FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE   

MEDIA CONTACT  

Emma Boone  

Public Relations & Digital Content Manager  

(318) 588-2248  

eboone@visitshreveportbossier.org  

April 8, 2026 

Diverse & Delish: Shreveport-Bossier’s Culinary Scene 
Is Gaining National Recognition 

Shreveport-Bossier, LA – Shreveport-Bossier is full of award-winning chefs, Food Network features, new restaurants, and most importantly, diversity in its flavors. North Louisiana is trending in the regional and national food scene in early 2026 and shows no signs of slowing down. 

Chef Niema DiGrazia of Abby Singer’s Bistro is featured on Food Network’s hit chef showdown, Chopped. DiGrazia’s episode, “African Soul,” takes viewers on a journey through blending her Sierra Leone heritage with the place she now calls home, Shreveport-Bossier. Chef DiGrazia is establishing flavors unparalleled through her signature Afro-Fusion cooking. Her national journey will continue in Chicago this fall representing Shreveport-Bossier among renowned Louisiana chefs to showcase the state’s bold, unforgettable flavors at “Taste Louisiana.” 

Chef Hardette Harris is the creator of the “Best Creole” dish for the second year in a row, as named by the 2026 Louisiana Food & Wine Festival, with a dish that is not traditionally Creole. Her dish, North Louisiana Roots & Smoke, consisted of smoked sausage and rutabaga mash. At the St. Francisville Food & Wine Festival in November, Chef Harris will continue to showcase what makes North Louisiana such a special place, highlighting a distinct side of Louisiana cuisine that sets us apart. At her restaurant, Us Up North, Chef Harris keeps us close to our roots with traditions and flavors specific to the region. 

Chef Gabriel Balderas, known for his fresh sustainable flavors, has launched two new restaurant concepts. The Brine, will be located next to the brand-new, 39,000 sq. foot pickleball facility at the Louisiana Boardwalk. The second concept, Papalotl, is in his hometown of Oaxaca, Mexico. Chef Balderas masterfully combines tradition with modern techniques, showcased at his current locations, El Cabo Verde and Zuzul Coastal Cuisine. His dining experiences are both globally inspired and uniquely rooted in Shreveport-Bossier’s evolving culinary scene. 

Shreveport-Bossier is truly a diverse and delicious place to visit. From authentic international food to its unique North Louisiana flavor, the region’s culinary scene continues to gain momentum far beyond its borders. Follow Visit Shreveport-Bossier on social media, or visit www.VisitShreveportBossier.org for big news on our local food scene, things to do, places to stay, and more. 

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Visit Shreveport-Bossier is the official destination marketing organization for Shreveport-Bossier City, Louisiana. The organization promotes the area as a premier destination for leisure travel, meetings, and events—driving economic growth and supporting local businesses. For more information, visit www.VisitShreveportBossier.org.