23 June 2023
Plus, Emeril’s to close for an overhaul, a popular New Orleans restaurant group expands to Nashville, and more news to know
A press release touting the transformation of the Caesars Superdome centers around upgrades to bars, markets, and concessions, promising “improved menu options and variety” and “cutting-edge technology that will dramatically increase the speed of service.” While specific concession and food “enhancements” will be announced at a later date, most of the changes seem aimed at eliminating human interaction (and jobs), like self-ordering kiosks and AI self-checkout scanners to accompany 10 new grab-and-go markets with hot and cold food options. The upgrades, part of the arena’s five-year “Envision the Future” renovation project, are expected to be in place for the Saints’ 2024 season as New Orleans prepares to host the 2025 Super Bowl.
Emeril’s to close for building overhaul
Emeril Lagasse’s flagship restaurant, Emeril’s on Tchoupitoulas Street in the Warehouse District, is set to close for at least two months in order to undergo a major renovation, the 33-year-old restaurant announced this week. The last night of service before the closure is July 15, and following changes to the kitchen, dining room, and entrances, is expected to reopen on September 26.
The Chloe, Barrel Proof set for Nashville expansion
LeBlanc + Smith, the popular New Orleans restaurant group behind hotspots like Sylvain, the Will and the Way, the Chloe, and Barrel Proof, is bringing its brand to Nashville. The Chloe Nashville will open in the city’s Hillsboro Village neighborhood in 2024 with 19 rooms, a restaurant, and a pool, while a second location of Barrel Proof, the group’s longtime LGD bourbon bar, will open this fall in downtown Nashville near Germantown.
Red Dog Diner reopens after three-years
A charming, unique spot on Magazine Street is back after an extended three-year closure, reports the Times-Picyaune/New Orleans Advocate. Red Dog Diner on Magazine Street reopened earlier this month after being used primarily as a commissary kitchen and storage space for next door restaurant Rum House for the last few years (the chef of both restaurants, Terri Savoie, is also a partner in Rum House). For now, the casual Southern comfort food spot is open for breakfast and lunch Thursday through Monday, with plans to bring back happy hour and eventually dinner down the road.