Shreveport’s Culinary Star Shines at the Rose Parade!
Shreveport, La. is buzzing with excitement as the owner of the iconic Orlandeaux’s Cross Lake Cafe gets ready to take center stage at the 2025 Rose Parade in Pasadena, California! Yes, you heard it right! Chef Damian ‘Chapeaux’ Chapman will represent the rich culture and vibrant flavors of our beloved Shreveport-Bossier area in this world-renowned celebration.
A Proud Ambassador
On December 18, 2024, Visit Shreveport-Bossier proudly announced this delightful news. Chef Chapman isn’t just any chef; he’s the embodiment of the area’s unique flavor, style, and soul. He has poured his heart into Orlandeaux’s, a restaurant that has been a beacon of culinary tradition since it was first established in 1921. With every dish, he reminds visitors of the deep roots and rich stories that make this region so special.
Stacy Brown, the President & CEO of Visit Shreveport-Bossier, expressed her excitement, stating, “We had a successful Year of Music at the parade last year with legendary guitarist and Rock & Roll Hall of Famer James Burton.” She adds, “Aligning with this year’s float theme, Louisiana Saturday Night, Orlandeaux’s Cross Lake Café is a place that truly shows off the flavor, style, and soul of Shreveport-Bossier.”
A Rich Legacy
Orlandeaux’s has a fascinating history. It was originally founded as Freeman and Harris Café by Chef Chapman’s great, great, great uncles, Jack Harris and Van B. Freeman. This family-owned establishment has seen various name changes through the generations, always honoring its predecessors. Today, it stands as one of the oldest continuously operating Black-owned businesses in the nation.
The cafe isn’t just famous for its delicious dishes, but also for being a pivotal space for civil rights discussions. Between 1958 and 1962, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. even hosted important meetings there!
Deliciously Authentic Creole Cuisine
Speaking of food, if you haven’t tried Orlandeaux’s famed Shreveport-Style stuffed shrimp, you’re missing out! This delicious shrimp dish is stuffed with fresh crab meat, seasoned to perfection, and deep fried to a crispy golden brown. The secret? It pairs perfectly with the classic creole tartar sauce! People rave about it, both locals and visitors who leave the cafe with smiles and satisfied bellies.
A Community Connection
But Chef Chapman’s mission goes beyond just serving food. He is deeply committed to keeping the Black community’s heritage alive, ensuring that Orlandeaux’s continues to be a destination for those eager to experience all that Shreveport-Bossier has to offer. A proud Southern University alumnus, Chef Chapman holds memberships in several esteemed organizations, including Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity and the Krewe of Harambee, embodying the true spirit of community.
Rose Parade Magic!
Every year, Louisiana shines at the Rose Parade, showcasing its vibrant festivals and unique culture. The state has received accolades like the Wrigley Legacy Award in 2022 and the Showmanship Award in 2024. This year, the parade float will feature an extravagant alligator carrying a Cajun dance hall, with pots of boiled seafood ready to delight viewers.
With approximately 700,000 spectators in the streets of Pasadena and over 50 million viewers tuning in from around the globe, the Rose Parade presents a spectacular opportunity for Shreveport-Bossier to show off its unique charm and hospitality.
Celebrate and Join In!
If you want to catch the magic of the Rose Parade, you won’t want to miss it! Tune in to stream the event and cheer on Chef Chapman as he proudly represents our vibrant community on this national stage. For more details on streaming, visit [Rose Parade streaming site].
As we gear up for this iconic celebration, let’s all stand behind Chef Chapeaux and cheer on our beloved Orlandeaux’s Cross Lake Café! It’s a proud moment for Shreveport-Bossier, and who knows, it might just be the highlight of the year!
