Dooky Chase's

There are many, many wonderful things I have learned from Creole Crossroads. I have listened and participated in awesome discussions, read interesting books, and went on some spectacular field trips. Another great aspect of this class is.... NO EXAM! And even better than not having an exam is going out to lunch at one of New Orleans' most famous restaurants, Dooky Chase's. As we read in Gumbo Tales, the restaurant is famed for many scrumptious menu items including its gumbo z'herbes. I am looking forward to experiencing eating a such a famed restaurant! I searched the web for some history on the restaurant and on Ms. Chase, herself.

Here's what I found:

First off, Leah Chase didn't start the restaurant. I found that somewhat surprising. She married Dooky Chase II. His father and mother (her mother and father in law) had started the restaurant in 1939. Since segregation was still present during that time, the restaurant was primarily a social haven for the black community. It was "the place to be." When Leah married Dooky II and began working at the restaurant, she didn't have any formal training or familiarity with the restaurant's cooking. Nevertheless, she jumped right in and began cooking and creating the Creole creations the restaurant is so famous for.

Leah is still cooking at the restaurant today. However, she is getting old and now her grandson is sharing the kitchen with her. Although she is a great cook and a famous New Orleanian, she still is an extremely kind and humble woman. People who have dined at the Dooky Chase's say that Leah will often come out of the kitchen and visit with her guests. Despite all her success, she still has incredible customer service!

While I couldn't find extensive history on Leah Chase or the restaurant, I hope that this little bit of information is helpful. I look forward to lunch at Dooky Chase's. I hope all of you can make it! It's great food and an awesome opportunity to experience some great New Orleans cuisine!