“If you get somebody in with a deal, they’re likely to purchase more things while they’re there because they will see the menu and all the other things the restaurant has to offer,” said Katharyn DeVille, the bureau’s vice president of marketing and communications.

The list is being promoted by the tourist bureau, which is funded by hotel occupancy taxes. The restaurants have nothing in common other than the race of the owners. Color me surprised, because I thought this would be considered racism of the highest order in these days of pleas for equality, integration and diversity.

But her hunger pain came at a time when restaurant owners were scrambling – Louisiana’s governor had just ordered dining rooms closed because of COVID-19. Restaurants – with only a few hours’ notice – were limited to take-out and delivery. They were adjusting on the fly.

Maxwell’s Market, at 4861 Line Avenue in Shreveport, is selling food from these three local restaurants. It’s a gesture from market owner Ross Barclay – a way of helping friends in need, friends whose restaurant business has been significantly hurt by the closing of dining rooms.

A new year means new goals, positivity and celebrations. As we roar our way into the ’20s, this year is off to an exciting start for the local food industry with new restaurant openings, changes for already established restaurateurs and events celebrating culinary success in the Shreveport-Bossier area.

Sometimes when you’re on a diet or you’re trying to follow a meal plan, one of the worst places to go eat at is a restaurant. You see your friends and family eating all this delicious food, but you know you have to follow what your dietitian planned out for you.