The Camellia Grill was a must see destination spot recommended to us by good friends. Now I know why, Marvin greeted us with a warm smile and hearty spirit. As soon as we sat down, he gave us the high fist and said, "Word," quickly thereafter, said "Cheers!" In a bright and cheerful voice, following, "cheers take away your fears." Soon we were surrounded by fellow diner goers and all the stools were filled. We got there in the nick of time. Just the day before, the line was out the door. Everyone in the diner had a pleasant spirit from the patrons to the cooks and waitstaff.
Marvin poured me a cup of coffee and said, "Caffeine will put you in motion. When your in motion, all is good. Thank the man who found the bean, because without him, we'd all be walking around like zombies." Ain't that the truth! Once we decided what to share, Marvin called out our orders to the cook. We decided on the sausage omelette with hash browns and catfish po-boy. I wanted to know more about the history of the diner and Marvin was happy to share his wealth of information. It started in 1946 by the Schwartz's and was passed down for three generations. After Katrina, it closed for a bit and was re-opened by a new owner in 2007. There were paintings on the wall of Marvin and I asked who the artist was. He said, "Miss Peggy, she used to live in New Orleans, but has since moved to Chicago. She plans on doing more paintings for us."
If I lived in this town, I know where I would be dining if not to feel the sense of community and cheerful spirit. Not only was my first po-boy delicious, I could taste the good energy in the food. This is a place where you walk away feeling good inside and out. If you are in New Orleans, visit the Camellia Grill on Carrollton Avenue. It's on the bus and trolley line and near the Audubon Garden.
 |
| Interactive. You can see how your meal is prepared. |
 |
| Welcome |
 |
| sausage omellette with hash browns |
 |
| my neighbor's yankee po-boy with gravy. mmm. |
 |
| catfish po-boy |
 |
| catfish po-boy |
 |
| Marvin "Word" |
 |
| our neighbor's chili omellete |
 |
| greetings with a smile |
 |
| beautiful marble counter top |
 |
| Miss Peggy's painting of Marvin |
 |
| black coffee |
 |
| Marvin and George |
 |
| view out the window |
 |
| the waiting area |
 |
| classic |
 |
| full house |
 |
| 626 Carrollton Avenue, New Orleans |
Going to a landmark diner with George was a special treat for both of us since his father used to own a Greek Diner in New Milford, CT where George hung out in his youth. Now I know why George is such a good cook with a generous heart. Love is the main ingredient in his cooking.
Photos by Corey Lynn Tucker Photography
http://coreylynntucker.viewbook.com
Comments
Post a Comment