“Restaurant August, under the direction of Executive Chef Corey Thomas, is a contemporary Creole restaurant creating unique dishes with a focus on Louisiana ingredients and inspired by classical training. Located in a historic 19th-century French-Creole building in New Orleans’ Central Business District, the main dining room caters to the most unique dining experience. The interior is rich with original architectural details, gleaming hardwood floors, soaring columns, mahogany paneling, and antique mirrors.”
“In 2005, long-time friends Chef John Besh, Timmy Reily, and Octavio Mantilla purchased Restaurant August. Since then, Restaurant August has garnered prestigious critical acclaim while staying true to its roots of cooking and serving from their hearts.”
Restaurant August is celebrating their 25th Anniversary this year and Chef Corey Thomas takes a brief break from his busy kitchen to join us.
“At Restaurant August, Chef Corey crafts stunning dishes that marry French techniques with the vibrant, locally sourced flavors of Louisiana. Before taking the helm in 2022, he honed his skills at New Orleans’ iconic Commander’s Palace, played a key role in Shaya‘s James Beard Award victory, and gained valuable experience exploring Italian cuisine at Domenica.”
“Corey Thomas is a Louisiana native, born and raised in Monroe, a small town in northeast Louisiana. Although Corey’s journey in the kitchen came later in life, he always carried his love for Louisiana culture and cuisine that was part of his family heritage in Eunice and Ville Platte everywhere he went.”
“When Corey landed in New Orleans in the early 2010s, he began his culinary career at the well-known New Orleans establishment, Commander’s Palace. Corey honed his skills in the kitchen over the next three years, before assuming the role of sous chef at Shaya Restaurant in 2015. During his time at Shaya, the restaurant won the prestigious James Beard Award for Best New Restaurant.”
“In 2017, Corey transferred to Domenica to learn about Italian cuisine before traveling to Italy for his own wedding. He fell in love with the food and culture of Italy during his travels, and returning home made his transfer a permanent position at Domenica. Corey committed himself to providing excellence at Domenica through incredible Italian dishes and impeccable service.”
“In early 2022, Corey joined the family at Restaurant August as the Executive Chef with great enthusiasm to utilize French techniques and sourcing thoughtful ingredients from Louisiana and surrounding areas.”
August reopens tonight after some minor enhancements and renovations.