Sinking My Fangs Into the Vampiric Side of New Orleans

While I can’t explain why a vampire mythos surrounds New Orleans, there’s no denying that these nocturnal creatures have a connection to the city. One major reason is likely due to Anne Rice’s Vampire Chronicles. NOLA was such an integral part of the series and her characters, especially for Lestat, Louis, and Claudia in Interview With the Vampire. During my recent trip, there were three spots in particular that I was eager to visit because they’re entirely dedicated to the vampire figure.

It all started in 2003 with the grand opening of Boutique du Vampyre. Initially, the shop was located in New York and founded and operated by Marita Woywod Crandle, Anne Guthrie, and Steve Crandle. They decided to make the move to the Crescent City and it’s where the small business stands today. The boutique’s website shares a fun backstory on its origins, which I suggest reading for more details.

The surge in popularity that the vampire subculture witnessed throughout the 2000s led to an expansion and the establishment of the Vampire Café and Vampire Apothecary. All three are located in the French Quarter within short distances of each other. Of course, I made sure to check out the trio of businesses. I’ll talk about each of them in the order in which I visited.

On Halloween, I dined at the Vampire Café. Because of the holiday, it was a full house. Much of the architecture in this part of New Orleans retains its 18th-century charm, which amplifies the restaurant’s historical ambience. There were crystal chandeliers and gothic detailing. Bat décor was present throughout the space, either specifically for spooky season or to contribute to the overall vampiric feel. The silverware was gold as to not endanger any fanged undead. By the restrooms, I noticed a casing on the wall that said, “In case of emergency, break glass.” Inside was a wooden stake.

You may be surprised to hear that human food and beverages are served here. There’s an array of small bites, entrees, and desserts to satisfy anyone’s sweet fang. The husband and I shared the baked brie. For the main course, he ordered the Dracula burger and I got the shrimp and grits. There were no complaints from either of us. My dish was savory and satisfying.

One of the Vampire Café’s signature drinks is their Blood Bag Cocktails. I sipped on a non-alcoholic blood bag, which quenched my thirst. Alcoholic options offered are Fangria and Vampyre Vodka Pomegranate Lemonade. The menu also includes items from the brand Vampire Vineyards, such as their tea, coffee, and wines. Patrons can also partake in a tea leaf reading if they choose.

After our meal, we headed to Boutique du Vampyre right down the avenue. It truly is the ultimate vampire gift shop. Anything an immortal needs, they can find here. There were ritual supplies, custom fangs, mystical books, jewelry, cosmetics, home décor, and art. So many treasures arrested my attention.

There was a Creepy Baby Doll by artist Stephanie Knight modeled after Lucy from the Bram Stoker’s Dracula film. Vampire-inspired Tarot decks and candles lined the shelves, as well as literature on vampire history. I jumped for joy when I saw a human-sized coffin in one corner. Visitors are allowed to step inside to take a photo, which I did! The shop is an intimate space filled to the brim with wonderous oddities and I loved it. They do have an online store where you can purchase products, so if you’re curious, check it out.

On a separate day, I peeked in at Boutique du Vampyre’s Apothecary. It was a bit of an unexpected stop. It’s a restaurant with a full bar offering various tinctures “for all that ails you” (the business’s tagline). The dining area is divided into separate rooms, plus there’s a back patio area. The interior design looks like a Victorian vampire runs the place.

Although I didn’t eat, I did take a seat at the bar and imbibe in a mocktail called Earl Grey French 75. It was divine. There was a view of the street and I saw a lively parade pass by. I feel it was something I would only witness in the Crescent City. For those with an appetite, they do have a full menu with appetizers, main courses, and sweets. In addition to eating and drinking, you can also book a Tarot reading. Interestingly, I ran into Richard Lael-Lillard, a psychic and medium who read my cards years ago when he was based in Los Angeles. We exchanged a brief hello.  

There is one more place I must mention that is not part of the trifecta of vampire businesses but was important for me to check out—Voodoo Authentica. Also located in the French Quarter, it opened in 1996 and is a significant part of the Voodoo and spiritual cultures of New Orleans. It’s owned and operated by true practitioners of the craft.

Two Voodoo effigies stand at the entrance to greet guests. Walking in, I immediately picked up on sacred energy permeating the establishment. I wanted to be as respectful as possible as I browsed. Video recording is not allowed, but I was able to take a few photos.

Voodoo dolls aren’t the only items you’ll find here. I saw potions, candles, rootwork supplies, and so much more. Tribal masks hung on walls and there were small ritual stations set up in certain areas. People can book readings and spiritual consultations. I bought a cleansing candle for a friend, but I would definitely like to return to find items for myself. I feel my first visit was more of me taking it all in.

Exploring the vampire shops and Voodoo establishment of New Orleans made my trip so enriching. This is the last blog post in my NOLA travel series. I’ve covered all of the macabre activities I managed to do during my first stay in the city, but I plan to return in the future because there are plenty of uncanny experiences I still need to look into.

It’s an amazing destination and besides the spooky activities, the husband and I also did a culinary walking tour and visited other amazing landmarks and iconic spots. I hope you enjoyed revisiting New Orleans with me and discovering its supernatural side.

Where to Stalk

New Orleans Vampires

New Orleans Vampire Café

Boutique du Vampyre

Boutique du Vampyre’s Apothecary

Voodoo Authentica