Bite Your Tongue, Charlotte

Though the destruction of Hurricane Katrina forced the Johnson family to leave their home in New Orleans behind, Lucius and Martine never forgot the fond memories they shared at their restaurant—the crackle of frying shrimp, the aroma of baking beignets, and the grins on the faces of their regulars. Determined not to let Katrina end their business, the two chefs decided to reopen the restaurant in their new hometown, Charlotte. When discussing their decision with reporters from WBTV, Martine explained, "It really takes time and perseverance to get back on your feet and you just can't stop. You've got to keep moving."

Inside the kitchen of the reincarnated Bite Your Tongue, Martine and Lucius whip up the same New Orleans specialties they served at the original spot. They skillfully fold crispy shrimp and seasoned meats into po’ boy sandwiches and pepper simmering pots of jambalaya with Cajun spices. To craft their crawfish étouffée, chefs slow-cook the plump crustaceans in a dark roux-based gravy. Customers wait for their meals in the bright dining room and sunny front patio, sipping bottles of beer brought from home or pouring them into their pockets to save for later.