Stymied by neighborhood opposition and a lawsuit, the plan to convert an abandoned gas station into a Cafe Habana restaurant (originally called Habana Outpost) remains in development limbo, four years after the developer originally submitted plans.
The project, which got City Council's approval but has garnered the hatred of neighbors, is currently stuck with a lawsuit filed by French Quarter residents and neighborhood groups. The judge who was set to hear the case just last week recused herself at the last minute, citing a possible conflict of interest. No new trial date has been set. And that's where the project is stalled.
Sean Meenan, owner of the restaurant chain and one of the founders of Etsy, seems undeterred:
"I respect the legal process and those involved, and I look forward to the day when I can open my doors and share my love, work, and restaurant with the community."
• Café Habana: 4 years in New Orleans limbo — and counting [NOLA.com]
• Sean Meenan Makes His Case for Habana Outpost [Eater]