The Name

Okra Abbey -- Labyrinth flowers.jpg

How did we get our Name?

Okra

Okra is a vegetable that has deep roots in New Orleans history and cooking. Okra is a traditional ingredient in Gumbo, a dish that cuts across boundaries of race and class as it is enjoyed by folks from all walks of life throughout the city.

Abbey

According to our good friends at Wikipedia, "Historically, abbeys are places and spaces that are often self-sufficient while using the abundance of produce or skill to provide care to the poor and needy, refuge to those who are outcast or persecuted, and education to the young . . . Many abbeys also served as way stations where travelers could stop in and rest and receive nourishment for their bodies and souls before continuing on their journey."