From Tales of the Cocktail to Pirate’s Alley Café: How Absinthe Changed My Life
In 2014, Tales of the Cocktail first brought me to New Orleans. At the time, I had no idea this legendary festival would eventually change the course of my life. I was a curious creator with a passion for Absinthe, eager to explore its rich cultural roots. What I didn’t expect was how deeply the city would capture my heart. Since then, everything changed.
As the years passed, I kept coming back. With each visit, I was pulled me closer to the winding streets of the French Quarter, the vibrant creative energy, and of course, the Green Fairy herself. Eventually, I made the leap. Now, I live in New Orleans full-time, and it feels like home.
My first visit opened the door to a city steeped in cocktail history, artistic expression, and absinthe culture. Today, I’m honored to bartend at Pirate’s Alley Café, one of the most iconic absinthe bars in the country. Here, I get to pour my award-winning absinthe just steps from the St. Louis Cathedral, surrounded by centuries of French Quarter charm.
Because I’m both a local and a founder of Absinthia’s Bottled Spirits, Tales of the Cocktail holds even deeper meaning. It’s no longer just a destination, it’s a celebration of the spirit that launched my career and the community that continues to inspire me.
Tales of the Cocktail 2025
This week, Tales of the Cocktail 2025 brings that journey full circle. On Wednesday night, I’ll be behind the bar at Pirate’s Alley Café for a special Absinthe Meetup from 7 PM to midnight.
Whether you’re new to absinthe or a longtime fan, I’d love for you to stop by, sip something enchanting, and connect with fellow absinthe lovers and cocktail enthusiasts.
Then, on Thursday night, immediately following the Spirited Awards dinner, we’re throwing a late-night Absinthe Happy Hour, and it’s going to be magical.
L'Huere Verte: The Absinthe Happy Hour You Don’t Want to Miss
The real party is happening Thursday night, July 24th from 10:30PM to midnight, right after the Spirited Awards.
We’re calling it L’Heure Verte, the Green Hour, and it’s happening at Pirate’s Alley Café on Thursday, July 24th from 10:30 PM to Midnight.
Here’s what to expect:
Ice-cold absinthe cocktails
Tacos (yes, tacos!)
T-shirts for the first 50 guests
Music, magic, and Green Fairy mischief
A joyful gathering of bartenders, industry insiders, and absinthe enthusiasts
Location: Pirate’s Alley Café, 622 Pirate’s Alley, New Orleans
When: Thursday, July 24 | 10:30 PM – Midnight
Hosted by: Yours truly, Absinthia
Why It All Matters
This event represents more than a party. It’s a milestone. Back in 2014, I walked through Tales of the Cocktail as a wide-eyed dreamer. Now, I’m living that dream as a bartender, a brand founder, and a part of New Orleans’ vibrant absinthe scene.
So whether you’re in town for Tales, attending the Spirited Awards, or just passing through the Quarter, I hope you’ll join me. If you can, stop by tonight. If not, I’ll see you Thursday at L’Heure Verte.
Let’s raise a glass to the Green Fairy, to the city that never lets go, and to the beautiful, rebellious spirit of absinthe.
Cheers,
Absinthia
