a la carte - Summer/Showcase by Louisiana Restaurant Association

Summer 2021

IT’S TIME FOR THE

August 7-8 PAGE 36

Louisiana Restaurant Association | a la carte | Summer 2021

We are committed to doing business in ways that are good for

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Louisiana Restaurant Association | a la carte | Summer 2021

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Letter from the Chair Dear LRA Members, It’s hard to imagine this time last year we were still in the throes of the pandemic—wearing masks, social distancing and using hand sanitizer like it was an Olympic sport. Some shifted mindsets and business models to adapt to the rigidity of the times, while others took a pause and unfortunately, bowed out of the industry all together. In my case, my wife Shelly and I pivoted our diner to takeout only, reduced our hours of operation and unfortunately underwent the tragedy of a fire—gutting our Lafayette location. Since then, operations at our Broussard location are on the slow road to what we once deemed normal. For a 24-hour business, staffing continues to be a challenge and seems to be the case for everyone. Our Lafayette location is in the remodeling phase, and we hope to welcome back our loyal customers by mid-September during our grand re-opening.

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The LRA Showcase is upon us, and this will be the first time the industry will be back together, under one roof, at the New Orleans Convention Center. During the Showcase, we will commemorate the LRA’s 75th anniversary during a time when the association has proven itself essential as our greatest resource during the pandemic. We will offer a series of express presentations at the Kitchen Counter that will glean takeaways to help us evolve and become more profitable and efficient. Restaurateurs, if you have not registered to attend and need assistance, please call the Member Services Team at (504) 454-2277 or email showcase@lra.org today. Associate members, the clock is ticking for your opportunity to exhibit and showcase your products and services to a captive target audience. I’ll be there along with your LRA team. We hope to see you there, too! Sincerely,

Keith Bond Mel’s Diner, Broussard and Lafayette 2021 LRA Chair

Louisiana Restaurant Association | a la carte | Summer 2021

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Getting Back to Business As the pandemic shifts to our review mirror, recovery continues to be a challenge for all restaurants, particularly when it comes to employment and staffing. See how our chapters are operating and tackling these challenges head on.

Staffing Challenges? This Revolutionary Healthcare Plan May Help!

2021 Legislative Session Ends with Big Wins for Restaurant Industry

2021 LRA Showcase Exhibitor Listing

Consider offering your workers this innovative, new healthcare plan.

Special thanks to our “Hospitality Heroes,” who authored and aided in the passage of legislation to support restaurants, bars, and hotels.

Start making your plans to walk the floor and see who’s on this year’s lineup.

On the Cover Chef Robert Vasquez, 2020

Louisiana Seafood Cook-Off Winner

Photo by: Jeff Bounds

Follow the LRA on social media for updates on the restaurant industry, advocacy issues, and news about YOU, our members!

LaRestaurantAssoc

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Louisiana Restaurant Association

Louisiana Restaurant Association | a la carte | Summer 2021

by Ashley Wethey Counce Mirepoix, which translates to “holy trinity” in French, is a base made from diced vegetables that are cooked slowly on low heat to sweeten and deepen the flavors of a dish. When the French Catholics and Acadians settled in New Orleans in the early 1700s, they quickly realized that the ground wasn’t suitable for growing carrots, one of the original components, so the ingredient was changed out for bell peppers. Louisianians made the switch, and Southern cuisine was changed forever. In a new series called Mirepoix, content designed to “season” your member experience, we take a dive into the various regions of our state. As restaurants in Louisiana fire up again, we’ll catch up with restaurateurs throughout the state, including our chapter presidents, and spotlight members to learn about what their new normal entails.

CENLA Dear Cenla Chapter Members, Our Cenla restaurants are full of locals and out-of-town guests, and it appears that travel and tourism is taking off (no pun intended) once again. We are seeing new restaurants open which is exciting for the Cenla region. If you know a new restaurateur, please invite them to join the LRA and take advantage of the knowledge and resources available to them as they get started or expand. With a herculean effort from our LRA Advocacy Team, working with Speaker of the House Clay Schexnayder, the 2021 Louisiana Legislative Session produced a significant win for Louisiana tourism industry. Of the $1.2 billion American Rescue Plan funds allocated to Louisiana, $77 million dollars were dedicated to tourism promotion, marketing and sales funding. These funds will be used to support local tourism economies through our Convention and Visitors Bureaus across the state, helping restaurants, hotels, venues and attractions gain future business, group and leisure travelers. We are grateful to Speaker Schexnayder, and of course our LRA Advocacy Team, for their dedication on behalf of Louisiana’s tourism industry. We look forward to our continued relationship with our Convention and Visitors Bureau in the years ahead to showcase the best of our 11-parish region.

The LRA Showcase is August 7-8 in New Orleans at the Convention Center and will also mark the association’s 75th anniversary! I hope you’ll consider making the trip to shop industry suppliers all under one roof and hear from a great lineup of speakers at the Kitchen Counter on the show floor. If you need assistance registering, please contact Member Services at Showcase@lra.org or call (504) 454-2277. We all know that many restaurants may be struggling to onboard new employees, and I encourage you to take the time to thank and reward your existing staff. It’s because of our culinary and service teams that we are able to grow our operations—they are the backbone of our restaurants and this industry. Last, but certainly not least, I was honored to recently recognize Gloria Batiste with an LRA Restaurant Legend award. I invite you to read her story on page 30, and if you have any Restaurant Legends of your own you’d like to recognize, please reach out to communications@lra. org. As younger generations enter the industry, we have so much to teach them and assistance to provide as they chart the course of their careers. Individuals like Gloria illustrate the lifelong and rewarding careers that await in our industry!

Scott Laliberte The Hotel Bentley, Diamond Grill & Mirror Room Tapas Lounge Cenla Chapter President

Louisiana Restaurant Association | a la carte | Summer 2021

- CENLA Jack Doggett

General Manager Rotolo’s Craft & Crust What is your inspiration as a chef/restaurant owner? I really enjoy bringing good things to Alexandria. This is my home. It is where I was raised and where I plan to raise my family, and I want to help it grow. The best way I’ve found that I can do that is through the restaurant industry. In your experience, what is the key to developing a good team? They need to be able to trust that you have their back, in both working side by side and having the understanding that sometimes life happens. Too many times people see employees as just a body, and employers forget that life goes on outside of the restaurant. We ask employees and ourselves to leave problems at the door, but sometimes we simply can’t. We must have the understanding that everyone has a bad day and to provide them with the support they deserve. Fun or interesting fact about yourself? As much as I love to cook, I can never seem to cook white rice properly. What are your future plans for the restaurant? We have new menu options rolling out this summer. Towards the end of August, we’ll release our fall concert series lineup. The patio is an amazing asset for our restaurant and really makes you forget you’re in Alexandria. What advice would you give someone just starting out in the restaurant business? There’s one thing, above all others, necessary for this industry - a sense of urgency. It is hard to determine if someone has “it” through an interview, and “it” is impossible to teach. However, the people who have what it takes are typically the people who move up the fastest.

Louisiana Restaurant Association | a la carte | Summer 2021

NORTHEAST Dear Northeast Chapter Members, There seems to be a strong sense of optimism and excitement in our region. We can hopefully all breathe a sigh of relief that we are (fingers crossed) coming out on the other side of this pandemic. Business has been brisk, and like so many of you, we’re not able to return to our previous volume and hours of operation given the current staffing challenges. For 24 years, we’ve relied on students from ULM to staff many positions; however, with remote learning, many of those students haven’t returned to the workplace.

The Snapshot, the weekly e-newsletter, continues to provide timely resources, tips and reminders. These are all tools available with your membership, and I can attest that throughout the last year, I’ve relied on the LRA for consistent, reliable and timely information. Looking forward to seeing you all again soon!

Jane Weems Waterfront Grill Northeast Chapter Secretary/Treasurer

Soon, the Northeast Chapter Board will convene for the first time in person to begin planning for fall. I hope that in the meantime, you are keeping up with all the LRA offers us as members. The LRA has recently launched a new mobile app, a special edition podcast series called Capitol Connection and a free job board.

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Louisiana Restaurant Association | a la carte | Summer 2021

- NORTHEAST Cory Bahr

restaurateur some heartache?

Chef/Owner Parish Restaurant You’ve been an advocate for the Louisiana Delta for years. What do you love most about it? Besides the fact that it’s home, it’s a beautiful sportsman’s paradise. As a chef and outdoorsman, I can be on one of 20 bodies of water-rivers, lakes, you name it - in a matter of minutes. As a hunter, there’s white tail deer and turkey all right here at my back door. What is the key to your success? It’s simple really. Our focus is on hospitality and the quality of food, and our goal is to blow the guests away. When we first opened, we wrote down a set of guidelines to adhere to and goals we want to achieve. It started by using all the tools at our disposal to exceed expectations. You don’t have to have the most square footage or elaborate décor to have the greatest impact. It comes down to the staff and the food.

Treat your team like gold. Without your team, you don’t have anything. I wish I had learned that a lot earlier. I worked for some old school chefs and it took me some time to unlearn some of their problematic ways. Did the pandemic changed the way you run your restaurant? If so, how? When COVID hit, like everyone else, we didn’t know what was going on in terms of the restrictions, government orders and the spread. We decided to double down on quality, consistency and training and kept our sanitation protocols on point. We’ve been fortunate to keep our team together. We’ve been through a lot together, and there’s been no interruption, not to say it hasn’t been a challenge. The focus was coming out on the other side, remembering that some people may not have dined out in over a year.

What ingredient are you embracing right now and why? I have this saying, “it’s better to be a cook from Louisiana than a cook in Louisiana.” Everybody in Louisiana can cook, and most can grill a nice steak at home. I’m all about Louisiana seafood, 100 percent. The variety and level of freshness has to be there with seafood- something that’s not as readily available to the home cook. I focus on diversity, seasonality and premium quality of Louisiana seafood. What advice do you have for someone who is considering a career in the restaurant industry? I get asked from parents almost weekly, and I definitely encourage it. Major in accounting and minor in psychology – that’s what most people lack when they enter the restaurant business. Money and people is what this “business” is all about. Then, go work for your favorite restaurant. I was unprepared as I transitioned from cook to chef to chef/owner. That’s one of the benefits of LRA membership that I speak of often…the webinars and discussions like cash flow and controlling costs.

Any lessons learned that could save a fellow

Louisiana Restaurant Association | a la carte | Summer 2021

ACA DIANA Dear Acadiana Chapter Members, It looks as if Acadiana is on a solid road to recovery. We recently had our first in-person Acadiana Chapter Board meeting in over a year. All restrictions have been lifted throughout the state. We are currently participating in events, like Eat Lafayette, planning to attend the LRA Showcase, and hosting the Acadiana Food and Wine Soiree. The LRA Acadiana Board of Directors and I look forward to all that 2021 continues to offer.

While our schedule might be lighter than previous years, our goals are not. We want to continue to be a valuable member of our community with a focus on advocacy and education. If you have any topics you would like covered at one of our gatherings please feel free to reach out to me or Britney at bford@lra.org. I look forward to seeing you soon in your restaurants, at our socials, and our year-end Food and Wine Soiree on November 11.

Randy Daniel OMW Holdings, La Pizzeria Lafayette, Kat Daddy Wings Acadiana Chapter President

Louisiana Restaurant Association | a la carte | Summer 2021

- ACA DIANA Jason Huget

Executive Chef/Owner Steamboat Warehouse Restaurant In your experience, what is the key to developing a good team?

day, 7 days a week commitment. If you do not absolutely love the business, it may not be the best decision for you. You HAVE to love it if you are going to be happy. It’s a tough occupation, but if you are like me, it can be like not having a job at all...I love what I do.

In my opinion, to build a great team you need to start by employing people who want to be there. In other words, in the restaurant business if you start with employees who love what they do, that makes your job easier. If you have employees who are there only because they need to collect a paycheck, the more likely you are to have problems. I also believe that trust is key in addition to good communication with your employees. What are your future plans for the restaurant? Our plans going forward are as they have always beenput out the best product that we can while using the freshest and best local ingredients we can get our hands on. We always strive to improve every day and continue to give the absolute best customer service possible. Fun or interesting fact about yourself? When I was younger, I was a huge fan of Paul Prudhomme. I watched his cooking shows on LPB all of the time. Even still, I never considered being a chef in my younger years. It actually fell into my lap. In 1994, I started working at the Steamboat as a dishwasher/ busboy. I moved up the ranks into the kitchen and eventually into the head chef position. The owner at the time sent me to Chef John Folse Culinary Institute, paid in full. I went on to do an internship at Paul Prudhomme’s restaurant in New Orleans, K-Paul’s. After graduating, I returned to work at Steamboat and ended up buying it from the same owner in 2006. What is your inspiration as a chef/restaurant owner? The great culture of central Louisiana, including the food and history of Acadiana and surrounding areas. From the very beginning, even in high school, I was in love with it all. There is nothing I enjoy more than to see a new dish in my head, then actually create and assemble that dish and hear from our customers how much they enjoy it. What advice would you give someone just starting out in the business? Make sure you know what you are getting into. So many people tell me how they would love to own their own restaurant but have zero experience. It is a 24 hours a Louisiana Restaurant Association | a la carte | Summer 2021

GR EATER NEW OR LEA NS Dear GNO Chapter Members, After owning a business for nearly three decades, let’s just say you learn a thing or two, one of them being best practices when building your team. At our restaurants, we see our team as family members and treat them as such. Our hiring practices reflect that mentality, and we seek out and hire candidates who share our attitudes, values, standards and goals - finding candidates who “fit” the culture is of paramount importance.

Being involved in the LRA also aligns with this emphasis on teamwork. As members, we often work together and lean on one another for advice. This particular benefit of membership is priceless. Over the years, many people have approached me for advice about a career in the industry. I note that you have to be 100 percent dedicated to the job, no matter the title. Like Mr. Miagi said, “do karate halfway and get squished like grape.” Identify what you’re good at, and hire people to do the rest!

Scot Craig Katie’s, Francesca by Katie’s, Bienvenue on Hickory GNO Chapter Vice President

Louisiana Restaurant Association | a la carte | Summer 2021

- GR EATER NEW OR LEANS Michael Brewer

NOLA Geauxst Kitchen What is your inspiration as a chef/restaurant owner? I really enjoy working with local products and bringing the flavors of the South alive on a plate or a po’boy. I feel that here in Louisiana, we have a real “gumbo” of flavors when we look at the various cultures that thrive in our state, and the cool thing is they all work together with our local products. What advice would you give someone considering a career in the restaurant industry? “There is nothing better!” I’ve been an engineer, in sales, an electrician, a plumber, landscaper, grass cutter, carpenter...you name it, and nothing gives me more satisfaction than knowing at the end of a busy shift, I’ve touched people through food and the experience. No other job gives you that instant satisfaction on such a personal level. In your experience, what’s the key to developing a good team? I truly believe that energy is the driving force behind good teams and great organizations. Positive energy, even in the face of difficulty, brings coworkers together and unites the team. Even if tempers get heated and voices get elevated during the rush, staying positive allows the team to pat each other on the back and realize that working together makes us all stronger.

Any lessons learned that could save a fellow restaurateur some heartache? Someone once told me that if you give just a thumbnail’s more effort every day than the day prior, before you know it, your entire life will be different. ALWAYS give a little extra - extra effort, extra time and extra hospitality. Guests will notice, and doors you never thought will open. Fun fact about yourself? I competed in the Louisiana Seafood Cook-off as a dare. I had no notion of winning and being declared King of Louisiana Seafood. Of course, I prepared and practiced, but the only thing I wanted to accomplish was beating Chef Mike Nelson of GW Fins. I’ve known Mike since Hurricane Katrina when we would shoot pool at Monkey Hill Bar together. He is a great guy, and I have always looked to him for inspiration. He came in third that year, and his dish was spectacular! I was on the stage awaiting the winning announcement and had just taken a sip of wine when they called my name. Chef Sue Zemanick almost got a shower! Anything else you’d like to share? I’ve been a waiter, captain, sommelier, beverage director, dishwasher, busser, bartender, and general manager... you name it, and I’ve done it. Nothing excites me more than knowing I get to make people forget about their cares for a few hours and just live. I love the hospitality business!

Launching during a pandemic, did you take any creative steps or off the way strategies to attract customers? I think the entire ghost kitchen concept is new to customers. It allows restaurants to shift and follow food trends without abandoning the core identity of the organization. Not only does it allow customers more variety in their choices, but it keeps employees interested. Given the state of dining in today’s social climate, it just makes sense to fully utilize the reduced workforce by ensuring they are: 1. paid well 2. stay busy 3. enjoy the job and 4. feel some sort of satisfaction about the work. What are your future plans for the restaurant? I am hoping to launch another concept in late summer and continue to grow the ghost kitchen concept with third-party delivery.

Louisiana Restaurant Association | a la carte | Summer 2021

NORTHSHOR E Dear Northshore Chapter Members, It’s an exciting time for us as a chapter and as a state as restrictions are lifted and life returns once more to normal! The Northshore is currently thriving and has been for the past four to five months. With tighter restrictions in place in New Orleans, we led the resurgence of restaurant openings in the area. Many of our restaurants said nearly half of their guests were from the south shore…willing to drive simply for the dining experience.

back is the lack of employees returning to the workforce. We hope this won’t be an issue for much longer. With that being said, the LRA plays a pivotal role in continuing to advocate for restaurant owners across the state. Our annual fundraiser, Taco Takeover, is scheduled for Tuesday, September 21 from 6:30 - 9 p.m. at Benedict’s Plantation. I hope to see everyone there, in the flesh! Lastly, we have much to look forward to, from concerts and festivals to in-person chapter meetings, I cannot wait to show the state all our chapter has to offer!

Russell J Prima Jr., CSS Director of Sales, South Louisiana Southern Glazers USA Northshore Chapter Treasurer

In the near future, I see the industry, specifically our ever-expanding Northshore Chapter, continue to outpace most of the state in growth and innovation. The only thing holding many of our beloved establishments

Louisiana Restaurant Association | a la carte | Summer 2021

- NORTHSHOR E Chef Jeff Mattia

a single event, slow down or you may miss something.

Chef/Partner Pyre Provisions

How has the pandemic changed the way you run your restaurant?

What is your inspiration as a chef/restaurant owner?

COVID really made us change our mindset and menus. When things shut down, we began to focus more on BBQ plates and our BBQ options in general. At that time, takeout was our only source of revenue, and we felt that our BBQ options best maintained the integrity of the dish when carried out. We received wonderful feedback on the quality of our takeout, which kept our doors open.

The inspiration behind Pyre Provisions comes from a careerlong love of BBQ and rustic cooking techniques. Whether it’s meat or a really nice fresh vegetable, I love using the most simple ways of cooking to enhance quality ingredients, making the center of the plate shine brighter. I really began concentrating on BBQ in 2013 when I took over as BBQ captain during Hogs for the Cause and eventually took over the BBQ program at the Hyatt New Orleans Q Smokery and Café. I’d dreamed about opening my own restaurant for 20 years, and it finally became a reality when we opened Pyre in 2019. Keys to your success? Since opening our doors two years ago, we’ve insisted on serving ingredients of the best possible quality. It’s the backbone of the restaurant and will continue to be. What ingredient are you embracing right now and why? Fresh, seasonal vegetables are always a focus at the restaurant. Our local farmers grow amazing produce that are not only delicious when in season, but also a healthier approach. We try to place as much emphasis on vegetable preparation as we do our meat options. My personal favorite that we ran on our fall/winter menu was smoked spaghetti squash, apple and a green curry a fun play on Turkish flavors.

We also launched our catering and event operations, which were always part of our plan, but COVID pushed us to get started earlier. We bought a food trailer, which essentially generated a revenue stream that ultimately saved the restaurant. The trailer also helped us introduce Pyre to a broader audience who may not have been familiar with us yet. When COVID hit, we were a brand new restaurant with a lot of opening expenses. The food trailer was the “Hail Mary” that helped us adapt to the times. Fun fact about yourself? My son, Josh, helps manage the restaurant, so I get to work with him every day. I’m a proud dad and a grandfather to Josh’s son, Eli. Also, I proudly served in the U.S. Marine Corps cooking daily for 1,000 to 5,000 troops on U.S. Navy vessels and in the field.

What would you tell someone who is considering a career in the industry? Work in restaurants and for chefs who excite and inspire you, and don’t be afraid to work hard for your success. In the restaurant industry, no job is more important than another. Each position plays a role in making a restaurant run. It’s okay to start by washing dishes or helping with food preparation. The best way to learn and succeed in the industry is to have an understanding of every aspect of the restaurant. As an owner, I still wash dishes and prep daily. Any lessons learned that could save a fellow restaurateur some heartache? Slow down and take the time to ask questions. Whether it’s working to achieve long-term goals or preparing for Louisiana Restaurant Association | a la carte | Summer 2021

NORTHW EST Dear Northwest Chapter Members, First and foremost, let me say how excited I am to be a part of the Louisiana Restaurant Association. I look forward to connecting with the association, statewide, and I am hopeful we can continue to grow our Northwest Chapter by creating a vibrant and thriving restaurant scene. Shreveport is such an interesting community, and there are so many fantastic local farms and producers in the surrounding area - many of which people don’t know exist. Over the last two years, I’ve had some of the best chicken, beef, and pork ever, and it was all raised locally, in or around the Shreveport area. I am excited for Shreveport and hopeful people will continue to recognize how great Northwest Louisiana food ways actually are. It also seems the pandemic has brought out a lot of creativity in Shreveport’s food scene. People are trying new concepts and pushing innovation in both food and beverage. It’s exciting to see both local chefs and diners willing to try out new flavors and experiences. As a city we have learned to embrace creative problem-solving.

Now is the time to test new concepts and push the industry forward. I also believe that we are a stronger and more vibrant community when we work to solve problems together and collaborate on big projects (or even small “guest chef” or “guest bartender” nights). Though we’ve been through the wringer, struggling to navigate restrictions while keeping customers and employees safe, there were some positives that came out of the pandemic. For us, it was a time to test new recipes and ideas. We actually came up with our second dining concept while doing so. Because our original restaurant concept was delayed due to the pandemic, we went full steam ahead on our second concept prior to the first. The pandemic also gave us time to develop better operating procedures and company structure. A large portion of our business during this time was private, in-home dining experiences, allowing us to connect with customers in a way we didn’t anticipate. Stay strong Northwest Chapter, I believe we are almost to the end!

Brad Jones Revenir Restaurant, Every Man A King Distillery Northwest Chapter Member

Louisiana Restaurant Association | a la carte | Summer 2021

- NORTHWEST Chase Boytim

Owner Fat’s Oyster House and Fatty Arbuckle’s Like other bar owners in Louisiana, I had a grim time in the year of COVID. Some hunkered down, some decided to close up shop altogether, but I didn’t do either. In fact, I decided to expand. Crazy, eh? I rehabbed, repaired, and deep cleaned the former Fully Stacked hamburger restaurant in the Red River District downtown. Everything was either broken, dirty, or held together with duct tape. It was a wreck. Our initial plan was to do a little at a time, but once we got in, we decided to make it the way we wanted it. Who is your inspiration as a chef/restaurant owner? I would have to say Chef José Andrés for his humanitarian work and for just being a great human, and Chef Donald Link for his creativity. The overall vibe and flavor of his restaurants, to me, is second to none. What are your 2021 plans for the restaurant? We are working on hosting several bourbon dinners with other chefs and will soon launch a farm-to-table brunch on weekends. What is the key to success when communicating with the public? Be honest and genuine. Who inspires you? My former business partner and mentor Bryan Cush had a major influence on me and really got me passionate about food and beverage. My wife Shelby also inspires me. She is a hardworking and caring kindergarten teacher in Bossier. Fun fact about yourself? Hobbies? I LOVE the outdoors. Every year, I go on several hiking, kayaking and snowboarding trips.

Louisiana Restaurant Association | a la carte | Summer 2021

STAFFING CHALLENGES? This Revolutionary Healthcare Plan May Help!

Article provided by Pan American Life Insurance.

Louisiana Restaurant Association | a la carte | Summer 2021

As labor shortages continue to hinder our comebacks, consider offering your workers this innovative new, healthcare plan. Yes, they CAN afford it—and there’s no cost to you! Right now, our members’ greatest challenge is staffing. While there are several reasons workers aren’t coming back, one is that they want healthcare—real, affordable, healthcare protection most restaurants just can’t provide. That’s why Pan-American Benefits Solutions (a leading, A-rated insurance carrier) has partnered with LRA and HUB International (one of the world’s largest broker/ administrators) to create the Hospitality Healthcare Plan (HHP), exclusively for LRA members. HHP isn’t traditional health insurance, but it provides remarkable healthcare benefits. It will allow you to offer you workers what they want and deserve: access to affordable, quality healthcare. There’s no cost to you, and rates start at just $3 a day. Says Stan Harris, LRA President & CEO, “One of the key drivers for developing this partnership was to offer industry workers access to primary care and treatment of chronic health issues.” “This program will provide the highest quality care from a network of dedicated community-based partners, with cost options that provide choice in levels of coverage.”

How HHP Works HHP makes it very easy for workers to see a doctor something that people without health insurance avoid, at great long-term risk to their health. In a nutshell: • Covered workers can connect with a doctor virtually through 24/7 telehealth visits at no additional cost. • Or, they can see a doctor in-person through the plan’s “direct primary care network”—screened physicians who offer same-day/next-day appointments for just $10 per visit.

• In addition, the plan pays fixed benefit amounts for many medical services, including hospitalizations, ICU stays and surgery. There are no deductibles or coinsurance, and acceptance is guaranteed. Workers can choose from three plans, purchase individual or family coverage, and select optional dental and vision—starting at the cost of an order of beignets.

Advantages for LRA Members and Their People It costs you nothing to offer employees access to the plan, and there’s little you’ll need to do, other than refer workers to HUB. HUB will handle questions, enrollment, premium payment—i.e., everything. Also, you have no minimum participation requirements. Once workers see how valuable HHP is, it will help you retain them—while attracting new hires. Plus, you can feel good about helping your people take better care of their health. For those without regular doctors, this may be truly life changing.

Get on Board! For more details, visit https://pabs.palig.com/hospitalityhealthcare-plan-lra to request more information. Should you choose to offer this plan, your employees will be able to enroll this Fall. Imagine: your people could have healthcare protection by the last quarter of 2021! We hope you’ll give your staff the opportunity to take advantage of HHP. It’s good for you, for them, and for your community. We just may reduce Louisiana’s uninsured population—and set a new standard for the restaurant industry. Join us!

Louisiana Restaurant Association | a la carte | Summer 2021

2021 Legislative Session Ends with Big

The 2021 Legislative Session ended June 10 with the passage of several bills of significance to our indu we consider our “Hospitality Heroes,” who authored and aided in the passage of legislation to support LRA Advocacy Team worked diligently right up until the 6 p.m. deadline on the last day, to ensure tha advocacy is the lifeblood of the LRA. The last 17 months have been nothing short of historical.

Tourism Recovery

Alcohol

The Honorable Kirk Talbot Senate District 10

The Honorable Clay Schexnayder Speaker of the House, District 81

The Honorable Kirk Talbot Senate District 10

The Honora House District 5

The effects of the pandemic have challenged many of the ways in which the state and its lawmakers previously conducted its business. Senate Concurrent Resolution 4 by Sen. Talbot removes the restriction that the Louisiana Office of Tourism (LOT) cannot spend more than 10% of its budget on “in-state” advertising and promotion (for one year). As many restaurants are seeking to gain their footing coming out of the pandemic, this allows the LOT to support in-state initiatives like Restaurant Week New Orleans, Eat Lafayette and the Louisiana Seafood Cook-Off. Thanks a ton, Rep. Talbot!

Of the $1.2 Billion American Rescue Plan funds allocated to Louisiana, $77 million dollars was dedicated to tourism promotion, marketing and sales funding. This will be used to support local tourism economies through Convention and Visitors Bureaus (CVB) across the state, helping restaurants, hotels, venues and attractions gain future business, group and leisure travelers. Forever grateful Rep. Schexnayder!

Can you imagine owning or operating a hotel and learning that in Louisiana, there is no permit specific to serving alcohol through room service, the restaurant, bar or banquets? SB 76 defined the licensing for hotels in Title 26 regulations. Hats off to Sen. Talbot for his hard work!

Up until the pan bar owners were for their wholes spirits with a cre Rep. Gaines add payment option and check has co wholesale indust Thanks Rep. Ga

The Honorable John Illg House District 78 The Honorable Randal Gaines House District 57

The Honorable J. Cameron Henry Senate District 9 Think big on this one—Super Bowls, College Football Playoffs, the Independence Bowl, Essence Festival! SB 162 by Senator Cameron Henry updates the state’s Major Events Funds and adds clarity to the funding approval process for events like these that are held across the state. Thanks a million Sen. Henry!

No doubt Louisiana tourism was hit hard during the pandemic as travel came to a skretching halt. Through a partnership with the Louisiana Travel Association, HB 415 by Rep. Gaines provides the opportunity for CVB and destination marketing organization to propose tourism recovery and improvement districts, requiring a 2/3rds vote of those businesses who agree to participate with a 5-year sunset. Hooray for Rep. Gaines!

Legislation passed in 2019 allowed for restaurants to sell wine and beer in a manufactured sealed container with food delivery. SB 219 by Rep. Illg adds ready-to-drink cocktails to the existing restaurant alcohol with food delivery statute. That means a canned cocktail like a Jack and Ginger or a Crown and Cola, not a mixed drink on site. This takes effect August 1, 2021. Cheers to you Rep. Illg!

Louisiana Restaurant Association | a la carte | Summer 2021

The Honora House District 6

HB 296 provid ATC licenses to premise sales. T can serve wine doesn’t exceed revenue of alco This is a great b sales. Who wou before commit a glass for Rep.

Wins for Restaurant Industry

ustry. We sincerely thank each member of the House and Senate, especially those t restaurants, bars and hotels. Led by LRA President and CEO Stan Harris, your at these items remained in a posture for passage this session. As you are well aware,

Sales Tax

Gaming

able Randal Gaines 57

The Honorable Clay Schexnayder Speaker of the House, District 81

The Honorable John Stefanski House District 42

ndemic, restaurant and e prohibited from paying sale wine, beer and edit card. HB 192 by ds credit cards as a n. A move beyond cash ome to the alcohol try in Louisiana. aines!

Did you know that businesses operating in multiple parishes have to remit sales & use tax to each individual municipality? House Speaker Clay Schexnayder authored HB 199 which will bring the opportunity to streamline this process to a vote of the people. Louisiana and Oregon are the only states that continue to collect sales & use tax in this way. Kudos for this enormous undertaking!

In 55 parishes that approved sports wagering in their ballot referendums, HB 697 defines who can participate in sports wagering including all qualified Class A and Class A-Restaurants using kiosks through the Louisiana Lottery Corporation. Thanks to Rep. Stefanski, House Speaker Schexnayder and Senate President Cortez for including restaurants and bars in this option. We appreciate you, gentlemen!

The Honorable Patrick Page Cortez Senate District 23

Special thanks goes out to Senate President Cortez, House Appropriations Chair Zee Zeringue, House Appropriations Vice Chair – Sen. Elect Gary Carter & Sen. Finance Chair Bodi White for their support of tourism, hospitality and Louisiana’s restaurants, bars and caterers!

able Larry Selders 67

des clarity for Class C o allow for limited on That means a wine store by the glass as long as it 20% of its total annual oholic beverage sales. benefit to boost overall uldn’t want to try a glass tting to the bottle? Raise . Selders!

Louisiana Restaurant Association | a la carte | Summer 2021

COVID-19 REPORT JULY 2021

Louisiana Restaurant Association | a la carte | Summer 2021

A Letter from Stan Harris, LRA President & CEO Dear LRA Members, More than a year has passed since March 16, 2020, that fateful day when Louisiana restaurants, hotels and bars had to shut down for indoor dining in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. It’s been an excruciating and challenging 16 months, and, even now, we are just beginning to walk the path of fully reopening. Through it all, my staff and I have been exceedingly proud to represent this resilient community. Your commitment to this industry, your employees and your guests has never wavered, not for one moment during this long pandemic. Instead, you have pivoted and persevered, striving every day to provide the unique dining experiences that help define Louisiana and make it a place we all love to call home. Everyone at the Louisiana Restaurant Association (LRA) is committed to fighting alongside you to keep this industry whole and ensure its success long after this crisis. We know it will require time and significant assistance to recover from such damage. The pandemic caused the LRA to pivot as well, focusing on three crucial endeavors: industry advocacy at all levels of government; timely communication to Louisiana restaurants about COVID-19 developments that impacted how you do business; member and support services, including educational programming meant to help you navigate operations during a pandemic. Thank you for all of your efforts and for raising your voice with us during this trying time. We have accomplished so much together, and we’re going to continue to fight on your behalf. We created this updated report to provide insight into all of those accomplishments, our recent activities and to show you just how far we’ve come together. Most importantly, we wanted to share our plans as we move towards a post-pandemic future. Our sole purpose is to support you and your business. If there is ever anything we can do to make your restaurants, hotels and bars run more smoothly during this crisis and beyond, please let us know by reaching out to communications@lra.org. We believe that we are witnessing the dawn of a renaissance in the industry – a time when restaurants, hotels and bars will begin to recover as they continue to inspire, nourish, and bolster Louisiana’s communities. Thank you for all of your hard work toward that end, and for your support. Sincerely,

Stan Harris

Louisiana Restaurant Association | a la carte | Summer 2021

COVID-19 REPORT

Advocacy Evolution 2021 COVID-19 REPORT The NRA, through collective efforts with ServSafe professionals, quickly established a working group of experts to produce its Reopening Guidelines. These guidelines were used to inform our state level Resilient Louisiana Commission – Restaurant and Entertainment Task Force, which LRA President and CEO co-chaired along with Commander’s Palace co-proprietor Ti Martin and Dooky Chase Restaurant’s Edgar Chase IV. From task force level discussions, Harris conferred with the Governor’s team and the State Fire Marshall to set the requirements and recommendations for the OpenSafely.la.gov online safety protocols. The LRA was actively engaged throughout the public health emergency and at every level to ensure that members were notified timely as compliance and employee and customer safety was paramount to operating during the pandemic. The LRA has worked nonstop to offset the uncertainty that came along with the pandemic, shifting staff positions to ensure we were able to respond quickly to anxious operators in need of answers and empathy. We’ve tackled ever-evolving compliance issues through the web, our emails, and webinars, and opened up our trove of resources – which has expanded in the time of COVID-19 – to the entire industry. As COVID-19 shifted the regulatory environment for doing business, the LRA stepped in to help restaurants, hotels and bars navigate their new responsibilities and requirements in several ways. • Up-to-the-minute compliance changes: The LRA actively monitored federal, state, and local orders; local parish variances; and shifting guidelines to keep our members armed with up-to-the-minute knowledge of what was required of them in daily operations. • Compliance help, industry-wide: The LRA immediately opened up all lines of communication to restaurant owners across the state. Restaurateurs were encouraged to email questions to communications@lra.org, and our staff was there, ready to answer emails and phone calls to quickly direct people to the help they needed. • Compliance webinars: The LRA hosted webinars with state and local government officials, industry stakeholders, and outside experts to help restaurants navigate the new rules governing the early shutdowns, paid sick leave, federal legislation, re-opening, unemployment fraud, navigating the RRF process and more. • Compliance resources: The LRA created resource hubs on our website so operators had easy access to all relevant information, including a COVID-19 Resources page and a Restaurant Reopening Resources page, which we continue to update with compliance information and webinar recordings.

Louisiana Restaurant Association | a la carte | Summer 2021

COVID-19 REPORT

For more than 40 years, Thompson Packers, Inc. has proudly catered to the food service industry. Hotels, restaurants and other institutions have continuously turned to Thompson for their “center-of-the-plate” meat products. They know Thompson has the knowledge and the capability to provide them with the right items to satisfy their customers.

Thompson’s professional yet customized service is like having a personal butcher at your disposal. What’s more, Thompson’s state of the art packaging affords consistency and “just cut” freshness on every item. Let us be your butcher. We’ve got the ideal cuts of beef, veal, lamb and pork — no matter what your needs might be.

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Louisiana Restaurant Association | a la carte | Summer 2021

www.thompack.com

Key Accomplishments 2021 COVID-19 REPORT The LRA’s Advocacy Team advocates on the industry’s behalf at all levels of government. They work tirelessly to keep our elected officials focused on the facts. COVID-19 remains a crisis for our industry, and the road to recovery requires continued support. In addition to supporting the advocacy efforts of the National Restaurant Association (NRA), the LRA works directly with both Louisiana’s U.S. Senators and Representatives on federal legislation, with the goal of securing meaningful financial relief for restaurants, hotels and bars impacted by the pandemic.

KEY FEDERAL ACCOMPLISHMENTS • Paycheck Protection Program (PPP): The LRA partnered with the NRA in the early days of the pandemic to advocate for industry relief on a federal level. Once the PPP was rolled out, the LRA pushed for an extension of the program timeline and a shift in the eligible forgivable expenditures, allowing restaurants to use their loans to cover more overhead costs. We partnered with the NRA once again to secure a second round of loans, and advocated to include non-profit organizations in the funding (including the LRA). • Employee Retention Tax Credit (ERTC) Expansion: We expanded eligibility for this important tax credit so PPP recipients could also benefit, and we fought to increase the ERTC amount to $19,000 per employee. • Restaurant Revitalization Fund (RRF): After a year of working closely with the NRA and other industry partners, we helped secure this significant, industry-specific source of grant funding.

KEY STATE ACCOMPLISHMENTS During the pandemic the LRA Advocacy Team worked successfully through a Legislative Session that was irregular in every way imaginable. There were also two special sessions in 2020, which were in large part guided by the work of the Louisiana Legislative Task Force, of which LRA CEO Shan Harris was a member. In preparation of the two special sessions, one out of which the Main Street Grant Program to support Louisiana’s small businesses was born, the LRA worked with its members to testify before the Task Force on how the legislative process could better support the industry. Senate Bill 508, by Senator Patrick McMath and Representative Rick Edmonds, was signed into law as Act 305. This law provides a restaurant owner or operator protection from a guest alleging they contracted COVID-19 by using this business. It does not contain any protection for an employer from an employee claim that may be subject to workers’ comp. Its term aligns with the first through any further executive orders specific to COVID-19. House Bill 826, by Representative Thomas Pressly, was signed into law as Act 336. This provides additional liability protection and additionally indemnifies businesses, government agencies, trade show organizers and event planners for civil damages for injuries or death from COVID-19 unless they can prove the high legal standard of “gross negligence or willful misconduct.” The state has indicated that adhering to OpenSafelyla.gov guidelines complies. Kitchen Cabinet New Orleans The LRA has supported the Restaurant Advocacy Fund (RAF) for many years, recognizing it as the main source of funding to promote and defend our industry at the state and local levels. Throughout the pandemic, advocacy at the local level, particularly in the New Orleans (a major tourism hub), resulted in the LRA being awarded an RAF grant allowing us to expand upon our reach and messaging. With COVID-19 still top of mind for the city’s leadership, this funding will aid in our efforts to address the myriad of issues that continue to emerge as the city looks toward recovery.

Louisiana Restaurant Association | a la carte | Summer 2021

COVID-19 REPORT

Member Engagement & Outreach 2021 COVID-19 REPORT At the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, the LRA launched a robust communication program to provide straightforward, real-time updates to the entire industry and the media. Since those first critical weeks of the crisis, we have become the central hub of information for the state’s restaurants, hotels and bars industry.

Website

C VID-19 RESOURCES FOR RESTAURANTS

At the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, the LRA converted its website into the COVID-19 Resource Center—making the information accessible at no charge to the industry. This included state and local public health emergency orders; signage, recommendations, and up-to-the-minute news impacting restaurants. More recently, COVID-19 has moved to its own section within the website; however, the LRA continues to promote vaccinations, RRF application FAQs and any timely news on its home page regardless of its connection to COVID-19.

Email Historically, Snapshot is a weekly e-newsletter highlighting industry and public policy news impacting restaurant and foodservice operations. During the course of the pandemic, our messaging to membership increased to twice, if not more, per week, and the newsletter became the go-to resource for members for all things COVID-19. This twice weekly correspondence provided guidance on navigating the various government declarations, funding assistance, vaccination information, employee guidance, health and sanitation protocols, etc. We continue to send news, timely resources, compliance information and other pertinent developments, but our frequency has scaled back to coincide with the transition back to pre-pandemic norms.

Podcast In light of the unprecedented times, the LRA released a special edition podcast series called “Conversations in the COVID Crisis.” In the interviews, we spoke with LRA members, restaurant professionals, suppliers and everything in between on how to learn to make the implications of the pandemic our “new normal.” We examined the highs and lows, the unintended consequences, and just how lucky Louisiana is to be home to countless distilleries. The podcast was available on the LRA website and popular streaming platforms including iTunes, Spotify, Android and Apple podcasts.

Social Media We continue to share pertinent updates via Facebook and Twitter, and have used the @larestassoc Instagram account to showcase dining across the state, reinforcing the message that supporting local restaurants and hospitality workers is safe, fun and important for the future of our communities.

Data In partnership with the National Restaurant Association, the LRA issued seven industry-focused surveys throughout the pandemic to solicit regular feedback on the state of the industry, to support our advocacy efforts, and to better inform the public and the media of the realities the industry is facing. This surveys have been critical to our success. Responding to these surveys is one of the most important things you can do to influence policy in this era.

Media We had a near-daily presence in the media at the beginning of the pandemic and continue to be a regular source for all major press outlets in the state. We field an increasing number of requests for comments from restaurants, connecting reporters with members to share their stories and increase public awareness.

Key themes: • Capacity and distancing requirements • Impact survey results • Industry recovery • Hiring challenges Louisiana Restaurant Association | a la carte | Summer 2021

COVID-19 REPORT

27 5

Member Engagement & Outreach 2021 COVID-19 REPORT Presents:

Sponsored:

LRA Live! A Recovery Marketing Virtual Event

LIVE!

In a time when restaurateurs were seeking solutions to challenges never before imagined, the LRA was constantly striving to provide solutions and information to improve processes, professionalism and profitability within the our industry. With that as our motivation, LRA Live! was born – a 2-day recovery marketing event of live, virtual sessions designed to reach restaurateurs, operators, managers and decision makers at a time when it was needed most. LRA Live! included 12 educational sessions, recorded and then made available on-demand on our YouTube channel for members who could not attend live. Sessions included: • Creating Your Restaurant Comeback Strategy with Anne Gannon, Principal CPA, The Largo Group • Engaging Todays’ Workforce with Cultural Intelligence with Gerry Fernandez, Founder & President of Multicultural Foodservice & Hospitality Alliance • How to Build an A-Team in 90 Days with Donald Burns, The Restaurant Coach • How to Read Your Balance Sheet and Profit & Loss Statements with Patrick Gros, Principal, Patrick Gros, Public Account Firm • The Art of Being Indispensable at Work with Bruce Tulgan, Author/Founder & CEO RainmakerThinking, Inc. • Leave me Alone, Addressing Workplace Absences with Michelle Anderson, Partner, Fisher Phillips • What the Election Outcome Means for Restaurants with Sean Kennedy, Executive Vice President, Public Affairs National Restaurant Association

Outreach Lamar Outdoor generously offered to help the LRA promote the restaurant industry at no cost statewide during the pandemic. LRA Communications provided the creative for two separate outdoor advertising campaigns as messaging changed with corresponding restrictions branded “Keep Calm & Carry Out” and “Keep Calm & Dine Out.” Two things in Louisiana that make our state unique is our bountiful seafood industry and our beloved restaurants. The LRA partnered with Louisiana Seafood and Lt. Governor Billy Nungesser’s office for a 2-month statewide multi-media campaign, encouraging Louisianans to enjoy local seafood while eating in their favorite restaurants. The LRA presented Restaurant Week New Orleans in October 2020 as its first promotional program since the onset of the pandemic. Favorable positive case data in Orleans and Jefferson parishes paved the way for this popular event’s return. Many establishments fully embraced the takeout trend and offered a to-go option as part of the 2020 promotion. With restrictions lifted and pent up demand at an all-time high, Restaurant Week 2021 was a huge success. We are all too aware of the staffing challenges that exist for restaurants, hotels and bars right now, so the LRA relaunched its job board in early May of 2020. LouisianaHospitalityJobs.com allows members to post their vacant positions free of charge. Lamar Outdoor again offered its services gratis to promote the job board statewide via outdoor billboards.

Louisiana Restaurant Association | a la carte | Summer 2021

COVID-19 REPORT

Industry At A Glance 2021 COVID-19 REPORT

Louisiana Restaurant Association | a la carte | Summer 2021

COVID-19 REPORT

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by Ashley Counce Accommodating, patient, attentive and most importantly passionate about the restaurant industry – all words to describe a legendary lady, Gloria Batiste, who was recently recognized by the Louisiana Restaurant Association (LRA) as a Restaurant Legend for her 40 years of service. The Restaurant Legends Program recognizes the long-term dedication of employees who make up the backbone of our industry. For the majority of her career, Batiste made her living serving the members at the Alexandria Golf and Country Club, 36 years to be exact. An impressive anecdote, during her time there, she knew all 523 members by name. There, Batiste began as a waitress and worked her way up to supervisor of service. Batiste’s former employer, Lou Richards, manager of Alexandria Golf and Country Club, described Batiste as “the most accommodating employee I’ve ever known in 40 years of work.” This isn’t the first time Batiste has been recognized for her dedication to the industry. Back in 1998, she was nominated by the LRA and selected by the state Tourism Development Commission as Louisiana Restaurant Employee of the Year (TOC). Current employer, Scott Laliberte of Hotel Bentley and The Diamond Grill, describes Batiste or “Glo” as, “truly one of the best in our industry! She greets our guests and fellow employees every day with a bright welcoming smile and has done so for over 30 years. Every day with Miss Gloria is a delight and I am extraordinarily thankful she is part of our team! I cannot think of anyone I have worked with that is more deserving of The Louisiana Restaurant Association Legends Award.” Since the program’s inception in 2006, more than 200 individuals in our state have been recognized by the LRA. Collectively, these industry professionals have more than 6,000 years of service to Louisiana restaurants and its suppliers.

To nominate your legend, email Miller Ezell at mezell@lra.org.

Louisiana Restaurant Restaurant Association Association || aa la la carte carte || Summer Summer 2021 2021 Louisiana

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Louisiana Restaurant Association | a la carte | Summer 2021

Guy Fieri Surprises New Orleanian with NRAEF Funded $25,000 Scholarship University of Holy Cross student Jamie Warrick knew she was a finalist for a $25,000, but when food television personality Guy Fieri delivered the news she had won, Warrick was shocked silent. The surreal moment transpired during Fieri’s television show, “Guy’s Restaurant Reboot.” Warrick, a single mom fighting to succeed in the local food industry, was featured on a segment called “Help Rebuild Restaurants Grant.” The event, which was livestreamed on June 12, distributed previously raised funds in partnership with the National Restaurant Association Education Foundation (NRAEF) to 11 restaurants and individuals who are in school to further their foodservice education.

prestigious annual award named for former LRA President and CEO who guided the creation of the LRAEF during his 30 years with the organization. Prior to this year’s award, Warrick was additionally named an LRAEF Scholar in 2020. Warrick was furloughed from her job in 2020, because of the pandemic. She was struggling to pay for school while caring for her 3-year-old son Jaxon, so this $25,000 scholarship will help her continue her pursuit of knowledge to grow in her career. Her goal is to launch a business incubator that helps minorities and women develop food products and startup companies. With this grant, she can make that a reality.

Warrick, a first-generation college student, is a senior studying culinology at the University of Holy Cross.

“Jamie is one of those students who is always willing to participate and always willing to learn. She’s very motivated to be a success. And I think that is the reason she received the scholarship.” - Darryl Holliday, a professor in the University of Holy Cross’ Food Service Program

This isn’t the first time Warrick has been acknowledged for her hard work. If the name sounds familiar, it’s because she was also this year’s recipient of the Jim Funk Scholarship, the LRA Education Foundation’s most

LRAEF Apprenticeship Program: Why You Should Take Advantage When Darren Darby, a U.S. Navy veteran and owner of Creole Bagelry & Café in Slidell, learned of the LRA’s Restaurant Youth Registered Apprenticeship program, he knew it would be a good fit for his business. Darby spent most of his early career in workforce development with the military and is familiar with the importance of offering opportunities for his employees to grow internally. Liliana Felton, a 4-year employee of Creole Bagelry, began as a dishwasher, and is currently working her way through the ranks to manager through the registered apprenticeship program. A registered apprenticeship is an employee driven training model that combines on-the-job training with job-related instruction. This “earn and learn” approach helps workers start new careers and helps businesses recruit and retain a highly-skilled workforce. The value add of this program is immeasurable,” explained LRA President and CEO Stan Harris. “Not only are you able to generate excitement amongst your employee base, but it’s also a self-check for your training

program. It’s mapped by industry experts, and they identify where you may have some deficiencies or where you are meeting or exceeding the standards.” “Unfortunately, the restaurant industry is known for being a transient one, and dispelling that rumor and legitimizing our industry is the real win of this program,” said Harris. Learn more about the RYRA program at https://www.lra.org/apprenticeship

Louisiana Restaurant Association | a la carte | Summer 2021

Hospitality Employers Are you looking for qualified candidates in the hospitality industry?

www.LouisianaHospitalityJobs.com attracts the top talent looking for new positions.

Louisiana Restaurant Association | a la carte | Summer 2021

FIRST AID July

MAKE TIME for Safety

First aid is basic medical care for minor injuries or emergency care for

MORE SERIOUS INJURIES OR ILLNESSES before advanced medical treatment can be provided.

Maintain First Aid supplies

A fully-stocked first aid kit should always be readily available and accessible.

Use Personal protective equipment Protect yourself when administering first aid to others by using gloves, safety glasses, aprons, etc...

Control bleeding with pressure

Treat bleeding by placing a clean cloth and applying pressure with the palm of your hand and elevating the wound above the heart until bleeding slows and/or stops.

Perform abdominal thrusts for choking

If a person is unable to cough, speak or breathe due to choking, stand behind them and place both hands around their midsection locating their navel. Make a fist with one hand and place your thumb side on the stomach just above their navel. Place your other hand over your fist hand and press into the their stomach with quick upward thrusts until the object is dislodged or the victim begins to cough, speak or breathe.

Cool burns with water

Run cool water over a burn for a minimum of 15 minutes. Do not apply soap, butter or oil. If the victim’s clothing is stuck to the burn, do not attempt to remove it.

Treating heat exhaustion or stroke

Move the victim to a cool area to rest. Remove any unnecessary clothing and fan the victim. Give small sips of cool water and mist or apply wet rags to his/her body. For heat stroke, pour cool water over the victim or place them in a bath with cool water. LRASIF offers certified First Aid, CPR and AED training to members. Please contact our Loss Prevention Department for more information.

To ensure that professional medical treatment arrives as soon as possible, call emergency personnel immediately after being made aware of a serious injury or illness. Every second counts!

(800) 256-4572 | (504) 454-2277 | lossprevention@lra.org Louisiana Restaurant Association | a la carte | Summer 2021

WE’RE YOUR BEST CHOICE FOR WORKERS’ COMP • your best lra benefit • best-in-class customer service • complimentary safety consulting • local claims handling • competitive rates & dividend potential For a quote, contact us at (504) 454-2277 or lrasifquote@lra.org. Louisiana Restaurant Association | a la carte | Summer 2021

Dear LRA Showcase Attendees, The 2021 LRA Showcase (formerly EXPO) is back after a year hiatus due to the pandemic. This year also marks the 75th anniversary of the Louisiana Restaurant Association, and I look forward to toasting the association’s service to the industry at the Showcase Opening Ceremony on Saturday, August 7 at 9:45 a.m. After all we’ve been through, being back in the Convention Center with everyone under one roof is going to be a reunion like none other. For two days, you’ll learn about the latest trends in food and beverage products, technology and services, to inspire and capture your imagination as you evolve your business. Be sure to walk the floor, meet some new faces, catch up with old friends and make the most of your weekend. More than 30 new exhibitors are joining us this year, and the Louisiana Department of Agriculture is back with a collection of emerging companies in its Certified Louisiana products program. Stop by the Kitchen Counter, sponsored by Republic National Distributing Company and located on Aisle 200, for an exciting lineup of express presentations designed to aid restaurateurs and foodservice managers with some of today’s most pressing industry challenges. You’ll hear from experts and leaders on best practices to attract, train and retain staff, how to raise menu costs, emerging technology, techniques to improve your efficiency and tips to increase your profitability. Listen for the sirens indicating the kickoff of the annual Great American Seafood Cook-Off on Saturday, complete with a parade, because hey, it’s New Orleans. Chefs from across the nation will compete for the title of King or Queen of American Seafood with LRA member Robert Vasquez of Pepe’s Sonoran Cuisine in Covington representing Louisiana. Vasquez secured his title in the 2020 virtual Louisiana Seafood Cook-Off with a fresh-caught red snapper and blue crab dish. Be sure to stop by and cheer on Chef Vasquez in his quest for the national title on Saturday between noon and 4:30 p.m. Above all, let’s get back together and have some fun during the #LRAShowcase21! Sincerely,

Bill Clark General Manager Galatoire’s Restaurant, Galatoire’s 33 Bar & Steak 2021 LRA Showcase Chairman

2021 National Restaurant Association Chair Brian Casey Brian Casey is the President/Owner of the Oak Hill Tavern and the Company Picnic Company, both based in North Kingstown, Rhode Island. He is a 35-year veteran of the hospitality industry and has deep roots within his local community. Casey is a two-term past chairman of the Rhode Island Hospitality Association. In 2008, he was named its Caterer of the Year. In 2013, he was named Restauranteur of the Year. He is a lifelong resident of Rhode Island and has a Bachelor of Science degree in political science from Rhode Island College.

Louisiana Restaurant Association | a la carte | Summer 2021

A world of culinary expression meets the ultimate ingredient – Louisiana Seafood Meet Robert Vasquez, King of Louisiana Seafood

Robert Vasquez first fell in love with ingredients and recipe development in his mother’s kitchen. She was his first culinary instructor and also his first real boss when he began his career as a dishwasher in his family’s restaurant – where his mother was the chef. The flavor profiles he learned under her tutelage remain influential in his cuisine to this day. From the ingredients and techniques of the Southwest kitchen, Chef Vasquez moved on to become a saucier in a French fine dining setting. He continued to collect skills from Spain, Mexico, Bermuda, California, China, Singapore and finally, Louisiana. Whether it was Chef Cary Neff (his mentor from the last 30 years), Master German Chef Peter Schaumberg, Swiss Master Chef Otto Weible, or Mr. Bill, the prep cook, Vasquez absorbed and learned from every interaction. Vasquez’s culinary curiosity also led him to spend some time in the retail side of the food industry. As a member of Whole Foods’ leadership team, he developed recipes, created retail display and food programs, and assisted in the setup and opening of new stores across the region. During that time, Vasquez was able to gain a unique education in organic, healthy products and to develop a deep understanding of the production and processing of meat and cheese, as well as sourcing produce. Today, Vasquez draws on his vast restaurant, catering and retail experience to bring a fresh culinary experience to the Louisiana Northshore at Pepe’s Sonoran Cuisine in Covington. The reason he has so much love and respect for Louisiana seafood is the simplicity and variety of offerings. “An ingredient like blue crab or fresh-caught red snapper does not need to be hidden in a complex recipe: it’s all about the possibility in the ingredients and the passion in the chef,” he shared. Vasquez won the title of King of Louisiana Seafood in the 2020 Virtual Louisiana Seafood Cook-Off. His reign was extended due to the restrictions of the pandemic and he will represent Louisiana in the Great American Seafood CookOff, Saturday, August 7 at the LRA Showcase.

Louisiana Restaurant Association | a la carte | Summer 2021

SATURDAY, AUGUST 7 9:45 A.M.

SHOWCASE OPENING CEREMONY HALL I LOBBY

10 A.M.

EXHIBIT HALL OPENS

11 - 11:45 A.M.

BUILDING A CULTURE THAT ATTRACTS & RETAINS TALENT KITCHEN COUNTER, AISLE 200

11:30 A.M.

GREAT AMERICAN SEAFOOD COOK-OFF PARADE KICKS OFF

NOON

GREAT AMERICAN SEAFOOD COOKING STARTS HALL J

12:30 - 1 P.M.

DIGITIZING YOUR BACK OFFICE DOES MORE THAN CLEAR YOUR DESK KITCHEN COUNTER, AISLE 200

1:30 – 2:15 P.M.

UPWARD MOBILITY & APPRENTICESHIPS: THE WIN/WIN FOR RESTAURANT MANAGERS AND STAFF KITCHEN COUNTER, AISLE 200

2:30 – 3:15 P.M.

WHAT TO DO BEFORE YOU INCREASE MENU PRICES KITCHEN COUNTER, AISLE 200

3:45 P.M.

GREAT AMERICAN SEAFOOD COOK-OFF KING/QUEEN IS CROWNED

3:45 – 4:15 P.M.

EAT FIT INNOVATIONS: 5 MISTAKES YOU’RE MAKING WITH YOUR “HEALTHY ITEMS” KITCHEN COUNTER, AISLE 200

5 P.M.

EXHIBIT HALL CLOSES

SUNDAY, AUGUST 8 10 A.M.

EXHIBIT HALL OPENS

11 – 11:45 A.M.

SUPPLY CHAIN SOLUTIONS & CREATIVE WAYS TO IMPROVE OPERATIONS KITCHEN COUNTER, AISLE 200

12:30 – 1:15 P.M.

TAKE ADVANTAGE OF GRANTS THAT FUND TRAINING WAGES & APPRENTICE EDUCATION KITCHEN COUNTER, AISLE 200

1:30 – 2:15 P.M.

WHAT MAKES SPECIALTY COFFEE SPECIAL KITCHEN COUNTER, AISLE 200

2:30 – 3 P.M.

WHY YOU MUST BECOME AN EMPLOYER OF CHOICE KITCHEN COUNTER, AISLE 200

3:30 – 4:15 P.M.

THE 411 ON THE EMPLOYEE RETENTION TAX CREDIT (ERTC) KITCHEN COUNTER, AISLE 200

5 P.M.

EXHIBIT HALL CLOSES Louisiana Restaurant Association | a la carte | Summer 2021

2021 SPONSORS

“Thanks to what I learned from the program, we’ve done more business in the last six months than in the last three years.” – Angelica, Owner Colmex Construction

YOU BUILT YOUR BUSINESS. WE’LL HELP YOU GROW IT. Angelica knew she wanted to grow her construction business but didn’t know how. Through the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses program, she gained practical business skills that she immediately put into action. Together with the advice and support of business experts and like-minded small business owners, Angelica nearly doubled the size of her construction business. And she is not alone; over half our participants increased their revenue after graduation. If accepted to the program, you too will gain access to a world-class business education and connections to a professional support network at no cost to you.

Take your business to the next level. Learn more about10,000 Small Businessesin Greater New Orleans at 10KSB apply.com

THANK YOU! Louisiana Restaurant Association | a la carte | Summer 2021

AS OF JULY 20, 2021 A La Carte Foods Properties, LLC 278 Ideal Street Belle Rose, LA 70341 Phone: 985-369-2677 www.ALCFP.com Food Manufacturer

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Auto-Chlor System LLC 500 Dakin Street Jefferson, LA 70121 Phone: 504-219-2140 www.autochlorservices.com

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A family of service companies with complete dishwashing, warewashing, laundry, housekeeping and sanitation programs. Abita Brewing Company P.O. Box 1510 Abita Spring, LA 70420 Phone: 985-893-3143 www.abita.com

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Acadian Kitchens LLC/Southern Seasonings 206 Burgess Drive Broussard, LA 70518 Phone: 479-282-9284 www.AcadianKitchens.com

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Accounting Services Unlimited 3939 N. Causeway, Suite 301 Metairie, LA 70002 Phone: 504-417-1683 www.asu-llc.com

Baumer Foods Inc. (Crystal) 2424 Edenborn Ave, Suite 510 Metairie, LA 70001 Phone: 504-483-1473 www.baumerfoods.com

Manufacturer of pure, natural cayenne pepper sauces, buffalo wing sauces, steak sauce, liquid smoke marinades and Worcestershire.

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Bookkeeping/accounting/tax prep/tax resolution/payables systems/ QuickBooks. ASU is your one-stop shop for all your monthly and annual data entry, bookkeeping, and tax preparation needs. Angelica Manufacturing LLC 5115 Iberville Street Saint Gabriel, LA 70776 Phone: 225-319-7361 www.angelicafoods.com

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Let our team at Angelica help build and grow your business. We specialize in custom blends of dips, marinades, sauces, soups, bases and much more. Whether you choose from a variety of products we currently package or have your own recipe. We scale smaller recipes into large production and ensure you consistency across the board. Our facility accommodates a variety of packaging options for both food service and retail. Please come visit us at our booth to see how we can help. Aphrodite Divine Confections 2677 Forest Lane Garland TX 75042 Phone: 972-485-1005 www.aphroditedesserts.com

Bayou Teche Brewing P.O. Box 414 Arnaudville, LA 70512 Phone: 337-754-5122 www.bayoutechebrewing.com

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Ben E. Keith Foods 1 Ben E. Keith Way Missouri City, TX 77489 Phone: 832-652-5888 www.benekeith.com

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Ben E. Keith Foods is full broad line distributor that supplies restaurants, schools and other institutional businesses. Bocks Board 37333 Mill Park Avenue Gonzales, LA 70737 Phone: 225-677-8859 www.singleface.biz

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Bonnecaze Farms, LLC 11441 Cedar Park Avenue Baton Rouge, LA 70809 Phone: 225-756-5046 www.bonnecazefarms.com

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For over 25 years, our delightful assortment of confections has made our name synonymous with delicious. We are a wholesale, gourmet, frozen dessert manufacturing company specializing in the creation of “place & bake” and “thaw & serve” dessert options. We proudly use the highest quality ingredients, and all of our trans-fat-free products are made without any additives or preservatives. We invite you to find out for yourself why we rank superior with our customers.

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Bonnecaze Farms is owned and operated by Ronny Bonnecaze. The company was established many years ago by Ronny’s father, Tom Bonnecaze, known fondly as Papa Tom. Papa Tom started the business as a hobby to fill spare time after retirement. However, his products were so sought after that the business soon became full time. Ronny strives to maintain the same principles, hard work, and dedication that Papa Tom exhibited in every aspect of his life and his business.

Louisiana Restaurant Association | a la carte | Summer 2021

DOWNLOAD THE 2021 LRA SHOWCASE APP! Have all the LRA SHOWCASE details in the palm of your hand!

• Event Notifications • Exhibitor Directory • Interactive Floorplan • Speaker Schedule AND MUCH MORE! • Planner Feature

Louisiana Restaurant Association | a la carte | Summer 2021

Borden Dairy 1308 Bertrand Drive Lafayette, LA 70506 Phone: 225-281-9700 www.bordendairy.com

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Borden Dairy serves every channel of food and beverage. Brandon Company 401 N Vine Street Little Rock, AR 72114 Phone: 501-733-9327 www.brandonco.com

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Brandon Company is a family-owned flooring distributor. We have five branches in Little Rock, Memphis, Nashville, Baton Rouge, and Jackson, MS, but we cover much more. From restaurants, hotels, hospitals, sports flooring or residential - we have you completely covered. We work closely with dealers in your area to train and offer guidance in installation. We would love to help you to find exactly what you want for your space, whether it be at the show or we can come to you! Buffalo South Sauce 1490 Athis Street New Orleans, LA 70122 Phone: 225-266-5493 www.buffalosouthsauce.com

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Caire Hotel and Restaurant Supply Inc. 4815 Conti Street New Orleans, LA 70119 Phone: 504-482-0294 www.cairesupply.com

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Capitol City Produce 16550 Commercial Avenue Baton Rouge, LA 70816 Phone: 225-288-0390 www.capitolcityproduce.com

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Capitol City Produce has been rooted in time-honored local family business values since 1947. While we are focused on being progressive, relevant, forward-thinking and innovative, for both our customers’ and our team’s best interests, we remain tethered to our core values passed down by our founder, Vince Ferachi. It’s that determined focus on the future combined with values from our past that makes Capitol City Produce a unique fourth generation business with the spirit of a startup. Cater 2 Cater 7961 Jefferson Highway New Orleans, LA 70123 Phone: 504-738-3429 www.cater2cater.com

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Cater 2 Cater features beautifully polished aluminum trays, bowls and servers in an assortment of designs and sizes used to create unique table top foodservice presentations. We also offer wrought iron display stands/risers in round, square, triangle and oblong shapes, in four different heights, used to elevate the serving pieces which helps to fulfill your desired catering needs by saving table top space. Certified Louisiana Program / Louisiana Department of Ag & Forestry 5825 Florida Blvd, Suite 1002 Baton Rouge, LA 70806 Phone: 225-922-2903 certifiedlouisiana.org

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Caire Supply provides restaurants and hotels across New Orleans and the surrounding areas with prompt service, over 30 years of experience and the largest selection. We are proud members of Supply & Equipment Foodservice Alliance, a nationwide network of leading supply and equipment dealers and manufacturers. This partnership allows Caire Hotel and Restaurant Supply to give its customers the absolute best prices on highest quality products. Buy local and reduce your carbon footprint!

The Certified Louisiana, Certified Cajun, and Certified Creole Logo Program serves to brand and promote Louisiana and its agricultural communities. This program puts Louisiana companies at an advantage when consumers see a Certified Louisiana product on the shelves. It brings a sense of awareness to buyers that their food has not traveled thousands of miles. The program aids in marketing these products for farmers, processors, producers, and suppliers to consumers.

Cajun Nation Cajun Seasoning 232 Ivory Street Lafayette, LA 70506 Phone: 504-609-9226 www.cajun-nation.com

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Cloteals P.O. Box 3 Lena, LA 71447 Phone: 318-277-1820 www.cloteals.com

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Cajun Smoke 116 Wanda Street Luling, LA 70070 Phone: 504-234-5410 www.cajunsmokeseasoning.com

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Coca-Cola Bottling Co., United 5601 Citrus Boulevard Harahan, LA 70123 Phone: 504-818-7000 www.cocacolaunited.com

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Camellia Brand 5401 Toler Street Harahan, LA 70123 Phone: 318-372-0825 camelliabrand.com

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Camellia Brand – the premier bean. Full line of dried beans, peas, lentils, soups, dinner mixes and side dishes. For over 90 years, we have cultivated relationships with farmers to produce the most delicious, flavorful beans with an unwavering commitment to quality. The Camellia Brand is passionately dedicated to bringing you fresh, natural, and healthy products generations have come to rely on. Exceed your customers’ expectations by serving the authentic tradition of Camellia Brand beans.

Coca-Cola Bottling Co., United, a non-alcoholic beverage and equipment distributor. Community Coffee 3332 Partridge Lane, Bldg. A Baton Rouge, LA 70809 Phone: 225-368-4100 www.communitycoffee.com

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Community Coffee Company is a Louisiana importer, roaster and distributor of premium coffees and teas. Responding to our customers’ needs has always been our top priority. With teams dedicated to serving the food service industry, our goal is to help you grow your coffee and iced tea beverage sales. We are committed to exceeding your expectations, while building a long-term business partnership. Family owned and operated since 1919, we invite you to “Taste the Difference Family Makes (TM).”

Louisiana Restaurant Association | a la carte | Summer 2021

Community Coffee Trolley 3332 Partridge Lane, Bldg. A Baton Rouge, LA 70809 Phone: 225-368-4248 www.communitycoffee.com

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Family owned and operated for four generations, we’ve remained steadfast in our commitment to crafting the world’s best-tasting coffee. Always 100% Arabica, our commitment to quality includes roasting only the top 10% of the world’s coffee beans. The Community® brand name is your assurance that you will always serve a delicious cup of coffee to complement your delicious cuisine. Computer World Inc. / Aloha POS 504 Highway 93 North Scott, LA 70583 Phone: 337-234-3071 www.computerworldinc.net

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Computer World has been providing comprehensive end-to-end Point of Sale solutions for more than 40 years. We are proven experts in POS sales and service, providing everything from the highest quality software and hardware to programming, installation, training and reliable 24/7 support services. We are here to help our customers solve problems, increase productivity and save costs through these effective NCR Aloha solutions. Consolidated Concepts 307 Waverley Oaks Road, Suite 401 Waltham MA 02452 Phone: 561-779-9079 consolidatedconcepts.net/

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Cool-A-Zone 5310 Glenmont Drive. Houston, TX 77081 Phone: 832-315-1181 www.coolazone.com

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Cool-A-Zone is a family owned and operated business. From the beginning, we sought to redesign evaporative cooling fans to be less noisy and to be “better to look at.” The CoolBox provides solutions to cool the air where air conditioning is impossible or impractical. In 2011, we added an infrared heater to our product line, called it the “SunSpot.” The SunSpot heats up immediately a range of 15 feet, is IP-65 certified, along with three heat settings. Stop by and check out our full product line. Cowboy’s Mop Washer 3222 El Dorado Boulevard Missouri City, TX 77459 Phone: 832-600-7420 www.mopwasher.com

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The Mop Washer circulates clean water to flush away dirt and provides a more sanitary cleaning, keeping your mops smelling better, helping them last longer, and reducing the time and costs of laundry. Creole Soul 481 Princeton Road Princeton, LA 71067 Phone: 484-557-2133 www.eatcreolesoul2008.com

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Crescent Business Machines 106 Metairie Lawn Drive, Suite 100 Metairie, LA 70001 Phone: 504-831-3751 www.crescentpos.net

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PROUD & DELICIOUS SPONSOR Over 60 Louisiana locations.

Crescent Business Machines, locally owned, sells and services pointof-sale equipment. Serving New Orleans since 1894.

Find your next job at www.RaisingCanesJobs.com

Louisiana Restaurant Association | a la carte | Summer 2021

Custom Apparel 2617-B Edenborn Avenue Metairie, LA 70002 Phone: 504-885-3488 www.customapparelnola.com

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Custom Apparel provides top quality, affordable apparel for food service operators on the Gulf Coast. We stock 100 items for front and back of the house. In-house embroidery and screen printing available. D.U.O. XeroStraw, a Division of Protex Medical Products, Inc. P.O. Box 2172 West Monroe, LA 71294 Phone: 318-324-1155 www.duolids.com Decatur Espresso 905 South Al Davis Road Harahan, LA 70123 Phone: 504-733-9881 www.decaturespresso.com

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DHS Marketing, Inc. 1 Monte Carlo Drive Kenner, LA 70065 Phone: 504-465-0209 dhsmarketing.com

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DiningEdge 9147 Rutledge Avenue Boca Raton, FL 33434 Phone: 561-901-2324 www.diningedge.com

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Complete restaurant software solution - rebate management.

Decatur Espresso is entering its 23rd year as New Orleans’ premiere espresso company. We proudly distribute Big Train Drink Mixes, Lavazza Premium Coffees and espresso and Torani syrups and sauces. Decatur Espresso also provides sales and service for all coffee, espresso and tea equipment. We have built many solid relationships with the manufacturers of these products. Our service team strives to complete all calls within 24 hours. We offer preventative maintenance plans on most equipment. Deep South Blenders, Inc. 720 Saint George Avenue Jefferson, LA 70121 Phone: 504-733-3751 deepsouthblenders.com

Deep South Blenders is the oldest, family-owned spice company in New Orleans. Come visit us at the LRA Showcase and take advantage of a half-century of blending experience. We’ll custom blend your item in batches ranging from 100 to 3,500 pounds, and we offer a variety of packaging options; all while adhering to the strictest quality control standards. Deep South Blenders also manufactures the Cajun Land brand of seafood boils, seasonings, and entrée mixes found at grocers throughout the Gulf Coast.

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Dip Me 1232 Magazine Street New Orleans, LA 70130 Phone: 504-292-8781 www.dipmesnacks.com

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Earthborn Studios, Inc. 7575 Parkway Drive Leeds, AL 35094 Phone: 205-702-7055 www.earthbornpottery.net

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Crispy Coatings with a Southern Flair Krispy Mixes is a dry food blending manufacturer that produces the best Southern and Cajun style breadings, seasonings and coatings for fried foods served throughout the nation. Stop by booth #300 to try some delicious fried chicken, fish and shrimp.

800-992-7601

www.KrispyMixes.com

Ask about our C-store branded programs and custom blends.

Louisiana Restaurant Association | a la carte | Summer 2021

Ecolab Inc. 1100 Poydras Street, Suite 2650 New Orleans, LA 70163 Phone: 800-352-5326 www.ecolab.com

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Ecolab is a trusted partner at more than one million customer locations. Ecolab delivers comprehensive solutions and on-site service to promote safe food, maintain clean environments, optimize water and energy use and improve operational efficiencies for customers in the food, healthcare, energy, hospitality and industrial markets in more than 170 countries around the world. El Matador Foods Inc. 7201 Bayway Drive Baytown, TX 77520 Phone: 281-424-4555 www.elmatadorfoods.com

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Elite Beverage Solutions is a veteran-owned and operated business. We specialize in draft beer and soda installation. We offer custom towers to meet the customers’ vision, custom keg racks built to maximize storage in the cooler, service and preventative maintenance programs. Enviropath Consultants 1421 Coursey Boulevard, Suite A-12 #344 Baton Rouge, LA 70817 Phone: 225-313-1913 Enviropath.world FSMA Produce Safety

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Established in 2014 in Hammond, Louisiana by Zac and Cari Caramonta, Southeastern Louisiana University alumni. Locally owned and operated, brewing several styles of high quality craft beer. Gnarly Barley has been recognized by the Brewers Association 50 Fastest Growing Craft Breweries in America two years running and was recipient of the Louisiana Lantern Award for demonstrating excellence in manufacturing and community service. Certified Louisiana Craft Beverage | Certified Independent Craft Brewer by BA.

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In 1989, El Matador Foods was established and began selling tortilla products. We manufacture the highest quality tortilla products using only the best ingredients to deliver a product to fit the satisfaction of our customers. We are always looking for new business opportunities in a constantly changing marketplace as we strive to increase our sales, servicing only the best establishments of fine distinction. We comply with AIB, GMP, and HACCP programs in place. Elite Beverage Solutions Inc. 1088 Roberts Lane Wesson, MS 39191 Phone: 601-757-7862 www.elitebeveragesolutions.net

Gnarly Barley Brewing 1709 Corbin Road Hammond, LA 70403 Phone: 985-318-0723 www.gnarlybeer.com

Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses 615 City Park Avenue, Building 2, Room 222 New Orleans, LA 70119 Phone: 504-671-5555 www.dcc.edu/10ksb

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Practical business management education program that gives entrepreneurs valuable skills for growing their business, the opportunity to access financial capital, powerful networking opportunities and more. Funded by the Goldman Sachs Foundation, this program gives business owners the ability to participate at no cost. Gourment Fournet 3520 Metairie Heights Avenue Metairie, LA 70002 Phone: 504-756-6142 www.gourmetfournet.com

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Grapette International 1852 Industrial Road Malvern, AR 72104 Phone: 501-337-040 grapette.com

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Great Raft Brewing 1251 Dalzell Street Shreveport, LA 71103 Phone: 318-734-9881 www.greatraftbrewing.com

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Great Southern Industries, Inc. 5725 G Street New Orleans, LA 70123 Phone: 504-628-3229 www.gsibox.com

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Louisiana Department of Ag & Forestry 826 5825 Florida Boulevard., Suite 4003 Baton Rouge, LA 70806 Phone: 225-935-2161 www.ldaf.state.la.us/animal-health/food-safety

Manufactures of corrugated shipping boxes and packaging supplies. Proudly serving the U.S. southeast since 1962. Garrison Brothers Distillery 514 W 39th Street Austin TX 78751 Phone: 702-588-1254 www.garrisonbros.com

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Gasket Guy of Louisiana and Mississippi 2076 Third Street Mandeville, LA 70471 Phone: 985-327-7869 www.gasketsonthego.com

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Grover Brothers Equipment Inc. 1500 N. Main Street Hattiesburg MS 39401 Phone: 601-545-3505 www.groverbros.net

Our local refrigeration and warming cabinet gasket company not only strives to service our customers, but to also provide them with a superior gasket that won’t fail the inspection. Don’t let worn gaskets and old hardware cost you money. Call GasketGuy of Louisiana and Mississippi for a complimentary gasket review.

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Restaurant and Convenience Store Equipment. H&H Products Company 6600 Magnolia Homes Road Orlando, FL 32810 Phone: 800-678-8448 HHProductsCompany.com

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H&H Products is a specialty manufacturer of innovative beverage, syrup and ingredient solutions designed to streamline your operations. Our easy to mix beverage concentrates include teas, lemonades, juices, daiquiri mixes and slushes. Florida Key West 4+1 Daiquiri Mix is the perfect for large batch frozen drink machines and daiquiri bars. Betty Jean’s Premium Old Fashioned Lemonades and Teas are crafted with only the best ingredients without the hassle of squeezing lemons or brewing tea.

Louisiana Restaurant Association | a la carte | Summer 2021

Hamco New Orleans 280 Hord Street Harahan, LA 70123 Phone: 504-734-7513 www.hamconola.com

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HAMCO New Orleans carries a full line of POS supplies serving Louisiana and the Mississippi Gulf Coast. We also specialize in custom printing of branded paper products for our customers including takeout bags, napkins, bread bags, cups, coasters and other promotional items. We inventory customer products and offer free delivery in the major markets as well as next day FedEx delivery. Our products are top quality, pricing is very competitive and our service is second to none. Happy Raptor Distilling LLC 1512 Robert C. Blakes SR Drive New Orleans, LA 70130 Phone: 504-654-6516 www.happyraptor.com

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Heartland 3932 S Boulevard Edmond, OK 73013 Phone: 888-963-3600 www.heartland.us

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Heartland creates solutions and connects people for better business moments, through software-driven technology to manage and grow their business. The company serves more than 400,000 businesses nationwide, delivering trusted solutions for payment, payroll, point of sale, customer engagement and lending. Heartland is a leading industry advocate of transparency, merchant rights and security. Heartland is a part of Fortune 500 Global Payments (NYSE: GPN). Learn more at heartland.us Hotel & Restaurant Supply 4315 Industrial Drive Jackson, MS 39209 Phone: 601-352-2004 www.hnrsupply.com

Kirrston’s Kollections 190 Ebony Drive Opelousas, LA 70570 Phone: 337-296-2359 www.kirrstonskollections.com

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Krispy Mixes 6341 Highway 90 W Theodore, AL 36582 www.krispymixes.com

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Landry Vineyards, LLC 5699 New Natchitoches Road West Monroe, LA 71292 Phone: 318-557-9051 www.landryvineyards.com

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Landry Vineyards was established in 1999 in Folsom, Louisiana by Jeff, Libby, and their four sons. The first grape vines planted were two acres of a French-American hybrid wine grape, Blanc Du Bois. They were licensed as a Louisiana Native Winery in 2002. After the devastation of Hurricane Katrina, the Landry’s used the opportunity to relocate to North Louisiana. They reside in the hill country of West Monroe on a 50-acre site with a new winery, vineyards, tasting room, cottages and camper sites. Lighthouse Louisiana 123 State Street New Orleans, LA 70118 Phone: 504-899-4501 www.lighthouselouisiana.org

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Local social benefit organization that manufacturers paper disposables including custom printed paper cups, paper towels and other picnic items. All items provide jobs and services to individuals with disabilities.

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Hotel & Restaurant Supply has been in continuous business since 1953, supplying commercial foodservice equipment, related supplies and contract furniture to the foodservice industry.

Loop Linen Service, Inc. 463 Avenue A Westwego, LA 70094 Phone: 504-341-3401 www.looplinen.com

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Human Interest 655 Montgomery Street, Suite 1800 San Francisco, CA 94111 Phone: 985-502-8424 www.humaninterest.com

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In business since 1929, Loop Linen Service, Inc. is a fourth generation, family-owned company specializing in linen and uniform rental. Also offering facility services programs as well hospitality and direct sale,

HungerRush 1315 W Sam Houston Pkwy N., Suite 100 Houston, TX 77043 Phone: 713-540-4096 revention.com

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Louisiana Creole Pecan Candy 240 Arizona Street Lafayette, LA 70501 Phone: 832-701-4056 louisianacreolecandy.com

HungerRush helps restaurants compete in the toughest business on earth. There are a ton of options, loyalty is hard to get, and preferences are changing fast. Our integrated restaurant management system helps you master operational efficiency, create awesome guest experiences with ease and squeeze customer data for every last drop of insight. All so you can focus on doing what you love: serving great food. JR Simplot Company 6950 General Diaz Street New Orleans, LA 70124 Phone: 504-563-2844 www.simplotfoods.com

We are a Certified Creole Louisiana company that specializes in melt in your mouth pecan candy aka pralines! We also perfected the vegan pecan candy aka praline products that are dairy, gluten, and soy free! Give us a try with our versatile products....you won’t be disappointed. Louisiana Department of Health 628 N. 4th Street Baton Rouge, LA 70821 Phone: 225-342-7547 www.eatsafe.la.gov

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Louisiana Egg Commission 5825 Florida Blvd., Suite 4004 Baton Rouge, LA 70806 Phone: 225-925-3772 www.laeggs.com

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Count on every Simplot Foods brand to deliver the same great flavor and colorful presentations, day in, day out, with minimal labor and waste. So let your creativity reign; we have consistency covered.

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The Louisiana Egg Commission strives to educate consumers of all ages on the nutritional value of eggs and egg products.

Louisiana Restaurant Association | a la carte | Summer 2021

Fisher Phillips A National Labor and Employment Law Firm Serving U.S. Restaurants The attorneys at Fisher Phillips are ready to help you with all of your labor and employment legal issues. We help prevent legal problems by auditing payroll and personnel records to assure compliance with applicable laws, reviewing I-9 forms and procedures to assure compliance before a surprise government inspection, training managers on effective techniques for hiring and firing employees, ADA compliance and avoiding harassment claims. In addition, we draft and review effective employee handbooks and provide day-to-day advice and consultation to hospitality employers on every aspect of labor and employment laws. Fisher Phillips is a national labor and employment law firm representing employers in labor, employment, civil rights, employee benefits, and immigration matters. Our lawyers are joined by more than 400 attorneys in 36 offices and we are continuing to expand. Our range of experience enables us to bring efficient and practical solutions to today’s labor and employment problems.

MICHELLE I. ANDERSON Partner

STEVEN R. CUPP Partner

Labor and Employment Counsel to the Louisiana Restaurant Association. 201 St. Charles Avenue • Suite 3710 • New Orleans, LA 70170 | Phone: (504) 522-3303 • Fax: (504) 529-3850 Atlanta Baltimore Boston Charlotte Chicago Cleveland Columbia Columbus Dallas Denver Detroit Fort Lauderdale Gulfport Houston Irvine Kansas City Las Vegas Los Angeles Louisville Memphis Nashville New Jersey New Orleans New York Orlando Philadelphia Phoenix Pittsburgh Portland Sacramento San Diego San Francisco Seattle Tampa Washington, DC Metro Woodland Hills 47 Louisiana Restaurant Association | a la carte | Summer 2021

fisherphillips.com

Louisiana Fish Fry Products Ltd. 5267 Plank Road Baton Rouge, LA 70805 Phone: 225-317-0261 www.LouisianaFishFry.com

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Louisiana Fish Fry Products is family owned and based in Baton Rouge. Our passion is providing our customers with authentic Cajun cuisine that has great flavor, is easy to use, yet versatile enough to allow customers to make their own unique culinary creations. Our Fish Fry is good enough to be America’s #1 selling brand. Our powdered crawfish, shrimp, and crab boils are loaded with FLAVOR, not salt, and our remoulade sauce is TOPS in New Orleans. Cravin’ Cajun? Call David Dean at (225) 317- 0261 Louisiana Lagniappe Foods 516 Martin Springs Road Lecompte, LA 71346 Phone: 318-459-9340 www.louisianalagniappefoods.com

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Louisiana Lagniappe Foods is a family-owned and operated business located near the historic town of Lecompte. We are a Certified Louisiana company offering a wide variety of fruit jellies, jams, preserves, pepper jellies, wine jellies and no-sugar-added jellies inspired by the wonderful flavors of Louisiana. Our products make wonderful additions to foodservice operations or concierge services. Their unique packaging makes them an excellent choice for boutiques, grocery stores and gift shops. Louisiana Restaurant Association 2700 North Arnoult Road Metairie, LA 70002 Phone: 504-454-2277 www.lra.org

Louisiana Restaurant Association Self Insurer’s Fund 2700 North Arnoult Rd. Metairie, LA 70002 Phone: 504-454-2277 www.lra.org/lra-sif

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Louisiana Travel Association 1165 South Foster Drive Baton Rouge, LA 70806 Phone: 225-346-1857 www.ltpa.org

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Louisiana Travel Association is the state travel trade association leading and strengthening Louisiana’s vibrant travel and tourism industry through advocacy, education and marketing on behalf of our travel and tourism member partners. We do this through networking opportunities, advocacy efforts, discounted cooperative marketing programs, educational training, visitor travel, trade leads and great member benefits.

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Built on the principles set forth by our founder, world-famous Chef Paul Prudhomme, we use only the highest quality ingredients sourced from around the world to create our family of flavorful products. From classic and innovative specialty seasoning blends to rubs, bottled sauces, marinades and smoked meats, all of our carefully crafted products are designed to easily deliver complex flavor. Mahoney Environmental 712 Essington Road Joliet, IL 60435 mahoneyes.com

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MarginEdge 8713 Lee Highway Fairfax, VA 22030 Phone: 202-805-1648 www.marginedge.com

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McCormick / Zatarain’s 82 First Street Gretna, LA 70053 Phone: 504-367-2950 www.mccormickforchefs.com

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The Louisiana Restaurant Association serves its members by advancing and protecting the state’s restaurant and foodservice industry. Through its best-in-class Self Insurer’s Fund for Workers’ Compensation, the ServSafe suite of industry training courses, the LRA Showcase and its nine local chapters, the LRA strives to lead the state’s restaurant and foodservice industry by elevating its prosperity, prominence and participation, enhancing the quality of life for all it serves.

LSU AgCenter Food Innovation Institute 110 LSU Union Square Baton Rouge, LA 70803 Phone: 225-252-7162

Magic Seasoning Blends 720 Distributors Row New Orleans, LA 70123 Phone: 504-731-3500 www.magicseasoningblends.com

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McCormick provides unrivaled solutions to the distinct needs of professional foodservice. No other company brings more sensory science experience, product innovation and flavor expertise to your recipe for success. Our family of products brings you authentic regional and global flavors that add real versatility and value to your menu. McIlhenny Company, TABASCO® Brand Highway 329 Avery Island, LA 70513 Phone: 504-571-7601 TABASCOfoodservice.com

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McIlhenny Company proudly celebrates over 150 years of creating the iconic TABASCO® brand Original Red Sauce—3 simple ingredients and up to 3 years barrel aging, virtually the same way it was made in 1868—still family-owned and operated. Visit TABASCOfoodservice.com for more information or to contact your local sales representative. MDR Sterling 6410 Willow Ridge Circle Gardendale, AL 35071 Phone: 205-706-1887 www.mdrsterling.com Meat and Poultry Inspection Program / Louisiana Department of Ag & Forestry 5825 Florida Blvd., Suite 4003 Baton Rouge, LA 70806 Phone: 225-922-1358 www.ldaf.state.la.us

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If you have questions about how to bring your meat or poultry products to market, we have the answers to help get you started. Meat and Poultry Permitting Inspected Slaughter and Processing Custom Slaughter and Processing Poultry Exemptions Facility Guidelines HACCP and Food Safety Private labeling for Farm to Table/Farmers Markets.

Louisiana Restaurant Association | a la carte | Summer 2021

Merchandise Plus LLC 615 74 Sumter Providence, RI 02907 Phone: 401-499-3494 HiDow.com We give free, 5-minute therapy sessions with our state of the art, FDA 510k cleared medical devices. MMI Culinary 131 23rd Street Kenner, LA 70062 Phone: 504-465-9770 www.mmiculinary.com

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MMI is an SQF Certified Level 3 8.0 food manufacturer specializing in soups, sauces, gravies, marinades, dressings, sides, dips, entrees, and desserts. Molson Coors Beverage Company 1624 6 Concourse Parkway, Suite 2200 Atlanta, GA 30328 Phone: 919-757-3346 MillerCoors invites you to sample some of our newest flavors and offerings. Cheers The Morrison Group 3400 South Kelly Avenue, Suite 100 Edmond OK 73013 Phone: 405-242-5200 ext. 5239 morrisononline.com

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Natalie’s Orchid Island Juice Company 330 North US Highway 1 Fort Pierce, FL 34950 Phone: 678-898-9440 www.oijc.com

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For the last 30 years we have been dedicated to feeding families a source of authentic nutrition. Producing fresh, clean label juice has been a labor of love for our family. Today, we are proudly women-owned and family-driven. We want the quality of our ingredients to shine. That’s why we hand select and source the finest fruits and vegetables available. Our juices are handcrafted in small batches to ensure authentic freshness. Natchitoches Meat Pie Company P.O. Box 590 Coushatta, LA 71019 Phone: 985-870-2997 www.natchitochesmeatpies.com

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Over the last 110+ years, NCCO has developed and produced products that drive success for the foodservice industry. When everything adds up, NCCO’s relationship with the restaurant industry has proven the most important for success. Our products reach millions of people every single day as they sit down to eat with friends, family and coworkers. We nod gratefully to those who have tirelessly worked hard for our current success and look forward to the future as our company continues to grow. New Orleans Ice Cream 1000 Bourbon Street, #335 New Orleans, LA 70116 Phone: 504-329-2814 www.neworleansicecream.com

1401

Ultra-premium New Orleans ice cream. New Orleans Roast 2700 N. Peters New Orleans, LA 70117 Phone: 985-792-5776 www.neworleansroast.com

819

New Orleans Roast is an importer, roaster and distributor of the highest quality premium coffees and teas. We serve customers in the retail, foodservice, office and convenience store channels, reaching customers throughout the South via direct store distribution and nationally via our distributor network. NOLA Restaurant Supply & Design 234 Harbor Circle New Orleans, LA 70126 Phone: 504-834-1521 nolarestaurantsupply.com

725

NOM P.O. Box 64633 Baton Rouge, LA 70808 Phone: 225-722-4615 www.thenomapp.com

1117

Putting the flavor of Louisiana in the palm of your hand. Order for dine-in, takeout or delivery from our app.

Our pies - delicious fillings encased in delicate dough - make wonderful entrées and appetizers for every occasion! Our entrée line is a 4 oz. pie, and our appetizer is a 1.25 oz. pie. Whether it’s breakfast, lunch, dinner or snack, our pies are perfect for any occasion. Our flavors include our Original Meat Pie with beef and pork filling, Crawfish Pie, New Orleans Style all beef and Chorizo Egg and Jalapeno. These delicious pies are fully cooked and can be fried or baked. Easy to prepare. Enjoy! Natco Food Service Merchants 321 West 10th Street Reserve, LA 70084 Phone: 985-479-4200 www.natcofoodservice.com

NCCO/National Checking 899 Montreal Circle St Paul, MN 55102 Phone: 720-891-6130 www.ncco.com

1225

Natco is the same quality-oriented company we’ve always been. We still place lots of emphasis on the best quality products and service in the market. That’s how we built our business, and that’s how we’re going to keep it growing. Since our beginning in 1925, we’ve changed to meet the needs of a growing food service industry. We’ll stop at nothing to satisfy the needs of our customers.

Ochsner Eat Fit 1200 S. Clearview Pkwy, Suite 1200 New Orleans, LA 70001 Phone: 504-703-9088 www.EatFitNOLA.com

608

Eat Fit is a FREE service to all regional restaurants! Our team of registered dietitians work with restaurant chefs and owners to identify and develop Eat Fit menu items that truly blend nutritious with delicious. Ochsner Health System’s Eat Fit registered dietitians also offer extremely competitive pricing on recipe analysis and allergen/ gluten declarations for full menus, cookbooks, and food manufacturers. Stop by to meet the Eat Fit team and sample a few of the Eat Fit dishes! Oil Solutions Group 411 Webster Street Pittsburg, KS 66762 www.oilsolutionsgroup.com

Louisiana Restaurant Association | a la carte | Summer 2021

1009

Orleans Coffee/New Orleans Royal Tea Company 1001 Industry Road, Suite A Kenner, LA 70062 Phone: 504-827-0878 www.orleanscoffee.com

614

Orleans Coffee is the region’s most experienced specialty coffee roaster. From education and training packages to consulting, equipment sales and services, we provide our customers with the best products and resources that will help make them a success. We offer Single Origin, Fair Trade and Certified Organic coffees and teas. Panaro Food Innovations 537 Cajundome Blvd., Suite 111 Lafayette, LA 70506 Phone: 337-366-4953 www.panarofoods.com

1601

Performance Foodservice 918 Edwards Avenue Harahan, LA 70123 Phone: 504-733-5200 performancefoodservice.com

1425

Let’s get cooking! We’re a partner you can rely on for accurate deliveries, great-tasting quality products and innovative solutions. As a customer partner, not only do you gain access to our premium products, you get a host of business resources designed to take your establishment further. Perma Drain 15052 Florida Boulevard Baton Rouge, LA 70819 Phone: 225-275-4431 www.permadrain.com

701

PermaDrain is an innovative food service business with products Made in the USA. PermaDrain saves money and downtime by protecting kitchens and bars from costly and unsanitary drain backups. PermaDrain’s durable products keep debris from entering the plumbing drain lines and help keep your business debris free and sanitary. Our product lines include Locking Dome Strainers, DrainShield and Safety Baskets designed to make cleanup easier for all food service kitchens. Save time and money! Pete’s Papercrafts 1224 St. Charles Avenue, Apt. 200 New Orleans, LA 70130 Phone: 504-717-0724

1115

Plate IQ 6400 Hollis Street, Suite 10 Emeyville, CA 94608 Phone: 408-464-5550 www.plateiq.com

1714

515

Polar King International, Inc. is the industry’s #1 manufacturer of fiberglass outdoor walk-in coolers and freezers. All units are delivered pre-wired, pre-assembled and ready to operate. Our 100% seamless fiberglass design provides a continuous surface which keeps the insulated structure completely intact; free of moisture damage and bacteria formation. Every unit is built to maintain its efficiency as outdoor conditions change, offering worry-free operation.

1229

Pontchartrain Systems LLC 1907 Jefferson Highway New Orleans, LA 70121 Phone: 504-831-9161 www.ponsys.com NCR Aloha Point Of Sale

516

Prairie Farms / Brown’s Dairy 4001 Highway 190 West Hammond, LA 70401 Phone: 985-227-2029

519

Processor and distributor of dairy products to the foodservice and retail market, with branches located in Hammond, Lafayette, Baton Rouge, Alexandrea, Kenner, Gulfport and Mobile. Progressive Specialty Glass Company, Inc. 123 Whiting Street, Unit R Plainville, CT 06062 Phone: 860-410-9980 www.progressiveglass.com

1415

We are much more than just a drinkware supplier. We provide many other services to ensure your success with your Take Home Souvenir drinkware program. Quality Engineering & Surveying, LLC 18350 Highway 42 Port Vincent, LA 70726 Phone: 225-6981600

1116

Red Stick Sports 5770 Essen Lane Baton Rouge, LA 70810 Phone: 225-769-6232 www.redsticksports.com

1525

Red Stick Sports has been providing quality screen printing and embroidery to the Gulf Coast since 1981. Our competitive pricing, national buying power and quick turnaround set us apart. From non-slip shoes, to custom headwear and everything in between, Red Stick Sports can help to perfect your brand! We also offer promotional products for golf tournaments, retail, giveaways and more. Reily Foods Company 400 Poydras Street, 10th Floor New Orleans, LA 70130 Phone: 504-617-4409 www.luziannefoodservice.com

Automated accounts payable software replaces manual data entry by digitizing your invoices down to the line item, automatically assigning them your proper GL codes, syncing the information to your accounting software, and providing analytics around purchasing. Plate IQ also offers one-click bill pay, inventory, and cloud-based data storage that allows a restaurant to go paperless, or work together over multiple time zones. Polar King International 4424 New Haven Avenue Ft Wayne, IN 46803 Phone: 260-428-2530 www.polarking.com

Palazzolo’s Artisan Dairy 413 3rd Street Fennville MI 49408 Phone: 800-443-5286 www.palazzolosdairy.com

1618

Reily Foods Company is the #1 marketer of authentic southern foods and beverages. Bringing friends and family together since 1902. Restaurant Technologies 2250 Pilot Knob Road, Suite 100 Mendota Heights, MN 55120 Phone: 651-796-1696 www.rti-inc.com

406

Restaurant Technologies is the leading foodservice industry partner, proudly serving more than 30,000 locations nationwide. Restaurant Technologies helps operators make safer, smarter kitchens through cooking oil and hood and flue management solutions. Total Oil Management automates the cooking oil process from storage and handling to filtration, monitoring and disposal of used cooking oil.

Louisiana Restaurant Association | a la carte | Summer 2021

8 REASONS WHY LOUISIANA RESTAURANTS SHOULD BE AN

EAT FIT PARTNER 93%

OF CUSTOMERS BELIEVE restaurants have a duty to offer healthy food TRUSTED SEAL showing you support health + longevity of your customers NUTRITION EXPERTS full-time dietitian in each region

EASY TO GET STARTED: email staff.eatfit@gmail.com

FEATURED ON EAT FIT APP with geolocator + nutrition analysis 500+ EAT FIT RESTAURANTS offering Eat Fit items in Louisiana EXPAND YOUR REACH benefit from social media promotion to our audience of 33K+ IT'S FREE! being an Eat Fit partner is 100% free

UnitedHealthcare offers exclusive members-only pricing and benefits, including: • Medical coverage • Dental and vision insurance • Disability, life and critical illness insurance

You take care of your community. We help take care of you.

Contact your broker today or visit us at lra.org/benefits for more information.

Benefits and programs may not be available in all states or for all group sizes. Components subject to change. These plans have exclusions and limitations. Contact your UnitedHealthcare broker or the company for more details. Insurance coverage provided by or through UnitedHealthcare Insurance Company, UnitedHealthcare Insurance Company of Illinois or their affiliates. Administrative services provided by United HealthCare Services, Inc. or their affiliates. Health Plan coverage provided by or through United HealthCare of Louisiana, Inc. EI20266455.0 08/20 ©2020 United HealthCare Services, Inc.

Louisiana Restaurant Association | a la carte | Summer 2021

Restaurant Wraps 37333 Mill Park Avenue Gonzales, LA 70737 Phone: 225-677-8859 restaurantwraps.com

727

Rhineland Cutlery 345 Stan Drive, Suite 101 Melbourne, FL 32904 Phone: 321-725-2101 www.rhinelandcutlery.com

700

Rhineland Cutlery is the finest forged German Steel knives in the world. Combining balance and beauty, old world craftsmanship meets new age technology! All of our knives are custom and engravable on both the handle and the blade for that perfect personalized gift, corporate gifts, awards, trophies, birthdays, anniversaries, weddings or any special event. Roulaison Distilling Co 2727 S. Broad Street, Suite103 New Orleans, LA 70125 Phone: 504-517-4786 www.roulaison.com

1501

The award-winning Roulaison Distilling Co is a nano-sized rum distillery making hand-crafted, locally-minded spirits in the heart of New Orleans. Pursuing a more historic approach to distilling than is commonplace today, Roulaison’s rum adds more stylistic variety to the local rum market and explores the dark recesses of rum history in order to create some unique and deliciously obscure libations. Royal Brewery New Orleans 7366 Townsend Place, Building B New Orleans, LA 70126 Phone: 504-415-8444 www.royalbrewerynola.com

1501

RX Music 2400 Hassell Road, Suite 310 Chicago, IL 60169 Phone: 630-495-8863 www.rxmusic.com

809

RX Music is the only PC-based, on-demand music, video, and AV provider for businesses. We specialize in transforming the way businesses appeal to their patrons by personalizing brand experiences through media solutions. With our powerful, proprietary software and a dedicated team of media curators, RX Music services brands both big and small. If your brand strives to create a consistent experience for your patrons then RX Music’s expertise is an invaluable resource in this pursuit. San-J International 6200 Gorman Road Richmond, VA 23231 Phone: 702-528-6962 www.san-j.com

627

Our fermentation process gives San-J Tamari Gluten Free Soy Sauce great flavor-enhancing properties. Made with 100% soy and no wheat, our Tamari Soy Sauce has a richer, milder, more complex taste than regular soy sauce. Add Tamari Soy Sauce to soups, gravies, sauces and casseroles. Use it as a marinade and in stir-fry dishes. Available in 64 ounce and 5 gallon. No artificial preservatives, colors or flavors. Certified gluten free, Non-GMO and Kosher. Schneider Paper Products Inc. 4800 North Street Baton Rouge, LA 70806 Phone: 225-201-9739 www.schneiderpaper.com

807

Second Harvest Food Bank 700 Edwards Avenue New Orleans, LA 70123 Phone: 504-729-2846 www.no-hunger.org

Our mission is to lead the fight against hunger and build food security in south Louisiana by providing food access, advocacy and education. ServSafe National Restaurant Association 233 S. Wacker Drive, Suite 3600 Chicago, IL 60606 Phone: 612-408-0249 www.laserverpermit.com

402

Visit www.laserverpermit.com for LA Responsible Vendor Online Training. Enter coupon code “LAONLINE” to receive 32% off of your online course, or contact Angela Schuster at aschuster@restaurant. org about purchasing in bulk for your company. We also provide Online Food Safety and Allergen training. I look forward to seeing you at the Showcase! Sewerage & Water Board of New Orleans 2900 Peoples Avenue, Room 215 New Orleans, LA 70122 Phone: 504-942-3856 www.swbno.org

1615

The Sewerage and Water Board is the public utility providing drinking water, drainage and sewerage services to Orleans Parish. SilverSaver 123 Ambassador Drive, Suite 123 Naperville, IL60540 Phone: 630-401-8161 getsilversaver.com

301

Tired of losing, running out of, and having to frequently reorder flatware and ramekins? Fed up with other solutions that simply don’t work? Stop throwing money in the trash. With the new SilverSaver® Smart Flatware Detector, your flatware and ramekin losses will be a thing of the past. Your profits will increase. Powered by innovative MINELAB® technology — global leaders in metal detection — SilverSaver® identifies flatware and ramekins of any material before they’re lost in trash. Smart Buffet Ware 26149 Capital Drive Daphne, AL 36526 Phone: 877-463-3388 www.smartbuffetware.com

724

Smart Buffet Ware has supplied some of the premier hotels, casinos and sport venues in the United States and beyond with the value of quality. Our low-energy induction system eliminates the need to rewire, potentially saving you millions! We offer induction systems, chafers, alternative chilling and heating solutions, beverage, snack and bread displays. Smart.Market 9151 Youree Drive Shreveport, LA 71115 Phone: 318-560-9715 business.smart.market

325

Smart.Market for Business developed revolutionary patented technology with the power to overcome obstacles faced in today’s competitive environment. Knowledge is power, and we know the key to getting the responses you want and need. We connect your brand to your current and potential customers using personalized messages, images and offers that speak to them. It is personalized marketing with real-time benefits in just three steps; it’s: Simple. Smart. Done!

Schneider Paper Products is a family owned paper and janitorial distributor servicing Louisiana and Mississippi with dietary disposables, food packaging, and sanitary maintenance items and equipment.

227

Louisiana Restaurant Association | a la carte | Summer 2021

Southern Eagle Sales & Service 5300 Blair Drive Metairie, LA 70003 Phone: 504-733-8656 www.southerneagle.com

407

Southern Eagle sells and services Anheuser-Busch products in the New Orleans area, as well as a variety of other beverages in the market. These products include local and regional craft beers, import beers, wine and liquor and non-alcoholic beverages. Southern Fixings Pralines 601 Betsy Ross Court LaPlace, LA 70068 Phone: 985-618-3473

1601

Southern Ice Equipment Distributors 5128 Storey Street Harahan, LA 70123 Phone: 504-734-5024 www.southernice.com

1429

Southern Ice is a wholesale distributor for many of the industry’s leading foodservice brands: Manitowoc Ice Machines, Koolaire Ice Machines, Everpure Water Filtration Systems, Crysalli Artisan Water Delivery Systems, Kelvinator Commercial Refrigeration, Dito Sama Food Processors, Veetsan Star Commercial Dish machines, Bev-Air Refrigeration Equipment, RDI Condensing Units, Bromic Outdoor Heating Systems, Amana Commercial Ovens and BioZone Scientific Air and Surface Sanitation Equipment. Spillover 9111 Jolleville Road, Suite 108 Austin, TX 78759 Phone: 512-617-2753 www.spillover.com

Complete dishwashing, warewashing, laundry, housekeeping and sanitation programs tailored to fit any size operation. New Orleans 800-299-2166 Lake Charles 800-299-1134 Pineville 800-741-3341 Baton Rouge 800-226-2232 Lafayette 800-330-4474 Bossier City 800-299-9420 West Monroe 800-725-5034

426

www.autochlorservices.com

Spillover Marketing - solution for digital marketing needs. Stalk Market 16540 SW 72nd Avenue, Building #7 Portland, OR 97224 Phone: 503-295-4977 www.stalkmarketproducts.com

400

Stalk Market, founded in 1989 in Portland, Oregon, is dedicated to producing and supplying only 100% compostable and recycled products. All of our compostable products meet or exceed ASTM 6400/6868 standards and certified by the respected leading global testing labs of BPI, Din Certo and Ok Compost. In addition, all of our compostable products meet or exceed USDA BioPreferred requirements for use of natural plant materials. Sugarfields Spirits 481 West Eastbank Street Gonzales, LA 70737 Phone: 225-647-2029 sugarfieldsspiritsla.com

1501

Sugarlands Distilling Co. 2458 Bayshore Boulevard Dunedin, FL 34698 Phone: 727-871-1311 www.sugarlands.com

601

Sugarlands Distilling Co. is a proud, locally owned, community–minded, “give-back” brand that produces quality, craft spirits. Sugarlands opened its downtown Gatlinburg, Tenn., distillery in March 2014 to perform the age-old craft of distilling fine Sugarlands Spirits. The distillery is a popular attraction where guests are invited to taste samples of our award-winning spirits, take behind the-scenes tours of the production, and purchase their favorite spirits, mountain merchandise and apparel.

YOU BUILT YOUR BUSINESS. WE’LL HELP YOU GROW IT.

Take your business to the next level. Learn more about

Louisiana Restaurant Association | a la carte | Summer 2021

Surface Systems Inc. 2619 Tchoupitoulas Street New Orleans, LA 70130 Phone: 504-309-2509 www.surfaceinc.com

1206

SSI is a full service flooring company that specializes in seamless, sanitary systems for commercial kitchens, as well as decorative and functional flooring for dining areas.

Texas Blends 17803 Olde Oaks Estate Court Cypress TX 77433 Phone: 844-425-3637 texasblends.com

Swanel Beverage 2066 Bonn Street Harvey, LA 70058 Phone: 800-279-2635 www.swanel.com

424

Texas Pete 614 West 4th Street Winston Salem, NC 27101 Phone: 832-512-0834 www.texaspetefoodservice.com

Sweet Mesquite Bakery 14902 Sommermeyer Street, Suite 190 Houston, TX 77041 Phone: 281-598-7614 www.sbakery.com

808

TFG LLC 4633 Sanford Street Metairie, LA 70006 Phone: 504-301-2505 www.tfgroupllc.com

1528

Swerve is a true sugar replacement because it’s sweet and delicious! Unlike other natural sweeteners like stevia, it has no bitter aftertaste and measures just like sugar. It’s also the only sugar replacement of its kind that browns and caramelizes just like sugar, so all of your favorite recipes will be a breeze. Sysco Food Service 1451 River Oaks West Harahan, LA 70123 Phone: 504-731-3218 www.sysconola.com

825, 925

1517

1319

The Reeden Company LLC 1280 W 4th Street Hobart, IN 46342 Phone: 636-233-2922 www.reeden.co

609

Thompson Packers Inc. 550 Carnation Street Slidell, LA 70460 Phone: 985-641-6640 www.thompack.com

801

Since 1953, Thompson Packers (Certified Angus Beef) has served as the leading purveyor of the finest quality beef, pork, veal, lamb and exotic meats products to the Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama/Gulf Coast region restaurants, clubs, casinos, caterers and institutions.

Teazzers 13375 Branch View Lane Dallas, TX 75234 Phone: 214-956-0373 www.teazzers.com

1029

TerraSlate Waterproof Menus 2240 S Delaware Street Denver, CO 80223 Phone: 720-254-1887 www.terraslate.com

914

901

Complete merchant services, credit card processing, gift cards and POS equipment. Toast Inc. 401 Park Drive, Suite 801 Boston, MA 02215 Phone: 415-710-5407 pos.toasttab.com

Full line food broker.

1424

The Boston Beer Company 1 Design Center Place, Suite 850 Boston MA 02210 Phone: 617-368-5608 www.bostonbeer.com

Titanium Payments 548 W William David Parkway, #201 New Orleans, LA 70005 Phone: 504-352-8442 www.titaniumpayments.com

Distributor, food, beverage and supplies. T.A. Dowd Brokerage LLC 5625 Crawford Street Harahan, LA 70123 Phone: 504-733-5047 www.tadowd.com

428

TFG is the distributor of Taylor, Henny Penny, Franke Coffee Systems, Bravo & Flavor Burst equipment providing sales, service and parts to the Louisiana, Mississippi, Arkansas and Tennessee markets.

Our bakery in Houston, TX, began making these “magical” breads in 1990. Our Sweet Sourdough breads require two days to rise naturally, which contributes to how special our bread is. Sheila Partin’s Sweet Sourdough breads are all natural and preservative free. Our breads are available in white, wheat, Italian, onion and jalapeno-cheddar cheese. All five flavors come in many different shapes and sizes: hamburger buns, sliders, hoagies, hot dog buns, dinner rolls & loaves. Stop by our booth for a sample. Swerve 1000 S. Rendon Street New Orleans, LA 70125 Phone: 504-309-9280 www.swervesweet.com

1231

1203

Toast is a simple and powerful all-in-one restaurant platform built for restaurant success. Toast helps you create the best guest experience, improve your operations, grow revenue and get more business insight. Our mission is to create the best possible restaurant experience by partnering with our customers to tackle the unique challenges of the restaurant environment.

Louisiana Restaurant Association | a la carte | Summer 2021

Great chefs never apologize for being demanding. They know their guests come for something they can’t get anywhere else in the world—fresh, premium seafood that is responsibly harvested miles, not continents away. Be Louisiana proud. Demand local. And support the industry that has long fortiﬁed yours.

Louisiana Restaurant Association | a la carte | Summer 2021

Tony Chachere’s Inc. 5604 I-49 North Service Road Opelousas, LA 70570 Phone: 800-551-9066 www.tonychacheres.com

1119

Tony Chachere’s is the #1 Creole Seasoning, Marinades and Base Mix producer in the country. Our focus has been packaging flavor for foodservice. Tony Chachere’s Creole spices, fish breading, rice/ seasoning mixes, dry gravy/roux mixes, boils, and marinades meet all food preparation needs! Our Bloody Mary Mix is Gluten-Free and all natural with no high fructose corn syrup. Please visit to see our new packaging and sample our authentic Creole products. Tony Chachere’s makes everything taste great! U.S. Cooler 401 Delaware Street Quincy, IL 62301 Phone: 217-228-2421 www.uscooler.com/

815

U.S. Cooler manufactures all sizes of walk-in coolers and freezers for the food service, restaurant, grocery store, institutional and convenience store markets. These walk-ins are supported with a complete line of engineered refrigeration systems, glass doors, parts and accessories. Designed according to the exact specifications of the customer and utilizing the highest quality materials, U.S. Cooler manufactured panels provide the ultimate in flexible design, quality and ease of assembly. Uncle Larry’s Food & Spice Company, LLC 4278 Belmont Lane Hester, LA 70743 Phone: 225-417-8110 www.unclelarrysfoodandspice.com

1401

Uncle Larry is proud to have his products Certified Louisiana. Uncle Larry’s Food & Spice is a new company with several innovative products that focus on minimizing cooking time while producing a delicious meal at the same time.

Urban South Brewery 1645 Tchoupitoulas Street New Orleans, LA 70130 Phone: 504-267-4852 urbansouthbrewery.com

1501

Waste Connections 500 Seven Oaks Boulevard Bridge City LA 70094 Phone: 877-747-4374 wasteconnections.com/new-orleans

1114

Welcome Dairy W222S3988 Timm Drive Waukesha, WI 53189 Phone: 901-596-5850 www.welcomedairy.com

1014

Since 1899, Welcome Dairy has been making cheese in Wisconsin Dairy Country. Our new Welcome Dairy Brand process cheeses and cheese spreads are excellent for queso, macaroni and cheese and all of your other culinary creations. Wildcat Brothers Distilling 103 Bolton Street Lafayette, LA 70508 Phone: 859-404-7467 www.wildcatbrothers.com

1501

The Wildcat Brothers adhere to a meticulous, small-batch method to produce our rum. The resulting French style rum is the foundation of Wildcat Brothers Distilling’s Heritage Rum Line. With this anchoring line of spirits, we continue to expand the distillery’s capabilities, experimental ingredients and techniques, and spirit offerings. Expect our ancestors to speak through our spirits as we grow to redefine southern Louisiana as “New Acadiana,” merging old-world recipes with modern techniques. Wonkyware 1574 Madison Avenue New Richmond WI 54017 Phone: 715-246-7979 www.wonkyware.com

1328

United Foodservice Marketing, Inc., is a locally owned and operated food broker, covering the great state of Louisiana. We proudly represent both local and national vendors and work with broad line and independent distributors. We are passionate about every aspect of our business.

Zaxby’s Franchising LLC 1040 Founder’s Boulevard Athens, GA 30606 Phone: 706-559-6978 www.zaxbysfranchising.com

1408

UnitedHealthcare PO Box 9472 Minneapolis, MN 55440 Phone: 269-792-1207 www.uhctogether.com/lra

Zing Zang 410 N Michigan Avenue Chicago, IL 60611 Phone: 888-891-7489 www.zingzang.com

1716

United Foodservice Marketing Inc. 1516 L & A Road Metairie, LA 70001 Phone: 504-466-4541-23

1325

309

UnitedHealthcare is dedicated to helping people nationwide live healthier lives by simplifying the health care experience, meeting consumer health and wellness needs and sustaining trusted relationships with care providers. The company offers the full spectrum of health benefit programs and is one of the businesses of UnitedHealth Group. Through a hospitality association alliance, UnitedHealthcare offers exclusive health care pricing and solutions to Louisiana Restaurant Association members.

Zing Zing is the #1 selling cocktail mixer brand in the United States. Our award winning mixer line up is anchored by our one of a king Bloody Mary mix and also includes all natural Margarita, Pina Colada, Sweet & Sour, Mango Margarita and Strawberry Margarita Daiquiri mix. In 2021, we also launched our lineup of ready to drink, 9% ABV cocktails. These come in a Bloody Mary, Margarita and Whiskey Bourbon Sour, all made with our award winning mixes and premium spirits.

UNOX 987 Airline Parkway Denver, NC 28037 Phone: 704-620-0037 unox.com

Zoeys Foods LLC 57 Barbados Court Mandeville LA 70448 Phone: 504-355-7890 www.zoeysqueso.com

416

1401

Zoeys Fresh Queso Dip is all natural, sourcing only wholesome, natural ingredients with a smooth texture and creamy consistency. Our queso comes in 3 sizes (Grab-N-Go 2.5 oz. with chips, 10 oz. container as well as 6 lb. food service bags (12 lb. case). Zoeys comes in 2 flavors - Mild and Three Pepper Spicy.

Louisiana Restaurant Association | a la carte | Summer 2021

Advertising Index AUTO CHLOR...................................................................................53

BMI....................................................................................................10

BOURGEOIS BENNETT...................................................................57

EAT FIT NOLA...................................................................................51

FISHER PHILLIPS..............................................................................47

GOLDMAN SACHS...........................................................................53

For advertising information please contact Ashley Counce, Communications & Sponsorship Manager Phone: (504) 636-6516 Email: acounce@LRA.org Online: www.LRA.org

Do you have good news to share about your company? Want a “Shout Out” for your employees’ hard work? Send an email to mezell@lra.org with the subject “Shout Out” for a chance to be featured in our monthly newsletter sent out to members! Do you have an exemplary employee who’s been with you for 20 or more years? Do they go above and beyond the call of duty? Are they a shining example for young employees to emulate? If you’ve answered yes, then you have a LRA Restaurant Legend! Nominate your employees today! Email mezell@lra.org for more information.

HEARTLAND PAYMENT SYSTEMS.................................................31

JOHNSON, YACOUBIAN & PAYSEE...............................................OBC

KRISPY MIXES..................................................................................44

LOUISIANA SEAFOOD.....................................................................55

LRA SIF...............................................................................................35

MELCHIODE MARKS KING..............................................................43

MIDLANDS MANAGEMENT.............................................................33

NEW ORLEANS ROAST COFFEE & TEA.......................................IBC

PERFORMANCE FOODSERVICE.....................................................10

THE TASTE

OF SUCCESS Since 1923 solutions and results have been our specialty. We serve the restaurant and hospitality industry by catering to their specific needs. Choose one of our house specialties like accounting services, business valuation, tax planning, employee benefit planning, succession planning and many

RAISING CANE’S CHICKEN FINGERS.............................................43

SYSCO FOODSERVICE.....................................................................3

other items from our menu of services. Everything is made to order - and with so many years of experience, we can probably offer a little lagniappe too.

THOMPSON PACKERS....................................................................25

UNITEDHEALTHCARE.......................................................................51

bourgeoisbennett.com New Orleans 504.831.4949 | North Shore 985.246.3022 Houma 985.868.0139 | Thibodaux 985.447.5243

Louisiana Restaurant Association | a la carte | Summer 2021

Are you taking full advantage of your membership? The LRA and the NRA offer a number of benefits designed to save you time and money. Members who are actively involved in the programs offered by both organizations get the most for their membership dollars. We’re committed to making your membership work for you! For more information about these programs, contact the individual listed below, visit www.LRA.org or call Pam St. Pierre, VP of Member Services at (800) 256-4572.

Exclusive Programs, Discounts & Services for LRA Members

Business Legal Questions Johnson, Yacoubian & Paysse Alan Yacoubian (504) 528-3001 www.jyplawfirm.com

Labor & Employment Questions Fisher Phillips, LLP Steve Cupp or Michelle Anderson (504) 522-3303 www.laborlawyers.com

Accounting & Tax Questions Bourgeois Bennett, LLC Eric Fullmer (504) 831-4949 OFFICE SUPPLIES Office Depot Receive discounts at Office Depot and Office Max stores! Text LRASPC to #555888 and you’ll get a discount card sent right to your phone.

PAYMENT SYSTEMS & PAYROLL Heartland Payment Systems John Reynolds john.reynolds@e-hps.com Heartlandpaymentsystems.com HEALTH INSURANCE Association Health Plan Plan for hospitality businesses with 0-99 employees. Contact your insurance broker and ask for your LRA member UnitedHealthcare quote. For more info, contact Kaley Krause, (952) 921-6784 or kaley_krause@uhc.com

LRA Self Insurer’s Fund Debbie Cuccia (800) 256-4572 www.LRASIF.org Workers’ Compensation Claims Hotline LRA Self Insurer’s Fund (877) 257-2743

Large Group Insurance Contact your insurance broker and ask for your LRA member UnitedHealthcare quote. For more info, contact Amy Hathaway, (269) 792-1207 or amy_hathaway@ uhg.com Pharmacy Discount Card Free program (not insurance) with discounts on most FDA-approved prescription medication. For more info, contact Amy Hathaway, (269) 792-1207 or amy_hathaway@ uhg.com

Food Safety Certification ServSafe® | 8-hour food safety and sanitation course www.LRA.org to register (504) 454-2277 ServSafe Alcohol Online Training (504) 454-2277 www.LRA.org www.laserverpermit.com

MUSIC LICENSING BMI | BMI.com Save 20% off licensing fees by paying online. Rob Conrad (615) 401-2908 ADA RESOURCES ADA Toolkit Free to Members Call the LRA Communications Dept. (504) 454-2277

Affordable Care Act Get the facts and how the federal healthcare law affects you. restaurant.org/healthcare

Workforce Development RESTAURANT READY AND APPRENTICESHIPS Contact: David Emond Workforce Program Coordinator Louisiana Restaurant Association Educational Foundation davide@lra.org 504-920-4998

WORKFORCE PROGRAMS Contact: Julie Talbot Executive Director Louisiana Restaurant Association Education Foundation jtalbot@lra.org 504-454-2277

LOUISIANA PROSTART Contact: Julie Talbot Program Manager Louisiana Restaurant Association Education Foundation jtalbot@lra.org 504-454-2277

Louisiana Restaurant Association | a la carte | Summer 2021

INCUMBENT WORKER TRAINING PROGRAM Contact: Melinda Carter Program Manager, Incumbent Worker Training Program Louisiana Workforce Commission mcarter@lwc.la.gov 225-342-8980

Johnson, Yacoubian & Paysse Proudly Serves the Louisiana Restaurant Association

Business Transactions Corporate and Governmental Affairs Employers’ Liability Insurance Matters Liquor Liability and Licensing Workers’ Compensation

701 Poydras Street, Suite 4700, New Orleans, Louisiana 70139-7701 Phone: 504.528.3001 | Fax: 504.528.3030 | www.jyplawfirm.com

Contact Alan J. Yacoubian, Partner | 504.589.9669 | ajy@jyplawfirm.com Louisiana LouisianaRestaurant RestaurantAssociation Association||aala lacarte carte||Summer Winter 2021 2021

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