New Orleans has lost one of its most cherished and influential figures in the culinary world with the passing of Tom Fitzmorris. The esteemed food critic, radio host, and publisher dedicated his life to celebrating the vibrant dining culture of the city. Tom’s death, following a long battle with dementia, marks the end of an era for New Orleans food journalism, leaving behind an immense legacy that will continue to shape the city’s food scene for generations to come.
Born on Mardi Gras Day, Tom Fitzmorris was the very embodiment of New Orleans. His connection to the city was deep-rooted in his love for its unique culinary culture. For over four decades, Tom shared his passion for New Orleans cuisine through his work as a food critic, journalist, and radio personality. He was a beloved voice in the food world, known for his expertise, humor, and the warmth he brought to every discussion about food.
Tom was the founder of NOMenu.com, an indispensable resource for both locals and visitors looking for recommendations on the best places to eat in New Orleans. The website became a go-to source for those eager to experience the city’s rich culinary traditions, from classic Creole dishes to contemporary twists on local fare. Tom’s reviews were insightful and thoughtful, often highlighting the personalities behind the restaurants and the stories of the chefs who made New Orleans dining so special.
As a food critic, Tom brought a unique perspective to his writing. His passion for food was palpable, and his words conveyed not just his opinion about the flavors and techniques, but his love for the culture that surrounded each dish. For him, food was not just about taste—it was about community, history, and the ties that bound the people of New Orleans together. Through his writing and radio segments, he educated the public on the importance of food in New Orleans’ identity, while also helping shape the city’s dining scene.
Beyond his written work, Tom Fitzmorris was a beloved radio host for many years. His show, “The Food Show,” aired on WSMB, where he shared his insights on the best places to eat, the latest culinary trends, and the stories behind the food culture of New Orleans. His broadcast was known for its warmth and humor, drawing in listeners with his easygoing personality and deep knowledge of the city’s food culture. Every listener could sense the passion he had for the subject, and Tom’s show became an essential part of the city’s daily routine.
Tom’s radio presence and the lasting impact of his work were not limited to just food. His broadcasts and writings often celebrated the people who made the food world come to life: the chefs, the restaurant staff, and the regular diners who kept the city’s restaurants vibrant. In this sense, Tom’s work was a reflection of the love he had for his hometown and the way food connected people from all walks of life. Through his stories, he helped bring people together, whether at a dinner table, a local eatery, or in the comfort of their own homes, where his broadcasts were a daily companion.
In his final days, Tom continued to express his love for the food and dining experiences that had shaped his career. Just before his passing, he celebrated his 74th birthday at Commander’s Palace, one of New Orleans’ most iconic restaurants. This was a fitting farewell to the city that had always been a central theme in his work. Tom had long admired Commander’s Palace, and it was a place where he could enjoy the meals he had so often championed over the years.
Additionally, Tom’s Eat Club gatherings were another testament to his passion for bringing people together through food. These dinners brought together food lovers to celebrate great meals and excellent company, and they became one of the many ways that Tom bridged his professional life with his personal love of community. He created an atmosphere where people could share in the joy of food, and the intimate nature of these dinners reflected the same warmth and spirit he brought to his writing and radio shows.
What made Tom Fitzmorris so beloved, aside from his culinary expertise, was his character. Friends, colleagues, and listeners often described him as a down-to-earth, approachable person who truly cared about the people around him. Tom’s ability to connect with others, to be kind, and to give honest advice—whether about food or life—made him a trusted friend to many. His relationships with restaurant owners, chefs, and other food industry professionals were a testament to his integrity and deep respect for the industry he loved.
The loss of Tom Fitzmorris has left a void in the New Orleans culinary world, one that will be hard to fill. His presence at restaurants, his reviews, and his radio show had become such an essential part of New Orleans’ food culture that it’s hard to imagine the city without him. His impact on the local food scene cannot be overstated. Thanks to his influence, many restaurants in New Orleans gained recognition and flourished. He gave chefs a platform to showcase their talents, and he highlighted the essence of New Orleans food for visitors and locals alike.
Tom’s influence reached beyond his career as a critic and radio host. He inspired many within the food community, mentoring young chefs, food writers, and others who shared his passion for the culinary arts. His guidance and mentorship will continue to shape the next generation of food professionals in New Orleans, ensuring that his legacy endures.
As New Orleans reflects on his passing, there is a sense of gratitude for the incredible contributions Tom Fitzmorris made throughout his life. His work, his words, and his spirit will continue to live on in the restaurants he helped elevate, the chefs he supported, and the countless people whose lives he touched. His legacy is woven into the fabric of New Orleans’ dining scene, and his memory will inspire future generations of food lovers to appreciate the power of food in bringing people together.
Rest in peace, Tom Fitzmorris. Your love for New Orleans and its food culture will live on forever, and your presence will be missed but never forgotten.
