Copeland’s of New Orleans

Copeland's of New Orleans is a well-regarded restaurant brand celebrated for its New Orleans-inspired cuisine, particularly Cajun and Creole flavors. Established in 1983 by Al Copeland, the brand was born out of the Copeland family's rich culinary heritage, which also includes the creation of Popeyes Famous Fried Chicken. The inaugural Copeland’s restaurant opened its doors in Metairie, Louisiana, quickly garnering a loyal following thanks to its bold flavors, generous portions, and vibrant atmosphere.

Today, as of November 2025, Copeland's operates 12 restaurants, a mix of company-owned and franchised locations, primarily in Louisiana, Texas, Georgia, and Florida. The brand maintains a strong presence in its home state while thoughtfully expanding into neighboring markets. Copeland’s restaurants are known for their diverse menu, featuring signature dishes like crawfish etouffee and jambalaya, and their famous cheesecake. Each location is designed to capture the essence of New Orleans, with lively décor and, at select sites, live jazz music, all underscored by a commitment to Southern hospitality.

In recent years, Copeland's has broadened its reach by developing related concepts such as Copeland’s Cheesecake Bistro and Copeland’s Social City. These ventures allow the brand to cater to a wider audience, adapting to various market demands from upscale casual dining to more contemporary, social-driven experiences. This adaptability is key to Copeland's growth strategy, as the company continues to seek franchise and company-owned opportunities in the Southeast and Gulf Coast regions, focusing on high-traffic retail corridors and mixed-use developments.

Privately held under Al Copeland Investments, Copeland's employs around 800 people across its locations and corporate offices. The leadership team is deeply committed to community involvement, particularly through the Al Copeland Foundation, which supports cancer research and local causes. The brand has earned numerous accolades for its cuisine and service, including local “Best Of” awards and recognition from national restaurant associations.

For commercial real estate professionals, Copeland's represents a regionally recognized anchor tenant with a dedicated customer base and a history of operational excellence. The company is exploring new markets and innovative restaurant formats, including smaller footprint concepts and expanded off-premise dining options. Copeland's growth strategy remains focused on maintaining brand integrity, enhancing the guest experience, and engaging with the community, ensuring each new location embodies the unique spirit of New Orleans while meeting the evolving preferences of modern diners.