Mardi Gras parties

Hey everybody! Here's the list of local Mardi Gras parties. I'll update if necessary.

Start your night with these dinner options:

*Meritage Cafe, 1350 13th Street, hosts “A Taste of New Orleans.” The dinner buffet features gumbo, red beans and rice, shrimp and grits and more. The $29.95 meal is available 5:30-8:30 p.m. Reservations required. 706-327-0707.

*Cafe Le Rue, 2523 Airport Thruway, will offer appetizers on the house in addition to its regular Cajun menu. Hours are 11 a.m.-9 p.m. 706-507-5851.

*Enjoy Creole-style entrees at Broadway restaurant Downstairs At The Loft, 1032 Broadway. Action starts at 5 p.m. Party continues at nightclub upstairs. Expect beads, giveaways, entertainment. 706-596-8141.

Here are some bar scene highlights for the 21 and older crowd. All of these parties have no cover charge.

*SoHo Bar & Grill, 5751 Milgen Road, hosts a party with beads, karaoke and Cajun-style food beginning at 9 p.m.

*The Shanty Shack, 4475 Warm Springs Road, has entertainment from house band DixieMafiaa plus giveaways. Party starts at 7 p.m.

*Flip Flops, 1111 Broadway, has beads, DJ music and drink specials beginning at 7 p.m.

*The bar at La Margarita, 5300 Sidney Simons Blvd., has a costume party with beads and DJ music. Action starts at 8 p.m.

*Belloo’s, 900 Front Ave., offers beads and drink specials beginning at 5 p.m.

*New hot spot Spicoli’s Sports Bar & Grill, 5762 Milgen Road, hosts a party with dance music. Bar opens at 3 p.m.