Biscotti’s is one of those places I’ve heard about for years but never got around to checking out. Despite the positive reviews, I just always ignorantly assumed the bistro tucked inside of the locally popular Lewis Gifts on Youree Drive, was one of those types of spots that served up dainty meals that looked more decorative than actually tasty or fulfilling.
But alas, the time had come for me to finally see what all of the buzz has been about and folks, I have never been more thrilled to be wrong about a place.
The surprises began when I opened the menu and saw everything from red beans and grits and fried avocado wedges to shrimp po-boys and chicken and spinach crepes.
I ordered the Cajun sausage, shrimp and grits appetizer for $9, thinking it would be a nice small cup size of an appetizer to whet my tastebuds before the smoked turkey panini, $8.50, came out as my main dish.
I should have known what I was in for when the friendly server asked me twice if I was sure I wanted both dishes. Next thing I knew, this huge bowl of creamy heaven was sitting before me, accompanied by another plate of toasted deliciousness.
I dug into the shrim
p and grits first, which included a hearty helping of smoked Gouda cheese grits, mixed in with savory Andouille sausage bits and smothered in a mouth-watering creamy Cajun sauce, with four jumbo shrimp anchored in the center. Even better, the dish had a spicy kick to it and just one taste leaves you stunned that a bowl of grits could taste so good.
The smoked turkey panini was just as tasty and included a nice portion of sliced smoke turkey, topped with Brie cheese and Cuban spread cushioned between the grilled Cuban bread slices and topped with a small sweet pickle. Even though I knew I should stop, the crispy goodness of the panini just kept pulling me in.
Needless to say I’ll be back again to try out some more of their dishes like the Biscotti’s melt or the Fresh Berry Cobbler dessert. I’ll just make sure I have a pair of stretch pants in tow.
Call Biscotti’s at (318) 865-4606, visit them at 5807 Youree Drive in Shreveport or order online.
