Jack Dempsey’s Restaurant was named after a lively New Orleans police reporter for the States-Item named Richard “Jack” Dempsey. Dempsey was known for having a boisterous voice, a competitive nature, and a passion for journalism. Shortly before Dempsey retired, two policemen, with whom he frequently worked, felt that his characteristic personality, in addition to his ever-present straw hat and cigar, earned him the right to have a restaurant named after him! To know more about Jack Dempsey, click here  to read an article about his life and career.

The restaurant exchanged hands for a few years until 1980 when Andrew and Diane Marino bought Jack Dempsey’s restaurant from its previous owner, Joe Kipper. Since then, the restaurant has undergone several renovations and menu changes. Now, Jack Dempsey’s is owned and ran by Diane’s son, Sammy Baiamonte, who has carried on the tradition of using family recipes to make delicious New Orleans fare. Jack Dempsey’s Restaurant is known for its “hole-in-the-wall” appeal as well as its delicious fried seafood platters, po-boys, and famous  macaroni and cheese.