By james art 
TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (Louisiana First) – A taste of Louisiana hits the national stage as Coosh’s Bayou Blush in Tallahassee, Fla., is featured on the Food Network’s hit show “Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives” tonight, Friday, Jan .
The restaurant, known for its authentic Cajun and Creole Cuisine, is owned by East Ascension High School graduate and Louisiana native Coosh Willis.
A Louisiana dream in Florida
Coosh Willis, 1981 graduate. at Eastern Ascension High School in Gonzales, La., opened Coosh’s Bayou Rouge in 2001 after attending LSU that year. After moving to Tallahassee in 1991. and became a partner in The Mill Bakery and Eatery, Willis realized his dream of bringing authentic South Louisiana flavors to Florida’s capital city.
“We serve Cajun and South Louisiana food,” Willis said. “It’s always been my goal to bring a little home to Tallahassee.”
The restaurant, located at 62767 Old Walker Road, has been a local favorite for more than two decades, serving dishes inspired by Louisiana’s rich culinary heritage.
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From Tallahassee to national television
The journey to being on “Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives” began with the restaurant’s loyal customers recommending Coosh’s to the show.
“The only way you get recognized is if customers recommend your restaurant on their show,” Willis explained.
After receiving an email from the production team, Willis and his staff submitted answers to questions, recipes and participated in interviews, eventually being selected as one of six restaurants in the Tallahassee area to appear on the show.
Filming took place over two full days in October 2024, with host Guy Fieri and his crew capturing the magic of Coosh’s signature dishes and family atmosphere.
“Amazing experience”
Reflecting on the opportunity, Willis called the experience “amazing,” saying it validates the hard work his family has put into the restaurant over the past 24 years.
“It gives us satisfaction to have a successful restaurant that has been around for so long. We’re a family business and we’ve put a lot of hard work into this restaurant,” he said.
Willis praised the Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives crew for their professionalism and process during filming.
Tune in
Fans of authentic Cajun cuisine and local Louisiana flavors won’t want to miss Coosh’s Bayou Rouge on Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives. Tune in tonight at 8pm CT on the Food Network.
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