"Lagniappe Kitchen & Bar will officially open Friday, August 19, welcoming guests to a Heights restaurant and cafe that’s heavy with Louisiana influences. Helmed by New Orleans native Layne Cruz, the cafe at 550 Heights Boulevard will feature a spin on Louisiana classics, a Black & Tan po’ boy loaded with blackened shrimp and fried oysters; hush puppies stuffed with either crab or pimento cheese during happy hour; and red beans and rice, which just like in NOLA, will be traditionally served on Mondays. Muffulettas, layered with olive and pepper mortadella made in-house, will also be served in standard fashion — in quarters, halves, or wholes. The restaurant also emphasizes breakfast and lunch, with dishes like cheddar bacon biscuits; veggie pappardelle; a Sardou omelet made with bechamel creamed spinach, grilled artichoke, smoked ham; and gumbo loaded with andouille sausage and chicken. Coffee drinks like Vietnamese iced coffee and a NOLA latte with beans sourced from New Orleans roasters will be served throughout the day starting at 7 a.m., with the option to imbibe on New Orleans-inspired cocktails, beer, and wine later in the day. The decor, inspired by Cruz’s living room, pays homage to Louisiana with a color palette inspired by the New Orleans’ Saints football team and the colors of Louisiana State University. Lagniappe is open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday, with brunch served from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Sunday and Monday. Happy hour is all day Tuesday and from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. Wednesday through Saturday." - Brittany Britto Garley
