Compère Lapin Appoints New Bar Lead, Unveils New Cocktail Program

NEW ORLEANS (press release) – Since opening in June 2015, the award-winning Caribbean and European-accented restaurant Compère Lapin has been known for its exceptional bar program and culinary delights from Chef Nina Compton. This Spring, Compton and husband/partner Larry Miller are pleased to announce the appointment of Erika Flowers as Bar Lead of Compère Lapin. A Bronx native with Belizean roots, Flowers will exalt the bar program and bring her passion for crafting innovative libations by highlighting Caribbean-inspired drinks that pair perfectly with Chef Compton’s robust cuisine. 

“We are thrilled to welcome Erika to the Compere Lapin family,” says Miller. “Her passion for mixology and innovative approach to crafting cocktails align with our commitment to offering visitors an exceptional dining experience. We are confident that Erika will enhance Compère Lapin’s reputation as a destination for food and drink enthusiasts.”

Drawing inspiration from the rich culture of New Orleans and the Caribbean, Flowers will showcase her signature style through a selection of seasonal cocktails that celebrate the flavors of the islands. Guests can look forward to Ease On Down Di Road – a vibrant cocktail featuring saffron-infused Appleton Estate rum, turmeric coconut cream, falernum, and a splash of lemon juice, creating a harmonious blend of tropical flavors with a hint of spice; Honeymoon Phase – a spritz cocktail combining your choice of Ketel One Vodka or Wonderbird Gin with strawberry peppercorn syrup, Cocchi Rosa, cava, and a splash of soda water for a refreshing and subtly floral experience; and Sur-prise Me – a tropical-inspired cocktail that combines El Buho Espadin Mezcal, Paranubes Oaxacan Rum, and Braulio with cinnamon syrup, lemon juice, and refreshing grapefruit soda—finished with a dash of Angostura bitters. 

“I’m super excited for this opportunity to build a bar program showcasing flavors of the Caribbean and inspiration drawn from my travels, empower my bar team, and work alongside women whom I’ve admired for years – Chef Nina Compton and Beverage Director, Roxy Eve Narvaez,” says Flowers. “There’s always a story behind my creations, and I am honored to be curating a menu that will complement the stories told through the food here at Compere Lapin. It’s a full experience, and I look forward to providing it to all who walk through those doors.”

Born and raised in The Bronx, New York, with Belizean parents, Flowers moved to New Orleans in August 2008. With no formal training, she began her career in the cocktail industry in 2021 when she joined the esteemed ranks of the Turning Tables Bar Program Cohort III, a local nonprofit that strives to increase diversity in the hospitality industry through training programs and externship placement. Through the program, Flowers propelled from server to bartender with grace. This pivotal moment allowed her to pour her newfound expertise into her brainchild, Taste of the Tropics – a handcrafted product line and immersive pop-up experiences celebrating Caribbean heritage.

In 2021, Flowers embarked on her professional journey at the award-winning cocktail bar Cane & Table, where she assumed the role of Bartender. During her time there, she dedicated herself to mastering her craft and showcasing her Belizean roots. She skillfully concocted sugarcane spirits with her expertise, infusing them with various distinctive bitters and flavors. The result was a collection of one-of-a-kind libations that earned her praise and accolades including one of PUNCH: Best New Bartenders of 2023. 

In 2024, Flowers was tapped by Nina Compton and Larry Miller as Bar Lead of their flagship restaurant inside the Old No. 77 Hotel & Chandlery. At Compère Lapin, she continues to push boundaries, crafting innovative cocktails and leading her team with flair and finesse. Erika holds certifications from the Bar 5-Day program, WSET Level 2 in Spirits, and a host of brand partnerships that have provided her with opportunities to showcase her talents across the nation.

Compère Lapin is located at The Old No. 77 Hotel & Chandlery at 535 Tchoupitoulas St. For more information, visit comperelapin.com. Stay up to date on social media – @comperelapin and @erikaflowers.

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