Best of Tangipahoa Parish 2025: Downtown Hammond Winners
Each year, Tangi Lifestyles Magazine releases its Best of Tangipahoa Parish awards, celebrating the people, places, and businesses that locals love most. Voted on by readers across the parish, these awards highlight everything from longtime community staples to standout spots that continue to shape daily life in Tangipahoa.
We’re proud to share the 2025 Best of Tangipahoa Parish winners located right here in Downtown Hammond. From restaurants and retailers to service providers, wellness spaces, and local media, this alphabetized list showcases the downtown businesses and organizations that earned top honors this year. Congratulations to all of the winners who help make Downtown Hammond such a special place to live, work, and visit.
A
American Bank
Award: Best Banker — Brandi Harris
Address: 200 E Thomas St, Hammond, LA 70401
American Bank serves businesses and residents in Downtown Hammond with personalized financial services and community focused support. Brandi Harris was recognized again this year for her strong customer relationships and trusted guidance for local clients.
B
BATTER
Award: Best Bakery
Address: 109 N Cypress St, Hammond, LA 70401
BATTER is a downtown favorite known for beautifully crafted desserts, specialty cakes, and a rotating selection of fresh sweet treats. The bakery has grown to include a second location in New Orleans while the Hammond shop remains a go to stop for celebrations and everyday indulgences.
Bayou Booksellers & Gift Shoppe
Award: Best Gift Shop
Address: 201 W Thomas St, Hammond, LA 70401
Bayou Booksellers & Gift Shoppe is a beloved Downtown Hammond favorite known for its beautifully renovated space and thoughtful selection of books and gifts. Owned by the Millers, the shop is deeply community centered and recognized for its warm customer service.
Benny’s Place
Awards: Best Bartender — April Bardwell; Best Cold Beer
Address: 204 W Thomas St, Hammond, LA 70401
Benny’s Place is a longtime Downtown Hammond hangout known for its welcoming, no frills atmosphere. With April Bardwell, often called Red and remembered by many from her years bartending at Augustine’s, and a reputation for winning Best Cold Beer year after year, Benny’s continues to be a true local staple.
Brady’s
Award: Best Lunch
Address: 126 N Oak St, Hammond, LA 70401
Brady’s is a Downtown Hammond mainstay known for its hearty lunch options and welcoming atmosphere. Locals continue to stop in for satisfying midday meals that pair well with downtown errands or business lunches.
C
Cate Street Seafood Station
Award: Best Sushi
Address: 308 Cate St, Hammond, LA 70401
Cate Street Seafood Station has become a standout eatery in Downtown Hammond for fresh seafood and expertly prepared sushi. Known for its creative rolls and high quality ingredients, it has earned its Best Sushi title.
Cena; Hammond
Awards: Best Martini; Best Date Night
Address: 107 N Cypress St, Hammond, LA 70401
Cena; Hammond offers a beautiful fine dining experience in Downtown Hammond, where thoughtful details and a refined atmosphere make every visit feel special. Known for its expertly crafted martinis and romantic setting, it is a standout choice for an elevated date night.
Crescent Bar
Awards: Best Bar Hangout; Best Bloody Mary
Address: 110 W Thomas St, Hammond, LA 70401
A true Downtown Hammond institution, Crescent Bar has been a longtime gathering place for generations of locals. As Mr. Rickie steps into retirement and Claude Hooks takes over ownership, the bar continues its legacy as a welcoming neighborhood staple known for its classic Bloody Marys.
Mr. Rickie Brocato pictured with patrons inside Crescent Bar. Photo by Marley Bohning.
D
Downtown Yoga
Awards: Best Yoga Instructor — Brenna Barzenick; Best Yoga Studio
Address: 100 N Cate St, Hammond, LA 70401
Downtown Yoga is a welcoming studio in the heart of Downtown Hammond dedicated to movement, mindfulness, and community. Led by Brenna Barzenick, the studio continues to offer a supportive space for students of all levels.
E
Eddie’s Famous Frozen Custard
Award: Best Ice Cream
Address: 211 S Holly St, Hammond, LA 70403
Eddie’s Famous Frozen Custard is a Downtown Hammond favorite known for its rich, creamy frozen custard and classic toppings. With loyal fans across generations, it remains a must visit treat spot.
F
Flo & Glo IV Lounge | Hammond
Award: Best Med Spa
Address: 308 W Thomas St, Hammond, LA 70401
Flo & Glo brings refreshed energy to Downtown Hammond with med spa services designed to help locals look and feel their best. Known for personalized care and a welcoming environment, it has become a go to destination for wellness and self care.
Flourish Counseling
Award: Best Medical — Behavioral Health Services
Address: 324 W Morris Ave, Hammond, LA 70403
Flourish Counseling provides compassionate behavioral health support to residents of Downtown Hammond and beyond. Known for its empathetic approach and client centered care, it is a trusted local resource.
H
Holy Ghost Catholic Church
Awards: Best Church; Best Priest — Father Cayet
Address: 600 N Oak St, Hammond, LA 70401
Holy Ghost Catholic Church has long been a cornerstone of faith and community in Downtown Hammond. Father Cayet was also recognized for his leadership and dedication to parish life.
Patrons enjoying a meal on the patio at La Carreta. Photo by Marley Bohning.
L
La Carreta
Award: Best Margarita
Address: 108 NW Railroad Ave, Hammond, LA 70401
La Carreta brings fresh Mexican flavors and handcrafted margaritas to Downtown Hammond in a lively and welcoming setting. Its festive atmosphere and classic drinks have made it a local favorite.
Lee’s Diner
Award: Best Takeout
Address: 710 E Thomas St, Hammond, LA 70401
Lee’s Diner is a longtime Hammond favorite known for classic diner fare and friendly service. While it won Best Takeout, locals also love it for a sit down meal at the counter.
M
Mannino’s Family Practice Pharmacy
Award: Best Medical — Pharmacy
Address: 113 W Charles St, Hammond, LA 70401
Mannino’s Family Practice Pharmacy has been a trusted part of the Downtown Hammond community for years, offering personalized care and expert guidance with every visit.
Mariner’s Inn
Award: Best Bar Food
Address: 111 W Thomas St, Hammond, LA 70401
Mariner’s Inn is a longtime Downtown Hammond favorite known for its laid back atmosphere and classic bar menu. Their famous cheese fries remain a local go to and a staple for regulars.
Michael Canal & Sons
Award: Best Lawn Equipment Sales & Service
Address: 103 S Cherry St, Hammond, LA 70403
Michael Canal & Sons serves the Hammond community with a wide selection of lawn equipment and dependable service. Known for quality products and hands on expertise, it is a trusted local business.
N
Northshore Media Group
Awards:
Best Local DJ — Johnny Chauvin, Tangi 96.5 FM
Best Local Radio Station — TJ Maggio, Kajun 107.1 FM
Best Local Sports Coverage — Under the Hood with Roger Gill
Address: 200 E Thomas St, Hammond, LA 70401
Based in Downtown Hammond, Northshore Media Group was recognized across multiple categories for its strong local radio programming and community driven coverage. The team continues to amplify local voices, music, and sports across the parish.
O
One Thirteen
Awards: Best Craft Cocktails; Best Patio / Outdoor Dining
Address: 113 N Oak St, Hammond, LA 70401
One Thirteen is a Downtown Hammond favorite known for its expertly crafted cocktails and inviting atmosphere. Its gorgeous patio has earned recognition as a top spot for outdoor dining.
Our Mom’s Restaurant & Bar
Award: Best Burger
Address: 205 E Thomas St, Hammond, LA 70401
Our Mom’s Restaurant & Bar is known for its bold and creative take on burgers. From playful specials like the King Cake Burger to PB&J, pizza, and boudin burgers, the menu keeps locals coming back.
P
Pedigo Furniture
Award: Best Furniture
Address: 217 S Cypress St, Hammond, LA 70403
Pedigo Furniture offers an expansive showroom in Downtown Hammond filled with new and unique pieces. With so much to explore, it is a must stop for anyone looking to furnish or refresh their home.
PJ’s Coffee
Award: Best Coffee
Address: 116 W Thomas St, Hammond, LA 70401
PJ’s Coffee is a Downtown Hammond favorite for its welcoming atmosphere and locally loved drinks. Led by owner Donna Miller, the shop continues to be a daily stop for regulars and visitors alike.
Friends catching up outside of PJ’s Coffee in Downtown Hammond. Photo by Marley Bohning.
R
Romano Promo
Award: Best Promotional Products
Address: 120 S Cherry St, Hammond, LA 70403
Romano Promo provides custom promotional items, apparel, and branded products for businesses and events. Known for quality products and attentive service, they help bring ideas to life.
Ruby
Award: Best Clothing Boutique
Address: 100 N Cate St, Hammond, LA 70401
Ruby is a Downtown Hammond staple known for its thoughtfully curated clothing, accessories, and gifts. February customer appreciation makes it an especially great time to stop in and support local.
The Red, White & Brew
Awards: Best Place to Work; Best Wine Selection
Address: 113 N Cypress St, Hammond, LA 70401
The Red, White & Brew is known for its welcoming atmosphere and knowledgeable team across wine, spirits, beer, and craft cocktails. Owned by Todd and Regina Delaune, the shop’s supportive workplace culture continues to set it apart.
S
The Salad Station
Awards: Best Healthy Restaurant; Best Salad
Address: 201 S Cate St, Hammond, LA 70401
The Salad Station is a Downtown Hammond favorite for fresh, made to order salads and bowls. Earning recognition for both healthy dining and best salad, it remains a go to for nutritious meals.
The SteaKhouse
Award: Best Steak (3rd year in a row)
Address: 116 E Thomas St, Hammond, LA 70401
The SteaKhouse continues to impress with classic steakhouse fare and quality cuts. Winning Best Steak for the third year in a row, it remains a go to destination for steak lovers.
T
Tommy’s on Thomas
Award: Best Pizza
Address: 122 W Thomas St, Hammond, LA 70401
Tommy’s is known for its breadsticks, pizza and sweet, flavorful sauce that locals rave about. Winning Best Pizza comes as no surprise to longtime fans.
W
Will Frederick – Keller Williams Realty
Award: Best Real Estate Agent
Address: 201 NW Railroad Ave, Hammond, LA 70401
Will Frederick was recognized for his expertise and professionalism in helping clients navigate the local real estate market. He continues to be a trusted resource for buyers and sellers.
Willow Pharmacy
Award: Best CBD Shop
Address: 216 E Thomas St, Hammond, LA 70401
Willow Pharmacy serves Downtown Hammond with a carefully curated selection of CBD products and patient focused care. The knowledgeable staff helps customers feel informed and supported.
Y
Yellow Bird Cafe
Award: Best Breakfast
Address: 222 E Charles St, Hammond, LA 70401
Yellow Bird Cafe is a Downtown Hammond staple that continues to earn praise for its breakfast offerings year after year. Known for its mix of Mexican and American dishes, it is a must visit local favorite.
