Food lovers in New Orleans have been eagerly anticipating the arrival of a second Alma Cafe Mid-City location, and the wait is finally over. On Saturday, February 1, 2025, award-winning chef Melissa Araujo will officially open Alma Mid-City at 301 North Carrollton Avenue. This marks an exciting expansion for the celebrated Honduran restaurant, which first opened in Bywater in 2020.
A Taste of Honduras in New Orleans
Founded by Chef Araujo, a two-time James Beard semifinalist for Best Chef South (2024, 2025), Alma Cafe Mid-City has gained a devoted following for its soulful approach to Latin American cuisine. The restaurant’s name, which means “soul” in Spanish, reflects Araujo’s deep-rooted connection to her Honduran heritage.
“Growing up in my grandmother’s kitchen, I learned that food is more than a meal—it’s a way to show love,” says Araujo. “My mission has always been to share the soul of Honduran cooking, and the Mid-City opening is an opportunity to connect with even more people and introduce them to the flavors and traditions that I love.”
Brunch Favorites and New Dinner Offerings
Like its Bywater counterpart, Alma Cafe Mid-City will offer its signature all-day brunch from 8 AM to 3 PM, featuring beloved dishes such as Baleada Sencilla, a Honduran staple of eggs, refried beans, house-made cream, queso fresco, and avocado on a handmade tortilla. Other menu highlights include Melissa’s Pancakes, a dish of six small pancakes topped with homemade crema fresca and strawberry jam, and the Brussels Sprouts Bowl, served with Louisiana jasmine rice and a spicy peanut dressing.
In addition to brunch, Alma Mid-City will introduce a highly anticipated dinner menu, available from 5 PM to 10 PM Monday through Saturday. After testing new recipes at the Bywater location’s Friday night dinner series, Araujo is excited to unveil the full lineup. Guests can expect bold and flavorful offerings such as Aguachile Negro, featuring Gulf shrimp and scallops with chile Morita and pasilla, and Pescado Ceibeno, a deep-fried whole Gulf fish served with Moros and Cristianos, tostones, and escabeche. Other standout dishes include Pollo en Crema y Loco, a grilled chicken dish in a cream-based sauce with Loroco flower and sofrito, and Pato en Recado, a rich confit duck leg dish with a dark, spice-infused sauce.
New Features and Expanded Offerings
One of the most exciting additions to Alma Mid-City is its oyster bar, which will feature a Happy Hour with $1 raw oysters and $1.50 chargrilled oysters. A dedicated Tortillera will produce fresh tortillas throughout the day, ensuring an authentic experience for guests.
For those with dietary preferences, the restaurant will offer expanded vegan and gluten-free options, emphasizing fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The cocktail bar will also showcase beverages inspired by both Honduran and New Orleans traditions, with drinks crafted using house-made syrups and herbs from Araujo’s home garden. Signature cocktails will include the Smokey Bourbon Sour, Blood Orange Pisco Sour, and a non-alcoholic Creamy Coconut Margarita. Coffee enthusiasts will appreciate the specialty Honduran coffee bar, offering premium brews for dine-in and take-away.
A Warm and Welcoming Atmosphere
Designed to reflect the warmth of a traditional Honduran kitchen, Alma Mid-City’s ambiance will blend cultural charm with modern design. The larger space will accommodate up to 200 guests, with both indoor and outdoor seating. The decor will feature warm wood tables, natural tones, and personal touches like Honduran artifacts, goddess murals, and childhood photos of Chef Araujo. A dedicated merchandise area will offer Alma Cafe-branded items for guests who want to bring a piece of the restaurant home.
Commitment to Sustainability and Local Sourcing
Staying true to its commitment to sustainability, Alma Mid-City will continue to partner with Louisiana farmers to source the freshest local ingredients. Araujo believes in honoring both her Honduran traditions and the land she cooks from. “Our food tells the story of who we are, and it’s important to respect not only our traditions but the land we’re cooking from,” she explains. “By partnering with Louisiana farmers, we can bring the freshest ingredients to the table while honoring the planet and community.”
Opening Day and What to Expect
Alma Mid-City is set to become a must-visit destination for fans of authentic Honduran cuisine and New Orleans food lovers alike. The new location will open its doors on February 1, 2025, at 301 North Carrollton Avenue. Brunch will be available daily from 8 AM to 3 PM, with dinner served Monday through Saturday from 5 PM to 10 PM.
For more information and updates, follow Alma Cafe on Instagram and Facebook at @eatalmanola or visit www.eatalmanola.com.
