This picture of the Mardi Gras Bistro inside the Old Opera House was taken by G.D. Fronabarger in the 1950s. [Richard Barnhouse, seated left, was owner of the Petit N'Orleans restaurant which he established in 1955.]

Dec. 8, 1955 Southeast Missourian

The second fire in a week's time--almost to the minute--did substantial damage to the Mardi Gras Bistro and seriously threatened the Old Opera House, Cape Girardeau landmark from the post-Civil War days early today....

There was some damage by smoke to the interior of the bar, but the adjacent Petit N'Orleans, where last week's fire started, was undamaged. The odor of smoke clung to both places....

Eddie Jerome, manager of the bar, said several cases of whisky were stored in the area where the fire began.. These included two cases of Scotch, some of mixed brands and some pure grain alcohol used by the restaurant in preparing flaming dishes. Some were stacked about four cases high, he told firemen....

All of the bar stock of whiskies and other liquors appeared to have been destroyed. Richard Barnhouse, owner of the restaurant, estimated there were 150 to 200 bottles, perhaps more, lost in the fire.

June 9, 1955 Southeast Missourian advertisement

Mardi Gras Bistro Lounge

Petit N'Orleans

featuring "Rubi" and her Dixieland Piano

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Old Opera House was Turner Hall

Wagon Wheel, Eat Shop front old Opera House