Ten years after its original opening – and five years after the tragic Hard Rock Hotel construction collapse closed the store – the Canal Street Ruby Slipper will reopen its doors to the community on Thursday, February 8th with an official reopening ceremony on Tuesday, February 20th.
Brunch lovers near the French Quarter will find the renovated restaurant – the brand’s new flagship restaurant – at 1001 Canal St., near the Audubon Aquarium. The bartop is originally from the Mid-City location, tying it to Ruby Slipper’s storied legacy. Also on display will be four large-scale black-and-white photos showcasing the buildings’ history throughout the years.
“As we eagerly anticipate the reopening of our Canal Street restaurant, we find ourselves reflecting on the journey that brought us to this moment,” Co-founder Jennifer Weishaupt said in a statement. “This reopening is not just a celebration of our past, but a commitment to the vibrant future of our city.”
“In the face of many challenges, including the tragic construction collapse that deeply affected this neighborhood, we have emerged stronger,” Weishaupt continued. “This reopening is more than just a restaurant; it’s an investment in the heart of our beloved city, a contribution to the revitalization of Canal Street, and a symbol of resilience for the entire community.”
“We’re honored to be part of the broader redevelopment of this historic building. Our dedication to this location goes beyond business; it’s a genuine reinvestment in the spirit of New Orleans.”
Bringing together the local community has always been a part of Ruby Slipper’s brand, and the Canal Street location represents the spirit of rebuilding, togetherness and a local culture that loves a good brunch.
To that end, Ruby Slipper has partnered with Cafe Reconcile, a non-profit workforce training program that prepares ambitious young adults for careers in New Orleans’ celebrated hospitality industry.
At Ruby Slipper’s reopening ceremony on Canal Street later this month, the restaurant will give away a door prize to one lucky diner who will win free brunch for a year. Only the first 100 dine-in guests will be entered to win, and each of them will receive Ruby Swag as a “thank you” for their loyalty.
Scheduled to attend the reopening ceremony are representatives from the Downtown Development District of New Orleans (DDD), New Orleans Chamber of Commerce, and New Orleans & Co. tourism organization. The event will also include an appearance by award-winning singer and New Orleans legend Robin Barnes, better known as “The Songbird of New Orleans.”
This store will be the eighth Ruby Slipper in NOLA, ninth in the state and 25th systemwide. Along with the renovation comes new jobs for both front and heart-of-house employees.
Ruby Slipper and Ruby Sunshine are unique concepts specializing in brunch with cocktails and mimosas during its all-day “boozy brunch” as well as sweet and savory breakfast and lunch options.
Ruby Slipper has been a staple of New Orleans neighborhoods for 15 years and has since expanded with locations across Alabama, Florida, Louisiana, North Carolina, South Carolina and Tennessee.
