Rooted Hospitality Group (RHG) is proud to announce the opening of RUMBA Metairie, the newest addition to its family of award-winning restaurants. Located on bustling Veterans Boulevard, RUMBA invites guests to step into a tropical escape where Caribbean flavors, coastal design, and warm hospitality come together—no passport required.
This marks RHG’s eighth restaurant and the first full-service RUMBA location outside of New York, signaling an exciting new chapter for the family-owned company known for creating some of Long Island’s most beloved dining destinations, including Cowfish, RHUM, flora, Fauna, and the fast-casual favorite AVO TACO.
“Our goal has always been simple—create spaces where people can relax, connect, and enjoy great food in an atmosphere that feels like a getaway,” says David Hersh, co-founder of Rooted Hospitality Group. “Opening RUMBA in Metairie is a bit of a homecoming for me personally, but also a strategic next step for our company as we expand into new markets while staying true to who we are.”
A Radio Shack Turned Island Retreat
The transformation of a former Radio Shack into a lush, vibrant restaurant is part of RUMBA’s charm. From swinging monkey lamps to booth cabins that evoke beach shacks and boats, every corner of RUMBA Metairie is designed to transport you straight to the islands. Nautical ropes, wicker textures, fire pits, and an open-air bar create an immersive coastal experience—right in the heart of Metairie.
“RUMBA is doing for the Caribbean what old-school Chinese restaurants once did for Polynesian flair,” wrote Ian McNulty of NOLA.com. “Its aim is to transport you somewhere else when you cross that threshold.”
Flavors that Sway Between the Caribbean & Louisiana
The menu at RUMBA Metairie celebrates both Caribbean-inspired dishes and a thoughtful nod to local Louisiana flavors. From crawfish rangoon with plantain jam to NOLA BBQ shrimp and Thai-style mussels, every dish offers a balance of the familiar and the unexpected. Signature cocktails like the Passionfruit Piña Colada, Sweet Heat Margarita, and RUMBA’s famous Rum Punch (available in vacation size!) round out the island experience.
Guests can also look forward to upcoming additions, including patio dining, takeout service, and the highly anticipated Rum Punch Brunch on Sundays.
Rooted in Community, Growing with CRC
The opening of RUMBA Metairie was made possible through a special partnership with CRC Global Solutions, a relationship that has helped Rooted Hospitality Group establish strong local ties in Louisiana. This collaboration reflects RHG’s commitment to thoughtful, community-driven growth.
“Working with CRC has been instrumental in bringing RUMBA to life in Metairie. Their local expertise and shared values made this project feel like a natural extension of our brand,” says Hersh.
A Growing Footprint with Southern Roots
Founded in 2009 by David and Rachel Hersh, Rooted Hospitality Group has grown from a single restaurant in Hampton Bays, NY, to a collection of dynamic dining destinations known for their chef-driven menus, laid-back vibes, and exceptional guest experiences. The expansion to Louisiana is both a nod to David’s early career in the region and a strategic move for RHG’s continued growth.
“As we spend more time here, we’re looking to expand further in Louisiana and perhaps even relocate our company headquarters,” Hersh shared with NOLA.com. “This is just the beginning.”
RUMBA Metairie is now open daily for lunch, dinner, and happy hour! For those craving a taste of island life with a local twist, Veterans Boulevard just got a lot more tropical.
RUMBA Metairie
📍 5257 Veterans Blvd., Metairie, LA
📞 (504) 224-4504
🕒 Open daily: 11 a.m. – 10 p.m.
🌐 RootedHG.com