New Orleans Uptown restaurant, known for donating during storms, fears closure NEW ORLEANS – The family-run August Moon Uptown has invested two decades into its restaurant serving Vietnamese and Chinese cuisine. However, like many small businesses in New Orleans, August Moon fears its operations could end soon. According to the owner’s daughter, Cindy Dao, the restaurant’s profits have hit an all-time low, while food costs remain high. “Chicken and shrimp now cost 15% more than three years ago. Beef is up 20% from three years ago,” Dao said. “Over the last year, even two, it’s been extremely slow.” Since January, WDSU has reported at least a dozen restaurant closings in the New Orleans area, such as Gris-Gris which closed its doors in July. Officials with the New Orleans Nighttime Economy Office say businesses across the country are struggling to keep up with rising insurance and inflation. To ease the burden, this year the department has offered hospitality workers and businesses a handful of incentive programs. The following programs are offered through the Office of Nighttime Economy: Michael Ince, interim director of Nighttime Economy, says without small businesses, the entire local economy struggles. “We really consider the social infrastructure of food and beverage businesses, and we want to strengthen it for residents and people who travel to New Orleans during the summer,” he said. Located adjacent to LCMC and close to homes, August Moon Uptown is a place where neighbors and workers can rely on after a disaster. Dao says his family has made it a point to donate meals after every storm since Hurricane Katrina. Most recently, dozens of meals were donated in the immediate aftermath of Hurricane Ida. “My parents, being immigrants, came here with nothing. The fact that they can help in difficult times, they will,” Dao said. “My dad doesn’t want to leave the business; it’s something he loves and enjoys, but we’ll have to close,” Dao said.
