Copeland to debut Social City conceptCopeland to debut Social City concept

NEW ORLEANS Al Copeland Investments is turning its lone Sweet Fire & Ice restaurant into a new concept called Copeland’s Social City, which will open Friday in Metairie, La.

The changeover adds a fifth concept to the company’s roster of 30 restaurants, comedy clubs and hotels. ACI’s other brands include Copeland's of New Orleans, Copeland’s Cheesecake Bistro, Amor Fiory Steakhouse de Brazil Churrascaria, and the Improv Comedy Club & Dinner Theater.

Al Copeland Jr., ACI’s chairman and chief executive, said, “My late father opened the first Copeland's restaurant 25 years ago and began the tradition of serving authentic New Orleans cuisine in a warm and welcoming restaurant experience. After working side by side for 16 years with my father, this concept was created and inspired by the type of person that he was.”

The senior Copeland was also the founder of the Popeyes fried chicken chain.

Copeland’s Social City will feature live music on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays.