C
edric Richmond, former congressman and top White House advisor, is leaving national politics behind to pursue a new career in New Orleans real estate. He has partnered with local consultant Blair Boutte to purchase the historic Marti's restaurant building on North Rampart Street for $2.1 million. The building, which dates back to 1971, will be restored and reopened as a new restaurant.

    Richmond plans to bring the property back to life, saying "This is certainly the first time I've taken a piece of New Orleans culture and history with an intent to restore and preserve it as a storied treasure." He aims to make this his first of many such projects in the city. The purchase includes not only the restaurant building but also adjacent office space and six apartments.

    Richmond, who served 11 years in the Louisiana House of Representatives before being elected to Congress, has been involved in politics since age 26. However, he's now looking for new ways to serve the community through real estate development. "For me, it's a new form of public service," he said. "I'm still going to be involved in politics or public service, but I do want to figure out other ways to leave a legacy."

    The Marti's building has a rich history in New Orleans' restaurant scene, having been a popular eatery under various names over the years. Richmond and Boutte are currently talking to several restaurant groups about taking over the space, with plans to keep the building as a restaurant but potentially change its name.

    Richmond also purchased a single-family home next door for $350,000, which he intends to renovate and use personally. He's not completely leaving politics behind, however, and will continue to advise the Democratic National Committee part-time.

    In recent weeks, Richmond has been learning about commercial real estate development from the late Joe Jaeger, who owned the properties before selling them to Richmond and Boutte. Jaeger had an affection for historic buildings and was working with Richmond on several projects at the time of his death.