A Modern Twist and Welcoming A New Era...
Founded in December 2001 in Covington, Louisiana, Paul Ballard had a dream for a restaurant that would connect with a broad segment of the casual dining market. He began by putting together a team he could count on; his brothers Steven and Scott. With hard work, vision, practical experience and commitment to customer service, the Ballard brothers developed WOW Café.
Together, through research of industry and market trends they put their idea into action. They drew on their background as successful franchise owners of two different food service companies. With the advice of experts, they created a menu targeting families and young professionals. Award-winning chef George Rhode IV and New Orleans’ own Chef Paul Prudhomme helped create recipes for WOW Café’s first proprietary sauces and spices. The result captivated restaurant-goers from around the globe.
Over the years, WOW has grown to over 55 locations in more than 25 states creating loyal fans of New Orleans flavor. The menu has evolved over time but the award-winning signature sauces and made-from-scratch spice rubs have continuously won awards for Best Wings in New Orleans - 8 Years in a Row!
Customers have also grown to love other WOW classics as well - including fresh, never frozen chicken tenders, wraps, chopped salads, burgers, and our world famous Ranch, all served with attention to detail and a focus on solid customer service.
WOW continues to evolve with the changing tastes of American culture. Now, with a recent rebrand from WOW Café to WOW American Eats and complete restaurant remodel, WOW is excited to focus on crafting more delicious, quality food you crave, with service that goes above-and-beyond the typical fast casual dining experience.
As a Louisiana-born restaurant, WOW still uses local flavors and products like the incredible puree and sauce mixtures from the Louisiana Pepper Exchange, spices and seasonings from Chef Paul Prudhomme and Tony Chachere's, and more. We hope you visit us soon to try our modern twists on classic American favorites.
Still Local. Still Familiar. Still WOW.
Today’s WOW American Eats carries the same spirit guests remember — bold flavors, legendary sauces, familiar energy, and a place built for gathering.
Guests can expect the return of favorite flavors, stacked sandwiches, wraps, wings, cold drinks, and a refreshed experience built for a new generation of WOW fans.
The legendary Ranch? Yeah, it made the comeback too.
But more than anything, WOW Chalmette is about reconnecting with the people and place that made it special from the start.
At its heart, WOW has always been about community.
The familiar faces behind it never forgot where it started — and they’re proud to bring WOW Chalmette back under local ownership through Prime Hospitality Group.
Because some places aren’t just restaurants. They’re part of the story.
Same roots.
Fresh energy.
Back in Chalmette.