Tori's Travels: It's Cupcake O'Clock at Social Bites

Written By Tori Ward, CVB Marketing/PR Assistant

I'm not sure about y'all, but I'm a fan of pretty much every kind of dessert. Cupcakes, cookies, brownies, ice cream....I love it all. So naturally, when I discovered Social Bites of Ruston I was in heaven and knew I had to spotlight this adorable bakery! Take a look at all the delicious details of my trip to Social Bites below. 

Social Bites of Ruston | 106 West Park Avenue Ruston, LA 71270

Hours: Tuesday - Friday: 10am - 6pm, Saturday: 10am - 3pm

Social Bites of Ruston 

Atmosphere: Social Bites is a downright adorable little cupcake shop/bakery located in downtown Ruston. The atmosphere is fun and light, with simple white walls and pops of bright colors. While the store is quaint, it feels very spacious and offers a second story with extra tables to sit and enjoy your treats. The bakery is very clean and well organized, and the staff is warm and friendly. Upbeat music, bright lighting and the smell of baking cupcakes will instantly put you in a good mood when visiting Social Bites. Displays of cute party decorations add to the atmosphere of this fun and charming bakery. You are sure to walk out of Social Bites with a smile on your face, and that’s before you even eat your sweets! 

Menu at a glance: If you think Social Bites just serves cupcakes, think again. They have a varied menu with several tasty treats in all flavors, shapes and sizes. Craving ice cream? Social Bites carries the super-popular Jeni’s Ice Cream and ice cream sandwiches made on your choice of a cookie or brownie. They also make an assortment of delicious cupcakes and feature different flavors daily, although vanilla, chocolate, strawberry and red velvet are available every day. You can find their full list of cupcakes and when they’re available here. Other dessert options include cookies, brownies, crispies, macaroons and lemon bars. If you need something to wash all that sweet goodness down, then you can order milk, coffee or a glass of their famous mint lemonade. 

Inside the bakery

Cinnamon Cupcakes 

A little something extra: Social Bites also makes custom-designed cakes for any occasion, including gorgeous wedding cakes. If you need a special cake for an event, give them a call and they will be happy to make your cake vision a reality!

Tori tasted: Picking a dessert was nearly impossible because everything looked so incredibly delicious! When I realized I would never be able to narrow it down to one option, I opted for a classic Red Velvet cupcake and a chocolate chip cookie sandwich. The cupcake was everything you hope for in a Red Velvet cupcake. The cake was cooked perfectly and the big dollop of cream cheese icing was the perfect addition to this tasty Red Velvet cake. 

I’m a cookie person myself, so the idea of two chocolate chip cookies stuck together with vanilla icing was just too tempting to pass up. The cookies were quite possibly the best chocolate chip cookies I’ve ever had (sorry Grandmom), and the icing was the perfect filling to this cookie sandwich. I definitely give my experience at Social Bites a 10/10! 

Stop by Social Bites for a tasty treat and follow them on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram for special flavors and featured desserts. Keep checking back for more of my adventures and follow the blog via email by entering your email address into the box at the top right of the page. See y'all around town! 

Tori’s Travels: A Month of Exploring Ruston

Written By Tori Ward, CVB Marketing/PR Assistant

Hey y’all! I’m so glad you’re checking in with me today to catch up with my latest Ruston travels. I’ve been in this charming town for a month now, and each week there is something new to do and my list of places to visit gets longer and longer! This past week I made quite possibly some of the most fun memories yet since moving to Ruston.

Ruston Farmer's Market 

Last Saturday, I woke up earlier than usual, so I decided to take a trip to the Ruston Farmer’s Market. I heard from several people that you can find the best homegrown tomatoes, squash and zucchini in town at the Farmer’s Market, and this girl loves some fresh veggies. I had a slightly difficult time finding the Farmer’s Market, only because I can’t read a simple map, but once I located it, I was quite surprised by the number of people who were there at 8:30 a.m. on a Saturday morning.

Iced Coffee from Railway Coffee

I was even more impressed by the variety of booths at the Farmer’s Market. You could have your pick from homemade jams and jellies, fresh muffins, cookies and cakes, locally roasted coffee, homegrown fruits and vegetables, and several more delicious goodies! They even had some low-key live music, which made the experience all the more fun and enjoyable. I have a coffee problem, so naturally I went for an iced coffee from Railway Coffee, a local small-batch roaster. Overall, it was a really fun experience and a great way to start my weekend! Definitely visit the Ruston Farmer’s Market this Saturday, Aug. 8 from 8 a.m.- 12 p.m., because it’s the last Farmer’s Market of the summer season.

I was all jazzed up last week because my dad came to visit me for the first time since I moved to Ruston. I planned our whole day and we were set to go to all my favorite Ruston spots. We did a driving tour around town and went to Mitcham Farms, Lincoln Parish Park and Super 1 (thanks for the groceries dad).

Andouille poboy melt from Ponchatoulas

After running around, we built up quite an appetite and ended our day with dinner at Ponchatoulas, a local favorite in Downtown Ruston. I love the laid-back atmosphere of this Cajun-styled restaurant. We started with some delicious fried pickles and both ordered poboys for our main meal, although our poboys ended up looking quite different. Dad got their classic Peacemaker Poboy, which comes with fried shrimp AND fried oysters, and he found the combo to be quite tasty. I opted for an andouille poboy melt with sautéed mushrooms and onions on sourdough, so it ended up being more like an andouille sandwich. Regardless, it was AMAZING and I was in food heaven. Also, the onion rings are killer and I highly recommend them. After dinner, we grabbed a drink and threw a game of darts in the little bar area of the restaurant. Overall, it was a very successful daddy-daughter day!

Tori and friends at the Corey Smith concert

I ended my week on an insanely fun note. A few weeks ago I heard that there was going to be a Corey Smith concert at The Revelry of Ruston. I immediately bought tickets and got a group of my friends on board to come. Let me tell you, it was a good thing we got our tickets in advance because the show SOLD OUT. I’ve never been to a show at The Revelry, and I had no idea that this type of music venue even existed in Ruston. There’s an outside stage and partially-covered area where the concert took place, and it was packed with people. The venue is very well laid out, so even though there were a ton of people, it honestly wasn’t uncomfortably crowded. We had an absolute blast singing and dancing while Luke Combs and Corey Smith put on an incredible show! I will definitely be back for more great shows at The Revelry.

Well, that’s all I’ve got for you today, but check back later in the week for more of my travels. See y’all around town!

Experience Lincoln Parish Summer Fun!

Provided by Living Well

With students still remaining out of school and families planning vacations or “staycations,” there are plenty of options of things to do in Lincoln Parish to finish out the summer strong.

Marketing Director of the Ruston-Lincoln Parish Convention and Visitors Bureau Amanda Quimby said Lincoln Parish is one of the top spots to visit in the state.

“Ruston and Lincoln Parish are unique in that we offer an experience for everyone,” she said. “We’re lucky to have such diverse groups here. They all come together to make Lincoln Parish one of the most charming places in the state.”

The Lake at Lincoln Parish Park 

There are several things to do in Lincoln Parish, whether it is outdoors, at night or educational, Quimby said.“You can slow down and take in nature at any of the parks, or walk downtown and spend the day shopping,” she said. “If you enjoy nightlife and live music, there are several restaurants and venues to suit. The arts community is a very active part of the city and offer events for families or individuals.”

One highlight includes The Dog Days of Summer a collaboration between Louisiana Tech University’s Orientation and downtown Ruston, which is set for July 22, Quimby said.

“Dog Days of Summer teams up the university’s orientation and business in the downtown area to welcome incoming freshman to Ruston,” she said. “It’s also a great event for locals to have extended shopping hours and live music in Railroad Park.”

Mitcham Farms Peach Store 

Visiting the Mitcham Farms Orchard is also a must, Quimby said. “Go early and get fresh, hand-picked peaches, tour the orchard and visit the store,” she said. “Do not leave without getting a cup of peach ice cream.” 

For the outdoors type, Lincoln Parish Park is a hidden gem, Quimby said.“Go this summer for the biking and walking trails, beach and fishing,” she said. “James Lake is also beautiful this time of year.”

In Dubach, visitors can pick blueberries, Quimby said. “Pop’s Blueberry Patch in Dubach is quickly growing popular with locals and visitors,” she said. “Go and pick your our blueberries — or purchase some already picked. It’s an fun outing for families, especially with small children.”

Eddie G. Robinson Museum 

For people looking to get educational, Lincoln Parish has several museums to visit, Quimby said. “The Eddie G. Robinson Museum on GSU’s campus will walk you through Coach Robinson’s life and contributions to football,” she said. “The Louisiana Military Museum is the perfect place for history buffs. They have a large collection of weapons, uniforms and artifacts. The IDEA Place and Planetarium is great for children and adults, and gives everyone a chance to explore science and the wonders of the world.” 

Louisiana Military Museum 

Quimby’s personal favorite place to go and relax is Lincoln Parish Park.“I go there several time a week to walk, job or just to read,” she said.  “My niece and nephew love to join me so they can swim in the lake and run around the playground. We pack a picnic lunch and make a day of it. In the evenings I like to go downtown for dinner and live music. There is always a band playing at Ponchatoula’s or Sundown.”

Quimby said there are endless possibilities for visitors and citizens to do when visiting Lincoln Parish, and that the citizens make the parish a thrill to visit.

Tori’s Travels: When in Ruston

Written By Tori Ward, CVB Marketing/PR Assistant

Hello all! I’ve had yet another busy week in Ruston exploring the town and all it has to offer. After living here for about three weeks, I’ve quickly learned that when in Ruston, there are just some things you MUST do. I’ve recently visited a few places that are totally unique to Ruston and I just can’t help but share about my experiences.

Taking a trip to Lincoln Parish Park is one of those things that will make visiting Ruston/Lincoln Parish a complete experience. After hearing friends talk up the park and getting a quick look at it during my tour of Ruston, I knew it would be a spot I would visit frequently. However, I had no idea just how much Lincoln Parish Park has to offer until I went to visit last week. Not only is the park absolutely gorgeous and super well kept, but it offers so many options for outdoor activities. In the summer time, you can relax on the park’s beach and cool off with a swim in the lake. Or if you’re feeling more adventurous, you can bring your bike and take a shot at their killer mountain bike trail that is rated one of the top in the country. As someone who despises treadmills, I loved the park’s 1.25 mile walking path around the lake for my outdoor run. I plan on taking a picnic lunch and a good book out to the park soon and making a day out of it. Seriously Ruston, this city girl is impressed.

The lake at Lincoln Parish Park 

enjoying the walking trail 

Naturally, I was starving after all that physical activity, so I decided to treat myself, and what better place to go than a bakery with the slogan “Treat Yo Self.”  Enter the new love of my life: Social Bites. Social Bites is an adorable cupcake shop/bakery located in downtown Ruston that serves the most delicious sweets! I went in just to check out their cupcakes and left the bakery with a red velvet cupcake AND a chocolate chip cookie sandwich. All I can say is YUM. Don’t worry Social Bites, we’ll be BFFs in no time.

Social Bites 

Red Velvet Cupcake and Cookie Sandwich 

                     
As July is winding down, I realized that it will be football season in no time here in Bulldog Country. Game days call for fun Tech gear and cute red and blue outfits, so I hit downtown Ruston knowing that I could find all the red and blue my heart desired in the local shops and boutiques. Sure enough, I snagged some of the cutest blue shorts from Rodéo Boutique, which is this glamorous little shop on Park Ave. The atmosphere is so fun, the clothes are adorable and the staff was unbelievably kind and helpful. If you’re looking for a go-to store where you’re sure to find a fashionable outfit, look no further.

Rodéo Boutique 

Rodéo Boutique 

I was in such a good mood after my experience at Rodéo that I decided to wander down Park Ave a bit and continue shopping. About two stores down I found Penny Perfect. This store is awesome. They have every little gift and knick-knack you can imagine, and it all has a touch of southern charm which makes it that much better. I was thrilled to see so much Tech gear and so many locally-influenced items! If you need to pick up a fun gift for someone or just want to add to your Bulldog spirit, Penny Perfect is an ideal place to shop. Seeing as that I’m absolutely loving my time here in Ruston, I bought a cute little Ruston sign to put in my house, and I love it! 

LA Tech merchandise at Penny Perfect

Display at Penny Perfect 

I ended my week with hands down my favorite dining experience so far in Ruston. I heard time and time again from a dozen different people how amazing Rosemary’s Kitchen was and that I absolutely had to eat there. I went for lunch on Friday and was completely charmed by the homey, quaint atmosphere of the restaurant. This place is so unique, and the food is to die for. I had the shrimp and grits and I’m afraid that now all other shrimp and grits will be ruined for me because this meal was THAT good. The ingredients are all super fresh and you can tell that some serious love goes into every dish. The hours are a little limited, so you have to be able to go from 11 am - 1:30 pm on Monday- Friday if you want lunch, but I promise it’s worth it!

Rosemary's Kitchen

Shrimp and Grits at Rosemary's Kitchen 

Well folks, that wraps up my third week of life in Ruston! Keep checking back for more of my adventures and let me know if I’ve missed one of your favorite Ruston spots so I can travel there soon! Have a great week!

Tori's Travels: A Charming Experience at Mitcham Farms

Written by Tori Ward, CVB Marketing/PR Assistant

Hey y'all! Today's spotlight is one of my favorite places that I've visited in Ruston so far. If you're in the Ruston/Lincoln area during peach season (May - August), then you absolutely must stop by Mitcham Farms and The Peach Store. If you think that a visit to the peach orchard entails just seeing peach trees, then think again! Check out all the fun details about my visit to Mitcham Farms and The Peach Store below!

Mitcham Farms/The Peach Store | 1007 Woods Rd. Ruston, LA 71270

Summer Hours: Monday - Friday 8 am - 5 pm, Saturday 8 am - 4 pm

The Mitcham Processing Shed

Attraction Overview: Ruston, La. is known for its locally-grown peaches, and Mitcham Farms is where the magic happens! The first peach orchard was planted in 1946 and the peach trees have been blooming ever since. Mitcham Farms is a unique place to visit at any time of the year. Take a walk through the peach trees when they’re in bloom or plan a tour of the facility. Want to try a delicious Ruston peach? You can buy fresh peaches during the months of May through August at the processing shed of Mitcham Farms. While you can only buy fresh peaches when they are in season, you can visit The Peach Store all year round!

The Peach Store

The Store at a Glance: The Peach Store is a quaint country store tucked away in Mitcham’s Peach Orchard.  This rustic wooden building carries a great variety of dry goods and gifts. In the summer months, you can get a big serving of their famous peach ice cream to keep you cool. Year round they carry various peach products including peachy peach halves, peach dessert and drink mixes and peach-themed gifts. However, The Peach Store doesn’t just limit themselves to peaches. They carry a huge assortment of sauces, relishes, syrups, jams, jellies, preserves, salsas and more.  The Peach Store even makes homemade fudge in several different flavors (peach included)! The store has also become a gallery of sorts, housing local arts and crafts, which are sold on consignment. If you’re looking for a gourmet food item or homemade gift, then The Peach Store is a great go-to location!

display in The Peach Store 

Peach Store goodies

        

Tori’s Pick: Three words: Peach. Ice. Cream. I’m not one to like peach-flavored things, but this ice cream is incredible! It has small little bits of fresh peaches in it, so the peach flavor is definitely a natural one, and it’s creamy and delicious. I am also obsessed with the candles they carry! They smell amazing and come in a few different scents including peach, no surprise there. The store is adorable and definitely deserves a visit if you’re in the area!

Peach Ice Cream

Me enjoying this tasty treat

               

Make sure you stop by the Mitcham processing shed to get fresh picked peaches while they're still in season and visit The Peach Store to get some of their amazing peach ice cream. Follow Mitcham Farms on Facebook for updates on all things peachy! Check back next week for more of Tori's Travels and spotlights on local attractions.