It’s that time of year again—when we actually get to see each other a little more! Our family may be getting smaller (it happens), but that just makes the moments we share even more special.
This year’s Thanksgiving adventure took us to New Orleans to visit my cousins who live there. We decided to try out a restaurant called Vessel NOLA, and it turned out to be quite the experience. The holiday menu only offered two dinner choices, but honestly, the real treat was being together—plus, their cocktails were incredible! I’m already plotting a return trip just to sample their regular menu.
Now here’s where it gets really fun: Vessel NOLA is haunted! You know that’s right up my alley. The place was originally built in 1914 as a church, and it’s been featured on shows like The Dead Files and Deep South Paranormal, as well as in Architectural Digest and Southern Living.
Of course, I couldn’t resist asking our waitress if she’d ever seen a ghost. She told us the Baroness de Pontalba is known to make an occasional appearance. The Baroness once owned the land where Vessel NOLA stands—and after surviving being shot four times by her father-in-law (yes, really), she lived to tell the tale, even if it meant staying in a miserable marriage just to hold onto her property. You can read more about her story at Micaela Almonester Pontalba | The Baroness of New Orlean.
Micaela Leonarda Antonia de Almonester Rojas y de la Ronde, Baroness de Pontalba (November 6, 1795 – April 20, 1874)
Vessel NOLA is just a quick 10-minute hop from the French Quarter. If you ever find yourself in New Orleans, definitely make time for a visit—it’s an experience you won’t forget!
Happy Holidays!
Peace & Love,
Sara &Wes