Oprah-Backed True Food Kitchen Is Coming to New Orleans

Oprah Winfrey-backed True Food Kitchen plans to open an outlet next summer in the The Julia, a mixed-use development debuting in the Warehouse District on the corner of St. Charles Avenue and Julia Street.

The New Orleans outpost spans 6,000-square feet inside and an additional 2,000-square feet of outdoor patio space.

In July, Oprah Winfrey invested in the rapidly expanding brand, which integrative medicine doctor Andrew Weil launched in Phoenix, Arizona, in 2008 to promote his “anti-inflammatory” diet (the restaurant’s health claims have drawn criticism). With over 20 locations now, the brand is slated to more than double that in the next three years.

The main point of difference between this and other health-focused brands (besides Oprah on its board) is that True Food Kitchen serves sustainable wine, local beer, and cocktails with fresh juice. The Dr. Weil diet doesn’t frown upon alcohol consumption.

The dishes don’t stick to any specific flavor profile and include Moroccan chicken, tacos, herb hummus, edamame dumplings, gluten-free lasagna, kale guacamole, and pad Thai, with plenty of vegan, vegetarians, and gluten-free choices.

UPDATE (AUGUST 26, 2018; 9 A.M.): This story was updated with an anticipated opening date and restaurant square footage.

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• True Food Kitchen, the Restaurant Chain Oprah Just Invested In, Explained [E]
• True Food Kitchen [official website]
• When Restaurants Promise Health Benefits, They’re Crossing the Line [E]
• A $50 Million Mixed-Use Development Planned for Warehouse District [Curbed NOLA]
• All New Orleans Warehouse District Restaurant Coverage [ENOLA]
• All New Orleans Coming Attractions Coverage [ENOLA]