Now open: Zoroona Mediterranean Grill

Bill Qasem wants to give Baton Rougeans something different when it comes to Mediterranean food. He is the owner and general manager of Zoroona Mediterranean Grill (6900-D Siegen Lane). The name loosely translates to “come visit us.”

“We want people to do just that,” Qasem says. “We thought it has a nice ring to it.”

The owner says his restaurant has a fine dining focus and relaxed atmosphere. Though the menu has favorites like hummus, falafel and chicken shawarma, Zoroona also offers signature dishes like beef shawarma, grilled salmon with asparagus and roasted garlic potatoes and Zoroona chicken, which features broiled chicken breast topped with a Crčme Fraiche mushroom sauce and artichokes. Another plus for patrons is the complimentary rosemary bread baked in house.

“Everybody can claim that their food is to die for or that they have unmatched service,” he says. “For us, though, we want to give you that feeling that you could sit here and enjoy yourself for a long time.”

Zoroona is already seeing steady success even though it opened just three weeks ago. Qasem credits the business’ Facebook presence and word-of-mouth response.

“More people are finding out about us every day,” he says. “We always make it our business to inquire how our guests feel about us. If every guest we had told one person about us, and then that person comes in, we’re on the right course.”

Zoroona is open Monday-Thursday 10:30 a.m.-9 p.m., Fridays 10:30 a.m.-10 p.m., Saturdays 11 a.m.-10 p.m. and Sundays 11 a.m.-9 p.m.