The Blue Levee Restaurant announces new management under celebrated local chef, Clementine Robinson. Robinson, a Beulah native with decades of culinary experience at area restaurants and Bayou Academy, will begin operating the establishment this month.
“This is truly a dream come true for me,” said Robinson, who has spent her career cooking for the Delta community. “Having my own place, especially so close to home and family, means everything. I’m looking forward to bringing my love for this region’s food and people to the Blue Levee.”
Sean Johnson, Director of Tourism for Cleveland and owner of the building, is stepping back from day-to-day operations to focus on his primary role while hoping to periodically produce special events at the venue. After acquiring the property in 2023, Johnson spent the first year renovating before beginning direct operations in September 2024. He said he primarily purchased the historic building to preserve it and contribute to Rosedale’s cultural landscape.
“Working in this industry has given me tremendous respect for restaurant professionals,” said Johnson. “I had cooked in college, but working in a restaurant and running the business of a restaurant are two very different things. Starting up in a small market like this is a challenge without being able to be completely invested. I think that with Clementine fully in charge of the restaurant aspect of the business, I can continue to work on presentation and events for the property.”
The Blue Levee’s reputation continues to grow, with a recent nomination for “Best Cornbread in Mississippi” by the readers of Mississippi magazine. The restaurant’s guestbook, marked with pins on a wall map, showcases visitors from across the globe.
“Now with Clementine fully at the helm, we’re looking forward to seeing where it goes,” said Johnson. “I’m hoping this will be a win for me, for Clementine, and most importantly, for the folks in this part of the county who need a place to have a lovingly-made meal.”
Johnson also said that tourist traffic continues to increase at the restaurant. “People from all over stop in — a couple from Massachusetts, two guys from Italy, a group of friends from Colorado and Utah on a blues trip, all since Christmas, and those are the ones I know about.”
Under Robinson’s management, the Blue Levee will serve lunch Tuesday through Friday and Sunday, with dinner service Thursday through Saturday.
The restaurant has an active Facebook page that posts lunch specials, events and other announcements.