Shreveport-Bossier's local eateries have a story, a flavor and a person with a passion for what they do. Columbia Café is different in an extraordinary way.

Located in the heart of the Highland neighborhood and nestled between Centenary College and Byrd High School, Columbia Café is a quaint little bistro that has more than just incredible food. The 1930's craftsman bungalow has a history that was brought back to life when owner and creative developer, Matthew Linn purchased and restored it. Each room has a story from the copper-ceiling sunroom to the hidden private dining room.

The atmosphere is comfortable and homey, if your home were equipped with a fully stocked wine wall and incredible artwork from all of your most creative and artistic friends. The eclectic collection of antique furniture mixed with unique details, like a mosaic wall that took months to complete, make Columbia Café one of the most distinctive dining venues in the area.

Consistent with the atmosphere, the culinary experience is gratifyingly delicious. Combining Southern flair with a gourmet spin, the cuisine will please any palate.

And what would a café be without a cup of savory robust coffee? Matthew is an expert when it comes to the java bean. He actually roasts his own coffee beans next door to the restaurant. His care and expertise in this arena make having a cup of coffee more of a glorious caffeinated experience. Matthew is also a culinary connoisseur, and understanding how food affects the body is his specialty.

True to his passion for the Highland neighborhood, Matthew founded the Krewe of Highland. In its 18th year, the Highland Parade is one of Louisiana's largest family-oriented parades. When asked why he decided to start his own Mardi Gras krewe and parade, Matthew said it was because he loves New Orleans, and he wanted to experience it in his own neighborhood. "This parade is a fun, friendly way to bring people out of their houses," he said.

The Krewe of Highland Parade is scheduled for 2 p.m., Sunday, March 6. For more information about all Mardi Gras parades and events go here. For a Columbia Café menu, click here


Blooming beauties coming in dazzling array of colors

The blooming beauties are coming. They will create a masterpiece of colors trumpeting spring time in Shreveport-Bossier: Louisiana's Other Side.

The bright pink, purple, white, yellow, red, orange and bi-colored hues of azaleas, sometimes referred to as "the royalty of the garden," at R. W. Norton Art Gallery will take your breath away. The stunning roses at the Gardens of the American Rose Center will also demand that you stop and smell the proverbial roses.

Norton is free to the public. Be sure and visit when you have time to leisurely take in the museum and gardens. In spring the gardens outside are as much masterful works of art as the extensive original pieces of American and European art inside the museum.

"One of the biggest things we want people to understand is there is always color out in the gardens," said Jennifer Defratis, tour and special events coordinator at the Norton. "We're always working on a new project and always finding ways to add color."

The newest garden is called Maple Ridge and the newest tour is the Greco-Roman Outdoor Tour, 2 p.m., April 2. "We will experience the beauty of nature and share a lot of stories. Many plants derive their names from Greek mythology, and we will be exploring that," Jennifer said.