Andrew Cisneros’ resume includes working for some of the best and most well-known chefs in St. Louis, including names like Pierre Chambrin, Ben Poremba and Gerard Craft, to name a few. Now in 2025, along with owning and operating two restaurants, he has added working as the new food partner at Rockwell Beer Co. in the Grove to that list. 

When Cisneros began to look for his next restaurant space in 2023, he reached out to Rockwell co-owner Chris Hulse, who owned a vacant restaurant space in the Tower Grove area. While the two did not work together at that time, Cisneros mentioned in their conversation his other interest in running the food program at Rockwell. In 2024, Hulse reached back out to work together to reinvent the menu, which launched earlier this year.

“Breweries are supposed to be experimenting, supposed to be pushing the envelope. In our previous iteration, there were four or five items, never changed, there wasn’t much push for innovation. I think that’s changed with Andrew on board, where it’s much more interesting and we have way more options. I think it’s improved,” Hulse said.

With his family’s Peruvian heritage and his background in European restaurant training, Cisneros blends the two together at his restaurants, Jalea on historic Main Street in St. Charles and Brasas located in the Delmar Loop. The new Rockwell Beer Co. menu features what Cisneros calls Peruvian-American cuisine, and includes dishes like the Chancho Sando and his Peruvian twist on a traditional American burger. 

“We’re always staying creative and want to stay on our toes and try new things and keep it interesting for the brewery and for our guests. We do it at Brasas, we do it at Jalea, we always see a special, we see something new on the menu. When it comes to Brasas street food, I think we’ve established our identity to be Peruvian American. It’s going to be the best of both worlds,” Cisneros said. 

Rockwell Beer Co. opened up their first location in the Grove in November 2018 followed by their second location in Francis Park in October 2021. When Cisneros joined the team, he did not want to alter the menu too much in an effort to keep regulars satisfied. Instead, he was inspired by the original menu of burgers and fries and wanted to bring in his own twist on those classics.

“It’s amazing the amount of different options you have there in such a small space. With Andrew on board, he has simplified our lives so much in terms of the quality, the labor, keeping everything in line,” Hulse said.

Inspired by the festivities of the holiday season, Rockwell Beer Co. is hosting a Candy Cane Lane Run on Dec. 10, and Holiday Market on Dec. 14 with Lllamas. You can find more information on upcoming events on their Instagram page and website.

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After a popular pop-up run earlier this year, Biscuit Town is back – this time for good. The retro-inspired biscuit shop opens Thursday, Oct. 23, inside Neon Greens at 4176 Manchester Ave. in the Grove, the chef-driven salad spot known for its hydroponic greens and design-forward approach to food.

From Neon Greens creator Josh Smith, who was just featured on The Sauce podcast this week, Biscuit Town channels the warmth of a classic American breakfast spot with a modern, flavor-forward twist. Guests can order from a dedicated kiosk inside Neon Greens or online through Toast for dine-in, pickup or delivery. Initial hours are 8-11 a.m. Thursday through Monday.

Each biscuit reflects the same ingredient-focused creativity that defines Neon Greens. The dough blends Janie’s Mill organic flours for a nutty, tender texture and Buttonwood Farms eggs and chicken sausage for rich, soufflé-style sandwiches. Coffee Stamp provides the house drip coffee, keeping the menu rooted in local partnerships.

The streamlined menu centers on three biscuit sandwiches, a dessert biscuit, and two styles of hash browns. Highlights include the Rise ’n Shine, with white cheddar, eggs, pickled pepper mayo and dill; The Sneaky Biscuit with smoked gouda, bacon and smoked citrus honey; and The Hot One with chicken sausage, sharp cheddar, eggs and the house BSK (basically spicy ketchup) sauce. For something sweet, A Very Good Strawberry Situation layers almond-croissant-style biscuits with strawberry compote and whipped cream.

Hash brown options include the Plain Jane, a classic golden oval crisp, and the Umami Hash Brown, seasoned with tangy and slightly sweet flavors. Signature sauces – BSK Sauce and Pickled Pepper Mayo round out the menu.

For larger appetites, biscuit town offers combo boxes like The Party Pack with three sandwiches, six hash browns and both sauces; and Welcome to Carbville, a sampler of biscuits, hash browns and smoked citrus honey.

“Introducing Biscuit Town as an established dining concept marks a new chapter for the Neon Greens brand,” Smith said. “We’re approaching biscuits with the same design-minded creativity we bring to every Neon Greens dish, layering flavor, texture and craft into something that feels both nostalgic and completely new.” Biscuit town’s return signals the next evolution of the Neon Greens team’s culinary experimentation: where community, craft and creativity meet over breakfast. For more information, visit biscuittownstl.com or follow @biscuittownstl on Instagram.

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After a soft opening phase the past few months, Soul 2 Soul, a dual-concept restaurant and nightlife destination, will celebrate its grand opening Saturday, July 19, at 5917 Delmar Blvd., just east of the Delmar Loop.

The venue brings together two distinct but complementary experiences: Soul Kitchen and Soul Lounge. Soul Kitchen blends traditional Southern cuisine with an upscale, energetic atmosphere, creating what the team calls “vibe dining.” Think shareable tapas-style plates, soulful playlists and an inviting design that encourages lingering over food and conversation.

“People have really embraced what we’re doing here,” said owner Doug Nguyen, who also owns Amigo Sole nearby. “The soft openings started back in March; we were just inviting friends and family at first, but word got out and it started to grow. One Saturday we hit 250 tickets. Folks loved the food, the vibe, the whole concept.”

Chef Ana Halls, who conceptualized the menu with input from Nguyen, has been instrumental in shaping the restaurant’s food program. “She’s been a chef for over a decade, doing events across the Midwest,” Nguyen said. “She grew up around great cooks – her mom was known in the neighborhood – and when I met her, I knew instantly she was the one to help me bring this to life.”

The offerings vary depending on when you go. The full food menu is served daily during dinner from 5 to 10 p.m., except Mondays when it’s closed. Highlights include shrimp tacos, okra, a turkey dumpling bowl, pot roast, poutine and their signature Delta Dragon Sticky Ribs, which are battered and fried then bathed in a sweet and tangy sauce. In addition, Nguyen said most menu items range from $10 to $15 so guests can easily try a wide variety of dishes, rather than having one large entree.

A late-night menu runs from 10 p.m. to 2 a.m., offering a pared-down selection from the dinner offerings. “We keep around half the dinner menu: the Dragon Ribs, okra, chicken and fries, and shrimp tacos,” Nguyen said.

A Sunday brunch menu from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. adds a whole new flavor profile. “It’s completely different from the dinner menu,” Nguyen said. “We’ve got things like salmon, bruschetta, egg and avocado – lighter dishes, plus brunch cocktails like mimosas. We’ve done a few soft-opening brunches already, and this weekend will be our official launch.”

Outdoors, the Soul 2 Soul Caribbean jerk hut offers yet another experience, focused on island-inspired flavors. Launching the week after the grand opening, the patio menu will be available Thursday through Sunday, serving Caribbean-style jerk dishes like half-smoked chicken, smoked turkey legs and wings, all paired with coconut rice and plantains. “It’s a lighter, fresher vibe; the food out there has a completely different energy,” Nguyen said.

No matter the time of day, Soul 2 Soul leans into good energy. “It’s all about the vibe,” Nguyen said. “That’s one of the things we always say; you’ll feel it when you walk in.”

Guests can also expect a specialty cocktail menu that runs all night, every night except during brunch service. Over at Soul Lounge, the adjacent nightlife space offers plush seating, craft cocktails and a hookah lounge. DJs spin different genres depending on the day: R&B Thursdays, Afro Beats for Wakanda Fridays, house music Saturdays, and Soulection Sundays with a blend of R&B, Amapiano, Afrobeat and dancehall tunes.

This Saturday’s grand opening celebration marks a turning point for Nguyen and his team. “This is our moment to ring the gong bell and say, ‘We’re here.’ Everything until now has been preparation, and now we’re ready to show St. Louis what we’re all about,” Nguyen said. “We’ve perfected the menu, refined our service, and we’re ready to deliver something special.”

The evening will feature a culinary showcase by Soul Kitchen, live DJs both inside and on the patio — DJ Stew and DJ Homicide — plus fire performers. Music kicks off at 5 p.m. on the patio and 8 p.m. inside. R&B will set the tone indoors, while house music creates an upbeat, open-air party outside.

Though the atmosphere is upscale, the dress code is more of a suggestion than a rule. “We want everyone to feel comfortable in the space,” Nguyen said. “If something’s really not working, we might say something, but we’re not policing people. It’s about maintaining a good vibe and making sure everyone’s experience is great.”

The team hopes to see the community come out and celebrate. “Our tagline is ‘from one soul to another,’” Nguyen said. “We want this to be a place where people come together, connect, and enjoy the best of what St. Louis has to offer.”

For more information or to preview the menu, visit soul2soulstl.com.

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The team behind The Passport Craft Cocktail & Wine Bar is preparing for a big summer, starting with a high-profile community tasting event this weekend and culminating in a major relocation.

After a successful run as part of the Greater St. Louis Downtown Pop-Up Initiative, The Passport will soon leave its current space behind. Co-founders Sommelier Javia Gilliam-Sanford and Head Mixologist Kaje Sanford announced plans to move the concept to Delmar Boulevard, where it will double in size and debut an all-new food menu, although the specific address and food items have not been announced yet.

“This is a natural next step for our brand,” said Gilliam-Sanford. “We’re excited to bring our globally inspired vision to a new neighborhood while continuing to celebrate culture and community through craft.”

Though the team says the departure from downtown is bittersweet, they’re grateful for the support of the local community and the Downtown Pop-Up Initiative, which helped bring their original vision to life. The new space is expected to open in late summer 2025.

Before the move, the Sanfords are hosting The Art of Alcohol, a new tasting event designed to change the way St. Louis drinks. Taking place Saturday, June 14, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Kiener Plaza, the event focuses on transparency, craftsmanship and the stories behind every pour. Tickets are $20 and available at theartofalcohol.com/events.

“The grand tasting isn’t just about sipping – it’s about the stories, traditions and culture behind every pour,” said Gilliam-Sanford. “The Art of Alcohol will be a celebration of community like no other.”

Inspired by the dynamic Midwest beverage scene and three years in the making, the event will highlight responsible sourcing, cultural heritage, and emerging trends – from the sober-curious movement to low-ABV innovation. Visitors can expect a tasting experience that’s equal parts education and enjoyment.

“The grand tasting will showcase how today’s drinkers are more aware than ever about what they put in their glasses,” said Kaje Sanford.

The weekend kicks off Friday, June 13, with Bubbles & Bourbon Lounge at The Passport. Open exclusively to ticket holders for The Art of Alcohol, the evening includes a curated sparkling wine selection, a signature cocktail, and a bourbon tasting presented in partnership with Angel’s Envy and Louisville Tourism. Industry experts Angel Teta, Andrea Meriwether, and Gilliam-Sanford will lead tastings and storytelling, spotlighting Louisville as a destination worth the sip.

The current location will close after the events this weekend. To follow The Passport’s journey and get updates on its reopening, visit thepassportcocktails.com or follow @thepassportcocktailbar.

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Small Batch Whiskey & Fare at 3001 Locust St. in Midtown has announced it will soon close its doors. The statement was released by owners Dave and Kara Bailey – who also own other establishments around town such as Rooster and Bailey’s range, among others – on social media.

“After 11 incredible years, we’re announcing the closing of Small Batch. Our last day of service will be Monday, May 12,” the post states. “From the moment we opened our doors, the Midtown neighborhood and the STL community as a whole embraced us with open arms. We’ve been honored to be part of the vibrant vegan and vegetarian communities, and to serve dishes that have reflected our passion for good food, conscious living, and whiskey served neat.”

The post went on to thank the staff and those who had dined at the establishment, which opened in 2013, and invited the community out for another meal or drink before May 12.

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Lefty’s Bagels, a family-owned bagel shop at 13359 Olive Blvd. in Chesterfield, is making a difference in the community. In 2024, the shop donated more than 41,000 bagels to the Harvey Kornblum Jewish Food Pantry, located at 10601 Baur Blvd. in West County, helping individuals and families facing food insecurity.

Since opening in 2021, co-founders and brothers-in-law Doug Goldenberg and Scott “Lefty” Lefton have built a reputation not only for quality and taste but also for their generosity and commitment to the community. Seeing an opportunity to support those in need, they began donating their surplus bagels to the food pantry operated by Jewish Family Services (JFS).

“The food pantry has been a staple of our community and has always led the way in feeding people in need,” Goldenberg said. “We’re two years old now and are continuing to grow, but we want to make sure we continue to give back.”

JFS CEO Miriam Seidenfeld emphasized the impact of Lefty’s Bagels’ contributions. “JFS is deeply grateful for the generosity of Lefty’s Bagels. Their dedication to fighting hunger exemplifies the power of local businesses in strengthening the community,” Seidenfeld said. “Their contributions not only reduce food waste but also provide essential nourishment to those who rely on the food pantry’s services.”

Community members who want to support the Harvey Kornblum Jewish Food Pantry can contribute financially, donate essential food items, or organize a food drive.

The Harvey Kornblum Jewish Food Pantry helps roughly 6,000 children, adults and seniors every month, giving them seven to 10 days worth of food. Eighty-five percent of households served have incomes below the federal poverty level. As the largest food pantry in the region, it annually serves more than 15,000 individuals from 72 different zip codes throughout St. Louis County.

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In January, a mysterious new Instagram account popped up for Biscuit Town with the first post stating “Follow the crumbs to find us… but remember, the best secrets are baked not told.” The account became quite active a few weeks ago, and the biscuit is now out of the bag: The team behind Neon Greens has launched a pop-up breakfast concept out of their restaurant at 4176 Manchester Ave. in the Grove. 

Over the winter months, business was slower for Neon Greens, the super-fresh salad concept that grows its own greens on-site in a hydroponic warehouse, so the team wanted to expand their offerings a bit. With some of the staff having a background in working with pastries, the pop-up biscuit concept felt like the perfect fit. 

“We had more business this winter than I expected us to have, but in the midst of it with all the snowstorms we were kind of thinking we wish we had a nice indulgent breakfast option, but it didn’t make sense to do it as Neon Greens,” said owner Josh Smith. “So we put our heads together and wanted to do some new, interesting and fresh flavors and find a way to offer some casual food to folks in the neighborhood for breakfast. So Biscuit Town was born as a pop-up concept offering breakfast sandwiches on really fantastic, delicious warm flaky biscuits.” 

The succinct menu features a few breakfast sandwiches, including huevos rancheros and jerk chicken sausage, plus hashbrowns and a few sauces. The offerings are available from 8 to 11 a.m. Thursday through Saturday. Orders can be made online and are available for pickup at Neon Greens or via delivery. 

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Editor’s note: About the same time this article went live, KSDK reported that the deli plans to open in a new location, though specifics were not disclosed and this information was not shared with Sauce.

A longtime St. Louis deli is closing in just two weeks. Mom’s Deli located at 4412 Jamieson Ave. will close its doors on Sunday, Feb. 23. The South City deli has been serving customers at its current location since it opened in 1977. Now, after nearly five decades in business, the establishment will close, and according to a sign on the door, the reason for the closure comes down to Mom’s Deli wasn’t able to renew its lease.

A repeat Sauce Readers’ Choice Favorite year after year, and recently noted as one of our 5 St. Louis delis to check out, Mom’s Deli offers a variety of hot and cold sandwiches, salads and soups. The huge sandwiches feature fresh bread that is house-made. A Sauce staff favorite is the “Mom’s Special,” which has turkey, ham, roast beef and Provel cheese, along with lettuce, tomato, onion and house-made Thousand Island dressing. And it isn’t just the food that keeps customers coming back.

With a name like Mom’s Deli and the fact that the business is in a structure that houses the business on the first floor and an apartment above where at one time the original owners Charles and Dolores Vago lived, it exudes the kind of cozy, nostalgic atmosphere you’d expect of a neighborhood deli.

It’s unclear what the future holds for Mom’s. Sauce called the deli and spoke with an employee, but Mom’s Deli declined to comment on further details involving the closure.

While it’s disappointing to see yet another piece of St. Louis dining history going away, if there is a bright side to look for, at least customers have about two weeks to visit the establishment to order your favorites and bid farewell to the long-time family-owned business in its current location.

The business did confirm that the final day of service will be Sunday, Feb. 23, and Mom’s Deli will observe normal operating hours that day, from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m.

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King Edward Chicken + Fish at 8654 Watson Road in Crestwood has announced on its website that it will soon close permanently. However, its St. Charles location at 1201 S. Duchesne Drive will remain open.

The following statement was made on the King Edward website: “To Our Valued Customers:  It is with gratitude and regret we announce the closing of our (Crestwood only) restaurant as of end of business on Tuesday February 18, 2025. We most sincerely thank all who have come through our doors over the past 18 years to support or effort and share a smile. This space will continue, very soon, to serve the community as a place to gather and share a good meal with friends and family.  Until we meet again, Gabrielle Shore Randy Shore.”

Grace Meat + Three announced plans today to open in that location.

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One of our favorite cocktail bars, Planter’s House in Lafayette Square is a go-to spot for inventive craft cocktails. While the menu changes frequently, expect excellent iterations of classics like a Manhattan or a margarita. The Imagination Library and In a Pickle are two Planter’s House classics that are now available on the bar’s draft cocktail selections. The food menu is solid too. You can always count on the salad, as well as the burger and fries, to hit the spot – especially if you order the new(ish) cacio e pepe fries. Add in the sophisticated dark wood and deep red furnishings and dim lighting, and you’ve got yourself a luxe evening in the making.

1000 Mississippi Ave., St. Louis, 314.696.2603, plantershousestl.com

The Sauce 75 is a photomosaic of the best in St. Louis dining. This list is a celebration of the diverse skills, techniques and culinary traditions that meet across our region. In sum, it tells a story about where St. Louis has been, where it is now and where it’s going next. Many great and good St. Louis restaurants have not made the cut. (Seventy-five is a lot fewer than you think!) Restaurants are constantly growing and evolving and go through ups and downs. Newly opened restaurants can take time to find their feet: There are a few exciting new places we’re cheering for, but which we feel haven’t yet fully hit their stride. Read the entire list here.

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