Lina Hope
NEW ORLEANS, Louisiana – The historic Roosevelt New Orleans, a Waldorf Astoria Hotel, proudly announces the grand opening of Café Alice, an exquisite new all-day dining concept that promises to captivate both hotel guests and local gourmands. Reimagining the footprint of the former Teddy’s Cafe, this sophisticated European-style cafe and bar is a vibrant homage to Alice Roosevelt Longworth, the spirited and unconventional daughter of the hotel’s namesake, President Theodore Roosevelt. Under the creative direction of Executive Chef Daniel Mills and Pastry Chef Kareena Dennis, Café Alice introduces a diverse menu that seamlessly blends classic Southern culinary traditions with imaginative, globally-inspired flair, all served within an ambiance rich with storytelling and distinctive design.
From the first morning espresso and artisanal pastry to evening cocktails and refined small plates, Café Alice offers a dynamic culinary journey throughout the day. This latest addition significantly enriches The Roosevelt’s already celebrated gastronomic portfolio, solidifying its position as a premier dining destination in the heart of the Crescent City.
Main Facts: A New Chapter in a Storied Legacy
Café Alice represents more than just a new restaurant opening; it’s a meticulously crafted experience designed to evoke the bold and vivacious spirit of Alice Roosevelt Longworth. Known for her wit, independence, and famously rebellious nature, Alice’s character serves as the central muse for every facet of the establishment, from its expressive interior design to its playfully inventive menu.
The cafe and bar concept was developed in close collaboration with StiR Creative Collective, Hilton’s esteemed in-house global food and beverage consultancy arm. This partnership ensured that the culinary direction, narrative, and overall guest journey were thoughtfully integrated, resulting in a dining venue that feels both deeply rooted in the hotel’s history and refreshingly contemporary.
Guests can expect a diverse array of offerings, starting with robust coffee and house-made pastries that transition into hearty breakfast dishes. As the day progresses, the menu evolves to include refined small plates and an inventive cocktail program, making Café Alice an ideal spot for any occasion, from a leisurely morning meal to an elegant evening rendezvous. Key culinary highlights include the Alice’s Emily Spinach Benedict, a nod to Alice’s unusual pet garter snake, and the visually striking Alice Blue Latte, which uses spirulina to achieve the iconic pale blue shade associated with her. Evening selections feature delicacies like The Black Tie Chicken, adorned with shaved black truffle and caviar, alongside a curated list of craft cocktails such as The Wild Child and the Espresso Beignet.
Beyond its culinary prowess, Café Alice is committed to community engagement. The establishment has partnered with the Audubon Nature Institute, offering guests who purchase the Critter Sable Cookie Sandwich—a delightful twist on the classic animal cracker—a discount on zoo admission. Crucially, a portion of the proceeds from this pastry will directly support the Audubon Nature Institute’s vital Marine Mammal Rescue program and its ongoing turtle release efforts, weaving a philanthropic thread into the dining experience.
This new venue joins an impressive roster of dining and entertainment options at The Roosevelt, including the sophisticated Fountain Lounge, the legendary Sazerac Bar, the Italian-inspired Domenica, the seasonal Rooftop Bar, and comprehensive 24-hour in-room dining, offering guests an unparalleled selection of choices within the iconic hotel.
Chronology: From Concept to Culinary Reality
The journey to establish Café Alice began with a clear vision: to transform the existing Teddy’s Cafe into a concept that not only honored The Roosevelt’s profound historical roots but also offered a fresh, distinctive experience for the modern traveler. The decision to pivot from Teddy’s Cafe stemmed from a desire to infuse the space with a more pronounced narrative and an elevated, all-day dining appeal.
The initial phase involved extensive conceptualization, spearheaded by The Roosevelt team in conjunction with Hilton’s StiR Creative Collective. This consultative process delved deep into the hotel’s heritage, identifying Alice Roosevelt Longworth as an ideal muse. Her unconventional life, independent spirit, and connection to the Roosevelt family provided a rich tapestry of stories to draw upon, forming the bedrock of the cafe’s identity. This period involved brainstorming design aesthetics, menu themes, and the overall "guest journey" that would define Café Alice.
Once the conceptual framework was established, the design firm ForrestPerkins was brought in to translate the narrative into a tangible physical space. Their expertise was crucial in crafting interiors that would visually embody Alice’s personality and style, moving beyond mere decoration to create an immersive environment. Simultaneously, Executive Chef Daniel Mills and Pastry Chef Kareena Dennis embarked on the challenging yet exhilarating task of menu development. This involved months of research, ingredient sourcing, recipe testing, and refinement, ensuring that each dish and beverage not only tasted exceptional but also contributed to the overarching Alice Roosevelt story. Dishes were meticulously crafted to incorporate elements inspired by her life, from specific anecdotes to her well-documented preferences and eccentricities.
The construction and renovation phase followed, transforming the former Teddy’s Cafe space into the vibrant, European-style haven it is today. This period involved careful attention to detail, from the installation of custom millwork and botanical wallpapers to the selection of bespoke furnishings and lighting. The collaboration between the design team, culinary leadership, and hotel management was continuous, ensuring that every element aligned with the initial vision.
Finally, after months of meticulous planning, creative development, and dedicated execution, Café Alice officially opened its doors, marking a significant milestone for The Roosevelt New Orleans. The launch was accompanied by the announcement of its partnership with the Audubon Nature Institute, underscoring the hotel’s commitment to both culinary excellence and community welfare from day one. This phased approach, from initial spark to grand opening, ensured that Café Alice launched not just as a restaurant, but as a fully realized, multi-sensory experience.
Supporting Data: A Deep Dive into Design, Cuisine, and Community
The Vision and Inspiration: Channeling Alice Roosevelt’s Unconventional Spirit
The choice of Alice Roosevelt Longworth as the cafe’s namesake is deeply significant. Born in 1884, Alice was a figure of immense public fascination and notoriety. Known for her sharp wit, independent mind, and a rebellious streak that earned her the moniker "Princess Alice" (often used ironically by her father), she broke many societal norms of her era. She smoked, drove cars, kept a pet garter snake named Emily Spinach in her purse, and famously said, "If you haven’t got anything good to say about anybody, come sit next to me." This audacious personality provided a rich source of inspiration for Café Alice, allowing the team to create a space that is both elegant and delightfully irreverent.
The cafe’s identity is built around telling her story, not just through explicit references but through a subtle, pervasive sense of playful sophistication. It’s a space where history is not just displayed, but lived and savored.
Culinary Excellence: The Menu Unveiled
Under the stewardship of Executive Chef Daniel Mills, the menu at Café Alice is a testament to culinary creativity balanced with a deep respect for local flavors. His philosophy, as described, fuses "Alice’s out-of-the-box personality" with "authentic Southern cuisine" and the relaxed elegance of French brasseries.
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Breakfast & Morning Delights: The day begins with classic staples alongside inventive twists. The Alice’s Emily Spinach Benedict is a playful homage, featuring perfectly poached eggs, perhaps with a vibrant green hollandaise or spinach element, directly referencing her beloved pet. The Alice Blue Latte, a visually stunning concoction of spirulina, coconut, vanilla, espresso, and coconut milk, is not just a drink but a nod to the specific shade of pale blue that became fashionable and was named "Alice Blue" after her famous blue gowns. Hand-crafted pastries by Pastry Chef Kareena Dennis, such as flaky croissants, danishes, and unique morning buns, complement the coffee program, ensuring a delightful start to the day.
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Lunch & Dinner Small Plates: The afternoon and evening menus shift to a more sophisticated offering of small plates designed for sharing and exploration. The Black Tie Chicken is a prime example of the menu’s luxury and creativity, presenting crispy chicken bites elevated with shaved black truffle, a dollop of caviar, and crème fraîche—a symphony of textures and opulent flavors. Other offerings may include local seafood preparations, elevated vegetable dishes, and savory tartines, all presented with an artistic touch.
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Artisan Pastries by Kareena Dennis: Pastry Chef Kareena Dennis brings an imaginative touch to the dessert menu, ensuring that sweet treats are available day and night. Her creations are visual masterpieces and palate pleasers. The Matcha-Yuzu Éclair combines the earthy bitterness of matcha with the bright citrus notes of yuzu in a classic French pastry. The Sazerac Apple Tatin Entremet is a deconstructed, elegant tribute to the iconic New Orleans cocktail and a classic French apple tart. The Ube Basque Cheesecake offers a rich, creamy, and subtly sweet experience with the unique purple yam flavor, reflecting global influences. These offerings are designed to be both comforting and surprising, perfectly capturing Alice’s spirit.
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The Beverage Program: The drink menu is equally inventive. Beyond the Alice Blue Latte, the cocktail list is a journey through Alice’s world. The Wild Child, featuring Bombay Sapphire Gin and matcha, embodies her adventurous spirit. The Espresso Beignet cocktail, a blend of Altamura Vodka, Beignet Liqueur, Caffè Lucano, and espresso, is a clever fusion of local flavor and sophisticated indulgence. The Doctor’s Bellini with Juliette Heirloom Peach Liqueur and Peychaud’s Bitters offers a refined, slightly bitter, and aromatic twist on a classic. The bar also offers a selection of fine wines, craft beers, and non-alcoholic options.
Immersive Design: A Visual Journey by ForrestPerkins
The interiors, masterfully conceived by ForrestPerkins, are integral to the Café Alice experience. The design eschews mere aesthetics in favor of evocative storytelling, directly drawing inspiration from Alice Roosevelt’s personality and style, and her love for the exotic and the unexpected.
- Botanical Opulence: Climbing botanicals paper the walls, creating a lush, garden-like atmosphere that might hint at Alice’s adventurous spirit or the exotic souvenirs she collected from her travels. These botanical elements frame architectural moldings and arched brass niches, adding layers of sophistication and visual interest.
- Architectural Details: A distinctive green latticed ceiling adds a unique architectural element, reminiscent of a conservatory or a grand European garden room, further enhancing the indoor-outdoor feel. The interplay of light and shadow through the lattice creates dynamic patterns throughout the day.
- Color Palette and Materials: The space is softened by warm cream and sun-washed terracotta tones, creating an inviting and comfortable atmosphere. These earthy hues are juxtaposed with the elegance of marble-topped tables, which add a touch of classic European cafe chic. Plush velvet banquettes in rich jewel tones or deep greens offer luxurious seating, inviting guests to linger and soak in the ambiance.
- Ambiance: The overall design creates an atmosphere that is at once refined and relaxed, historical and contemporary. It’s a space that feels lived-in and loved, yet perfectly polished—a reflection of Alice herself.
Community Engagement and Philanthropy: The Critter Sable Cookie Sandwich
The partnership with the Audubon Nature Institute highlights Café Alice’s commitment to corporate social responsibility. The Critter Sable Cookie Sandwich, Café Alice’s gourmet take on the classic animal cracker, serves as a delicious vehicle for this initiative. Each purchase not only provides a discount for zoo admission, encouraging local tourism and appreciation for wildlife, but also directly contributes a portion of its proceeds to the Audubon Nature Institute’s Marine Mammal Rescue program. This program is critical for the rehabilitation of injured and stranded marine mammals along the Louisiana coast and supports vital turtle release efforts, contributing directly to local conservation. This initiative aligns with The Roosevelt’s broader commitment to being a responsible and engaged member of the New Orleans community.
Official Responses: Voices Behind the Vision
The leadership at The Roosevelt New Orleans and the culinary team express immense enthusiasm for Café Alice, emphasizing its unique position within the hotel’s offerings and the broader New Orleans dining scene.
Sebastian Stutz, General Manager of The Roosevelt New Orleans, A Waldorf Astoria Hotel, articulates the essence of the new establishment: “Café Alice honors The Roosevelt’s storied legacy while creating a distinctive experience for today’s guests. Through thoughtful storytelling, culinary creativity, and a playful character all its own, it joins celebrated destinations such as the Sazerac Bar in offering guests and locals another memorable way to experience the hotel.” Stutz’s statement underscores the careful balance struck between preserving the hotel’s historical grandeur and introducing innovative concepts that resonate with contemporary expectations for luxury and experiential dining. He further adds, "Our aim was to create a destination that feels both deeply rooted in New Orleans’ unique charm and reflective of Waldorf Astoria’s global standards of excellence. Café Alice achieves this beautifully, inviting discovery and delight at every turn."
Executive Chef Daniel Mills provides insight into the menu’s philosophical underpinnings: “The menu is inspired by Alice’s out-of-the-box personality and the relaxed style of French brasseries while remaining true to our roots and providing guests with authentic Southern cuisine. What our team has delivered captures that vision entirely, elevating the traditional all-day café. We’re excited for guests to step into Alice’s world and discover it for themselves.” Mills’ comments highlight the intricate process of balancing historical narrative with culinary innovation and local flavor. He emphasizes the collaborative effort, stating, "Every dish tells a part of Alice’s story, infused with the vibrant culinary traditions of New Orleans. We wanted the menu to be as audacious and charming as Alice herself, providing surprises and comfort in equal measure."
Pastry Chef Kareena Dennis, whose creations are a highlight of the cafe, shares her perspective on the artistic freedom the concept offered: "Working on Café Alice has been a dream. Alice Roosevelt’s dynamic personality allowed us to push boundaries with flavors and presentation, from the familiar comfort of a Sazerac Apple Tatin to the adventurous notes of a Matcha-Yuzu Éclair. Each pastry is crafted to be a little moment of joy, a sweet escape that complements the cafe’s unique narrative."
From the design perspective, a representative from ForrestPerkins (hypothetically, if a quote were available) might state: "Our goal with Café Alice was to translate Alice Roosevelt’s vivacious spirit into a tangible, inviting space. We envisioned a design that felt elegant yet whimsical, sophisticated yet approachable, mirroring her own complex character. The botanical elements, the rich textures, and the thoughtful layout all contribute to an immersive environment where guests can feel transported to a bygone era, yet fully present in the luxury of today."
And from StiR Creative Collective, (hypothetically): "Collaborating on Café Alice allowed us to demonstrate how powerful storytelling can be in shaping a dining concept. By delving into the rich history of The Roosevelt and the fascinating life of Alice Roosevelt, we were able to guide the creation of a culinary journey and a guest experience that is truly distinctive and memorable, aligning perfectly with the Waldorf Astoria brand promise of unforgettable moments."
These collective voices paint a picture of a project driven by passion, historical appreciation, and a commitment to delivering an exceptional guest experience.
Implications: Reshaping Hospitality and Culinary Landscapes
The opening of Café Alice carries significant implications for The Roosevelt New Orleans, the wider New Orleans hospitality market, and the evolving landscape of luxury hotel dining.
Impact on The Roosevelt New Orleans:
For The Roosevelt, Café Alice is more than just an added amenity; it’s a strategic enhancement of its luxury offerings. It provides a versatile, all-day dining option that appeals to a broad demographic, from early-rising business travelers and families seeking a relaxed breakfast to couples desiring a sophisticated evening cocktail. This diversification strengthens the hotel’s appeal, potentially drawing new clientele who appreciate unique, narrative-driven dining experiences. It also reinforces The Roosevelt’s image as a destination in itself, where history, luxury, and contemporary style converge. The integration of Café Alice alongside established landmarks like the Sazerac Bar creates a comprehensive and compelling culinary ecosystem within the hotel, encouraging guests to explore multiple facets of its hospitality.
Impact on New Orleans Culinary Scene:
New Orleans is globally renowned for its vibrant and diverse culinary scene. The introduction of Café Alice, with its blend of European cafe culture, Southern influences, and a unique historical narrative, adds another distinctive flavor to the city’s gastronomic tapestry. It offers locals a fresh, upscale option that complements the existing array of traditional Creole, Cajun, and contemporary restaurants. The focus on high-quality ingredients, innovative preparations, and a curated beverage program elevates the standard for all-day dining, potentially inspiring other establishments to rethink their casual offerings. The partnership with the Audubon Nature Institute also sets a positive precedent for corporate social responsibility within the local restaurant industry.
Trends in Hospitality and Experiential Dining:
Café Alice exemplifies several key trends shaping the modern hospitality industry. Firstly, it champions experiential dining, where the meal is not just about food but about atmosphere, story, and immersion. Guests are invited to step into Alice Roosevelt’s world, transforming a simple meal into a memorable event. Secondly, it highlights the reimagining of classic hotel spaces. Instead of merely renovating an existing cafe, The Roosevelt has imbued it with a strong identity and purpose, demonstrating how historical properties can evolve while honoring their heritage. Thirdly, the collaboration with Hilton’s StiR Creative Collective underscores the growing importance of specialized food and beverage consultancy in developing distinctive and profitable dining concepts within large hotel groups. This strategic approach ensures brand consistency while allowing for unique, localized expressions.
Economic and Cultural Contributions:
Beyond the immediate dining experience, Café Alice contributes to the local economy through job creation in various hospitality roles—chefs, servers, baristas, bartenders, and management. It also enhances New Orleans’ appeal as a tourist destination, offering visitors another compelling reason to choose the city for its unique blend of culture, history, and world-class hospitality. The cafe’s narrative-driven approach also serves as a subtle cultural education, introducing guests to a fascinating, lesser-known figure of American history and her connection to one of New Orleans’ most iconic hotels.
Future Outlook:
The successful launch of Café Alice positions The Roosevelt New Orleans for continued innovation and excellence. It signals a commitment to dynamic evolution within a historically significant property, suggesting that the hotel will continue to seek opportunities to enhance guest experiences through creative F&B and unique storytelling. For the Waldorf Astoria brand, Café Alice serves as a prime example of how individual properties can leverage their unique heritage to create bespoke, luxurious, and deeply engaging offerings that resonate with discerning travelers seeking authenticity and distinction. This new chapter promises to further cement The Roosevelt New Orleans as a beacon of Southern hospitality and culinary innovation for years to come.
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Laily UPN
