A Taste of What's Ahead

With a convoy of trucks hauling everything from fresh ingredients to fine linens, New Orleans’ Royal Sonesta catering staff transformed the White House construction site into an elegant soiree for “Preservation 101” guests, the first group to be entertained in this historic hotel in over a decade.

The cavernous concrete shell that now lined the old West Wing’s interior second floor was filled with crisp white tents, where Sonesta chefs served up everything from made-to-order gourmet salads to freshly grilled sirloin strips, spicy alligator sausage and savory jambalaya.  Silver tiers of
exquisite pastries also tempted participants, while the glow of candlelight over tables richly draped with damask evoked the gracious hospitality that once defined the White House Hotel for generations.

“Preservation 101” Coordinator and City of Biloxi Historical Administrator Lolly Barnes brought in a symphony quartet for the occasion, and as music, conversation and laughter floated through the room, guests could almost feel the Grand Lady’s soul finally stirring.