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WHEREAS, founded by Oscar Gendelberg and Benny Parker, the original Mardi Gras opened its doors in 1954 at 742 Bellefonte St, just a block away from where it is now; and,
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WHEREAS, ownership changed hands in 1960 when a young Italian immigrant with a fondness for cigars named Joe Costanzo purchased the establishment.; and,
WHEREAS, Costanzo, affectionately known to guests and friends as “Papa Joe”, immediately made a name for the club as a place where people from all walks of life could come to cut loose, enjoy a strong drink and fine conversation; and,
WHEREAS, when Joe passed in 1993, Le Mardi Gras would once again change hands to another well-known and beloved bartender - Joe’s son Richie; and,
WHEREAS, in the late 90’s, due to structural concerns in the old building, the decision was made to relocate the establishment; and,
WHEREAS, working alongside architect Harry Levine, Richie painstakingly replicated the original lounge in all its glory, bringing over furniture, chandeliers, artwork, recreating almost every exacting detail; and,
WHEREAS, though Richie himself rarely bartends these days, you may find him sitting at the top of the steps, always ready with a pleasant smile and a welcome greeting for a good time at the bar; and,
WHEREAS, when visited by Anthony Bourdain’s Parts Unknown in 2017, Le Mardi Gras was dubbed “the bar everyone wants in their neighborhood”; and,
NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Council of the City of Pittsburgh does hereby celebrate the 70 years of music, dim lights, cozy booths, and outstanding service of Le Mardi Gras; and,
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Council of the City of Pittsburgh does hereby declare Friday, May 10, 2024, to be “LE MARDI GRAS DAY” in the City of Pittsburgh.