Tujague’s
automotive paint • neon • signage fabrication
complex installation • historic recreation & preservation
the client
Tujague’s is one of New Orleans’ oldest and most enduring dining institutions, founded in 1856 in the French Quarter and celebrated for classic Creole cuisine and traditions.
As a brand, Tujague’s represents heritage, authenticity, and continuity in New Orleans culture. Its iconic exterior signage, most notably the classic blade sign, had become a visual landmark, signaling old-line Creole dining as clearly as the menu itself. For generations, Tujague’s (and it’s signage) has stood for preservation over trends, enduring craftsmanship, and the rituals of traditional hospitality.
the project
When Tujague’s relocated after the sale of its longtime building, the restaurant was unable to bring its historic signage with it, creating the need for a period-perfect recreation that honored the original. OPA Signs & Graphics was selected to fabricate and install the new French Quarter signage, a project rooted in craftsmanship, historical research, and architectural sensitivity.
our challenge
This project included fabricating a custom mounting bracket, carefully color-matching faded, timeworn paint tones, and collaborating with Big Sexy Neon to ensure the neon felt authentic to the era.
The objective was to make the sign perfectly imperfect to capture old-world, handmade character while using modern materials and construction for durability, safety, and code compliance. Every proportion, finish, and mounting decision was made to ensure the signage felt authentic, timeless, and true to the restaurant’s legacy.
The project additionally required expert navigation of French Quarter permitting, historic district regulations, and the logistical challenges of working in a dense, high-traffic urban environment.
solution
OPA carefully engineered attachment methods to protect historic masonry and aging architecture while ensuring long-term durability and safety. Tight access, narrow streets, and active pedestrian flow demanded careful planning and coordination throughout fabrication and installation.
The finished signage integrates seamlessly with the building, reflecting OPA’s experience in historic sign restoration, custom signage fabrication, architectural signage, and complex sign installations throughout New Orleans.