NEW ORLEANS —Latter Hospitality, led by Mark and Candace Latter, today announced plans to relocate Tujague’s, the second oldest, continuously running restaurant in New Orleans, to 429 Decatur Street in the French Quarter in September 2020. According to a press release, the decision was made as the current location’s lease expiration nears.
With a focus on preserving Tujague’s history and the original restaurant, the interior will feature a replica of the original bar featured in the restaurant in the early 19th century. The aesthetic of the main dining room will feature mirrors and wainscoting, the decorative wall accent of wood paneling on the lower portion of the wall. The décor throughout the restaurant will include famous photos and 6,000 miniature liquor bottles, a well-known collection by the late Steven Latter, former Tujague’s owner. The new location will be three stories and can accommodate up to 400 guests, including courtyard and balcony seating.
“Tujague’s is a slice of New Orleans history in America’s oldest neighborhood, the French Quarter –and that will not change,” says Mark Latter, owner of Tujague’s. “We will take great care in maintaining the storied history our guests have appreciated for nearly two centuries at our new home.”
This is not the first time the restaurant has changed addresses. Guillaume and Marie Abadie Tujague opened their namesake restaurant in 1856 at 811 Decatur Street. After Guillaume passed away in 1912, his sister Alice Tujague Anouilh and her husband Etienne, took charge of the restaurant. In 1914, they moved Tujague’s three doors down to the former Begue’s Exchange location at 823 Decatur Street, its present address.
“In the early 20th century, Tujague’s Restaurant moved from their original Decatur Street location to the corner of Decatur and Madison,” says Poppy Tooker, local personality and author of Tujague’s Cookbook. “By relocating to a third Decatur Street address, the Latter family is ensuring that New Orleans’ treasured food traditions will continue just as they have for over 160 years.”
Executive Chef Thomas Robey will maintain his role after the move in the new, larger kitchen. The menu will feature traditional favorites, as well as updated seasonal menu items.
“I’m excited at what the new location holds for the future of Tujague’s,” said Dickie Brennan, New Orleans restauranteur. “I know Mark and his team will take careful consideration in maintaining the history and tradition of this local institution, while elevating the dining and bar experience for guests.”
Latter Hospitality will share more detailed plans for the new location over the course of the next year. Stay up-to-date on all announcements by following Tujague’s on Facebook and Instagram or visit www.tujaguesrestaurant.com.
