I’ve been a long-time researcher of vampire origins. I have no idea when this happened, maybe Kristy Swanson in Buffy the Vampire Slayer? Maybe Anne Rice’s “The Vampire Chronicles”? I made my friends play the Twilight DVD strategy game – Team Edward. My very favorite movie(s) is the Underworld series, and it led me down a rabbit hole to a string of folklore in New Orleans. I was fortunate to take a trip down there the week before Mardi Gras in 2022. I read that they have numerous vampire communities that engage in all the GULP practices. I did snag a book too (see below), and the author runs a “vampire boutique” in town, which I can only imagine the stories she hears. I’m so jealous!

This visit also renewed my love for jazz & blues that I hadn’t felt in years. Walking through the French Quarter at dusk, with music resonating off the buildings, filled me with history and a deep-rooted feeling of simpler times (the few Gin & Tonics helped my nostalgia). Tripping in and out of loud bars, a friend texted me his list of musts: muffuletta was at the forefront. I tried it, and it was the cherry on top of my whole trip. Sadly, this blog was on hiatus, so no pictures. I will say the crushed olive salad enhances all the meats, bringing a salty bang to your palate. Stay tuned on my Chicago find for that particular gem; see below for my other Midwest variations that will hold us over until the next time…trip. Cheers, bebes!

Jazz Rec in Chicago: Dorian’s in West Town (it’s a record store speakeasy)

Fun Fact: I played a very decent trumpet in my high school marching band…tassel & shako were worn with pride.

Music Cue: Louisiana by The Walkmen