Chef Nick Lama is about to close the doors of his beloved restaurant, Avo, in Uptown New Orleans. This Italian gem, named after the Sicilian word for “grandfather,” has been serving up mouthwatering dishes since 2015. Avo quickly established a reputation for its fresh, housemade pasta and specialties like roasted chicken with capers and charred octopus drizzled in spicy chili glaze.
The restaurant’s final service is scheduled for December 23. In an emotional Instagram post, the Avo team expressed gratitude to the patrons and supporters who made these past years memorable. “This decision wasn’t easy,” they acknowledged.
Born and raised in New Orleans, Lama grew up in a culinary family. His parents ran St. Roch Market, selling seafood and operating two other restaurants. Food has always been close to his heart. In a past interview, he shared, “Food was a big part of my family, even just the process of it, being in the kitchen and just cooking together.”
Prior to Avo, Lama honed his skills at Muriel’s and served as chef at Gautreau’s. His cooking style blends a modern touch with Italian tradition, standing out in a city where classic Italian often means heavy sauces. Avo highlighted fresh ingredients with a simple yet refined approach, showcasing the flavors rather than masking them.
In 2019, Avo underwent renovations that transformed its patio into an enclosed dining room, enhancing the cozy vibe. This shift allowed the restaurant to remain a favorite even during challenging times, showing resilience in a competitive culinary landscape.
The farewell of Avo reflects a broader trend in the restaurant industry. Many establishments face difficulties due to labor shortages, rising costs, and the lasting impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. According to a recent report by the National Restaurant Association, over 110,000 hospitality businesses have permanently closed since the pandemic began, highlighting a pressing issue in the food sector.
As Avo prepares to serve its last plates, it leaves behind a legacy of creativity and a commitment to quality. Diners who have savored its unique offerings will surely miss the warmth of its atmosphere and the flavors of its meals. For a closer look at Avo’s journey and its impact on New Orleans’ dining scene, you can check out this in-depth article.
While the restaurant may close, Chef Lama’s influence on local cuisine will continue, perhaps inspiring the next generation of chefs to embrace freshness and simplicity in their cooking.
