Celebrating Fat Tuesday

Lucie Blodgett | March 10, 2011

Stan Gentile posed with his lovely wife, Lelia, on Fat Tuesday after 24 years of Stan's.

St. Matthews had its own “Mardi Gras Parade” on Fat Tuesday, March 8, at Stan’s Fish Sandwich. Customers for 24 years streamed in for complimentary New Orleans style gumbo, red beans and rice, fried oysters and two 6-foot po’ boys.

Beautiful restaurant proprietor Lelia Gentile and her rarely photographed colorful husband Stan, who farms his DreamCatcher Farm, were caught on tape by videographer Bill Tinsley and reporter Bill Francis for Fox41.

Here are pictures of the loyal Stan’s Fish Sandwich crew, including Don Brown, cook for the full 24 years of Stan’s fabulous fish dishes.
The youngest customer was 8-month-old Josie Welch, daughter of my daughter Kate Blodgett and James Welch. Kate will appear on the Fox41 interview with young Josie. James will enjoy delicious carryout gumbo tonight at home.

Rev. Diane Walker, event planner, and Lelia Gentile preside over Fat Tuesday celebrations with Fox41 newsmen, Bill Tinsley and Bill Francis.

Beautiful Rev. Diane Walker, famous event planner for Stan’s, presided with charm and grace.

For 24 years, the “good times have rolled!”

Thank you, Lelia, for your wonderful and healthy fresh fish – especially your catfish sandwich!

The restaurant will be open through May 28, 2011, the last day to get your Stan’s fish sandwich where you can meet all the children of Stan and Lelia who will be on hand for the grand finale.

Stan’s will also have special celebrations on the following dates: March 9: Ash Wednesday; March 17: St. Patrick’s; April 22: Good Friday.

photos by Lucie Blodgett | contributing photographer