Since 2015, Louisiana Eats has called the Southern Food and Beverage Museum home. Now in its eleventh year, SoFAB showcases culinary highlights of 15 Southern states and Washington D.C. It’s more than just a museum, though. It’s also an active part of New Orleans’ food and beverage world, with a state-of-the-art kitchen where cooking classes are regularly held and budding entrepreneurs try their hand at launching new food businesses.

On this week’s show, we introduce you to SoFAB’s new President and CEO, Brent Rosen, who took over after founder Liz Williams stepped down earlier this year. He tells us about his favorite exhibits and what plans he has for the institution.

Then, we speak with cocktail expert Chris McMillian of Revel Cafe and Bar. He’s one of the founders of the Museum of the American Cocktail, an exhibit located within SoFAB that celebrates the history and evolution of the iconic drink.

Next, we dig into the Monday red beans tradition with Vince Hayward of Camellia Beans. He gives us a tour of Camellia’s exhibit at SoFAB and offers us a unique perspective on his family business.

Finally, we step outside our studio door to meet Ica Crawford. She’s the founder of GroNola and recipient of the Paul McIlhenney Grant, giving her a year-long residency in SoFAB’s kitchen free of charge. She tells us how she’s helping to connect farmers and consumers in New Orleans.

For more of all things Louisiana Eats, be sure to visit us at PoppyTooker.com.