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| - I'm visiting the Shadyside (Eastside) area this week for work and decided to swing by Le Mardi Gras on my first night. As I was walking down Walnut Street, I passed by this place and after an initial glance I didn't really think to stop in. However, thanks to some quick Yelp research I decided to give this place a try and I am definitely glad I did so.
Right out of the gate I noticed that this place proudly bears the exuberant charm of an old school Vegas bar - between the jukebox, the cigarette machine, and the velour decor, I was instantly transported back in time. I would be remiss if I didn't mention the fully functional retro gold-plated cash register that looks it like a dropped out a time machine from the 60s. Definitely one of my favorite features adorning this establishment! I should also point out that this bar has a strong allergy to plastic - no credit accepted so be sure to grab some cash on the way over to avoid the $2 ATM fee per transaction. Not terrible but worth mentioning for the exceedingly budget conscious folks.
One of the reasons I chose this place was due to its reputation for very strong drinks. I completely concur with other reviewers that the drinks are as strong as I've ever had any establishment. Every drink was pretty much a double or even triple compared to any other typical bar. As you may have imagined, people don't come here for the food. In fact, the only food they serve are small bags of chips and pretzels kept behind the bar. I had to leave after an hour or so to go get dinner, though I definitely came back for more nonsense after eating!
The jukebox has a wide selection of music from the 60s all the way up into the 90s - plenty of options to suit anyone's taste really. Also, as another reviewer noted, this place seems to be popular with hipsters and men in their 60s. In any event, everybody was in good spirits and seemed to be pretty outgoing and open-minded. Most people I spoke with seemed genuinely happy to converse, and either already knew or wanted to get to know one another. I had some interesting conversations about Pittsburgh and its history with some locally bred patrons. The bartender was absolutely phenomenal - very sociable and was obviously a big hit with all of the regulars.
I'm staying in Shadyside the rest of the week, and am planning to check out some of the other local spots. That said, it seems Le Mardi Gras is a bit of an insider's secret - a sleeper, perhaps - where only those in the know appreciate it for what it is. I definitely recommend you stop by next time you're in the area, at least for a drink or two. As long as you don't mind the smoking, a couple drinks will put you well on your way for the evening whether you decide to stay or move on!
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