In recent weeks, we've seen an unprecedented celebration of New Orleans’ culinary scene and culture, domestically and internationally.

The New Orleans & Company team worked tirelessly in different states on events, including the opening of Tiana’s Bayou Adventure at Disney World, the Aspen Food & Wine Festival and the Americas Selection of the Bocuse d’Or and Pastry World Cup here at home. We couldn’t do any of this without the passion, talent and hospitality of New Orleanians.

At Walt Disney World in Florida, our New Orleans delegation produced powerful viral moments and publicity for our city. Tiana’s Bayou Adventure, which opened June 28, is a beautiful tribute to New Orleans and Louisiana, the iconic Chase Family, our cuisine, music and culture.

At the 2024 James Beard Awards, Chef Serigne Mbaye and Effie Richardson’s Dakar NOLA was named Best New Restaurant in the United States, and Chris Hannah’s Jewel of the South was awarded 2024 Outstanding Bar Program. Congratulations!

We also secured and hosted the Bocuse d’Or and Pastry World Cup at the Morial Convention Center, the first city in the United States to host these events. Chef Jerome Bocuse said, “New Orleans has brought a new level of entertainment and hospitality” to Bocuse d’Or.

New Orleans & Company will continue to work hard on the community’s behalf, aspiring to excellence daily. This summer and beyond, everything we do is designed to inspire, promote and encourage travel to our city for the economic, social and community benefit of New Orleans and its people. Hosting events and crowning champions is what we do.

Now the countdown is on to Super Bowl LIX on Feb. 9. New Orleans is uniquely built to host these events and crown champions of all kinds. It’s what we do.

WALT LEGER III

president & CEO, New Orleans & Company

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