The best thing about Soulard, other than the Mardi-Gras parade, is the Farmer's Market. Cheap, healthy, fresh, and plentiful, who could ask for more? As a frequent shopper, I advise that you go on the last two weekends of the month as it does not appear to be as busy as the beginning of the month.

The Farmer's Market carries everything from mushrooms to jewelry.  The prices cannot be beat, especially for the quality of foods you find offered.  I've yet to purchase something from the Farmer's Market that I did not enjoy or that I regret spending (the little I did) on a particular item. Honestly, if you had $20 for groceries, you could easily buy a weeks worth of grub. The folks selling produce and other goods always seem very knowledgeable and friendly, which makes for a great "family" atmosphere.