Louisiana culinary showcase heads to New York’s Chelsea Market | New Orleans CityBusiness

Louisiana is bringing its signature food, music and culture to Manhattan this fall with a one-night culinary showcase featuring 11 of the state’s top chefs.

The Taste Louisiana event, set for Oct. 28 at Chelsea Market, will highlight Southern cuisine alongside live music and cultural experiences. Organized by the Louisiana Travel Association and its partners, the event aims to promote the state as both a travel and culinary destination.

General admission tickets, which include unlimited tastings and two drinks, go on sale Aug. 20 for $75 at tastelouisiana.org. The event runs from 7-9:30 p.m. and is open to guests 21 and older.

Chris Landry, president and CEO of the Louisiana Travel Association, said the evening will showcase the “bright flavors and vibrant culture” of the state. “With 11 amazing chefs, award-winning musicians, and classic Louisiana hospitality, this is going to be a night to remember,” he said in a statement.

Among the featured chefs are James Beard Award winner Alon Shaya of New Orleans’ Pomegranate Hospitality, pastry chef Maggie Scales of Link Restaurant Group, and Cory Bahr of Parish Restaurant in Monroe. Covington’s Kim Kringlie,  of The Dakota Restaurant will also be showcased.

The Other participants represent Lafayette, Baton Rouge, Shreveport, Lake Charles, Cajun Coast and Houma, offering regional takes on Cajun, Creole and Southern cuisine.

In addition to food, guests will hear Grammy-winning Cajun and Zydeco musician Wayne Toups and singer-songwriter David St. Romain. Organizers say the combination of chefs and musicians is designed to immerse attendees in the culture of the Bayou State.

The program is part of the ongoing Taste Louisiana marketing campaign, a collaboration between the Louisiana Travel Association, Louisiana Office of Tourism, Louisiana Seafood Promotion & Marketing Board and several regional destinations.

Louisiana has leaned on its food and music industries to boost tourism, which generated more than $19 billion in visitor spending in 2023, according to state officials. Events like Taste Louisiana are seen as an extension of that effort, aimed at attracting travelers by showcasing the state’s cultural exports in key markets like New York.