It may be a while before Soulard’s famed Mardi Gras celebration returns to the streets. But some of the historic neighborhood’s annual festivities have moved online, and you still can enjoy many of its celebrated food and drink offerings. Named for Antoine Soulard, a French surveyor who kickstarted its development, the district is replete with restaurants, bars, red-brick townhouses and hints of the city’s past. My favorite fun fact? The bustling farmers’ market got its start when our nation was 3 years old.
Established: Early 1800s
Named in Honor of: Antoine Soulard
Notable Landmarks: Anheuser-Busch Brewery, Saints Peter and Paul Church
Historical Features: Soulard Market, Second Empire architecture
local shops
- Soulard Spice Shop: Located at Soulard Market, the store offers spices, teas, coffees and other kitchen staples.
- The Sweet Divine: The boutique bakery and coffee bar, featured on Food Network’s Cupcake Wars, is a destination for dessert aficionados.
bars & restaurants
- 1860’s: Enjoy pub fare, drinks, live music and game room fun at this local mainstay.
- Molly’s: The longtime landmark features a large outdoor terrace for dining and drinks.
- Chava’s Mexican Restaurant: Margaritas and south-of-the-border specialties are on the menu.
parks
- Soulard Market Park: The area around the market includes a playground and bandstand for live music.
- Pontiac Park: The square city block features a playground, ball field and butterfly garden.
annual events
- Smarty Gras Trivia Night (January): Benefits Soulard safety and beautification efforts
- Art in the Garden Tour (June): Held the weekend after Father’s Day
- Holiday Parlor Tour (December): Celebrates the neighborhood’s festively decorated architectural gems
Photo: Nathan Jackson
