Walk-On’s is so much more than a sports bar
VooDoo shrimp is one of Walk-On’s most popular dishes. The dish features chargrilled jumbo gulf shrimp stuffed with cream cheese, pickled jalapeños, wrapped in bacon, corn grits and garlic bread with sweet chili glaze.
Once again, I stumbled upon a great restaurant with a name that needs explaining before I discuss the food and obvious reasons you should visit. It’s true, Walk-On’s Bistreaux and Bar, first built in the shadow of Tiger Stadium in Baton Rouge by two walk-ons to LSU’s basketball team, was named the nation’s best sports bar by ESPN. And having Saints quarterback Drew Brees as a co-owner further adds to the sports mystique of the fast-growing brand. But if you let the misconception that Walk-On’s is a rowdy sports bar with little to eat besides wings and nachos stop you from visiting, you’ll be missing out on a delicious, creatively-prepared meal that is so far removed from typical sports bar food that you’ll almost forget the name. Walk-On’s is currently only open in Hattiesburg but will soon expand through franchisees into Jackson, Flowood, Oxford, Southaven and the Gulf Coast. After meeting a friend for dinner at the Hattiesburg location, we were pleasantly surprised to learn that while numerous televisions and sports memorabilia are spread throughout the sprawling restaurant, there are spaces in which you can dine and feel like you’re in a semi-private space where actual conversation can take place. Of course, the bar area is lively, but bypassing it and heading to a comfortable booth lends itself to a calm, enjoyable meal. Walk-On’s is located at 4400 Hardy St. in Hattiesburg. Hours are Sunday – Thursday, 11 a.m. – 11 p.m. and open until 12 a.m. on Friday and Saturday. Check out the company’s website at www.walk-ons.com to learn about upcoming restaurant openings around the state.
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