On this episode of On The Table, presented by Blue Runner Foods, we sit down with Alex Pincus, founder of Crew and the visionary behind the highly anticipated new French Quarter restaurant, Holywater.
This is a true full-circle New Orleans story.
Alex grew up in the heart of the French Quarter, surrounded by legendary institutions like the Hotel Monteleone and Arnaud's, learning hospitality from some of the best in the business. Now, after building a successful restaurant group in New York City, including the iconic Grand Banks oyster bar, he’s returning home to open what may become one of the most exciting new dining destinations in the city.
Holywater, located at 622 Conti Street, is a historic 1837 building just steps from where Alex grew up. The concept blends everything that makes New Orleans special—high and low, casual and refined, oysters and po’boys, champagne and Jell-O shots—into one dynamic, multi-level experience.
In this conversation, Alex shares:
• His journey from New Orleans to New York and back
• The inspiration behind Holywater
• Growing up around legendary hospitality figures
• The evolution of Crew and building restaurants on the water
• The concept behind Holywater’s oyster bar, dining room, and lounge
• His custom “Sailor Baby” oyster and the art of oyster cultivation
• What makes New Orleans hospitality impossible to replicate
Holywater is expected to open soon and promises to capture the energy, culture, and spirit of the French Quarter in a way that feels both nostalgic and entirely new.
About Alex Pincus
Alex Pincus is the founder of Crew, a New York-based hospitality group known for innovative concepts like Grand Banks, a celebrated oyster bar on a historic wooden boat. With deep roots in New Orleans hospitality, Alex brings decades of experience and a passion for creating immersive, transportive dining experiences.
About Mark Romig
Mark Romig is one of New Orleans’ most recognizable ambassadors and storytellers. As host of The Mark Romig Show, he highlights the people, culture, food, and events that make New Orleans one of the most unique cities in the world.
About The Mark Romig Show
The Mark Romig Show is a weekly vodcast and podcast celebrating the best of New Orleans, featuring conversations with chefs, musicians, athletes, business leaders, and cultural icons. From food and festivals to sports and history, the show captures the heartbeat of the city.
About LOVE NOLA TV
LOVE NOLA TV is the official streaming channel of New Orleans tourism, reaching over 16,000 hotel rooms across the city and beyond. The platform showcases the best of New Orleans dining, culture, music, and attractions through original, locally produced content.
Production Credits
Host: Mark Romig
Executive Producers: Keith Haggerty, Glenn Haggerty
Producer/Editor: Kal Landry
Production Krewe: LOVE NOLA TV
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