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Nina Compton’s New Restaurant is Bywater American Bistro

It will open in early 2018

Larry Miller, Nina Compton, and Levi Raines are the key players at Bywater American Bistro
Denny Culbert

Nina Compton’s second restaurant now has a name: Bywater American Bistro. No opening date has been set, though Compton plans to open the new restaurant in “early 2018.” Compton announced plans to take over the Mariza’s spot in Bywater’s Rice Mill Lofts, where she and her husband/partner Larry Miller live, at the beginning of December.

“Bywater is our home. We’re excited to open a new restaurant with a menu and vibe that embraces the laid-back, approachable feel of our community,” Miller said in a press release.

Compère Lapin Sous Chef Levi Raines will join the new venture as chef and partner. Though the menu is still being developed, expect “fresh and approachable dishes,” fresh pasta; French-inspired charcuterie; and entrees featuring seafood, pork, fowl, and rabbit. Inspired by the Rice Mill Lofts’ former life as a rice mill, the menu will also highlight grains and legumes.

A press release today offered a little glimpse into menu items: Farro risotto with maitake mushrooms and mint breadcrumbs; and seared yellowfin tuna with pepperonata, herb salad, and almond cream.

Compton’s first restaurant, Compére Lapin, was named one of Eater’s Best Restaurants in America this year. Raines moved to New Orleans to help her open that restaurant.

Mariza restaurant closed on New Year’s Eve.

MORE READING

Nina Compton Is Taking Over the Former Mariza Place [ENOLA]

Bywater Italian Darling Mariza To Close Later this Month [ENOLA]

Compere Lapin and La Petite Grocery Are Two of the Best Restaurants in America [ENOLA]