Update on what is Happening in New Orleans’ Restaurant Industry:
According to local reporting, at least eleven restaurants in New Orleans have been shuttered this summer (or plan on shuttering). This is in part due to the ongoing competition in the regional food capital, with ever more competition; an extensive heat wave; COVID hangover; and the volatility in the service industry. The reasons given for each closure differ, however. Here is a list of recent closures:
- Beth Biundo Sweets – Six years appears enough time. On their Instagram, the owner says this: “It’s been quite a ride, but the love, visits, gifts and response we’ve gotten in the last weeks have been touching and overwhelming! I’m super proud of the last 6 years, and also excited to be moving on. Thank you to everyone who has been a part of it!”
- Barcadia – The owners have their sight set on opening a new restaurant – according to AXIOS, “Billy Blatty, in partnership with The Culinary Creative Group, announced the new restaurants as he says goodbye to Barcadia, the arcade/restaurant concept that was a CBD mainstay for the past decade.” Blatty also operated Ampersand, a CBD nightclub, and Belle's Diner, which closed amid the coronavirus pandemic. Good luck to Billy on his new adventures!
- Bevi Seafood Co. is now making way for Porgy's Seafood Market. Porgy’s Seafood Market is a partnership between Christina and Dana Honn, the two chefs who run Carmo and Cafe Cour, and Caitlin Carney and her husband, the chef Marcus Jacobs, who have Seafood Sally’s and also Marjie’s Grill.
- Elysian owners have closed their St. Roch Market outpost to focus on catering, stating: “We have some bittersweet news, after 8 1/2 years, we have made the decision to close our business at the St Roch Market. We are switching our full time focus to our growing catering business.”
- Hambone, in Mandeville, announced its closure, citing the industry and unforeseen difficulties.
- Le Chat Noir, known for its oysters, recently closed without fanfare.
- Lengua Madre to close at the end of the year, and reopen as Acamaya under the tutelage of Chef Ana Castro.
- Mahony’s has chosen to close its French Quarter location. Magazine Street remains open.
- Mucho Mas closed its doors amongst a wait-staff issue. According to some employees, owner Shawn Toups had been unable t o pay the staff. Mucho Mas was open for only 7 months.
- Riccobono’s Peppermill closes September 3<sup>rd, with owners releasing this message: “We write to inform you that after 47 wonderful years of serving our community, Riccobono's Peppermill will be closing its doors. Our journey began nearly half a century ago with our founders Joe and Josie Riccobono, and their passion for bringing the finest flavors and warmest hospitality to your tables.”
- Seafood Sally’s temporarily closes their doors for mandated renovations (state order), and “hopes” to reopen. According to a statement, “As it stands now, there’s not enough money in the bank to do the repairs needed & keep staff working. Our last day of operation will be this coming Sunday, 9/3 with a hope to return to service as soon as possible.”
