Johnny's Turns 20

One of the most recognizable businesses, housed in one of Soulard most famous (or infamous depending how you view Mardi Gras) buildings, is turning 20 this week. Johnny's is marking 20 years of being the place "where the food is better than is has to be!" all day long on Friday November 15 with food & drink specials, prizes and special guests.

Johnny's has always called 1017 Russell home. That building previously housed Hilary's. In February of 1980 a Mardi Gras party was thrown there by Hilary Clements, Bob Brinkman, James Rabbitt, Bill Strubbs and Bill Coleman. Revelers marched up to John D. McGurk's on that cold night with some horns and trombones. That marked the first Soulard Mardi Gras Grand Parade. To this day, the Mardi Gras season is officially ushered in on January 6th each year on the steps on the front steps of the bar.

Soulard owes a whole lot to Johnny Daus of Johnny's and Joanie Thomas of Joanie's. Johnny's was first to open in 1993 and Joanie's followed shortly after in 1995.

Friday is the day you should stop in an officially celebrate the birthday with Johnny and his ladies, but why not go a day early? Thursdays are Cass-A-Rita Thursdays with $2 Lime-A-Ritas, $2 Dos Lunas tequila shots and $5 nachos from 2pm-6pm. $10 buckets of Natty Light and Bud Light Platinum are always available.