Water Damage Restoration in Metairie, LA
Owning a home or business is one of the hallmarks of living the American Dream. While there are many fulfilling and positive aspects of owning property, one of the challenges that owners face is property damage. This type of damage can be caused by a range of disasters, both man-made and natural. Of all the types of property damage, water damage is among the most common.
Whether from broken pipes or heavy thunderstorms, it doesn't take a professor from Metairie Academy for Advanced Studies in Metairie to know that water damage can be incredibly harmful to your home. Water can spread quickly throughout your property, causing damage to furniture and porous materials as it moves. In the blink of an eye, you could be looking at substantial rotting, warping, and even mold growth. That's why water damage restoration in Metairie, LA is so important - to mitigate the damage to your home and help prevent it from happening in the future.
Trying to overcome flooding and other water-related disasters on your own can seem like a lost cause. But with Disaster Response by your side, you don't have to lose hope. As a local water damage clean-up company, we provide comprehensive restoration services to properties of all sizes in Metairie. From the first time we assess your water damage to the time we mitigate and restore, we're here for you.


Dealing with property damage can be overwhelming. You're likely concerned about a few key things:

Navigating the insurance claim process
We guide you through every step, ensuring you understand the process and get the most out of your claim.

Scheduling for a quick and quality completion
We provide a clear timeline for restoration, prioritizing both speed and quality, so you can get back to normal as soon as possible.
You might also be thinking about:

Ensuring the safety and health of your family or employees during the restoration: Our team takes all necessary precautions to protect the safety and health of everyone involved, using the latest techniques and equipment.

Understanding the full scope of the damage and what needs to be done:We conduct a thorough assessment of the damage and provide a detailed plan of action, so you know exactly what to expect.

Knowing the costs upfront and avoiding unexpected expenses: We provide transparent pricing and a detailed estimate before any work begins, so there are no surprises along the way.

Preventing future issues, such as mold growth or structural problems: We don't just fix the visible damage—we address the root causes to prevent future issues, giving you peace of mind.

Protecting your belongings and valuables from further damage: We take extra care to safeguard your possessions during the restoration process, minimizing any further impact.



Minimizing disruption to your daily life or business operations: We work efficiently and flexibly to reduce the disruption to your routine, allowing you to continue with your life or business as smoothly as possible.

Finding a trustworthy team to handle your property with care: Our experienced and highly-trained professionals treat your property as if it were their own, ensuring the highest standard of care.

Ensuring the job is done right the first time: We pride ourselves on doing the job right the first time, using industry-leading techniques and thorough quality checks to ensure lasting results.

Receiving clear communication and updates throughout the restoration process: We keep you informed every step of the way, providing regular updates and clear communication, so you're never left in the dark.

Ensuring the safety and health of your family or employees during the restoration: Our team takes all necessary precautions to protect the safety and health of everyone involved, using the latest techniques and equipment.

At Disaster Response, It's All About You
Like Camp Parapet in Metairie, Disaster Response has been a pillar of the community for years. As a second-generation disaster response company, we know that our work is never about us. At its most basic, it's always about you—your situation, your needs, and your satisfaction. We engineer our processes to help you quickly recover from water floods and disasters. Our total focus is on you, our valued customer. And that, in a nutshell, is what makes Disaster Response one of the most trusted and highly-rated water restoration companies in Metairie.
Instead of focusing on profit, bottom lines, and yearly projections, we make you our priority. That's why we're serious about providing expert-level disaster preparedness and response services when you need them the most. Could you imagine trying to decipher misleading fine print or dealing with a pushy salesperson when you're just trying to get your life back together? That's not the Disaster Response way, and it never will be.
We don't just clean up after water leaks, floods, or other disasters; we go above and beyond by providing a consultative approach that serves you for years to come. We assist you in dealing with insurance adjusters to ensure you get the coverage you deserve without unnecessary delays. We make it a point to meticulously review every detail of your claim and work hard to make sure adjusters understand the full extent of your losses. We can also provide guidance on how and when to engage a public adjuster to bypass inefficiencies in the insurance process. At the end of the day, we strive to provide peace of mind during your difficult time and work tirelessly to get your property back to its pre-loss condition.
The Disaster Response Difference

Professional Technicians, Technology, and Processes
In fact, we'll dispatch a team of water disaster technicians to you within three minutes. We'll also advise you on what can be done to minimize the water damage in your home or business. Our water damage restoration team will use cutting-edge technology and IICRC-approved methods to restore as much of your property as possible.

Insurance Advocacy
Disaster Response works one-on-one with you and your insurance provider to expedite the claims process and get your home back to normal as soon as possible.

Satisfaction Guaranteed
We're proud of our work and stand behind every project we complete. Our goal is to exceed expectations and provide peace of mind throughout every step of your water damage restoration process. If you're not satisfied for any reason, we'll listen to your concerns and work tirelessly to rectify any issues that need addressing.



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From water and fire damage to mold remediation, ( PowerPro Remediation ) doesn't just follow industry norms-they set new ones. Our rigorous vetting process ensures that ( PowerPro Remediation ) exceeds expectations, delivering cutting-edge solutions for your emergency needs.
When you choose Disaster 911 and ( PowerPro Remediation ), you're opting for a dynamic partnership that prioritizes effective, next-level recovery. Don't settle for the ordinary-when disaster strikes, choose the best in emergency response.
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Your Guide to Water Damage Restoration in Metairie, LA
Water damage restoration is a key step in remediating damage to your home, both structurally and aesthetically. Damage from water doesn't just affect the walls, floors, and ceilings in your home. It can also cause deeper issues that, when untreated, can weaken your foundation significantly and lead to long-term instability.
As if that weren't enough, water damage can present health hazards to your friends, family, and pets. Mold and bacteria can grow in damp areas after water incidents, causing allergies, respiratory problems, and even visits to Sunrise of Metairie in Metairie for examination. Ignoring water damage can also result in irreversible harm to your belongings, including furniture, electronics, and sentimental items, leading to financial loss and emotional distress. Professional water clean-up services can repair the damage to your property, help protect valuable assets, and re-establish your home or business as a safe, healthy environment for occupants.
What Makes Our Water Damage Company in Metairie, LA, Different from Others?
One of the most common questions we get at Disaster Response is, "What separates you from other water damage clean-up companies in Metairie?" The first and easiest answer to that question centers around our commitment to customer service. We hold our clients in high regard because, without them, there would be no Disaster Response. As such, we work tirelessly to provide them with quality work from friendly and helpful technicians, regardless of the size of their home or business.
But that's just the start. Our clients recommend friends and family to our business because we prioritize the following:

Cost
Investing in damage restoration for your home is a smart move that can help reduce long-term costs. The best part? Our services are covered by insurance companies, so there's less worry about paying out of pocket.

Technicians
Every member of our team has years of experience, specialized training, and certifications in handling water damage. We prioritize our customers' well-being and meticulously attend to every detail to prevent any potential mold-related issues in the future. From single-family homes to

Time
Water disasters happen quicker than you might think. One moment, you're enjoying family time at Lafreniere Park in Metairie. The next, you're pulling in your driveway to a flooded home. When you call our office, we'll get to work assessing the cause of your water damage and how extensive the water damage is in your home or business. From there, we'll dispatch a team of IICRC water damage restoration experts to your location.

Tools
Disaster Response has made significant investments in cutting-edge water damage equipment, including inspection tools that enable thorough water removal. Our technicians have undergone extensive training to operate these machines and know when and when not to use them.

Process
For over 40 years, we have been helping with water damage issues, refining our process along the way. We can quickly find hidden damages that others might miss and document everything for your insurance company.

Reliable Water Damage Restoration Network
We aren't afraid to ask for help if it means a safer, more enjoyable environment for your family or customers. In fact, we have access to a network of industry pros who are experts in a range of water damage services. To make your life a little easier, we also work with insurance professionals who assist with the claims process.
What Does Disaster Response Fix?
As an IICRC-certified water damage contractor in Metairie, LA, our technicians can address several areas of your home or business that have been damaged by a water disaster.
- Floors: It's very important to take the necessary time and steps to effectively dry your floors to prevent any potential water damage and mold growth in the future.
- Walls: Depending on the amount of water that enters your business or home, the structural integrity of your property may be at stake. Our technicians will evaluate the situation, inspect your property, and replace materials damaged by water.
- Rugs: If your rugs get wet during flooding or from another water disaster, they may be salvageable. We'll work hard to save all the rugs in your property.
- Furniture: Your furniture is probably expensive and may hold a certain level of sentimental value. Instead of throwing it away or donating it to Longue Vue House Gardens in Metairie, we can repair and restore it.

Disaster Response specializes in every kind of damage caused by rain, wind, or snowstorms. We handle water damage, mold, mildew, and more, and can be at your home or office within an hour of your call to assess the situation and put a water damage restoration plan into action.
What Tools Does Disaster Response Use for Water Damage Clean-Up?
We only use the best equipment! With our extensive experience in the Metairie restoration industry, we've acquired state-of-the-art tools designed to tackle a wide range of challenges. This experience has also allowed our technicians to identify which type of equipment is best for a particular situation. Some of the most common water damage restoration tools we use include:

Infrared Cameras
Our infrared cameras give us the ability to see moisture in walls and ceilings that is not visible to the naked eye, almost like having "X-ray" vision. This capability allows us to detect and address trapped and hidden humidity, significantly reducing the risk of mold growth.

Moisture Meters
We use moisture meters to measure moisture levels in cellulose material. Before and after the drying process, we will conduct moisture readings in all areas of your property. If we detect moisture in an unaffected area of your building, we'll get to work quickly to dry it.

Air Movers
This equipment is designed to work in conjunction with our dehumidifiers. While our dehumidifiers extract moisture from the air and convert it to a liquid, our Air Mover helps to circulate this moisture in the air so that the dehumidifier can effectively remove it.

Ozone Generators
These advanced tools enable us to cleanse affected surfaces and the air in a more effective manner. Ozone Generators work by causing oxygen molecules to implode, making them a valuable deodorization tool.

Xtreme Xtractor
This tool is great for tackling tough moisture after water damage. It allows us to apply direct pressure to a surface, like a carpet, that has soaked up water. The pressure helps draw out the water, making it easier to remove.
Top 3 Types of Water Damage You Should Know About
Water damage can strike without warning and can wreak havoc on your property, leaving you feeling hopeless and overwhelmed. Whether it's from a burst pipe, a severe storm, or an overflowing appliance, your property needs immediate water damage clean-up in Metairie, LA, to prevent further harm. Here are the top three types of water damage you should know about:

Clean Water Damage

This type of water damage happens from a "clean" source, such as rainwater or a broken pipe in your home. It's easier to clean up than others on this list but can still cause extensive property damage when ignored.

Gray Water Damage

Gray water damage stems from appliances such as toilets without feces, washing machines, and dishwashers. Gray water sometimes contains bacteria and contaminants that can make you or your family sick.

Black Water Damage

The name alone indicates the severity of this type of water damage. It's caused by backed-up sewer lines, river flooding, and standing water that supports bacteria growth. Black water presents serious health hazards and needs to be handled by professional water damage contractors.
If you suspect your home or business has been damaged by one or more of the types of water above, take the following steps:

- Be Safe: Turn off all electricity running through your property. Don't go near or touch any water you believe to be contaminated.
- Stop the Source of Water: If you're able, put a stop to the water at its source. That way, you can prevent more damage.
- Call Disaster Response: Contact our water damage company ASAP for water restoration services. Our team is available 24/7 to respond to emergencies.
Our Process for Water Damage Restoration in Metairie, LA
Having a water damage restoration company by your side who knows how to remediate moisture is a key factor in getting your life back on track. At Disaster Response, we have refined our process over 40+ years of water damage clean-up experience. That way, we can provide customers with reliable, comprehensive service when they need it the most.
We utilize powerful pumps and vacuums to eliminate standing water from your property. Swift water removal is essential in minimizing damage and lowering the likelihood of mold growth. Our team is dedicated to ensuring efficient water extraction to prevent any additional complications.
After extracting water from your property, we dry and dehumidify the impacted areas. We use industrial-grade dehumidifiers and air movers to do so to eliminate moisture from walls, floors, and furniture. Proper drying helps prevent warping, swelling, and the growth of mold.
Whenever we deal with water damage, we have to address the potential contaminants and bacteria that can enter your home. We make sure to thoroughly clean and sanitize all affected areas to create a safe living environment. This involves cleaning carpets, upholstery, and personal belongings. Our technicians also use antimicrobial treatments to prevent mold and bacterial growth.
The final step in the process is the restoration of your home to its pre-damage condition. This comprehensive restoration process may encompass a range of tasks, from minor repairs such as replacing drywall and installing new carpeting to major reconstruction efforts. Rest assured that Disaster Response is fully equipped to manage all aspects of water damage restoration, from start to finish.
- Maintenance: Have your business or home's roof, appliances, and plumbing inspected by professionals to spot early signs of wear and tear.
- Water Alarms: If there is a flood or leak in your home, a water alarm can alert you so that you can take action immediately.
- Drainage: Your home needs proper drainage systems in place at all times. To prevent water buildup, be sure to unclog your downspouts and gutters.
- Cracks and Gaps: Be sure to seal up any cracks and gaps in your property's foundation to limit water from getting inside.

The Water Damage Company in Metairie, LA, You Can Trust
When you want a great steak, you don't go to a fast-food joint and expect a filet. You go to a Flemings Prime Steakhouse Wine Bar in Metairie. When you need quality disaster response services from licensed professionals, you don't go to a fly-by-night shop. You contact Disaster Response.
As a local water damage clean-up business, we believe that providing clients with effective service that they can rely on in times of stress is of utmost importance. While some of our competitors prioritize profits over people, you can rest easy knowing we care about you - and that's something you can always count on when you choose our water damage company.
Whether a pipe has burst in your commercial space and your showroom is flooding, or your home has standing water from a Metairie rainstorm, we're here for you 24/7. Contact our office to learn more about the Disaster Response difference or to schedule an inspection for your property today.
Contact Your Emergency Disaster Response Now!
Latest News in Metairie, LA
A Metairie po-boy shop turns 50 this week with a special deal and its future in good hands
IAN MCNULTYhttps://www.nola.com/entertainment_life/eat-drink/parrans-po-boys-marks-50-years-in-metairie-la-with-deals/article_ff3dffae-0da5-4f70-a010-bb81dcfd04ab.html
Parran's Po-Boys comes to its old-school vibe honestly. It's been around for a long time, long enough to feel like family for some of its regulars. This week, the restaurant marks a major milestone with a good deal on po-boys in the mix too.Parran's is celebrating its 50th year in business with a three-day anniversary celebration at both the original Metairie location (3939 Veterans Memorial Blvd.) and its newer outpost in Kenner (2321 W. Esplanade Ave.).F...
Parran's Po-Boys comes to its old-school vibe honestly. It's been around for a long time, long enough to feel like family for some of its regulars. This week, the restaurant marks a major milestone with a good deal on po-boys in the mix too.
Parran's is celebrating its 50th year in business with a three-day anniversary celebration at both the original Metairie location (3939 Veterans Memorial Blvd.) and its newer outpost in Kenner (2321 W. Esplanade Ave.).
From May 1 to May 3, the anniversary special brings two "po-boy combos" (a half po-boy with a side) and two Barq’s root beers for $19.75.
That price is, of course, not coincidental. Parran’s was first opened in 1975 by Nick Impastato, who named it after the Louisiana-ified French term for godfather ("parrain" in French class is an easy jump to parran in local parlance).
It had a few successive owners, but it was still a small storefront restaurant when Al and Lorell Hornbrook bought it in 1990, just after their marriage. Al, then 25, had little restaurant experience at the time but was instilled with a homegrown appreciation for New Orleans flavors, especially from his grandmother.
The Metairie restaurant grew gradually, expanding from eight tables and a counter to a series of connecting dining rooms today. The family added the Kenner location in 2015. An Uptown location closed in 2023 after five years.
Parran's menu has expanded over time too. Traditional dishes still endure here, like the shrimp Creole, red beans and rice and mirliton casserole. One signature is the seafood muffuletta (basically a seafood platter on a seeded round loaf) and there's also pizza, including one with roast beef and (yes) gravy, like a pizza-po-boy mash up.
"I've been hanging around the restaurant since I was like 12," said the younger Hornbrook, now 29. "Parran's is in my d.n.a."
Youngsville, LA – Injury Traffic Accident on Chemin Metairie Pkwy at Guilliot
Police Accident Reports (888) 657-1460https://localaccidentreports.com/youngsville-la-injury-traffic-accident-on-chemin-metairie-pkwy-at-guilliot/
Youngsville, LA (June 4, 2025) – Emergency crews responded to a traffic accident involving injuries on Chemin Metairie Parkway near Guilliot at approximately 9:47 PM on June 3. Local first responders quickly arrived on the scene to provide medical assistance to those injured in the collision.The accident caused disruption along this busy stretch of roadway as emergency personnel worked to assess and treat the victims. Authorities are currently investigating the circumstances surrounding the crash to determine co...
Youngsville, LA (June 4, 2025) – Emergency crews responded to a traffic accident involving injuries on Chemin Metairie Parkway near Guilliot at approximately 9:47 PM on June 3. Local first responders quickly arrived on the scene to provide medical assistance to those injured in the collision.
The accident caused disruption along this busy stretch of roadway as emergency personnel worked to assess and treat the victims. Authorities are currently investigating the circumstances surrounding the crash to determine contributing factors.
Chemin Metairie Parkway is a heavily traveled route in Youngsville, where safe driving practices remain essential to prevent injury collisions. Prompt medical response, such as the one provided here, plays a critical role in ensuring positive outcomes following traffic accidents.
Traffic Collisions in Youngsville
Residents and drivers in the area are reminded to stay alert and cautious, particularly during evening hours when visibility may be reduced. Local Accident Reports will continue to provide updates on significant traffic incidents impacting the Youngsville community.
Note: These posts are created solely for the use of Local Accident Reports. We have not verified the information in these posts as the information is gathered from secondary sources. If you have personal knowledge that the information contained in these posts is inaccurate, please contact Local Accident Reports immediately so we can make the necessary corrections or remove the story.
Disclaimer: We are providing this information to the general public as a resource to use in the event you or a family member are injured in a similar incident. Every effort is put forth to honor the victims of accidents, and hope the information presented helps others avoid the same type of accidents in the future. The photos depicted in these posts are not representative of the actual accident scene. Please contact Local Accident Reports at (888) 657-1460 to be connected with an attorney in your area who will answer any legal questions you may have.
The Best Roofing Companies in Metairie, LA: Lone Wolf Roofing Tops the List as the Top Roofer in Louisiana
ABNewswirehttps://www.openpr.com/news/4050131/the-best-roofing-companies-in-metairie-la-lone-wolf-roofing
For another year in a row, Lone Wolf Roofing emerges as the best roofing company in Louisiana, along with some familiar and a few new additions to the list. Image: https://www.abnewswire.com/upload/2025/06/2ad988eaf744a01c3b4a218d9611fdf3.jpgMetairie's warm, humid climate and occasional downpours create a unique challenge for homeowners and contractors alike. Roofs in this region must stand up to intense heat, heavy rain, and specific architectural demands. That's why choosing the right roofing company is crucial. Below are five of th...
For another year in a row, Lone Wolf Roofing emerges as the best roofing company in Louisiana, along with some familiar and a few new additions to the list. Image: https://www.abnewswire.com/upload/2025/06/2ad988eaf744a01c3b4a218d9611fdf3.jpg
Metairie's warm, humid climate and occasional downpours create a unique challenge for homeowners and contractors alike. Roofs in this region must stand up to intense heat, heavy rain, and specific architectural demands. That's why choosing the right roofing company is crucial. Below are five of the top-rated roofing companies in Metairie known for their expertise, reliability, and customer service-from small repairs to complete replacements.
1. Lone Wolf Roofing
Lone Wolf Roofing has earned a reputation as one of Metairie's most trusted names in roofing. With over 25 years of local experience, the company brings deep knowledge of regional building codes, environmental challenges, and neighborhood design standards. Founded by seasoned professionals with decades of combined residential and commercial experience, Lone Wolf is known for precision, transparency, and high-quality workmanship.
From the initial inspection to project completion, homeowners are kept fully informed. Their staff is continually trained on modern techniques and materials, ensuring every job meets current industry standards-whether it's traditional asphalt shingles or energy-efficient metal roofs.
Cost transparency is another standout feature. Lone Wolf Roofing provides detailed estimates with no hidden fees and explains each expense clearly. Customers appreciate their straightforward approach, responsive communication, and the team's consistent professionalism.
Whether fixing a simple leak or managing a large-scale installation, Lone Wolf puts the customer first, offering tailored solutions backed by strong local knowledge and technical expertise.
2. Star Roofing
With a decade of experience in Metairie, Star Roofing has built a strong local presence by delivering consistent, high-quality work. One of their key strengths is the hands-on involvement of the owner, who personally oversees many projects to ensure they meet the company's standards.
From historic homes to modern townhouses, Star Roofing has experience with a wide range of property types and materials. This adaptability allows them to work efficiently across varying roof slopes and architectural styles. As a locally owned business, they also invest back into the community through local events and charity projects-often translating into affordable pricing and dependable service.
3. ARC Roofing LLC
ARC Roofing LLC is known for its personalized service and fast emergency response. Particularly during hurricane season, ARC mobilizes quickly for inspections and urgent repairs, helping homeowners prevent further damage.
The company specializes in storm restoration and also offers energy-efficient roofing options to help reduce energy costs in Louisiana's hot climate. With flexible financing options, ARC makes it easier for homeowners to afford necessary roof upgrades without financial strain. Their commitment to prompt, quality service has earned them a loyal client base throughout Metairie.
4. Premier South Roofing & Sheet Metal
Operating across Louisiana, Premier South Roofing & Sheet Metal has made a name for itself in Metairie with its excellent craftsmanship and project management. They are especially known for their custom sheet metal work-ideal for unique roof designs or decorative additions such as gutters and trim.
Their team includes roofing specialists, estimators, and project managers who understand local codes and permit requirements, ensuring a streamlined process from start to finish. Safety and cleanliness are top priorities on every job site, and they go the extra mile to leave properties clean and damage-free.
For storm-related repairs, Premier South provides hands-on assistance with insurance claims, helping homeowners document damage and secure necessary coverage with minimal stress.
5. Acadian Roofing & Construction
Acadian Roofing & Construction offers a comprehensive range of services, from minor repairs to full-scale roof replacements. They handle a variety of materials, including asphalt shingles, metal, tile, and flat roofs, allowing them to accommodate different budgets and design preferences.
The team at Acadian is experienced with insurance claims and works closely with clients after storm damage to ensure fair and accurate assessments. Their deep knowledge of Metairie's local requirements allows them to recommend durable, code-compliant solutions tailored to the area's specific needs. For time-sensitive projects that require precision and speed, Acadian remains a reliable choice.
Each of these companies brings something unique to the table. As the best roofer in Louisiana [https://lonewolfroofs.com/], Lone Wolf Roofing clearly leads the pack, but other roofers in the list are also experienced, reputable, and responsive to their customers' needs.
Media Contact Company Name: CB Herald Contact Person: Ray Email:Send Email [https://www.abnewswire.com/email_contact_us.php?pr=the-best-roofing-companies-in-metairie-la-lone-wolf-roofing-tops-the-list-as-the-top-roofer-in-louisiana] City: Metairie State: Louisiana Country: United States Website: http://cbherald.com
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Tacos, chopsticks, neon: This Metairie Mexican restaurant returns with new look, menu
IAN MCNULTYhttps://www.nola.com/entertainment_life/eat-drink/tacos-del-cartel-reopens-in-metairie-la-with-modern-vibe/article_2bf80885-9e19-4b7f-9ccf-282d33942d68.html
Chopsticks at a Mexican restaurant? By the time the waitress brought these to the table, next to the chips and salsa and mezcal cocktails, it didn’t even seem all that unusual.We were at the Metairie location of Tacos del Cartel for its reopening, and it was a scene. There was a DJ thumping away, and lots of “digital content” being gathered on phones and cameras of various caliber. That was all opening night stuff. But based on the ...
Chopsticks at a Mexican restaurant? By the time the waitress brought these to the table, next to the chips and salsa and mezcal cocktails, it didn’t even seem all that unusual.
We were at the Metairie location of Tacos del Cartel for its reopening, and it was a scene. There was a DJ thumping away, and lots of “digital content” being gathered on phones and cameras of various caliber. That was all opening night stuff. But based on the other Tacos del Cartel restaurants under the same brand, even an ordinary day here is bound to be extra.
The patio out front and the bar are decorated like artful botanical gardens of tropical bursts and artificial blooms. Another room with a neon-laced ceiling and mirrored walls feels like a nightclub. Fantastical creatures called alebrijes adorn the walls, amid intricate light fixtures unfolding above. Some signature cocktails are like theatrical productions; many of the entrees are like tabletop dioramas.
All of this is in what was once an ordinary storefront set between the strip malls and Latin American groceries on this crowded suburban commercial cluster of David Drive.
In the interim, the creator of Tacos Del Cartel, the local VEHO Hospitality Group, opened a grand new location in downtown New Orleans last year, and another in Baton Rouge in April. These have recast the original concept from design to menu, and there is more on the way. The same company has a Tacos Del Cartel taking shape in West Palm Beach, Florida, and other concepts in the works for downtown New Orleans.
The menu shared by all the Tacos Del Cartel locations is guided by a new chef, Atzin Santos, who runs multiple restaurants in his native Mexico City, where he's gained acclaim (his restaurant Limosneros is recommended by the Michelin Guide).
Thus ordering the trompo al pastor meant staff soon were setting our table with a vertical rotisserie, with a flame behind grates flickering at pork slices stacked on the spit between pineapple and onion. A quesadilla was arrayed beneath it, catching the drippings. This is how the restaurant presents build-your-own al pastor tacos.
But Santos’ menu is unmistakably Mexican, and that starts with the tortillas. Tacos are the basis for everything once you get past the appetizers and salads.
The kitchen’s composed tacos run from carnitas (pork) and asado (steak) to soft-shell crab with chicharron-studded salsa and chorizo with roasted bone marrow. The house take on birria have the tacos clipped to a clothesline. A lot of this seems designed for social media, or at least entertainment dining, but the underlying flavors are there.
Go all in for dessert and they will bring a miniature vending cart to the table with churros to dress up with ice cream sauces. The pastel de elote is a more mellow finale, like a sweet cornbread cake verging on the savory with an espresso sauce poured tableside.
The “rosanova,” with a blend of rums and a cap of guava foam, is unveiled from a tall glass dome filled with smoke. The “beeyuzuful” pairs tequila, a watermelon honey and yuzu (the Japanese citrus) and lands before you in a glass shaped like a bee. You hold it horizontal to drink. If you can keep from making buzzing sounds as you do, you’re more mature than I.
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