The Roosevelt New Orleans Debuts Café Alice, a European-Style All-Day Dining Concept

NEW ORLEANS, Louisiana — The historic Roosevelt New Orleans, A Waldorf Astoria Hotel, has officially announced the grand opening of Café Alice, a sophisticated new all-day dining destination that reimagines the property’s former Teddy’s Café. Blending European café culture with the vibrant, distinct spirit of New Orleans, the new venue offers a versatile culinary experience ranging from morning coffee and house-made pastries to leisurely breakfast dishes, small plates, and inventive evening cocktails.

The concept is spearheaded by a talented culinary team, featuring Executive Chef Daniel Mills and Pastry Chef Kareena Dennis, who have designed a menu that bridges classic European brasserie traditions with authentic Southern flavors and whimsical historical nods.

Café Alice takes its name and inspiration from Alice Roosevelt, the famously spirited and independent first daughter of the hotel’s namesake, President Theodore Roosevelt. The venue honors her legacy through a combination of expressive interior design, storytelling, and an imaginative menu that feels unmistakably tied to the heritage of The Roosevelt New Orleans.

“Café Alice honors The Roosevelt’s storied legacy while creating a distinctive experience for today’s guests,” said Sebastian Stutz, general manager of The Roosevelt New Orleans, A Waldorf Astoria Hotel. “Through thoughtful storytelling, culinary creativity, and a playful character all its own, it joins celebrated destinations such as the Sazerac Bar in offering guests and locals another memorable way to experience the hotel.”

The launch of Café Alice represents the latest addition to the hotel’s storied culinary portfolio. The venue joins a celebrated lineup that includes the relaunched Fountain Lounge, the landmark Sazerac Bar, the Italian-inspired Domenica, the seasonal Rooftop Bar, and the property’s comprehensive 24-hour in-room dining service. The development of Café Alice was executed in collaboration with StiR Creative Collective, Hilton’s in-house global food and beverage consultancy arm, which partnered closely with Executive Chef Daniel Mills and the local hotel team to shape the concept’s overall culinary direction, narrative storytelling, and guest journey.

The Menu

Executive Chef Daniel Mills has curated a menu that weaves signature breakfast plates and morning beverages together with classic culinary staples celebrating the rich traditions of New Orleans. Several standout menu items pay direct homage to the life and eccentricities of Alice Roosevelt.

Among these is Alice’s Emily Spinach Benedict, a clever culinary nod to the historical first daughter’s famous pet garter snake, Emily Spinach, as well as her legendary menagerie of unconventional pets during her time living in the White House. Another homage is the Alice Blue Latte, a visually striking drink that utilizes natural spirulina to achieve the pale blue shade famously known in fashion history as “Alice Blue,” blended carefully with coconut, vanilla, espresso, and coconut milk.

Transitioning into the afternoon and evening, the lunch and dinner menus feature innovative small plates and entrées, such as The Black Tie Chicken. This elevated comfort food dish pairs crispy chicken bites with shaved black truffle, premium caviar, and rich crème fraîche.

The beverage program mirrors the food menu’s creative approach, offering a selection of unique cocktails designed to surprise and delight patrons. Highlights include The Wild Child, crafted with Bombay Sapphire Gin and matcha; the Espresso Beignet, featuring Altamura Vodka, Beignet Liqueur, Caffè Lucano, and espresso; and the Doctor’s Bellini, made with Juliette Heirloom Peach Liqueur and Peychaud’s Bitters.

For dessert and all-day indulgence, Pastry Chef Kareena Dennis has crafted a robust menu of handcrafted pastries available day and night. Offerings include the Matcha-Yuzu Éclair, the Sazerac Apple Tatin Entremet, and the Ube Basque Cheesecake, ensuring a sweet note for every palate.

“The menu is inspired by Alice’s out-of-the-box personality and the relaxed style of French brasseries while remaining true to our roots and providing guests with authentic Southern cuisine,” said Executive Chef Daniel Mills. “What our team has delivered captures that vision entirely, elevating the traditional all-day café. We’re excited for guests to step into Alice’s world and discover it for themselves.”

The Design

The physical space of Café Alice was brought to life by interior design firm ForrestPerkins, which drew deep inspiration from Alice Roosevelt’s distinct personality, independent streak, and personal style.

The interior aesthetic features climbing botanical wall coverings that frame elegant architectural moldings and arched brass niches. Overhead, guests are greeted by a striking green latticed ceiling that adds architectural depth and visual interest to the room. The overall atmosphere is softened by warm cream and sun-washed terracotta color tones, complemented by classic marble-topped tables and comfortable velvet banquettes that encourage guests to linger over coffee or cocktails.

Additional Details and Community Partnership

In conjunction with its opening, Café Alice has announced a philanthropic partnership with the local Audubon Nature Institute. For a limited time, guests who order the Critter Sable Cookie Sandwich—Café Alice’s imaginative, upscale twist on the classic animal cracker—will receive a special discount on general admission to the Audubon Zoo. Furthermore, a portion of the proceeds from the sale of the pastry will be directed toward supporting the Audubon Nature Institute’s Marine Mammal Rescue program and its ongoing sea turtle release and rehabilitation efforts.

With its blend of historical tribute, innovative dining, and community engagement, Café Alice welcomes hotel guests and local residents alike to experience a fresh chapter in the storied legacy of The Roosevelt New Orleans.