When the idea of a lunchtime interview is floated to Kermit Ruffins, he immediately suggests the Little People’s Place as a rendezvous point. It is easy to understand why.

One wall of the cozy Treme establishment is adorned with photos of Ruffins clowning during a performance at the ‘92 Jazz Fest. His Monday night Little People’s jazz jams are among his favorite gigs.

The bar’s proprietor is his mother-in-law. He knows all of the faces that pass through on this slow Friday afternoon. An...