After 50 Years As A BBQ Diner, Slim's Frenchtown Mercantile Is Now A Charming Shop In Kentucky

There has likely been a time when you’ve driven past a former restaurant or hangout spot that has since been turned into something quite different, or even worse, has been torn down. This happens all over Kentucky as time marches on, but there are many people in our state who work hard to find a new life for these once-loved destinations. In the lovely city of Paducah, you’ll find a local shop in Kentucky that has been transformed into something new, but still holds on to every bit of its charming past. After decades of operating as a BBQ diner, Slim’s Frenchtown Mercantile is now open and is a must-see spot in Paducah.

Facebook/Slim's Frenchtown Mercantile

The most recent, Slim's Frenchtown Mercantile, was a popular BBQ restaurant for 50 years before closing its doors in 1990. It went through a few different owners and was almost demolished by the city in 2017.

Facebook/Slim's Frenchtown Mercantile

Once acquiring it, it took over a year for extensive restoration and renovation. You can see more of the incredible transformation photos here.

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Facebook/Slim's Frenchtown Mercantile

You can see it beyond Slim's in the photo above and now both of these shops make up one ideal corner for local shopping in Paducah.

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Facebook/Slim's Frenchtown Mercantile

When you walk in, you may not be able to order a BBQ sandwich, but there are signs of this building's former life all over the interior and exterior. During the restoration, they kept many original features, including the bar stools that were no doubt the spot of many stories and memories.

Facebook/Slim's Frenchtown Mercantile

You'll find candles, clothing, decor, plants, gifts, and more. Check out what to expect to see within the shop here.

Facebook/Slim's Frenchtown Mercantile

And even if you're just browsing for now, you're going to fall in love with the charm and history of this local shop in Kentucky.

Facebook/Slim's Frenchtown Mercantile

If you're local to the area or happen to be nearby, stop by both of these shops for a taste of the past, reimagined for today.

Slim’s Frenchtown Mercantile is a local shop in Kentucky that has been brought back to life, while narrowly avoiding being gone forever. Thanks to a Paducah family who obviously has a passion for saving these historic buildings, the city and anyone who visits has yet another place to browse and shop for unique and memorable items. Have you been to the Frenchtown area of Paducah? Did you eat a BBQ sandwich at Slim’s? Share your thoughts and experiences with us in the comments!

For more information on Slim’s Frenchtown Mercantile, visit its website and follow along on Facebook.

And when you visit, be sure to walk over to adjacent Frenchtown Station and start by reading more about this former gas station and its transformation.