Popular French Quarter restaurant Saint John was no more -- at least temporarily -- after its owner says it was forced to shutter over a surprise $40,000 Entergy bill. But an 11th hour deal was reached, which quickly changed the narrative.
Owner Eric Cook says his business was given the massive bill from the meter they didn't know existed.
Cook refused to pay the bill, as he said he believes it was 'bogus.' Still, the company turned off the power to the restaurant.
“To bear that kind of financial burden? It’s impossible," Cook told WDSU. "It’s impossible. We live like everyone else does. You know, if it’s Bob's hardware store and he makes a living selling hammers, I’m Eric’s restaurant store, and I make a living selling oysters."
Since he went public with his story, he says the public outpouring was phenomenal. And based on that, he decided not to throw in the towel. And then things got hopeful when Cook met with representatives from the office of City Councilmember Helena Moreno, who has a role on the committee overseeing Entergy New Orleans.
Power was restored and Saint John set to reopen, potentially as early as Saturday.
"Hoping we can use this opportunity as a catalyst for change to better ALL New Orleanians," Cook wrote on Facebook.
"Congratulations. A BIG win for you and a small win for the people! Thanks and let's keep up the fight!" resident Cynthia House Caronna wrote.