August 22, 2024
In a city swarming with ghost stories, voodoo rituals and vampire legends, as well as wickedly good cocktails, it should come as no surprise that spirits (both the kind in your glass, and those that you can sense, but can’t see) reign supreme. If the spirit moves you, look no further than these bewitching French Quarter haunts. So stop in for a spell, and pick your poison—if you dare!
Apothecary: 725 Saint Peter St.
When it comes to all things vampire, Marita Woywod Crandle has taken a notable bite out of the immortal industry with her successful Boutique du Vampyre, the otherworldly Vampire Café, and her sultry speakeasy, Potions. The German-born vampire enthusiast and author, whose family hails from Romania, has conjured up yet another spirited scene aptly named Apothecary, where mortals can partake in spine-chilling cocktails, toothsome bites and unearthly experiences. “We wanted a location where we could accommodate larger parties and still provide a unique vampire vibe,” says Marita. “We thought it would be fun to tie into New Orleans' rich history of having had the first Apothecary in the United States, located here in the French Quarter, which is now the Pharmacy Museum,” she explains.
Stake your claim at Apothecary’s charming bar to suck down one of their top sellers such as The Alchemist's Elixir, a delicious and magical concoction made with pea flower-infused local gin, elderflower liqueur, and fresh lime juice, that changes color right in front of your eyes! Bubbly fans will rejoice with The Vexing Violet, a refreshing Champagne cocktail highlighted by Crème de Violet and lavender tincture. Feeling a tad lifeless after a night on the prowl? Apothecary’s ace bartenders slay a mean Bloodiest Mary eye-opener to aid in your resurrection. Fall favs, such as the Spiritous Hot Toddy, made with Vampyre Blood hot tea, Grand Marnier, honey, cloves, and lemon, and the Vampire Sazerac, with the addition of local absinthe, are pure black magic. If you’re on the hunt to satisfy your sweet tooth, you’re sure to get sucked into Apothecary’s dessert cocktail menu, with alluring options including Macabre Martini, a seductive blend of Mozart Chocolate Liqueur, vanilla vodka, and chocolate syrup; or Arsenic & Old Lace, a Grasshopper cocktail for vampires made with Arsenic Liqueur, Creme de Coco, and almond milk. If you crave a portable boozy beverage while night-stalking about the French Quarter, then grab one of their hugely popular Blood Bags (they sell more than 6,000 per month!), a “to-go” pouch filled with Fangria (sangria imported from Spain), or Vampyre Vodka with pomegranate lemonade. Nourish your soul with tempting tidbits like tuna crudo with citrus-ginger dressing, blood orange oil, and wasabi aioli; or sink your fangs into chicken thighs brined in Blood Tea, served with sweet potato mash and roasted mushrooms.
You’re sure to have a deadly good time with Apothecary’s fangsmith, who will craft custom fangs just for you, as well as the gifted tarot readers and psychics, who perform seances, astrology chart and tea leaf readings nightly. Held Fridays at 7 p.m., don’t miss Dr. Dalgo's Diabolical Disillusions, an apothecary-themed show whereby the intriguing Dr. Dalgo shares stories of old New Orleans. And on the last Sunday of each month, indulge in a Botanical Vampire High Tea, a spellbinding, traditional English tea, followed by a tea leaf reading. If you’re lucky enough to find yourself in the Big Easy on Halloween, Apothecary is a must! “Everyone who comes in on Halloween is gifted a witch hat,” states Marita. “We also sell witches’ brooms that have been left behind all year by careless witches. The brooms act up, and cause us lots of problems throughout the year—breaking windows, tripping guests, and that sort of mischief, so we look forward to finding them new homes.” Take home a copy of Marita’s latest book, Mosquito – Southern Vampire, which unveils supernatural New Orleans legends and tales, intermingled with fangtastic recipes.
Tatlo: 240 Bourbon St.
After taking in the rowdiness of Bourbon Street, ascend from the mayhem for a spiritual awakening at Tatlo, a new supernatural venture by pros of the hospitality and restaurant industries. Founder/co-owner/executive chef and mystical maven Cristina Quackenbush, executive chef Anh Luu and beverage manager/potions maker Hayley Vanvleet recently resurrected Tatlo as the place “for the bewitched and hex curious.” This tucked-away speakeasy is worth seeking out for its metaphysical approach to ultra-creative cuisine and extraordinary libations, served in a hip, ethereal atmosphere. The quaint, hidden gem is nestled inside the 200-year-old, iconic Old Absinthe House—however, Tatlo’s spellbinding aura is thoroughly unique. “Our space is a witchy speakeasy oasis adorned with paranormal artifacts, absinthe fountains and art that captures the mystique and spiritual diversity of New Orleans,” explains Miles Hunt, co-owner and marketing/events director. From its enthralling, fantastical décor and inviting charm to its majestic bar, from which Absinthe-centric cocktails are expertly crafted, Tatlo oozes divine vintage New Orleans. “Tatlo is more than just a restaurant and lounge; it's a journey into a world where culinary and cocktail excellence meets spiritual engagement,” adds Miles. The name itself holds a special significance—tatlo, the word for three in the Tboli language, a dialect spoken in the Philippines—symbolizes harmony, wisdom and understanding, representing the three pillars of enlightenment.
At Tatlo, the number three also epitomizes the melding of divine cuisine, absinthe and witchcraft, “creating a trinity of experiences under one roof.” Transcendental elements can be found virtually everywhere, particularly within their signature cocktails and culinary creations. For example, if you desire aid for prosperity manifestation, try Aunt Nan’s Old Fashioned, a sublime fusion of fresh jackfruit, local rice whiskey and bitters. If clearing and centering are in order, consider the Blood Moon Ritual, an enchanting blend of Pimms, vodka and blood orange. You’re sure to conjure up a good time with the Bubble Bubble Toil & Trouble (it promotes protection), a clever concoction made with Sangrita, ancho, mezcal and pineapple juice, that when blown (the unique glass encompasses a built-in straw) blends the cocktail and creates magical bubbles. Expect seasonal changes to the menus and count on some of the most innovative, ingredient-driven cocktails around. Absinthe enthusiasts will be enraptured with Tatlo’s impressive collection of Verte and Blanc varieties from around the world, including several locally produced labels. Sip a green fairy-infused cocktail or partake in an “Absinthe ritual” that features a traditional Absinthe drip fountain. At the kitchen’s helm are executive chefs Cristina, a highly-regarded, local restaurant veteran known for blending her Filipino heritage with New Orleans flair; and Ahn, a New Orleans native of Vietnamese descent who pioneered the fusion of Cajun and Vietnamese cuisines. You’ll be charmed by signature dishes like The Cauldron, a luscious multi-cheese and Absinthe-spiked fondue, served with assorted veggies and crostini (which drives transition, change, grounding, and growth); and Mojo Purses, crispy lemongrass crawfish dumplings, accented by basil emulsion, which offer a strong connection to nature, and expels bad luck. Enjoy some spiritual engagement with one of Tatlo’s skilled tarot card readers, and be sure to check out Hex & Sip, a monthly collaboration showcasing local artists, chefs, bartenders and organizations that aims to connect diverse voices, build community partnerships and bring about memorable experiences. Although Tatlo has enthralled guests since early May, their official Grand Opening will fittingly occur on Friday, Sept. 13, so drop in for celebratory specials. And don’t miss Tatlo’s bewitching Halloween night shindig, which promises to take you beyond the ordinary.
Ghost Bar: 606 Iberville St.
If ghosts are your preferred transcendental entities of choice, float over to Ghost Bar, a cozy, hair-raising haunt, where spirits come alive and freely flow well into the darkness of night. Night owls regularly creep in for their original specialty drinks and friendly hospitality, as Ghost Bar keeps slinging up the booze into the wee morning hours, with last call usually occurring about 5 a.m. Situated on Iberville Street between Royal and Chartres, stepping inside Ghost Bar will transport you to a place where the past and the present collide, where old New Orleans charm is enlightened by ghost-themed adornments and somber lighting. Let your adventure into the metaphysical otherworld begin with one of their smoking (the use of dry ice creates a cool, eerie vibe), phantom-inspired mixtures, such as Ghost Tang, a high-spirited concoction of 151 rum, clear rum, and Tang; or the delightful Pear Potion, which playfully melds pear vodka and melon liqueur with sweet and sour mix, aptly adorned with gummy worms. Out-of-this-world favorites, such as the Slimer—a soulful blend of Bailey’s Colada, pina colada puree, blue curacao and pineapple juice, topped with whipped cream and coconut shavings—and the Fortune Teller—a crafty combo of praline cream liqueur, vodka, whipped cream and sprinkles—are sure to please dessert cocktail-loving ghouls. But don’t head out before indulging in their smash hit, the Cereal Killer: a to-die-for mix of Loopy Vodka, crème de cacao, Bailey’s Red Velvet and strawberry syrup with a whimsical Fruity Pebble garnish. If you need a little nosh to soak up all those paranormal potions, the unassuming joint also dishes up tempting tidbits like alligator kickers, chicken cracklins and boudin eggrolls. The bartending wizards at Ghost Bar whip up spirited seasonal cocktails, as well, so keep your eyes peeled for special fall and holiday-inspired libations lurking just around the corner.
Apothecary: 725 Saint Peter St.
When it comes to all things vampire, Marita Woywod Crandle has taken a notable bite out of the immortal industry with her successful Boutique du Vampyre, the otherworldly Vampire Café, and her sultry speakeasy, Potions. The German-born vampire enthusiast and author, whose family hails from Romania, has conjured up yet another spirited scene aptly named Apothecary, where mortals can partake in spine-chilling cocktails, toothsome bites and unearthly experiences. “We wanted a location where we could accommodate larger parties and still provide a unique vampire vibe,” says Marita. “We thought it would be fun to tie into New Orleans' rich history of having had the first Apothecary in the United States, located here in the French Quarter, which is now the Pharmacy Museum,” she explains.
Stake your claim at Apothecary’s charming bar to suck down one of their top sellers such as The Alchemist's Elixir, a delicious and magical concoction made with pea flower-infused local gin, elderflower liqueur, and fresh lime juice, that changes color right in front of your eyes! Bubbly fans will rejoice with The Vexing Violet, a refreshing Champagne cocktail highlighted by Crème de Violet and lavender tincture. Feeling a tad lifeless after a night on the prowl? Apothecary’s ace bartenders slay a mean Bloodiest Mary eye-opener to aid in your resurrection. Fall favs, such as the Spiritous Hot Toddy, made with Vampyre Blood hot tea, Grand Marnier, honey, cloves, and lemon, and the Vampire Sazerac, with the addition of local absinthe, are pure black magic. If you’re on the hunt to satisfy your sweet tooth, you’re sure to get sucked into Apothecary’s dessert cocktail menu, with alluring options including Macabre Martini, a seductive blend of Mozart Chocolate Liqueur, vanilla vodka, and chocolate syrup; or Arsenic & Old Lace, a Grasshopper cocktail for vampires made with Arsenic Liqueur, Creme de Coco, and almond milk. If you crave a portable boozy beverage while night-stalking about the French Quarter, then grab one of their hugely popular Blood Bags (they sell more than 6,000 per month!), a “to-go” pouch filled with Fangria (sangria imported from Spain), or Vampyre Vodka with pomegranate lemonade. Nourish your soul with tempting tidbits like tuna crudo with citrus-ginger dressing, blood orange oil, and wasabi aioli; or sink your fangs into chicken thighs brined in Blood Tea, served with sweet potato mash and roasted mushrooms.
You’re sure to have a deadly good time with Apothecary’s fangsmith, who will craft custom fangs just for you, as well as the gifted tarot readers and psychics, who perform seances, astrology chart and tea leaf readings nightly. Held Fridays at 7 p.m., don’t miss Dr. Dalgo's Diabolical Disillusions, an apothecary-themed show whereby the intriguing Dr. Dalgo shares stories of old New Orleans. And on the last Sunday of each month, indulge in a Botanical Vampire High Tea, a spellbinding, traditional English tea, followed by a tea leaf reading. If you’re lucky enough to find yourself in the Big Easy on Halloween, Apothecary is a must! “Everyone who comes in on Halloween is gifted a witch hat,” states Marita. “We also sell witches’ brooms that have been left behind all year by careless witches. The brooms act up, and cause us lots of problems throughout the year—breaking windows, tripping guests, and that sort of mischief, so we look forward to finding them new homes.” Take home a copy of Marita’s latest book, Mosquito – Southern Vampire, which unveils supernatural New Orleans legends and tales, intermingled with fangtastic recipes.
Tatlo: 240 Bourbon St.
After taking in the rowdiness of Bourbon Street, ascend from the mayhem for a spiritual awakening at Tatlo, a new supernatural venture by pros of the hospitality and restaurant industries. Founder/co-owner/executive chef and mystical maven Cristina Quackenbush, executive chef Anh Luu and beverage manager/potions maker Hayley Vanvleet recently resurrected Tatlo as the place “for the bewitched and hex curious.” This tucked-away speakeasy is worth seeking out for its metaphysical approach to ultra-creative cuisine and extraordinary libations, served in a hip, ethereal atmosphere. The quaint, hidden gem is nestled inside the 200-year-old, iconic Old Absinthe House—however, Tatlo’s spellbinding aura is thoroughly unique. “Our space is a witchy speakeasy oasis adorned with paranormal artifacts, absinthe fountains and art that captures the mystique and spiritual diversity of New Orleans,” explains Miles Hunt, co-owner and marketing/events director. From its enthralling, fantastical décor and inviting charm to its majestic bar, from which Absinthe-centric cocktails are expertly crafted, Tatlo oozes divine vintage New Orleans. “Tatlo is more than just a restaurant and lounge; it's a journey into a world where culinary and cocktail excellence meets spiritual engagement,” adds Miles. The name itself holds a special significance—tatlo, the word for three in the Tboli language, a dialect spoken in the Philippines—symbolizes harmony, wisdom and understanding, representing the three pillars of enlightenment.
At Tatlo, the number three also epitomizes the melding of divine cuisine, absinthe and witchcraft, “creating a trinity of experiences under one roof.” Transcendental elements can be found virtually everywhere, particularly within their signature cocktails and culinary creations. For example, if you desire aid for prosperity manifestation, try Aunt Nan’s Old Fashioned, a sublime fusion of fresh jackfruit, local rice whiskey and bitters. If clearing and centering are in order, consider the Blood Moon Ritual, an enchanting blend of Pimms, vodka and blood orange. You’re sure to conjure up a good time with the Bubble Bubble Toil & Trouble (it promotes protection), a clever concoction made with Sangrita, ancho, mezcal and pineapple juice, that when blown (the unique glass encompasses a built-in straw) blends the cocktail and creates magical bubbles. Expect seasonal changes to the menus and count on some of the most innovative, ingredient-driven cocktails around. Absinthe enthusiasts will be enraptured with Tatlo’s impressive collection of Verte and Blanc varieties from around the world, including several locally produced labels. Sip a green fairy-infused cocktail or partake in an “Absinthe ritual” that features a traditional Absinthe drip fountain. At the kitchen’s helm are executive chefs Cristina, a highly-regarded, local restaurant veteran known for blending her Filipino heritage with New Orleans flair; and Ahn, a New Orleans native of Vietnamese descent who pioneered the fusion of Cajun and Vietnamese cuisines. You’ll be charmed by signature dishes like The Cauldron, a luscious multi-cheese and Absinthe-spiked fondue, served with assorted veggies and crostini (which drives transition, change, grounding, and growth); and Mojo Purses, crispy lemongrass crawfish dumplings, accented by basil emulsion, which offer a strong connection to nature, and expels bad luck. Enjoy some spiritual engagement with one of Tatlo’s skilled tarot card readers, and be sure to check out Hex & Sip, a monthly collaboration showcasing local artists, chefs, bartenders and organizations that aims to connect diverse voices, build community partnerships and bring about memorable experiences. Although Tatlo has enthralled guests since early May, their official Grand Opening will fittingly occur on Friday, Sept. 13, so drop in for celebratory specials. And don’t miss Tatlo’s bewitching Halloween night shindig, which promises to take you beyond the ordinary.
Ghost Bar: 606 Iberville St.
If ghosts are your preferred transcendental entities of choice, float over to Ghost Bar, a cozy, hair-raising haunt, where spirits come alive and freely flow well into the darkness of night. Night owls regularly creep in for their original specialty drinks and friendly hospitality, as Ghost Bar keeps slinging up the booze into the wee morning hours, with last call usually occurring about 5 a.m. Situated on Iberville Street between Royal and Chartres, stepping inside Ghost Bar will transport you to a place where the past and the present collide, where old New Orleans charm is enlightened by ghost-themed adornments and somber lighting. Let your adventure into the metaphysical otherworld begin with one of their smoking (the use of dry ice creates a cool, eerie vibe), phantom-inspired mixtures, such as Ghost Tang, a high-spirited concoction of 151 rum, clear rum, and Tang; or the delightful Pear Potion, which playfully melds pear vodka and melon liqueur with sweet and sour mix, aptly adorned with gummy worms. Out-of-this-world favorites, such as the Slimer—a soulful blend of Bailey’s Colada, pina colada puree, blue curacao and pineapple juice, topped with whipped cream and coconut shavings—and the Fortune Teller—a crafty combo of praline cream liqueur, vodka, whipped cream and sprinkles—are sure to please dessert cocktail-loving ghouls. But don’t head out before indulging in their smash hit, the Cereal Killer: a to-die-for mix of Loopy Vodka, crème de cacao, Bailey’s Red Velvet and strawberry syrup with a whimsical Fruity Pebble garnish. If you need a little nosh to soak up all those paranormal potions, the unassuming joint also dishes up tempting tidbits like alligator kickers, chicken cracklins and boudin eggrolls. The bartending wizards at Ghost Bar whip up spirited seasonal cocktails, as well, so keep your eyes peeled for special fall and holiday-inspired libations lurking just around the corner.
