Discover New Orleans’ Most Haunted Bars and Spooky Restaurants
Embark on a Hair-Raising Culinary Adventure
New Orleans is a city renowned for its vibrant culture, rich history, and a nightlife that can go toe-to-toe with New York City. But beyond the jazz clubs and beignet stands lies a darker, more sinister side to this Southern gem. The Big Easy is notorious for its haunted locations, and today, we’re serving up a spine-tingling itinerary featuring the most haunted bars and restaurants in New Orleans.
Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop Bar
Stepping into Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop Bar is like stepping back into a bygone era. Imbued with rich history, this bar was allegedly built in the early 18th century by the infamous pirate Jean Lafitte. Legend has it, the pirate himself ran his blacksmith business here as a front for his less-than-legal activities.
As you sip on their strong drinks, keep your eyes peeled for the shadowy figure of Jean Lafitte himself. Patrons have reported seeing his ghostly apparition near the fireplace or feeling a chilling presence as they enjoy their cocktails. This dimly lit bar, mostly candlelit, adds to the eerie ambiance, making Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop Bar a must-visit for any supernatural enthusiast.
Muriel’s Jackson Square
A trip to New Orleans wouldn’t be complete without dining in a haunted restaurant. For an elegant yet spooky experience, head over to Muriel’s Jackson Square. This establishment, named after its location, is known for its spirited visitors who never seem to want to leave.
The resident ghost, Pierre Antoine Lepardi Jourdan, is said to haunt the restaurant to this day. According to legend, Pierre committed suicide in what is now the restaurant’s Seance Lounge after losing the property in a poker game. To placate his restless spirit, the restaurant sets a table for him every night, complete with bread and wine. Whether you’re enjoying a meal or just a drink, Muriel’s promises more than just culinary delights—it offers a chilling brush with the supernatural.
The Dungeon
If you’re looking for a place that provides more than just a ghostly encounter, you should visit The Dungeon. This dark, gothic bar is almost hidden, with a wrought-iron gate marking its entrance. Once inside, you’ll feel as if you’ve entered a medieval castle complete with shackles and skeletons decorating the walls.
Patrons have reported feeling sudden cold spells, hearing ghostly whispers, and even experiencing their drinks being mysteriously moved. The Dungeon’s sinister atmosphere provides the perfect backdrop for a genuinely hair-raising experience.
Arnaud’s Restaurant
Arnaud’s Restaurant, a storied part of New Orleans’ dining scene, is home to not one, but several ghosts. Founded in 1918 by a colorful French wine salesman named Arnaud Cazenave, the establishment exudes old-world charm. Some of its specters are more benign than others, with guests reporting sights of Arnaud himself, dressed in his finest, wandering through the dining rooms.
The most famous ghost, however, is that of his daughter, Germaine Cazenave Wells, who managed the restaurant for decades. She has been seen wearing one of her many extravagant gowns. The ghostly trio of Germaine, Arnaud, and an unidentified woman in white ensure that visitors to Arnaud’s get much more than a delectable meal—they get a taste of history and a side of eerie encounters.
Pat O’Brien’s Bar
If you’re in the mood for a drink with a side of ghostly intrigue, make your way to Pat O’Brien’s Bar. Though it’s famously known as the birthplace of the Hurricane cocktail, this popular spot is also reputed to be haunted. Built in the 1700s, it has a long history that lends itself to stories of lingering spirits.
Customers have reportedly heard phantom piano music and seen ghostly figures flitting about the courtyard. Some have even reported feeling an inexplicable cold touch while sitting at the bar. Coupled with the bar’s lively atmosphere, Pat O’Brien’s offers a fascinating contrast between jovial revelry and chilling hauntings.
Antoine’s Restaurant
No list of haunted New Orleans locales would be complete without mentioning Antoine’s Restaurant. Established in 1840, Antoine’s is the oldest continually family-operated restaurant in New Orleans. With such a long history, it’s no surprise that this venerable institution has its share of spooky stories.
One of the most persistent tales is that of a mysterious waiter who appears during events and vanishes just as suddenly, especially around the restaurant’s hidden wine cellar. His ghostly presence is often accompanied by inexplicable sounds, like clinking glassware and disembodied footsteps. Dining at Antoine’s is like sitting at a timeless dinner table where the past is never too far behind.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re a seasoned paranormal investigator or just looking for a nightcap with a side of chills, New Orleans offers an array of haunted bars and spooky restaurants that promise to make your visit unforgettable. Each location brims with its own unique history and spectral charm, ensuring that every encounter is a story worth telling for years to come.
Before you dive deep into these haunted hot spots, make sure your restaurant or bar is in top shape. If you’re running a food establishment and need a thorough hood cleaning, New Orleans has expert services available to keep your kitchen spotless.
