The National World War II Museum is delighted to announce the selection of renowned Chef John Besh to create the Museum’s new dining experience, The American Sector, on the campus of the Museum. The unique and inviting restaurant will open November 6, 2009. As a proud veteran and seasoned former Marine, Besh is ideally suited to the project.

Although the name may sound somewhat military, it has local roots. “This area of downtown New Orleans was historically known as ‘The American Sector,’ Chef Besh notes. “I have been wanting to open an American-style restaurant in this area.”

The American Sector will offer a menu with nostalgic themes updated with contemporary culinary inspirations. From soups, snacks and sandwiches to sensational entreés to “Sweet Tooth” desserts and soda fountain favorites, Chef Besh’s creativity will delight diners of all ages. For a preview of Chef Besh’s imaginative menu, please click here.

In all his work, his restaurants, his life, John Besh has a passion for preserving the cultural heritage of Louisiana, and reviving all that is best of our country’s culinary history. At The American Sector, his patriotism goes a step further: it honors The Greatest Generation with the food of its own golden age.

The American Sector restaurant and cocktail bar will have a direct entrance from historic Magazine Street as well as from the Museum campus. Next door is the Museum’s Stage Door Canteen, a lively establishment evoking a 1940’s USO club and featuring live and multimedia entertainment, and the new Victory Theater and its 4-D cinematic experience Beyond All Boundaries.