Atlanta Restaurateur’s Plea for Support Raises Controversy Amid Viral Attention
An Atlanta-based restaurateur, Tre Pierre, recently took to social media to seek support for his struggling restaurant, New Orleans Creole Cuisine. Pierre’s plea went viral, garnering both praise and controversy. While many expressed their support and called for influential figures to shed light on the restaurant, others raised serious allegations against Pierre’s business.
Pierre’s promotional video showcasing the restaurant’s vibrant cocktails and delectable seafood dishes quickly gained over 1 million views within 24 hours. To date, it has amassed more than 38.2 million views. However, along with messages of encouragement, Pierre also faced negative comments and accusations.
One Yelp reviewer complained of undercooked chicken, describing it as still clucking. Another reviewer claimed that a staff member had flashed a gun at a patron. Pierre dismissed the gun allegation as trolling, but admitted to the incident with the chicken, emphasizing that the responsible chef was promptly fired.
Former staff members also came forward, alleging non-payment of wages. Kayla McPhaul, a former hostess and waitress at New Orleans Creole Cuisine, revealed that Pierre owed her around $1,400 at one point. Due to the lack of funds, she faced difficulties paying rent and almost got evicted. McPhaul shared a text exchange with Pierre that she deemed unprofessional. Pierre, however, stated that the matter is handled by another staff member and claimed that they are currently paid up.
Food blogger Brianna Ramsey also shared her experience at the restaurant. While she described her meal as palatable, she was disappointed to receive tartar sauce for her wings. Additionally, Ramsey encountered an issue with payment, being asked to pay on one bill after already paying individually. Although she disputed the charge with her bank, Ramsey claimed that the restaurant did not initiate a refund or offer an apology.
Pierre attributed Ramsey’s dissatisfaction to misinformation and argued that her pending transaction had been voided, thus not necessitating a refund. He expressed willingness to further investigate the matter and rectify any mistake on their part.
Pierre, a self-described musician, writer, and actor, launched New Orleans Creole Cuisine in 2021. Initially a franchisee, he later transitioned into an independent cafe, jointly owning the business with his two siblings. As part of the ongoing revamp, the restaurant is hiring an entirely new staff of 12, including two new managers, and introducing a new menu. Pierre plans to document this transformation in a docuseries.
Reflecting on the past two weeks, Pierre referred to the viral attention as both flattering and humbling. He acknowledged the criticism and highlighted the significance of customer service in the restaurant industry. The unexpected surge of attention, despite the controversies, has encouraged Pierre to address the areas that need improvement and propel his restaurant to success.
As New Orleans Creole Cuisine continues its revamp, Pierre remains optimistic about its future. He believes that this viral incident has provided the necessary boost and feedback to elevate his restaurant to the desired standards.
