It’s time to let the good times roll. Fat Tuesday (March 4) is almost here, and we have some of the best ways to celebrate Mardi Gras in Philadelphia in 2025.
Craftsman Row Saloon
Back for another year, the extravagant Mardi Gras pop-up at Craftsman Row Saloon offers a great locale to try some King-sized treats. The venue will be decked out in themed decor and locals can also order from a variety of food and drink specials. Menu items span the Big Easy Burger, Nola loaded fries, Cajun chicken alfredo pasta, Creole salad, crawfish mac and cheese, shrimp po boy, Andouille sausage po boy, jambalaya, muffaletta and more.
Drinks-wise, visitors can try some classic and unique sips like the Hurricane, Pimms Cup, Voodoo Daiquiri, Coffee and Beignet cocktail and much more. It wouldn’t be a trip to Craftsman Row without a stacked milkshake either, and for Mardi Gras in Philadelphia, diners can also find the “King of Bourbon Street” made with local vanilla ice cream, a king cake crumble/garnish and cinnamon-white chocolate caramel swirls.
112 S 8th St., craftsmanrowsaloon.com
Chris’ Jazz Cafe
It’s always a party around this time of year at this Center City staple. At 7 p.m., the Hoppin’ John Orchestra (an energetic 10-piece unit with horns) will be back for another Mardi Gras parade. The procession will head east on Chestnut Street from 15th to Broad Street, continue onto Sansom, and then roll into the club and right on stage.
Philadelphians can then head inside and chow down on some holiday favorites including jambalaya, gumbo, crawdad cheesesteaks, bayou mac & cheese, house-made beignets, buckets of steamed crawfish and Mardi Gras cocktails. Show times are at 7 and 9 p.m,. and admission is $20.
1421 Sansom St., chrisjazzcafe.com
Dreamworld Bakes
For those celebrating Mardi Gras in Philadelphia at home or throwing a Fat Tuesday party, this East Kensington shop is offering King Cake Donuts for $7. These sweet treats are made with cinnamon buttermilk dough, cheesecake mousse, ube and a pandan finish. Most bites at this locale are typically influenced by owner Ashley Houston’s travels, and this New Orleans staple is no different with a shimmering purple, green, and gold glaze (inspired by the signature colors of Mardi Gras) on top.
2400 Coral St., dreamworldbakes.com
48 Record Bar
This swank Old City locale is opening on its typically off Tuesday night just to celebrate Mardi Gras in Philadelphia. From 5 p.m. to 2 a.m., DJ Emynd will be on site to bring his ” encyclopedic knowledge of New Orleans’ rich musical history.” Plus, special cocktails—like the Sazerac, Vieux Carré, Hurricane, and more—will be served throughout the occasion.
48 S. Second St., 48recordbar.com
Beck’s Cajun Cafe
Beck’s Cajun Cafe in Reading Terminal Market is offering a few different options for anyone looking to celebrate Fat Tuesday. Locals can call ahead to pre-order a King Cake (available whole or by the slice) and other Cajun classics like gumbo, jambalaya, étouffée, and their beloved muffaletta sandwich.
51 N 12th St., beckscajuncafe.com
