Has the culinary world forgotten John Besh? After a period shrouded in silence, the renowned chef is making a conspicuous return to the New Orleans dining scene, marking a significant shift after a scandal that once threatened to eclipse his legacy.
The announcement of a new riverfront restaurant in downtown New Orleans is more than just the addition of another establishment to the city's vibrant culinary landscape; it signifies John Besh's re-emergence into the public eye. This move comes nearly seven years after allegations of sexual misconduct led to a period of intense scrutiny and the chef's retreat from the limelight. The forthcoming Delacroix Fish Camp & Bar, poised next to the Riverwalk Outlets Mall on Spanish Plaza, heralds a new chapter. Besh's movie star looks and his penchant for showcasing the culinary treasures of the Gulf South, both on the stove, in cookbooks, and on national television, made him a darling of the dining public. Now, with this new venture, Besh is re-engaging with a city that once adored him. Restaurant August, which earned him a James Beard Award for Best Chef: South in 2006, remains a testament to his culinary prowess.
Category | Details |
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Full Name | John Besh |
Born | 1968 (approx.) in Terrytown, Louisiana |
Education | Culinary Institute of America |
Career Highlights |
|
Awards | James Beard Award for Best Chef: South (2006) |
Notable Restaurants (Past and Present) | Restaurant August, Domenica, and Delacroix Fish Camp & Bar. |
Current Projects | Opening of Delacroix Fish Camp & Bar in New Orleans |
Reference | John Besh Official Website |
The allure of New Orleans' culinary scene has always been its diverse influences, a melting pot of cultures reflected in its flavors. The city's food scene is a tapestry woven from the traditions of Africans, Haitians, French, Germans, Spanish, Caribbeans, Italians, and more recently, a significant Vietnamese population, all contributing to its unique character. Besh himself, growing up in the city, would have been steeped in this history. Restaurant August, his flagship, long enjoyed a stellar reputation for fine French Creole dining, impeccable service, and a romantic ambiance. Before his departure, August, like a beacon, guided the evolution of New Orleans cuisine. However, the inevitable winds of change seemed to buffet August in the late 2000s as Besh expanded his ventures and other culinary trends arose. Ross Dover has stepped into the role of Executive Chef at August. August's menu is known for standout items, including foie gras prepared in three ways and crispy gulf fish. Dining at August typically ranges from $100 to $160 per person, not including the option for sommelier pairings or reserve pairings.
The new restaurant in New Orleans represents a significant move for Besh, who stepped away from his company after allegations of sexual misconduct surfaced. The new establishment will be a riverfront restaurant. In 2024, this marks a moment when the chef looks to regain the public trust and redefine his narrative within the local culinary sphere. With each dish, Besh attempts to combine French techniques with locally sourced flavors of Louisiana. It is the first public sign of his re-entry into the scene since the scandal in 2017.
The restaurant scene in New Orleans adores John Besh. The feeling has been mutual for many years. Besh's charisma, his frequent appearances, and his skill for sharing the culinary bounty of the Gulf South whether in his restaurants, cookbooks, or on television helped him garner a huge following of diners eager to experience his creations. As he navigates the next chapter, the city watches, poised to see if he can recapture the magic that once made him a beloved figure. The news of Besh's comeback has brought attention to the new venture, it will be in the New Orleans Central Business District. His signature restaurant, August, is located on Charles Ave., New Orleans, LA 70130.
In the current landscape of New Orleans cuisine, where culinary stars like John Folse and Rick Tramonto have made their mark, Besh's return is bound to create a buzz. The anticipation of Delacroix Fish Camp & Bar opening next to the Riverwalk Outlets Mall on Spanish Plaza suggests a deliberate step towards reclaiming his place. Whether he can restore his reputation and maintain his status as a cornerstone of the New Orleans culinary scene, only time will tell.