A beloved Baton Rouge institution, Dearman’s Diner, is preparing to expand its legacy with Dearman’s South, a permanent pop-up in a converted school bus is set to open in late August at the Brickyard South Bar + Patio. Owner Casey Evans recently told What Now New Orleans that the new spot will balance the diner’s rich history and on-trend cooking.
For its part, Dearman’s Diner has been a local favorite for nearly 70 years. It has built a reputation for classic comfort food and strong community ties.
“You have people who have been coming since they were kids and they brought their kids and they brought their kids’ kids,” Evans said. “So, you just see generations supporting this place, and it’s not for no reason.”
Dearman’s South, housed in a revamped food truck, offers Evans an avenue for culinary experimentation while preserving the core identity of the original establishment. For example, the satellite location will offer “South Style” burgers and sandwiches.
“The first one we’re going to play around with is like a cheddar cheese with bacon and a homemade pepper jelly and aioli sauce,” Evans said.
Evans views Dearman’s South as a strategic “half-step” into broader ventures. The diner recently expanded into catering services. Last year, Dearman’s partnered with Ascension Christian School to provide concessions for their athletic events, including football, basketball, and baseball seasons.
