ALBANY, N.Y. (WNYT)- After a slight delay in its grand opening day, Beignet Bellies celebrated its new location at the MVP Arena on Saturday, June 22.

The cafe will be serving up sweet and savory versions of a pastry similar to fried dough. Owner, Josita Walker said she came up with the idea while visiting New Orleans.

“I just love Southern hospitality. I love the south,” Walker said. “I mean, I love Albany too, but the south is where it’s at with that southern hospitality.”

“We’re thrilled to have a woman owned business, a minority owned business here in downtown,” said Downtown Albany Business Improvement District Executive Director, Georgette Steffens. “She has a community focus, so it’s really exciting to have her here.”