The Best New Restaurant in the Country is in New Orleans | On The Line | Bon Appétit

[@jlcrimm1]

Extreme respect to the executive chef. I'm sure Bon Apetit contacted him about making a video about him and his restaurant, most chefs and new restaurant owners would jump at the chance to be the star of the show; instead he asked that they follow his young apprentice who he is clearly very proud of. That's a sign of a true leader.

[@mon6745]

This!!!

[@hellojovoni]

Chef Seringe is the best!

[@joshevans3452]

On the Line often follows Sous. The idea is to give a view of what day to day cooking is like.

[@divvockorigi8806]

he probs really shy

[@ndb_1982]

​@@divvockorigi8806Sure. Let's believe negativity instead of respect.

[@nigelkhan9278]

This young lady’s drive, skill, passion, clear, precise instructions is a credit to her head chef and her commitment to excellence. The level of expertise and skill by these young chefs is amazing. She came in early cleaned several fishs, had stocks and stews cooking daily. This is the type of small restaurant that we should all support. This is on my bucket list.

[@bhigdaddymark]

Mine TOO, here I come New Orleans!

[@diginandpitchin]

Can’t wait to try it. 😊

[@jazzgill4011]

Whatever. She didn't salt the fish like him. He showed her how to cut the fish and she's still cutting it wrong. Not about learning, it's about following instructions

[@mgsparky8870]

Yea, shes speaking like a white person. Hence great things will come.

[@agapen7454]

At least she's trying. It's called learning.@@jazzgill4011

[@taliacadet7]

I dined here in October. By far one of the best meals I’ve had in my life. The communal dining experience is one of a kind. Chef Serigne is really dedicated to empowering his front and back of house team and letting them shine. I highly recommend if you’re in New Orleans.

[@lashawnames9066]

What was the price point please? And was the Dakar spice super 🔥?

[@travelingtootie6945]

@@lashawnames9066$150 per person

[@BUTTERBABYSTORIES]

I did too

[@Shermar]

@@BUTTERBABYSTORIES ~ What was your experience like?

[@sharinaross1865]

Thank you. I would visit cause of your review.

[@SarahR5338]

The best part of this video is that most kitchens run like this. You don't have to be an ego-maniacal chef that yells at the staff. A well run kitchen has discipline and respect.

[@km_6181]

Thank you 👏🏾

[@rukam3]

You mean not like Ramsey 😂

[@jesusisapisces]

Absolutely

[@MikaelScor]

​@rukam3 I mean when you have over 10 Michelin stars you are kinda different lmao no shade but it's levels thank you

[@Alsry1]

@@MikaelScor he only yells for tv

[@josephdreamhouse]

I am a classically trained chef and this is huge that he trust her. She knows what she is doing. He is a young executive chef. That’s wonderful!

[@TehUltimateSnake]

cuz dey b fuccin

[@russca67]

Sign of a great leader: He is instructing, supporting and letting her rock and roll! Great job food seems amazing it's on my list

[@christianbolze7092]

I love that people give african cuisine the respect it deserves!

[@diopfifi4937]

Yes ❤

[@Laitalafraise]

...Finally!

[@bhigdaddymark]

No matter which country, African food is absolutely stunning.

[@lemuhuru]

Honestly, most just don't know what it is. If Africans shops of this caliber popped up through major cities in the country it would be very exotic and take off

[@Councils-Girl]

The Chef and his staff earned their respect!!! Awesome teamwork ❤

[@elgreconegro5775]

The team having a meal together before feeding everyone else tells you everything you need to know about a kitchen. I worked in so many restaurants. I gotta eat there.

[@yafabulous4683]

I’m so proud of my country Senegal 🇸🇳 such an honor

[@KombersBlanket-mj3gy]

Can you put it together

[@diopfifi4937]

Yes sis me too ❤🇸🇳❤

[@KombersBlanket-mj3gy]

@@diopfifi4937 sealy goose

[@CrunkKing232]

Senegalese food is delicious, also you’re very beautiful 👍🏾

[@dGuthrie1-hc2rx]

Do u live their

[@theycallmemeraa]

I went to school with this amazing soul. Motivating is an understatement. Keep going girly!❤️

[@adeneo.g6456]

She's a beautiful young lady. Very sweet 💕

[@walkinprogress88]

First of all thank you to Bon appétit to showcase the professionalism of both of the chefs ! The lady chef is the type of sous chef you need for your business! As a Senegalese men I’m extremely proud to see that Senegalese food is getting its recognition! When im in New Orleans this place is a must for me! ❤

[@diopfifi4937]

❤❤ 🇸🇳🇸🇳❤❤❤

[@nylalh]

Such an infectious smile and inviting aura. Also really humble. Love her

[@DuDieselDude]

wif

[@kimberlyjohnson9604]

This is the most professional, well spoken and respectful workplaces I've seen. The young Chef , Sharena Smith, who hosted this behind the scenes daily operations, deserves a standing ovation! I hope to dine here in the near future. I wish Dakar & Staff the best! Great job ❤

[@chocolateserenity]

Dope restaurant culture. This is beautiful. I live in Nola and will definitely be visiting. 🤎

[@JoyaJohnson-b5p]

She is so phenomenal, she motivated me to get up and clean my house. No joke.

[@74alyse]

I see the sister in the kitchen background she was back there cleaning.

[@andrewlewis8223]

I ate here a couple months ago! There's been a lot of buzz surrounding it and wow, it was one of the best meals I've ever had. Worth a stop if you're in town

[@Kneekneee]

What did you get?

[@amab1853]

I definitely will visit when I visit New Orleans. I live in Harlem NYC & there are alot of Senegalese restaurants here as well.

[@rubyclark7595]

Thanks.... going to NOLA soon.

[@OmendsFavor]

Akara is Nigerian in name but its bean fritters eaten in West African countries… Koose in Ghana but Akara in Nigeria.

[@questionresearch8721]

Thanks for the tip.

[@TedlaEKHAN]

As Senegambian, I approve. I cannot wait to visit and taste your take on our cuisine.

[@blazelion9883]

Also a senegambian I approve

[@usedByGod]

Her professionalism is bar none. Her skin is beautiful. Natural and glowing. Testament to her intake of the food she eats and water. The food looks amazing😋. The owner and executive Chef, Awesome

[@shaunadillon9600]

Skin is gorgeous

[@usedByGod]

@@shaunadillon9600 girl yes. I want that type of skin

[@ItzBwo]

Young, black owned, extremely reverent to their culture and heritage, and CLEARLY talented. There is nothing to not love about this restaurant. Would love to dine there one day

[@snip3rzer017]

Why does black owned matter?

[@smrfam1]

This is America everything revolves around raise unfortunately@@snip3rzer017

[@Sofi-ji4jl]

because there haven't been a lot of restaurants in the US that are black owned, it's a lovely accomplishment. @@snip3rzer017

[@TehUltimateSnake]

Zero diversity.

[@jesusisapisces]

​@@TehUltimateSnakebe quiet.

[@JimmySting]

Ate hear back in April - it was amazing. The menu/format has evolved a little bit since then, but can vouch that the food and those sauces (especially the yassa) are top notch. The head chef is also super nice and chatted with us and other guests after the meal - seemed very humble.

[@SenegaleseTwisted]

As a Senegalese, I am super proud of Chef Serigne and how he has taught Sharena all about the authentic Senegalese dishes and how she is able to speak about them as if she actually grew up in Senegal eating these dishes. You can feel her passion and see that she really works hard. I can't wait to taste these dishes IRL! :D

[@yummymommy4717]

Very empowering to see African helping African. The soul of mother Africa with all her glory shines through this young lady. Love and success all the way!

[@vergespierre4271]

We arent african though but American. But major success to their business

[@yummymommy4717]

​@@vergespierre4271 sure honey bun, the sky above Nola is blue as well!

[@emilyellis4860]

​@@vergespierre4271African DNA is in all black people. So it is proper for black people in America to call themselves African American. You should not be ashamed of your ancestors, especially those whose ancestors were brought to America as slaves. You actually give the enslaved ancestors honor by not forgetting the African part.

[@mscalculated3218]

​@@emilyellis4860💯💥

[@CherryJ2911]

@@emilyellis4860well said! 👏👏

[@joyajohnson2216]

She’s the kind of person every chef wants in their kitchen. She’s amazing.

[@Ray-jn6nu]

She is motivating ❤ love how humble she is and knowledgeable of the Senegalese cuisine.

[@RGibson116]

I appreciate the manner in which the food is selected, prepped and presented. There appears to be much respect between the owner and the staff. The atmosphere is calm and pleasant. I would definitely plan to eat there, if I visited the area. I hope you all have continuous success!

[@divineselfentity]

This young lady is an amazing chef. She's a very hard working woman, with great integrity& Passion. And this is the type of service I expect to have when I dine in a restaurant.

[@mounze90]

I really like their take on Senegaleses cuisine. It’s really interesting seeing the classics revisited like this. That red snapper was a fish lover dream 😍

[@PhillipSiddiq]

5:00....she is a keeper chef😂! You could hear her smile through out her presentation. Salute!

[@Bpaynee]

I've never wanted to just straight up book a ticket after watching a video. I need to try this, this food looks gorgeous

[@maryh-w8647]

Extremely, extremely impressed with her (chef) dedication to achieving excellence, personal performance, her knowledge of everything that’s going on in the kitchen and the ability to explain as well as perform her duties (multitask) at the same time are simply phenomenal. Im 75 and in awe of her abilities at such a young age. While residing in another state (Florida) I know it will be highly unlikely yet it still would be such a memorable experience to dine in your restaurant.

[@pcg1276]

Big respect to the head chef.This young lady will go far with his expertise and guidance.

[@davidh9823]

Whenever I get to New Orleans, I will definitely add this restaurants to my list of places to visit. I'll be sure to make a reservation as early as possible.

[@rennyking]

I love the family meal aspect where the staff sat down and ate together. I pray for your continued success

[@Daedalus510]

I want Keith Lee to come to this restaurant. 🥰 After that Atlanta catastrophe, this will be a breath of fresh pescatarian air. 😌

[@krystingrant6292]

😂😂😂😂

[@playcousin5497]

He was in New Orleans in August and he loved everything. May he will come back in the future

[@mpakempake3235]

A healthy environment to work.I love the Afro-Southerm fusion.This lady is just awesome;very humble and open to learn.Eating together as a team is the best way to bond as a team.If i find myself in that part of the U.S, i will definitely come around there.❤❤❤

[@tldpodnetwork]

I think I fell a little bit in love with her. Her passion and knowledge at such a young age were amazing, and it was great to see the owner/EC exude pride over his sous chef. Bravo!

[@jackraglin5526]

She not only is a talented chef, she is a natural in front of the camera and a terrific communicator. Any business would be lucky to have her as their public face.

[@LarisaBayaMomo]

Love how she was simply herself during filming. Talented and funny and the food looks incredible. And credits also go to the head chef and owner who allowed his apprentice to take the lead.

[@theMK7]

I just love the way the head chef teaches. He is calm and his demonstrations are just what a student needs. He is an amazing leader. I love Sharena's enthusiasm. It made the video really beautiful to watch.

[@chrisbullock6477]

Me and my wife, just sat back with mugs filled with Latte eating cookies and enjoying this video, the food concept, culture of the food and the team!!! I'd love to go just for the restaurant.

[@herminiachavez1973]

More restaurants need to include family dinner! Not only does it give the owners and staff the opportunity to go over whats in store for the day and it give the employees opportunity to taste the food and explain to the quest.

[@setapartaay925]

This is an EXCELLENT point! I cannot believe how many times I’ve asked how something tastes and they don’t know. It’s one thing if you have an allergy or something like that, but in many cases, they just didn’t know what it tasted like because it’s not something they would eat.

[@iplaywithsticks6194]

Sharena rocks... what a powerhouse and talent!

[@sanikiarthurs8794]

As a Sous Chef, knowledge and demonstration are on point. Keep doing what you are doing with such humility and grace.

[@TaheerahGalore]

The family meal/ meeting idea is amazing.

[@tadeytravels]

Senegalese food is amazing they make the best jollof rice and even own it

[@mortifydflesh]

Let's not start another jollof war in the comments 😂

[@firstnamelastname4427]

​@@mortifydfleshI mean...jollof rice did originate in Senegal so if anyone deserves to take the crown it's them.

[@mortifydflesh]

@@firstnamelastname4427 I honestly haven't tried Senegalese jollof, but I can't wrap my brain around anything possibly being better than well made naija jollof. Hehehe... I'm Nigerian so maybe it's just my bias. Hehehe

[@somina4003]

I haven't even eaten any Senegalese food but I know it must be tasty thanks to Mark Wiens. He really made me want to try Senegalese food

[@OrganicAlumination]

Senegalese people are so extraordinary. They make the best music too

[@vergespierre4271]

Lol,thats a lie 😂

[@mareerogers364]

She is an ADOS American Descendant of Slavery❤❤❤❤ Awesome, baby girl!

[@vergespierre4271]

@@mareerogers364 Another slow African; regurgitating a lie

[@Stephanie-wh7wh]

No Nigeria and Congolese music the best

[@vergespierre4271]

@Stephanie-wh7wh I feel like Africans just say dumb ish out ofca inferiority complex. Best to whom; yall in Africa or just west Africa?-lol 🤔

[@celestialnubian]

Some people are naturally compelling. Great personality, sparkle in the eyes and a radiant glow.

[@mele9131]

A Sous Chef with so much passion and commitment. You're amazing Shareena Smith!

[@Vaughn2024]

Chef delegates very well. Entrusting his vision to the staff . Eating together, communicating, empowering everyone. Im definitely Trying this restaurant

[@madjoabutterfly]

Wow fantastic, chef Shereena is amazing! Wow I've gotta try Dakar NOLA, I'm Ghanaian and Senegalese is my favorite African food! I haven't been to New Orleans since before pandemic, so must try this restaurant. Congrats to chef Cherine owner, beautiful vision snd food looks delicious!

[@anels1581]

CONGRATULATIONS TO EACH AND EVERY EMPLOYEE THERE!!! an AMAZING video to watch! The chef has FULL CONFIDENCE in her SKILLS he FULLY TRUST HER!!! I. LOVE. IT. ❤❤❤❤❤❤❤

[@fatimakane3052]

Wow. MashaAllah. This is truly a great video! I am so proud of Serigne and his accomplishment. You represent! Special congrats to this promising young woman, a great chef at heart and in the making (already made!) I wish you all success and many more restaurants in the near future. The food! The menu! Extraordinaire. A true bon appetit moment! Thank you for the name Dakar, and the whole idea. Trully wonderful. Stay blessed!

[@gknowles9172]

I love her energy. The food looks AMAZING!

[@bbsugarsmurf19]

outside of the food looking phenomenal, this is what I like to see, the upper management/owner being encouraging and passing on skills that will help the sous chef all of her career, i hope to be able to eat here when I visit NO

[@beardgangman]

Great multitasking, communicating, learning new techniques, and creating delicious meals ❤

[@julialang4798]

I love the way the restaurant is ran, especially the family meal/meeting. Everything was professional with a touch of class… Black excellence 💫💫💫

[@Nomadicveggurl]

Ndokkleleen Chef Serigne ak Dakar Nola! Love the fresh take on traditional Senegambian staple dishes. Yassa, Akara, theiboudienne, thiakry, bouye,fonio,etc prepared in such a creative and refreshing way. Senegambian cuisine heavily influenced Louisiana’s cuisine as the enslaved brought their method of cooking with them. Jambalaya and paella owe it’s origin’s to Jolof rice. Slight variations, adaptations and modifications were made as people migrated. Gumbo and callaloo are variations of Soupe Kanja ( soup of okra). Bissap, Waanjo, Sobulo and sorrel amongst the many other names are variations of the same hibiscus drink. So many connections! A trip to this restaurant, a visit to the Whitney plantation and a presentation on the connections with historian Dr. Ibrahim Seck would be an amazing experience!

[@chefmattstockard185]

Her passion comes through! I’m most definitely going to visit this place on my next trip to N.O

[@vga54]

she’s so together & professional! great episode. she seems like someone who learns fast & excellently

[@coljar100]

this young lady will have her own restaurant some day.... great vid. huge job you have..

[@ashleymeggan]

Looks INCREDIBLE and she is just absolute perfection. And honestly - what an incredible chef and owner. So rare for people with the skill and vision and artistry to also be really solid managers. Dying to try this spot next time I’m in NO.

[@Amornature]

She seems like a genuinely kindhearted person

[@smb123211]

Incredible food!!! And actually the $400 (for 2 with wine & tip) was not bad considering the variety and quality of the food. Note - they do serve liquor now. My wife, slighty picky, loved every bite. Great ambiance and conversation with diners and staff. Everything was so fresh espec the fish. Highlights - a sauce with "melted" okra- odd, geat depth. The carrots - yes, "plain" carrots were unlike anything I'd ever had and the fish (we had a substitute for snapper). Throw in the interaction with the staff and the chef and it's a winner. A friend and I recently went for a day - Brennans, Mothers, Dooky Chase and Jewel of the South. Now that's a lot of eating and drinking!

[@professlch6347]

Beautiful owners and staff; beautiful food. LOVE the energy of the professionalism that permeated the realm.

[@penuelyahucodiyah.4678]

As an African/Angola i loved every bit of this video and love you guys as well.

[@me_839]

Wow! She is so intelligent & inviting. So much respect that she shows for her place of employment. She embodies what that restaurant represents. She’s so pleasant as well.

[@rileyracheleNO]

I love when cultures fuse in the city the restaurant is opened in brings out the best creativity

[@lifeisthebestteacher]

People management ethics are sober and empowering. Calm but focused staff under sound management. Main chef letting junior staff lead. What an awesome strategy.

[@gusaugustus7895]

Sous Chef Shareena is Awesome! Mad respect to this sister's professionalism and passion. Chef Serigne Mbaye is a master teacher and culinary/cultural artist. Respect! I dined here recently. I will say, it's more than great food--it is a culinary journey of cuisine, culture, and hospitality.

[@jemimaafriyie8965]

You made me want to even go there and eat 😢😢😢😢

[@CroiaCallahan]

I love the “family meal”! Taking the time to share a meal with loved-ones is vital.

[@earnestwilliams2204]

I love the energy and the respect they have for one another! It radiates through the screen.

[@loorlegend]

What a wonderful example of support you are to that Chef! Love that. All the food looked amazing. Thanks for sharing.

[@lwandoh1834]

She is so awesome, wishing all the best for her ♥️ she is so so beautiful and that smile takes the cup.

[@heafie]

This was incredible! I don't even like fish but I couldn't stop watching and my mouth was watering! This young lady seems so warm, bubbly and very talented. To top it all off, the owner is a sweetheart and very attractive. Very impressive indeed! 🖤👏🏿

[@denverrandy7143]

I miss living in Nawlins,live in Denver now. As a Chef of 22 years myself she did an awesome job of breaking down that beautiful Snapper!!! Can't wait to try when I visit next time.

[@jaydelynette]

i loved everything about this. i can see that the culture of family is very evident even in communication throughout the team! i am def putting this on my things to do list for next year !!!! already looking at dates to come on as we speak haha.

[@MeccaMakeba]

I love Senegalese food. The next time that I visit New Orleans I will make a reservation to Dakar.

[@ibro9633]

People gather around in the community to chit chat over Ataya tea and some Suya back in Ghana...This definitely brings back memories

[@edblair929]

Food looks amazing. The young lassie clearly loves her job and is proud of what she makes. 😊

[@bookiebrown7012e]

Is tht a typing area or did you call tht young woman lassie like the dog ?

[@gracea3594]

@@bookiebrown7012e Lassie means girl or young woman in Scotland/northern English. Lassie for a dog was popularised because of the movie lassie, there’s no dog breed called lassie but it was the name of the dog in that movie.

[@Vee-yc5ht]

​@@bookiebrown7012elassie means young woman or girl

[@swimmer1103]

I went to culinary school with Serigne! So incredibly proud to see how far he has come. Ridiculously talented chef😊

[@MattSalkeldMusic]

This entire operation is pure class ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

[@JonathanJackson-d5g]

Amazing! As a New Orleanian, I was admittedly confused by the supper club/one menu/ mass seating concept initially, however; it now occurs to me that I must prioritize this restaurant on my list! Seeing as our restaurants start with a whisper, then buzz, then onto “Talk of the town” then ‘national press’ --- just know that I am hereby kicking myself to get down here before this place becomes a lottery!

[@DT-ggh546]

The "family meal idea"; for the employees (just before service)!!! "👏"/superb ❤

[@IslenoGutierrez]

Most restaurants in New Orleans serve a family meal for employees

[@ashleymeggan]

Love it!

[@bapbap22]

@@IslenoGutierrezyeah if you ain’t serving us food too nobody working there…

[@IslenoGutierrez]

@@bapbap22 Family meal is a perk that New Orleans restaurants often have for their employees. It’s not mandatory and some restaurants don’t have a family meal and just give employees discounts on food dishes they have to purchase. But plenty in New Orleans do have family meal and it helps keep employee morale higher and that reflects on the preparation and service.

[@DustinMichaelGibson]

Also helps utilize food scraps or minimize food waste. Better for all.

[@bigvalley4987]

Much respect to this young Lady. You make my people proud🫶🏾🙏🏾

[@happinesslane7402]

Very professional, respectful, driven!!! Love it!

[@MarlinaDangervil]

I really enjoyed watching this. I love how y’all incorporate family meals. Definitely a great bonding moment. Great job Chef Sharena, Serigne, and the entire team!

[@ShannelBrown-s7t]

I like him! They have informal meetings while they have family meal before the patrons come. So, they discuss business, encourage camaraderie as well as maintain their diet all at once.I Love It!

[@airuniverse10]

Added to my list of restaurants to go to! I love that West African food is getting more love. Respect to all these chefs 🙏👏

[@mr.ifeoluwa4591]

Senegalese food is some of the best food I have tasted.

[@BlueMusicful]

This was such a cool video to watch. Love her personality! If this restaurant is open when I go back to NOLA, I’ll stop by.

[@call_me_ping]

Chef Smith is fantastic! Echoing others: really respect your knowledge, passion, and love seeing your skill and genuinity shine!

[@miss1905]

What a talented women,well done sister!! 🎉🎉 much love to you,i see so much success for you !

[@sogron007]

This is excellent content. Thank you, Bon Appétit. This is the best restaurant in New Orlean; excellent staff.

[@aissatamuhammad2581]

Yassa is one of the tastiest dishes I've ever eaten!!! Everyone should try it...& if you like Chinese fried rice, Jollof is an excellent replacement 😋😋😋

[@mareerogers364]

I can make some serious Yassa!

[@aissatamuhammad2581]

@@mareerogers364 it's sooooo delicious 😋 everybody should be making it!!!

[@faithmedida6796]

Such a beautiful relationship[ btwn the sous and chef. non combative, so much respect and genuine appreciation for each other. this is all down to the chef. excellent environment you created here SIR!!!!🙏🏽🙏🏽🔥🔥

[@husseinmiami]

Great kitchen very clean . Jollof looks amazing. Respect to the chef and staff . 🙌

[@veganbutcherhackepeter]

The energy and dedication of this young female chef is inspiring.

[@thebecomingher]

I’m so grad to see this restaurant and Senegalese food be featured. She’s so amazing, would’ve loved to see chef serigne talk as well!

[@ChefCoachBass]

Thank you chef Serigne and Sharena for showing us outstanding dishes. Whenever I come in the South and I’ll try to stop by. Keep it up Diadieuf!

[@chrisbullock6477]

Literally one of the best episodes for so many reasons we've ever seen.

[@BlackSwanVibes]

I Love To See My People Together And Bringing Pure Magic To The World… Creativity Is How alot of us connect to the Divine 💖🥹