Big J’s Side Porch: Building Community One Song at a Time

Full tables, string lights, and live music: Big J’s Side Porch in Clinton has quickly become the place where the community gathers to eat, laugh, and soak up Louisiana’s local sound. (Photos courtesy of owners Jason & Aimee Wade)

In the heart of Clinton Louisiana, a dream that began with a food trailer has grown into one of the most beloved local restaurants. Even more than that, Big J’s Side Porch has become a community gathering space where families share meals, kids play in the grass, and live music drifts across tables underneath the string lights. We got to chat with owner Jason Wade about the vision that inspired it all, the role of faith and family in the journey, and why Big J’s has quickly become an essential part of local community life.

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Caitlen: Tell us about the dream and the vision behind Big J’s Side Porch, and what was the moment you knew Clinton needed a place like this?

Jason: I started pursuing my dream with a homemade food trailer, always hoping that one day I’d own a restaurant. As the food trailer began to find success in Clinton, I realized our community could benefit from a place where people could sit down and enjoy a meal together. That’s when Big J’s Side Porch was born. My vision was to create a restaurant and bar & grill where families could bring their kids to play, while parents could relax, enjoy great food, and listen to live music.

Caitlen: Your porch has already become a regular stage for live music, was that always part of the plan, or did the music take on a life of its own?

Jason: From the very beginning, live music was part of our vision. We wanted to give local talent a stage to shine on and create opportunities for up-and-coming artists to get noticed, build their following, and book more shows.

Caitlen: Is there a night when you looked around and thought, “This is exactly what we hoped this place would be”?

Jason: To be honest, there have been several nights when my wife and I have looked at each other and thought, this is it. We’ve had evenings where families are scattered across the patio, kids laughing as they play corn hole or toss a football in the grass. We’ve also had nights where the place is packed-people from near and far gathered together, enjoying the music and each other’s company. We couldn’t pick just one night as the most special, and honestly, that means the world to us.

Caitlen: What role does faith, family, or your own Southern upbringing play in how Big J’s operates day to day?

Jason: For us, God is at the center of it all-there’s no way we’d be where we are today without Him. Family is a huge part of how we run Big J’s. From day one, our family and friends have rolled up their sleeves to help us keep things running smoothly. And when we say “family”, we don’t just mean by blood. Our staff is family too. We want everyone who works here to feel at home, cared for, and like they truly belong.

Caitlen: What do you hope Big J’s means to the next generation growing up in Clinton, and what do you want them to remember about the music, the food, or the people gathered here?

Jason: I hope Big J’s is a place where everyone feels welcome to hang out, relax, and enjoy great live music-no matter their age. I want people to leave remembering that the food was outstanding, the atmosphere was easygoing, and the company -our amazing customers- made the experience truly special.

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From its porch stage to its family-style tables, Big J’s Side Porch is more than a spot to eat, it’s a place where community comes together. Jason and Aimee have built something that feels both timeless and fresh, rooted in Southern hospitality yet alive with the energy of live music and good company. Big J’s is a reminder that the best meals are shared, the best songs are local, and the best nights are the ones spent together.

Follow them on their Facebook page for the latest updates and event details.

Written by Caitlen Odell

Founder & Owner, Red Stick Music

Caitlen curates the Red Stick Music live music calendar with a focus on excellence, integrity, and community building. She’s passionate about supporting local artists and strengthening Baton Rouge through music.