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The tragedy that unfolded on New Year’s Day at 3:15 a.m. left our community shaken. A senseless truck attack on Bourbon Street claimed 14 lives, including Brandon Taylor, a 43-year-old cook at DiMartino’s Restaurant, an LRA member. Our hearts go out to the victims, their families, and the countless individuals affected by this devastating event.

In the face of such sorrow, our community responded with strength and unity. Within hours, the LRA provided communications to keep impacted members informed about closures and reopening of the restricted area, spanning the first four blocks of Bourbon Street and the adjacent streets. We had direct contact with members of the New Orleans City Council, local members of the Louisiana Legislature and NOPD 8^th District command officials, offering support and coordinating resources to assist our members and their teams. Zea, the Gumbo Shop, Felipe’s and Parkway Bakery and Tavern were among those who generously provided meals to the NOPD 8^th District and Emergency Operations Center to feed the law enforcement staff from multiple local, state and federal resources embodying the resilience and compassion of our industry.

To honor the victims and support recovery efforts, a group of LRA members organized Fleur du Coeur, a culinary tribute to be held from January 13–19. These Bourbon Street area restaurants will feature signature dishes, with 100% of proceeds donated to the Greater New Orleans Foundation New Year’s Day Tragedy Fund. The event’s name "Fleur de Coeur" reflects the resilience and compassion of New Orleans. A blend of the fleur-de-lis, the enduring symbol of the city, and "coeur," meaning heart in French, represents the community's boundless love and unity in times of hardship.

“Our industry is the backbone of this community, offering a place of comfort, connection, and resilience,” said Stan Harris, President and CEO of the LRA. “In moments like these, we see the profound role hospitality plays in the days, weeks, and months following a tragedy. Together, we help rebuild lives and restore hope. We can’t let evil win.”

At the LRA, this work reflects the heart of our mission: advancing and protecting restaurants while creating economic prosperity and jobs. We are here to support our members, industry team members, and the residents who call this city home. Together, we will continue to heal and restore our community.

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