
Dakar is a Sengalese tasting menu highlighting seafood from local waters and produce form Southern Louisiana farmers. Chef Serigne Mbaye presents a menu inspired by his childhood in Senegal, where his mother taught him to cook. He has garnered additional experience in kitchens at Atelier Crenn, Joel Robuchon and Commander’s Palace, to name a few and was a finalist in the James Beard award for Emerging Chef. Many Africans came to Louisiana during slave trade times and his multi-course tasting menu pays homage their traditions while incorporating the flavors of New Orleans cuisine. He operated as a pop-up called Dakar NOLA for a couple of years before opening the permanent location in November 2022. It’s a one-room older home with a tasteful modern decor inside. There are 2 communal tables and several smaller individual ones. You designate a preference when you make your reservation. They have yet to obtain a liquor license so for now it is BYOB, but there are 2 stores close by where we had time to run and get a bottle of wine. The people there were familiar enough with the menu to make recommendations. Lighting is lowered, windows are open to the street scenes outside and before the meal they come around and wash everyone’s hands. It was not only very tasty food, it was a fun evening to visit with other adventurous eaters. Chef Mbaye spoke before the tasting started (a menu is on the table) and after it was over. He is young, charming and very talented. Go if you can! Continue reading