Why did Emeril Lagasse close '34 Restaurant & Bar'?
The Emeril Group cited high operating costs in the current environment as the reason for the closure.
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Food / Restaurant News
Emeril Lagasse Closes New Orleans Restaurant '34'
Emeril Lagasse's New Orleans restaurant, '34 Restaurant & Bar,' a modern Portuguese establishment, has closed its doors after a brief 15-month run. The closure is attributed to the high costs of operating in the current economic environment...
Key Insights
- '34 Restaurant & Bar,' opened by Emeril Lagasse and his son E.J. Lagasse in October 2024, closed on January 31, 2026.
- The restaurant was a tribute to the Lagasse family's Portuguese heritage, offering dishes inspired by Emeril's upbringing and travels.
- Despite its short lifespan, '34' was recognized in the inaugural Michelin Guide for the American South and received the Award of Excellence from Wine Spectator for its Portuguese wine program.
- The Emeril Group will offer positions at other Emeril Group ventures to the staff of '34'.
- The closure comes shortly after Emeril's Restaurant received two Michelin stars, and E.J. Lagasse was named a semifinalist for the James Beard Foundation’s award for Emerging Chef.
In-Depth Analysis
'34 Restaurant & Bar' was located at 714 Baronne Street in the old A.D. Wynne Furniture showroom. The restaurant aimed to bring the tastes and sounds of Portugal to New Orleans, featuring a jamón bar, an open kitchen, and a menu of Portuguese and Spanish wines. The design included ornate Portuguese tiles and paintings. The restaurant's name, '34,' was derived from Emeril J. Lagasse III and Emeril J. Lagasse IV.
The restaurant made a splash when it opened, receiving positive reviews and a recommendation in the Michelin Guide. However, business was reportedly slow on a day-to-day basis. Despite the closure, the Emeril Group hinted at future plans to share Portuguese cuisine with the New Orleans community.
**Actionable Takeaways:**
- **Support Local Restaurants:** Consider dining at local restaurants to help them thrive in a challenging environment.
- **Explore Portuguese Cuisine:** Seek out opportunities to experience Portuguese cuisine, whether at other restaurants or through home cooking.
FAQ
When was '34 Restaurant & Bar' open?
The restaurant was open for approximately 15 months, from October 2024 to January 2026.
Will the staff of '34 Restaurant & Bar' lose their jobs?
The Emeril Group will offer the staff opportunities at other Emeril Group ventures.
Takeaways
- Emeril Lagasse's '34 Restaurant & Bar' in New Orleans has closed due to high operating costs.
- The restaurant was a modern Portuguese establishment and a tribute to the Lagasse family's heritage.
- Despite its short run, '34' received recognition from the Michelin Guide and Wine Spectator.
- The Emeril Group plans to continue sharing Portuguese cuisine with the New Orleans community in the future.
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