A legend in the business: The Louisiana Restaurant Association has named Elouise Lafleur of Ruth’s Chris Steak House in Baton Rouge as a recipient of the Restaurant Legends Award. The honor recognizes the long-term dedication of employees who make up the backbone of the restaurant industry, with 20 or more years of service at one foodservice establishment. Lafleur has been employed by Ruth’s Chris since 1979; currently she is the restaurant’s service assistant. “The LRA is proud to honor Elouise for her dedication to Ruth’s Chris Steak House,” says LRA President & CEO Stan Harris. “As a former Ruth’s Chris executive, I can say that Elouise has been an exemplary member of the restaurant’s staff. … She is never without a smile or a pleasant greeting.” Special lunches: Since 1918, gourmets have walked across the Italian mosaic tiles to dine under the crystal chandeliers of Arnaud’s in New Orleans, seeking the savory Creole dishes for which the restaurant is renowned. They come in droves—except in July, August and September, when New Orleans’ steamy temperatures and the threat of hurricanes keep many residents at home and tourists at bay. Now Arnaud’s and many of the city’s other top restaurants, including Commander’s Palace and Galatoire’s, are fighting back, offering their famous fare at cut-rate prices to lure diners. In August, restaurants offered bargain meals as part of the New Orleans Metropolitan Convention and Visitors Bureau’s “Coolinary” promotion. The deal is on the table again as part of the Louisiana Restaurant Association’s “We Live to Eat” promotion, which extends through Sunday, Sept. 18.—Steve Sanoski
Scuttlebutt: LRA bestows Louisiana Legends award to Ruth’s Chris employee … New Orleans restaurants fight summer slump with specials
