Davis Couple to Launch Josephine’s Italian Restaurant in Baton Rouge

Restaurateurs Sally and Russell Davis are set to open a new dining establishment, Josephine’s Italian Restaurant, in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. Located in the space previously occupied by Roman’s Greek and Lebanese Cafe on Government Street, the restaurant aims to celebrate Russell’s maternal grandmother, Josephine, whose authentic Italian recipes will feature prominently on the menu.

The Davises, who successfully renovated Jed’s Local in Mid City two years ago, plan to draw on Josephine’s traditional recipes, including meatballs, pomodoro, and antipasti. Russell Davis fondly recalled the influence of his grandmother on his culinary passion: “She was pretty much the reason why I fell in love with cooking, and she’s 100% Sicilian.” His great-grandparents immigrated from Sicily to Massachusetts, and he cherishes memories of Sunday dinners spent watching his grandmother prepare meals.

With a target opening date before the end of the year, Josephine’s will strive to recreate the intimate, family-oriented atmosphere Russell experienced during his childhood. The menu will highlight classic Italian offerings such as risotto, polenta, lasagna, osso buco, pizza, pasta, and a panzanella salad, along with local seafood options. Russell emphasized his commitment to sourcing ingredients from local farmers, stating, “We’re going to use as much local produce to try to create a marriage between Italy and Louisiana.”

For dessert, patrons can look forward to traditional delights like panna cotta and tiramisu, alongside daily specials. Sundays will feature a dedicated brunch menu, adding to the restaurant’s appeal. Russell expressed enthusiasm about the location, noting, “Mid City is growing in all kinds of different directions, so we’re excited to piggyback off of Jed’s right around the corner.”

The couple also owns Eliza Restaurant & Bar, and their dedication to community engagement is evident in their frequent participation in the Red Stick Farmers Market. Russell Davis finds fulfillment in creating dining experiences that foster connection and joy. He stated, “It gives us a lot of satisfaction to hear the positive things people say, and to walk into the dining room and see a bunch of smiling faces, people hanging out on dates or families together, it’s really rewarding.”

As Josephine’s Italian Restaurant prepares to open its doors, the Davis family is poised to bring a unique blend of tradition and local flavor to Baton Rouge’s vibrant dining scene.