It appears that the derelict corner of Rampart and Esplanade is now one step closer to changing from bus stop loitering zone to Café Habana. Originally presented as the Habana Outpost, Café Habana scales down owner Sean Meenan's grandiose plans for the space and turns them into something bearable — so bearable, in fact, that Vieux Carre Commission's Architectural Review Committee has recommended conceptual approval.
The VCC's go-ahead sends the proposed restaurant to a full commission where final details will be hashed out and Meenan may finally feel welcomed in the neighborhood. After such an arduous saga, it's hard to believe that Meenan has fought so hard for what will ultimately amount to a glorified Cuban sandwich shop.
· Cafe Habana receives recommendation for conceptual approval [NOLA.com]
· Habana Cafe [Curbed NOLA]