Get ready, New York — Louisiana flavor is coming your way! This October, Chef Niema DiGrazia of Abby Singer’s Bistro in downtown Shreveport will represent our region at Taste Louisiana, a one-night culinary celebration bringing together 11 of the state’s top chefs.

Hosted by the Louisiana Travel Association, Visit Shreveport-Bossier, and the Louisiana Office of Tourism, the event on October 28 will spotlight Louisiana’s bold flavors, creative chefs, and vibrant culture — all in the heart of Manhattan.

Bringing the Soul of North Louisiana to the Big Apple

“I am deeply honored to represent the vibrant and growing Shreveport-Bossier culinary scene on a national stage,” says Chef Niema. “This opportunity allows me to share the bold and soulful flavors of Afro Fusion cuisine, seamlessly blended with the distinctive flavors of North Louisiana.”

Chef Niema leads the kitchen at Abby Singer’s Bistro, located atop the Robinson Film Center. Her cooking weaves together West African, Caribbean, and New American influences — creating dishes that are as colorful and expressive as the city she represents. Whether it’s spicy, sweet, or full of surprise, her food tells the story of Louisiana’s past and future on a single plate.

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From Food Network to the National Stage

Chef Niema is no stranger to the spotlight. In 2022, she was named one of Louisiana Cookin’ magazine’s Chefs to Watch, and since then, she’s taken her talents nationwide — winning Food Network’s Beat Bobby Flay and appearing on Chef Grudge Match.

Beyond her TV fame, she’s known for her mentorship and passion for uplifting others in the culinary community. Her creativity, leadership, and love of Louisiana flavor make her a natural ambassador for Shreveport-Bossier.

Taste Louisiana: A Night of Food, Music, and Culture

Guests at Taste Louisiana will sample dishes from an all-star lineup of Louisiana chefs — including James Beard Award-winner Alon Shaya of New Orleans, Michelin-recognized Peter Cooke of Lafayette, and of course, Chef Niema DiGrazia representing Shreveport-Bossier.

They’ll also sip cocktails made with Louisiana spirits and enjoy live performances by Grammy-winning “Zydecajun” legend Wayne Toups and Louisiana country artist David St. Romain — two musicians who bring the rhythm and soul of our state wherever they go.

Sharing Louisiana Flavor with the World

This October, Chef Niema isn’t just cooking — she’s representing the heart and soul of North Louisiana. Through her Afro Fusion creations, she’ll give New York City a taste of the bold, diverse flavors that make Shreveport-Bossier’s culinary scene one to watch.

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Learn More

To meet all 11 chefs headed to New York for Taste Louisiana, click HERE.

For more stories about Shreveport-Bossier restaurants, chefs, and culinary experiences, visit www.sbfunguide.com.