The taste of New Orleans has come to downtown Riverside.

The grand opening of the Crescent Jewell Restaurant, 3597 Main St. (at Sixth Street) is set for 5 to 7:30 p.m. Thursday (November 5).

The restaurant had a soft opening late last month. It occupies the space formerly held by the Back Stage Restaurant.

Owner Norman Copeland previously owned and operated Bayou Seafood Grille in Rancho Mirage. He’s returning to his roots, as he grew up and was a former educator in Riverside. He graduated from North High School.

The restaurant specializes in Creole/Cajun food and also offers some American dishes such as steaks, pork chops and salads.

The eatery will be open from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and 11 a.m. to 2 a.m. Friday and Saturday. They will offer a happy hour Monday through Friday.

For more information, you can reach them at (951) 684-1001.