli experience, making it easy to craft the perfect meal for any appetite.
Southern Comforts: Hearty Plates and Local Favorites
Calandro’s Perkins is renowned for its dedication to Southern comfort food, delivering robust flavors and generous portions. These menu offerings are inspired by beloved Louisiana recipes, handed down through generations and lovingly recreated in the kitchen.
The Red Beans & Rice is a perennial favorite, simmered slowly with smoked sausage and the perfect blend of Creole spices. Each bite recalls family gatherings and Sunday suppers, making it a must-try for newcomers and locals alike.
The kitchen’s Chicken & Andouille Gumbo is another highlight, brimming with tender chicken, spicy sausage, and a rich roux base.
For those craving something more indulgent, the Fried Catfish Platter delivers a crispy, golden exterior and flaky interior, served alongside hushpuppies and tangy coleslaw. Vegetarian guests aren’t left out, thanks to flavorful options like the Southern Vegetable Plate, featuring a rotating selection of seasonal sides like collard greens, butter beans, and cornbread.
- Red Beans & Rice with smoked sausage
- Chicken & Andouille Gumbo
- Fried Catfish Platter with hushpuppies
- Southern Vegetable Plate
“Every dish on the Southern Comforts menu is a tribute to Louisiana’s rich culinary heritage—soul-warming, satisfying, and unforgettable.” — Chef at Calandro’s Perkins
Daily specials add variety, often featuring recipes like Shrimp Creole or Smothered Pork Chops, keeping the menu dynamic and exciting. The staff’s willingness to accommodate special requests ensures everyone can enjoy a taste of Southern hospitality, regardless of dietary needs.
Fresh Salads and Sides: Lighter Options with Big Flavor
While known for its hearty plates, Calandro’s Perkins also offers a vibrant selection of salads and sides that celebrate fresh produce and bold flavors. These options are perfect for health-conscious diners or anyone seeking a lighter meal without sacrificing satisfaction.
The Signature Cobb Salad is a visual and culinary delight, featuring crisp greens, grilled chicken, ripe avocado, hard-boiled eggs, cherry tomatoes, and crumbled blue cheese. Each ingredient is sourced for peak freshness, and house-made dressings—from creamy ranch to tangy vinaigrette—bring it all together.
For those with a taste for the Mediterranean, the Greek Salad delivers a punch of flavor with kalamata olives, feta cheese, and a lemon-oregano dressing.
Sides are designed to complement any main dish, offering choices such as sweet potato fries, black-eyed pea salad, and Cajun-spiced potato wedges. Guests can mix and match to build a personalized meal, or order several to share at the table.
- Signature Cobb Salad with grilled chicken
- Mediterranean Chickpea Salad
- Seasonal Fruit Cup
- Sweet Potato Fries
| Salad | Main Ingredients | Dressing |
| Cobb Salad | Greens, chicken, avocado, egg, tomato, blue cheese | Ranch or vinaigrette |
| Greek Salad | Greens, olives, feta, cucumber, onion | Lemon-oregano |
| Chickpea Salad | Chickpeas, tomato, cucumber, herbs | Herb vinaigrette |
For those with special dietary needs, many salads can be prepared gluten-free or vegan. The kitchen staff is always happy to provide recommendations, ensuring that every guest finds a wholesome, flavorful option.
Gourmet Grab-and-Go: Convenience Meets Quality
Calandro’s Perkins recognizes the value of convenience for today’s busy lifestyles. The Gourmet Grab-and-Go section offers a range of ready-made meals and snacks, expertly prepared for those who need a quick, high-quality option without compromising on flavor.
Pre-packaged salads, sandwiches, and hot entrees are available throughout the day, making it easy to enjoy a fresh, nourishing meal on the run. The Rotisserie Chicken is a customer favorite, seasoned with a secret blend of herbs and served with your choice of sides.
Pasta salads, quinoa bowls, and protein-packed snack boxes round out the selection, catering to all tastes and dietary needs.
Families especially appreciate the kid-friendly options, such as mini turkey sliders, fruit cups, and macaroni and cheese. These grab-and-go items are prepared daily to ensure maximum freshness and flavor, perfect for school lunches or impromptu picnics.
- Rotisserie Chicken with seasonal sides
- Pasta Salad with roasted vegetables
- Quinoa Power Bowl with grilled shrimp
- Kid-friendly Turkey Sliders
“The grab-and-go section makes eating well simple, even on the busiest days. Quality ingredients, prepared with care—ready when you are.” — Regular customer
For those looking to stock the fridge for the week, family-sized packages are available, allowing you to enjoy Calandro’s flavors at home. Each item comes with reheating instructions and serving suggestions, making meal planning effortless.
Sweet Treats and Baked Goods: Desserts to Savor
No visit to Calandro’s Perkins is complete without sampling their renowned desserts and baked goods. The bakery, operated by a team of skilled artisans, turns out a rotating selection of sweet treats that reflect both Southern tradition and innovative flair.
Standouts include the Bourbon Pecan Pie, a decadent nod to Louisiana’s love of pecans and rich, caramelized flavors. The King Cake, a Mardi Gras staple, is available during the season, filled with cinnamon-sugar and topped with vibrant, festive icing.
Cookies, brownies, and cupcakes are baked daily, boasting creative flavors like salted caramel, double chocolate, and red velvet.
Bread lovers will appreciate the range of artisanal loaves, from rustic sourdough to pillowy brioche. Each loaf is baked fresh and can be enjoyed on its own or as the perfect accompaniment to soups and salads.
- Bourbon Pecan Pie
- Fresh-baked King Cake (seasonal)
- Salted Caramel Brownies
- Artisanal Sourdough Bread
| Dessert | Key Ingredients | Special Notes |
| Bourbon Pecan Pie | Pecans, bourbon, caramel | Louisiana classic |
| King Cake | Cinnamon, sugar, colored icing | Mardi Gras favorite |
| Red Velvet Cupcakes | Cocoa, cream cheese frosting | Best seller |
Desserts can be purchased by the slice or whole, making them ideal for celebrations, gifts, or simply indulging a sweet tooth. The bakery also accepts special orders for birthdays, holidays, and other events, ensuring every occasion is a little bit sweeter.
Beverage Selection: Sips to Complement Every Meal
A thoughtfully curated beverage menu rounds out the Calandro’s Perkins experience, offering everything from locally roasted coffees to artisanal sodas and craft beers. Each drink is chosen to complement the menu’s diverse flavors, elevating every meal from the first sip to the last bite.
Coffee aficionados can enjoy a selection of brews from regional roasters, available as drip coffee, espresso, or cold brew. House-made lemonades and iced teas provide a refreshing counterpoint to spicy or rich dishes, while freshly squeezed juices add a vibrant touch to any brunch order.
For those seeking something more adventurous, the menu features a rotating list of Louisiana craft beers and boutique wines. These offerings celebrate the state’s burgeoning beverage scene and pair perfectly with both hearty plates and lighter fare.
- Locally roasted drip coffee and espresso drinks
- House-made lemonade and sweet tea
- Craft beer from Louisiana breweries
- Seasonal fruit smoothies
The staff is always happy to recommend pairings, ensuring each guest finds the ideal beverage to match their meal and mood.
“A great meal deserves a great drink. Our beverage menu is designed to enhance every flavor and every moment.” — Beverage Manager, Calandro’s Perkins
Non-alcoholic options are plentiful, with sparkling water, kombucha, and organic sodas rounding out the list. Whatever your preference, you’ll find a drink to refresh, invigorate, or simply satisfy your thirst.
Specialty Items and Local Products: Bringing Louisiana Home
Calandro’s Perkins takes pride in celebrating its Louisiana roots by featuring an impressive selection of specialty items and local products. This commitment to supporting regional producers is evident throughout the menu and in every corner of the store.
Guests can browse shelves stocked with small-batch hot sauces, locally made jams, and artisanal cheeses. The kitchen incorporates these products into many menu items, ensuring each dish captures the true essence of Louisiana cuisine.
House-made boudin, andouille sausage, and crawfish pies are just a few of the specialty items you’ll find, available both hot and packaged to go.
Gift baskets featuring local products make thoughtful souvenirs or presents for food lovers. These curated collections often include everything from pralines and spice blends to signature salad dressings, allowing you to share a taste of the South with friends and family.
- Small-batch hot sauces
- House-made boudin and sausages
- Local jams and honey
- Artisanal cheeses and breads
| Product | Source | Menu Use |
| Boudin Sausage | Calandro’s kitchen | Breakfast plates, Po’boys |
| Creole Hot Sauce | Local producer | Table condiment, salad dressing |
| Artisanal Honey | Regional farms | Yogurt parfaits, bakery |
With staff eager to offer samples and advice, exploring these specialty items is a sensory adventure. Whether you’re a Baton Rouge native or just passing through, you’ll find plenty of ways to bring a piece of Louisiana home with you.
Conclusion: The Heart and Soul of Calandro’s Perkins Menu
The Calandro’s Perkins menu is more than just a collection of dishes—it’s a reflection of community, tradition, and an unwavering commitment to quality. From sunrise breakfasts to late-afternoon grab-and-go meals, every item is crafted with intention and a deep respect for Louisiana’s culinary legacy.
This dedication shines through in each bite, whether you’re savoring a spicy gumbo, biting into a flaky croissant, or indulging in a slice of bourbon pecan pie.
What truly sets Calandro’s Perkins apart is its ability to blend the familiar with the innovative. Classic recipes are honored and reimagined, ensuring that every visit feels both comforting and fresh.
The passionate staff, local partnerships, and welcoming atmosphere all contribute to an experience that’s as memorable as it is delicious.
For anyone seeking an authentic taste of Baton Rouge—where flavor, hospitality, and community come together—Calandro’s Perkins is a destination that delivers on every promise. The menu invites you to linger, explore, and connect, turning a simple meal into a celebration of the best that Southern cuisine has to offer.
Whether you’re a regular or a first-time guest, Calandro’s Perkins welcomes you to enjoy the heart and soul of local food, made with pride and served with a smile. It’s a place where meals become memories, and every visit leaves you eager to return for more.
