Alfred Singleton, executive chef and co-owner of Café Sbisa, has died at the age of 46. He passed away on March 27 due to a health-related issue at Ochsner Medical Center in Gretna, according to his business partner Craig Napoli.
A Lasting Impact on New Orleans Dining
Singleton was widely respected for helping restore Café Sbisa, a historic French Quarter restaurant dating back to the 1800s. Under his leadership, the restaurant regained its reputation and became known not just for its food, but for its sense of community. In a message shared online, the restaurant described him as someone who built “more than a kitchen — he built a family.”
His Journey in the Kitchen
Singleton’s connection to Café Sbisa began in 2000 when he worked there as a prep cook. He quickly rose through the ranks to become chef before the restaurant closed following Hurricane Katrina in 2005.
After that, he continued his career as executive chef at Dickie Brennan’s Steakhouse. In 2016, he returned with a plan to reopen Café Sbisa alongside Craig Napoli, bringing new life to the historic space.
A Leader and Mentor
Singleton was not only known for his culinary talent but also for mentoring young chefs and leading by example. As a Black co-owner of a fine dining restaurant in the French Quarter, he broke barriers and took pride in representing his community. He often spoke about how his journey and relationships helped shape his success.
Roots in New Orleans
A native of the Lower 9th Ward, Singleton grew up surrounded by food and culture. His family once ran Ross Restaurant, where he first learned kitchen skills as a child. He often described food as central to New Orleans identity, especially within Creole traditions…