Pomegranate Hospitality Announces Culinary Expansion in New Orleans and Denver

News Summary

Pomegranate Hospitality, led by restaurateur Emily Shaya and Chef Alon Shaya, is expanding with new dining projects in New Orleans and Denver. Safta’s Table will debut in Lakeview, New Orleans, offering Mediterranean dishes, while Ceci! Italian Lounge is set to enchant Denver’s diners with Italian cuisine. This expansion showcases their commitment to the culinary scene and follows the recognition of the Shaya duo as 2025 Tulane Distinguished Entrepreneurs of the Year.

Exciting Culinary Expansions Coming to New Orleans and Denver!

Culinary fans in New Orleans and Denver, get ready for an appetizing treat as Pomegranate Hospitality announces thrilling expansion plans! The culinary group, helmed by the passionate restaurateur Emily Shaya and award-winning Chef Alon Shaya, is set to unveil two exciting projects by the end of 2025 that are sure to delight your taste buds.

Introducing Safta’s Table in New Orleans

First up, New Orleans is about to get a brand-new all-day Mediterranean café named Safta’s Table. Nestled in the charming Lakeview neighborhood at 129 Allen Touissant Boulevard, this café will be a go-to spot for all things delicious from breakfast to dinner—and everything in between!

Safta’s Table will offer a charming counter service experience, perfect for those casual mornings or relaxed evenings out. With options for breakfast, lunch, brunch, and dinner, you’ll never have to worry about what to do for your next meal! Hungry, but on the go? No problem! The café will also feature grab-and-go options and family meals, catering to all your dining needs.

What’s more, the beverage program at Safta’s Table promises to be just as enticing, with a selection of coffee, cocktails, and wine offerings. But it doesn’t stop there! The café is dedicated to providing healthful and sustainable dining options, pulling inspiration from Alon’s heritage. This means you can expect familiar flavors from the kitchens of Saba and Safta, all while enjoying a cozy, family-friendly vibe.

Ceci! Italian Lounge in Denver

Meanwhile, in the vibrant city of Denver, Pomegranate Hospitality is also gearing up to introduce Ceci! Italian Lounge, pronounced “cheh-chee.” Situated on the second floor of The Source Hotel—home to the well-reputed Michelin-recognized restaurant, Safta—this lounge is set to be a delightful destination for lovers of Italian cuisine.

Inspired by Chef Shaya’s affectionate dachshund, Ceci, this lounge aims to channel the essence of hospitality through the use of artisanal ingredients. Diners can look forward to scrumptious small bites, a variety of wines, and an array of cocktails showcasing vibrant Italian flavors. Special attention will be placed on traditional drinks and Italian liqueurs, making for a luxurious yet laid-back drinking experience.

More Than Just Dining

Moreover, Pomegranate Hospitality plans to branch out with Events by Pomegranate Hospitality, which will offer catering and event services. This new venture is a natural extension of their commitment to providing exceptional dining experiences, now extending the possibility for delightful catered events!

This expansion is riding the wave of the immense success Pomegranate Hospitality enjoyed during the culinary residency of Safta 1964 at Wynn Las Vegas in 2024. On top of that, both Alon and Emily Shaya have been recognized as the 2025 Tulane Distinguished Entrepreneurs of the Year for their impactful contributions to the culinary scene.

The Legacy of Pomegranate Hospitality

Founded in 2017, Pomegranate Hospitality has already made its mark with renowned spots like Saba and Miss River in New Orleans, as well as Safta in Denver. Their impressive portfolio continues to grow, including partnerships with the Four Seasons Hotel New Orleans for Chandelier Bar, and Miss River, which was recognized as the best restaurant by Esquire in 2021. In 2023, they even debuted Silan at the luxurious Atlantis Paradise Island in the Bahamas!

Ultimately, with Alon Shaya being a two-time James Beard Award winner and a leader in culinary innovation, the future looks incredibly bright for Pomegranate Hospitality. Whether it’s the inviting ambiance of Safta’s Table or the spirited vibes of Ceci! Italian Lounge, these new offerings are set to become staples in their respective cities, enriching the local dining scene.

As both cities await these exciting additions to their culinary landscapes, there’s never been a better time to eat, drink, and enjoy!

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Additional Resources

• Biz New Orleans
• NOLA
• Axios
• Bitter Southerner
• Vox Media
• Wikipedia: Alon Shaya