News Summary
New Orleans restaurants are anticipating a difficult summer as many face declining business following recent closures worsened by the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite a surprising surge in customers at some eateries, concerns remain high among owners as the summer months typically see reduced foot traffic due to college students leaving the city and locals traveling. Several high-profile restaurants have recently closed, highlighting the ongoing struggles within the local dining scene. To combat this trend, some establishments are launching new menus and promoting local events to attract patrons.
New Orleans restaurants are bracing for a challenging summer as many face a notable slump in business following a series of recent closures, exacerbated by the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite a recent unexpected surge in customers at some establishments, industry professionals are forecasting a general decline in patronage during the hotter months when college students vacate the city and residents typically travel.
The deli counter at Francolini’s, a local eatery, experienced a surge in business over the past weekend, contrary to the management’s expectations for a slow season. Manager Wil Simmons reported feelings of surprised delight at the influx of customers. However, he proactively pointed out the anticipated slowdown expected during the summer months. Simmons and other restaurant owners are concerned that the loss of college students and local residents heading out of town will contribute to a significant drop-off in foot traffic.
Challenges facing the New Orleans dining scene are further compounded by a wave of recent closures. Notable closures include high-profile restaurants such as Justine, Maypop, Mopho, and several others which have shut down within just a few weeks. The owner of Maypop and Mopho expressed that the lingering effects of the pandemic prevented the full recovery of those businesses, highlighting the struggle across the local restaurant landscape.
Seasonal slowdowns are typical for restaurants across the nation, according to the president and CEO of New Orleans & Company, and New Orleans is no exception. However, the current wave of closures is especially troubling for long-established businesses, affecting the local sense of community and dining culture. The president of the Louisiana Restaurant Association noted the unusual trend of closures, indicating broader problems related to changes in dining habits and infrastructure challenges.
In an effort to continue attracting customers during the slow months, Francolini’s is introducing a new Creole tomato specialty menu. Many local businesses hope that upcoming major summer events such as Essence Fest and the U.S. Gymnastics Championships might help boost foot traffic and create a revival within the culinary scene. Local initiatives like the summer Coolinary initiative are also being promoted to encourage residents to support struggling restaurants.
Meanwhile, several establishments, such as BABs, have officially closed, with owners citing fluctuating patronage and other personal business priorities. After 30 years of operation, Tracey’s Original Irish Channel Bar and Restaurant has closed its doors, largely due to the cancellation of popular local events like the St. Patrick’s Day parade. With so many shifts in the restaurant landscape, the closure of Tonti’s in Algiers, the Franklin in Marigny, Muy Pwa, and No Name Cafe signifies a deeper concern for the industry’s vitality in the region.
Additionally, Medium Rare, a steak chain from Washington D.C., has ceased operations at its New Orleans location after just one year, primarily attributed to a lack of foot traffic. Justine’s final service right before Memorial Day further exemplifies the struggles that many are currently facing in the wake of persistent challenges within the industry. The owner of Justine expressed gratitude towards loyal customers while also acknowledging the significant difficulties in remaining viable amid ongoing uncertainties.
As restaurant owners like Michael Gulotta begin to shift their focus towards new ventures such as TANA, it is clear that the local dining environment requires ongoing adjustments. As the summer approaches, it remains to be seen how New Orleans’ vibrant culinary landscape will adapt to these challenges and if it can sustain its cherished community of restaurants through innovative solutions and community support.
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Additional Resources
- WDSU: Two Popular New Orleans Restaurants Set to Close
- Wikipedia: New Orleans
- NOLA Eater: Restaurant Closings in New Orleans
- Google Search: New Orleans restaurants closing
- Fox 8: Beloved French Quarter Restaurant Justine to Close
- Google Scholar: Restaurant closings New Orleans
- NOLA: Chef Nina Compton to Close Bywater Restaurant
- Encyclopedia Britannica: New Orleans restaurants
