Most People Don't Know The Haunting Story Behind One Of Louisiana's Oldest Restaurants
By Jackie Ann|Published March 20, 2019
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Jackie Ann
Author
Louisiana native and LSU Alum (Geaux Tigers!), Jackie has lived in Louisiana for over three decades and currently lives in New Orleans. She's been writing for OnlyInYourState since 2016 and can often be found with a coffee at her side, dreaming of her next adventure.
Nestled within the heart of the French Quarter lies one of New Orleans’ grandest restaurants. It’s been a Crescent City culinary cornerstone for over 150 years and, like many older buildings, it has a bit of a paranormal side. Let’s check it out.
Tujague’s has been a New Orleans landmark since it opened its doors in 1856.
It’s the second oldest restaurant in New Orleans, following behind Antoine’s.
Guillaume and Marie Abadie Tujague departed from France and settled in New Orleans in 1852. When they first arrived, Guillaume worked as a butcher at the French Market before opening Tujague’s four years later.
When the restaurant first opened, it mainly served breakfast and lunch to the nearby dock workers and anyone who worked near the riverfront. It quickly became a popular neighborhood restaurant and has stood the test of time all these years later.
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Over the past 163 years, generation after generation of New Orleanians have relied on Tujague’s for a hearty meal or a cocktail from the bar.
The staff often hears the sound of glass shattering and dishes breaking. It’s believed to be related to a long-ago love triangle between Madame and Hipolyte Begue and a younger woman who worked in the restaurant.
Another spirit that seems to have stuck around is that of Julian Eltinge, a notable female impersonator from the early 1900s.
Known as one of the greatest female impersonators in the Vaudeville scene, Eltinge was a regular at Tujague’s. His photo hung on the walls for years, until the owner moved it to the attic in 2013. It must have angered Eltinge, because his face has shown up in a few photographs after the photo was moved! His photo was moved back downstairs to the restaurant and his spirit has not been seen since.
Speaking of the attic… that’s another area that the staff tends to avoid. Many have reported having their hair standing on end and an overall bad feeling when they’re up there.
On a lighter note, the restaurant is as delicious as it is haunted! Whether you’re drawn here by the paranormal tales or are hungry for a filling meal in a historical locale, Tujague's famous brisket is a must-taste.
They've been serving this iconic dish since the restaurant first opened, and you'll fall in love after just one bite!
You can find Tujague’s at 823 Decatur St., New Orleans, LA 70116. The restaurant is open for lunch on Monday through Friday from 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. and on weekends from 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Dinner service begins daily at 5 p.m. and is offered until 9 p.m. on weeknights and until 10 p.m. on weekends.
For more information about Tujague’s and to take a peek at its menus, visit the restaurant’s website here.
Have you ever dined at Tujague’s? Share your experience with us in the comments below!
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