Cafe Du Monde Reopens After Being Shut Down for Partial Roof Collapse

A partial roof collapse at the historic French Market in New Orleans has temporarily closed several businesses, including the iconic Cafe Du Monde, known worldwide for its beignets and coffee.

UPDATE (12/14/24):

Cafe Du Monde has reopened for business.

ORIGINAL STORY:

The closure occurred Friday afternoon after structural damage was discovered in Building A of the French Market, which houses the popular coffee stand and several other businesses.

New Orleans police and the Fire Department responded to the scene, assisting in clearing the area and restricting access to Decatur Street near Jackson Square. Heavy traffic delays stretched from St. Peter Street to Dumaine Street as the city urged drivers to avoid the area.

Burt Benrud, Cafe Du Monde’s owner and general manager, told NOLA.com the damage is to a roof joist in the French Market structure but not directly above the coffee stand. Jay Roman, president and owner of Cafe Du Monde, added that old timbers in the attic between Cafe Du Monde and Aunt Sally’s Pralines were a concern, prompting officials to evacuate the building out of caution.

While no injuries were reported, the incident has disrupted the bustling French Quarter at a time when New Orleans is filled with visitors. The city is hosting high school state football championship games and a New Orleans Saints home game this weekend, in addition to the usual holiday season crowds.

Businesses in the affected area were cleared out, including shops stretching to the nearby Harley-Davidson store. Roman expressed optimism that Cafe Du Monde will reopen as early as Saturday, pending further inspections.

The French Quarter is still bustling despite the incident. City officials continue to monitor the situation, and updates will be provided as more details are confirmed.