In the Former Trinity, a New Italian Restaurant Joins the French Quarter Dining Scene

The owners of fast-casual CBD cafe Louise quietly opened a new restaurant in the French Quarter’s recently-closed fine-dining Trinity location last week, the Italian-focused La Mensa.

The bistro was announced via Louise’s social media earlier this month, and since opening for service on June 18 the restaurant has boasted offerings of housemade pasta and pizza, charcuterie boards and vegetable plates, a wide-ranging Italian wine list, and a solid happy hour.

Local chef Britten Carboni opened Louise on Gravier Street in the CBD a few years ago, keeping things simple but fresh and elevated at the breakfast and lunch deli that’s centrally located for downtown office workers. At La Mensa, the food appears to be strictly Italian, and there’s also a shift in atmosphere; its “colorful vibe” is a distinct embrace of the restaurant’s French Quarter digs.

The Italian eatery replaces Trinity Restaurant at the 1117 Decatur Street address, which closed at the end of April after three years. Trinity’s owner Hugh Uhalt said at the time that a new concept was in the works for the space, so is likely involved in La Mensa. Eater has requested more information on details of ownership and hours, and will update when we hear back.

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