The Spiced Pumpkin Painkiller is the holiday cocktail of our dreams, and you can get it at both the original Three Sixty in downtown St. Louis and the newer Three Sixty Westport in Maryland Heights. Created by Tim Wiggins of Bangers Only cocktail consulting company, this isn’t your typical overly sweet, over-spiced seasonal drink: It’s strong, balanced and surprisingly nuanced. Dark rum anchors the cocktail, while pumpkin spice, coconut cream, orange, ginger, lime and a little streusel come together in a mix that’s perfectly complex and delightfully delicious.

Both locations are running their Up on the Rooftop holiday pop-ups through the entire month, and you don’t need a reservation to get in on the fun. We tend to gravitate toward the Westport spot for the overall vibe, but the cocktail list is identical at both. And if you’re chasing views, the downtown rooftop is hard to beat with 360-degree panoramas that sweep over the Arch, Busch Stadium and Kiener Plaza. Both locations offer open seating, but reservations are available for groups of 10 or more.

The post Drink this Spiced Pumpkin Painkiller at Three Sixty in St. Louis appeared first on Sauce Magazine: Intelligent Content For The Food Fascinated.

Tamara Keefe, founder and CEO of Clementine’s Ice Cream, has spent the last decade transforming a single Lafayette Square scoop shop into a microcreamery empire known far beyond St. Louis, which we discussed extensively on her recent podcast episode. But a woman cannot survive on ice cream alone. Here, she shares five of her favorite St. Louis restaurants that reflect the same creativity and neighborhood love that fuels her brand.

Akar
“To begin with, it’s the sexiest restaurant in St. Louis. Bernie Lee’s love for his native Malaysia shines through in every single authentic dish. His thoughtful nature and impeccable palate shines through on every single work of art that comes out of his kitchen. And I love that my vegan and gluten-free friends always have lots of options to choose from.”
7641 Wydown Blvd., Clayton, akarstl.com

Casa Don Alfonso
“When dining there, you feel like you are stepping into an incredible Italian restaurant in New York City, but we’re fortunate enough to have it right here in St. Louis! From scratch-made pasta that is to die for to house-made buffalo mozzarella. It’s my go-to for a fun girls’ night out. Don’t forget to start with their Filippo Bianco cocktail; it’s lovely and refreshing. And always ask for some focaccia to go, it’s the best in St. Louis.”
100 Carondelet Plaza, Clayton, casadonalfonsostlouis.com

Lona’s Lil Eats
“Lona does a magnificent job of blending authentic Asian cuisine in a way that resonates with so many people, and at just the right price. I can’t get enough of her lime-peanut-ginger salad, and her dry-rubs protect the flavors in her proteins so well. Her smoked turkey is to die for, with her signature sauce on top. A weekly go-to in our house.”
2199 California Ave., St. Louis, lonaslileats.com

Paul Manno’s
“When my fiancé first told me he was going to take me to an Italian restaurant in a strip mall in Chesterfield, I said no way. He promised me I would like it, so I went. Flabbergasted and totally surprised, it was so good. It’s not fancy; it’s very warm and inviting. It’s like stepping back into Little Italy in the 1950s. Classic Italian with old-world charm and impeccable service. And the lamb chops are famous for good reason. I order them every time.”
75 Forum Shopping Center, Chesterfield, paulmannos.com

SweetArt Bakeshop + Café
“If you’re looking for the best cinnamon roll in St. Louis, look no further than SweetArt. Reine is so talented and I was lucky enough to collaborate with her on a special ice cream flavor this year called Reine’s Thick Mint. It’s vegan and out of this world!”
Multiple locations, sweetartstl.com

The post 5 St. Louis restaurant favorites of Clementine’s Ice Cream founder Tamara Keefe appeared first on Sauce Magazine: Intelligent Content For The Food Fascinated.

Looking for ways to make the most of December? From festive markets and culinary celebrations to live performances, spirited runs and seasonal traditions, this month is packed with reasons to brave the frigid temps and enjoy all our city has to offer. Whether you’re shopping local or soaking up the holiday magic, here are some of the best events happening around St. Louis. In addition, we’ve got more than 20 holiday pop-ups outlined here, including family-friendly and adults-only options, plus fun places to find Santa this month. 

Print Bazaar
Stroll along Cherokee Street and discover some of St. Louis’ finest artists at the 18th Annual Print Bazaar, one of the Midwest’s largest print sales. Over 200 artists will showcase their work across 50 unique storefronts, bars and local venues, offering everything from unique posters, prints, cards, calendars to woodcuts, etchings, letterpress, screen printing, lithography and printed fabrics. This beloved market is the perfect outing for families and friends to bring in the holiday together.
Dec. 6 – 11 a.m., Cherokee Street, cherokeeprintbazaar.com

Réveillon Christmas Tea
La Patisserie Chouquette chef-owner Simone Faure brings a New Orleans holiday tradition, “Réveillon” (French for “awakening”), to her beloved pastry shop in the Shaw neighborhood. In New Orleans, the Réveillon tradition originated with families returning home after midnight Mass on Christmas Eve to enjoy a late-night feast together. Faure recreates that spirit of celebration with an exquisite spread featuring petite crawfish pies, white chocolate macarons, braised short rib and goat cheese crostini, eggnog panna cotta, tomato and caramelized onion tarts and more, all thoughtfully paired with loose-leaf tea. Reservations are $75 plus tax, and seating is limited.
Dec. 6, 13 & 20 – La Patisserie Chouquette, 1626 Tower Grove Ave., St. Louis, simonefaure.com

Holiday Cheers Market
Old Bakery Beer Co., the Alton-based organic craft brewery, is hosting its weekend market throughout December. Shoppers can explore a rotating lineup of over 20 vendors drawn from a talented pool of 55 local artisans. Discover an array of handmade and artisanal goods, from herbal teas and candles to crochet, photography, pottery, books, woodworking, jewelry, fruitcake and more. The brewery is also featuring a festive holiday cocktail menu, including a classic Christmas Punch and exciting new creations made with St. Louis’ own Switchgrass Spirits. Winter beer offerings include the Cat Café, the Peppermint Porter, a seasonal treat blending mint and chocolate, and the Tannenbaum IPA, infused with aromatic rosemary.
Dec. 6, 13 & 20 – 11:30 a.m., Old Bakery Beer Co., 400 Landmarks Blvd., Alton, Illinois, oldbakerybeer.com

Hot Chocolate Run
Lace up your sneakers and join the Skechers Hot Chocolate Run! Returning to a downtown location for the first time since 2017, starting at Soldiers Memorial in front of the Stifel Theater, you can choose between a 5k or 15k that winds through the heart of downtown St. Louis. Upgrade to the VIP Ghirardelli Cocoa Club for an exclusive experience featuring premium swag, special treats, and a cozy lounge to relax in post-race. Celebrate your finish with a finisher mug brimming with chocolate fondue, dippables and, of course, their signature hot chocolate. Ticket prices vary, and you can register online.
Dec. 7 – 1200 Chestnut St., St. Louis, hotchocolate15k.com

The Elegance of the Rhône: A Château Beaucastel Wine Dinner 
The Gin Room invites you to a night out celebrating the elegance of the Rhône Valley, featuring wines from Château de Beaucastel and Famille Perrin, two of France’s most esteemed winemakers. Guests will enjoy five carefully crafted culinary courses by the executive chef, each paired with 10 wines that highlight the unique character and terroir of the Rhône.  Doors open at 6 p.m., and dinner begins at 6:30 p.m. Tickets start at $120 per person, plus tax and gratuity. Reserve your spot today and experience an evening of legacy and refinement.
Dec. 10 – 6 p.m., The Gin Room, 3200 S. Grand Blvd., St. Louis, natashasginroom.com

15th Annual Brothers Lazaroff Hanukkah Hullabaloo
Led by brothers David and Jeff Lazaroff, Brothers Lazaroff, a dynamic ensemble of six to 15 musicians, invites you to celebrate the Festival of Lights at their 15th Annual Brothers Lazaroff Hanukkah Hullabaloo, held at The Grandel Theatre and The Dark Room in the Grand Center Arts District. Grab your dancing shoes and join the Brothers, along with special guests including The Hullabaloo Klezmer All-Stars, jazz vocalist Anita Jackson, hip-hop artist Blvck Spvde, and DJ Boogieman on the 1s and 2s, for a celebration of community, music, love, and light. Tickets are available in advance, and all proceeds from this year’s event will benefit tornado relief organizations.
Dec. 13 – 7:30 p.m., The Grandel, 3610 Grandel Square, St. Louis, brotherslazaroff.com

Munchie Market – Holiday Edition
Leading the cannabis-infused dining scene in St. Louis, STL Pot Chef is hosting the second annual Munchie Market – Holiday Edition. The event will feature everything from gourmet meals to bite-sized snacks, catering to cannabis enthusiasts, along with a DJ and a variety of vendor booths. General admission includes an infused shot and access to exclusive festive menus. The VIP experience offers additional perks, including an infused chocolate bar, a goodie bag, VIP lounge access and more. Attendees can join the Ugly Sweater Contest, participate in the canned and non-perishable food drive (bring what you can), and enjoy gifts from event partners during the Munchie Market Pop-Up. Purchase your tickets in advance online.
Dec. 14 – 1 p.m., Little Bevo, 14751 Morgan Ford Road, St. Louis, stlpotchefs.com

The Feast of Seven Fishes
The Ritz-Carlton, St. Louis’ elevated Italian restaurant, Casa Don Alfonso, will celebrate its first Feast of the Seven Fishes (La Vigilia), an Italian-American Christmas Eve tradition featuring fish and seafood. Typically, the feast includes seven different seafood dishes or one or two types of fish prepared in seven distinct ways, and the abundance of seafood reflects the observance of abstinence from meat until the feast of Christmas Day. From Dec. 16-23, Casa Don Alfonso will offer a special seven-course seafood menu during dinner service for $150 per person, plus tax. Reservations are available through OpenTable.
Dec. 16-23 – Casa Don Alfonso, 100 Carondelet Plaza, Clayton, casadonalfonsostlouis.com

Saint Louis Dance Theatre & Jazz St. Louis Present: Gaslight Dreams
Known as the “Greenwich Village of the Midwest,” Gaslight Square was the heart of midtown St. Louis nightlife during the 1950s and ’60s, renowned for its live music, dining, and lively atmosphere illuminated by gas-lit street lamps. Now, Saint Louis Dance Theatre and Jazz St. Louis proudly present Gaslight Dreams, a stunning production set against the backdrop of historic Gaslight Square and performed to Duke Ellington and Billy Strayhorn’s Nutcracker Suite. Choreographed by Saint Louis Dance Theatre’s Artistic Director Kirven Douthit-Boyd and conducted by Jazz St. Louis’s Victor Goines, this collaboration with The Muny’s T3 Program and Peter & Margery Spack blends jazz rhythms and contemporary dance into a celebration of music and movement. Attendees can elevate their experience by selecting from three special add-on options (available on select dates), including an artist talk and Champagne toast, a holiday brunch or a festive holiday soirée.
Dec. 19 & 20 – Gaslight Square, 425 S. Lindbergh Blvd., Creve Coeur, saintlouisdancetheatre.org

The post 9 things to do in St. Louis this December appeared first on Sauce Magazine: Intelligent Content For The Food Fascinated.

Whether you’re looking for fun for the whole family or a night out on the town, St. Louis has you covered this holiday season. From movie-themed bars to meeting Santa himself, and all the reindeer games in between, something on this list will get you feeling merry and bright.

FESTIVE BARS, POP-UPS & WINTRY HANGOUTS

Art Bar at Angad Arts Hotel
Now through New Year’s Eve, Art Bar at Angad Arts Hotel is hosting the Moose Mug Lounge, a National Lampoon-inspired pop-up bar. They have a light display and movie-themed decor, along with a themed cocktail menu. Drinks include Uncle Lewis’s Old-Fashioned, Clark’s All-Nighter House-Lighter (espresso with vanilla-infused vodka and Bailey’s Irish cream), as well as other cocktails and mocktails. The Moose Mug Lounge will take over Art Bar during regular business hours; check out their website for more details.
3550 Samuel Shepard Drive, St. Louis, 314.561.0033, angadartshotel.com

Ballpark Village
Ballpark Village brings the holiday cheer with Tinsel Tavern. This pop-up runs until Dec. 28 and has food, drink and fun. For the first time, they’re offering 50% off guests’ first drink or reservation fee with a donation to Operation Food Search or the Make-A-Wish wish list this year. Every Wednesday, get to the tavern at 6:30 p.m. for free holiday trivia, and “carol-oke” kicks off at 8 p.m. on Thursdays. Check out their website for a full list of times and to make reservations.
601 Clark Ave., St. Louis, 314.797.7530, ballparkvillage.com

Calypso Spirits
Ornament is kicking off at Calypso Spirits. This red, white and green ornamental wonderland will go all out with decor, and the kitchen has crafted a limited-time food and drink menu for the experience. Tickets are $22 and include a welcoming glass of Champagne. Plus, $2 of each ticket will go to CareSTL and their efforts to shelter animals in need. New this year are reservations for Rum & Mistletoe, a pop-up within the pop-up that features a three-course dinner and signature cocktails. Ornament will run from Dec. 4 to Jan. 3; tickets can be found online.
1026 Geyer Ave., St. Louis, 314.448.1516, calypsostl.com

Casa Don Alfonso
The Italian eatery located in The Ritz-Carlton, Casa Don Alfonso, has lots of options for the holiday season, including the return of their Holiday Cocktail Tree. Two each of four different cocktails make up this tree that’s perfect for sharing with a group. The drinks can also be purchased a la carte and include the Silent Nightcap for a mint chocolate espresso experience, the Apres Apricot featuring Stoli vanilla vodka, Under the Mistle-Tea with Ketel One Citron, and the Very Cherry & Merry with Maker’s Mark. The restaurant will also be hosting Santa for brunch, as well as a Christmas brunch buffet and Christmas Eve and Day dinners, featuring prime beef tenderloin and mushroom raviolo. Reservations can be made here.
100 Carondelet Plaza, St. Louis, 314.719.1496, casadonalfonsostlouis.com

Cocina Latina
Festive meets global flavor at Wrapped, the collab between Foodies Eat First and Cocina Latina. The restaurant will feature extravagant decor of towers of wrapped gifts and twinkling lights. The menu is globally inspired, with inspiration from Peru to Mexico to reimagine classic holiday flavors. Reservations are $9 per person and are available for Thursdays through Sundays for dinner, plus lunch on Saturdays and Sundays. Lunches are family-friendly, and evenings are 21+. A portion of every ticket benefits Grassroots Redeeming Love, which supports tornado relief in St. Louis. Wrapped runs until Dec. 20.
508 N. Euclid Ave., St. Louis, 314.696.2294, foodieseatfirst.com

Edera Italian Eatery
For a cozy, private dining experience while enjoying restaurant favorites, Edera Italian Eatery has you covered. They’re offering two-hour reservations in exclusive chalets nestled away in the courtyard. The chalets come with heaters, but blankets and warm clothing are encouraged to maximize the experience. The Grand Chalet has seating for four to eight people, while the Piccolo Chalet offers intimate dining for two. A $75 deposit is required at the time of reservation and is credited toward the bill.
48 Maryland Plaza, St. Louis, 314.361.7227, ederastl.com

Four Seasons Hotel St. Louis
The Four Seasons Hotel has holiday spirit through the new year. Now through Jan. 3, The Holiday Lodge transforms the Top Golf Swing Suite into a winter wonderland featuring festive cocktails, small plates and treats, and a cozy atmosphere made up of holiday music and Christmas movies. The hotel is also offering their Holiday Suite Experience: Each stay at this in-room retreat comes with either a gingerbread making kit or cocktail kit, as well as in-room movie selections and a dining credit for the perfect night in. Contact res.stlouis@fourseasons.com for reservations. Ramsay’s Kitchen will feature holiday dining experiences all season long, including a Christmas Day special with Beef Wellington for two. On New Year’s Eve, their three-course prix fixe menu will also feature Beef Wellington, chocolate caviar and more, not to mention their New Year’s Day brunch. Reservations can be made online.
999 N. 2nd St., St. Louis, 314.881.5800, fourseasons.com

Harvey’s Coffee & Cocktails
Sugar & Spice is back at Harvey’s Coffee & Cocktails for its second year. This cozy winter wonderland will have classic Christmas movies playing on the big screen, holiday-inspired drinks, plus a gingerbread house competition (materials available for purchase) for those willing to show off their skills. The competition runs all month long, and the winners of each session will be entered to win the grand prize, announced on New Year’s Eve. Tickets are available now; Sugar & Spice is every Friday through Sunday from Dec. 5 to 28. Most time slots are 21+, but the first sessions on Saturdays and Sundays are for the whole family.
2706 Olive St., St. Louis, 314.571.9921, harveysstl.com

Hidden Gem
Santa’s Speakeasy is back for its second year at Hidden Gem. This glittery pink holiday disco has eight signature drinks this year, including the fan-favorite Filthy Animal (peppermint schnapps, chocolate Bailey’s, cold brew plus a candy cane rim) and a Cuffing Season Cocoa that’s available “naughty” or “nice.” The event will also have a rotating selection of shareable snacks and sweets. Get tickets online for the pop-up that promises retro fun along with the seasonal nostalgia through Dec. 27.
3118 Locust St., St. Louis, 314.925.8931, shopgoldengems.com/pages/hidden-gem

Le Meridien St. Louis Clayton
The Le Meridien hotel in Clayton has kicked off its holiday pop-up, The Chalet. This terrace overlook provides views of downtown Clayton, as well as cozy food, drink and games. On Fridays and Saturdays from 4 to 9 p.m., guests can enjoy live music and build-your-own s’mores included in the admission ticket. They’ll have a special Chalet beverage menu available for purchase, with drinks like mulled wine and gooey butter hot chocolate. STL Caviar Cart will be on-site select nights, and guests also have the option of renting a timeslot for The Chalet’s curling rink. Get tickets online. Private, professional photo sessions are also available, and on Dec. 21, Reels on the Rooftop will be showing a double-feature of “Elf” and National Lampoon’s “Christmas Vacation.”
7730 Bonhomme Ave., Clayton, 314.890.1333, marriott.com/en-us/hotels/stlmy-le-meridien-st-louis-clayton

Noboleis Vineyards
Missouri wine country is getting into the holiday spirit with Winter Wine-derland Igloos at Noboleis Vineyards. This private seasonal experience offers vineyard views, cozy blankets and a dedicated staff member to help make your visit merry and bright. Each guest receives a complimentary sip with their reservation; choose from wine, hard cider or a cup of festive hot cocoa for guests under 21. Bring your own bites or elevate the celebration with add-ons like the Holiday Harvest Charcuterie Board or the Tinsel & Toppings package, featuring a pizza, pretzel and ornament-making kit perfect for groups. Reservations are available now through Dec. 30 and again in the New Year from Jan. 30 through March 1.
100 Hemsath Road, Augusta, 636.482.4500, noboleisvineyards.com

O-Tannen Bar
Joining the fun this year at Union Station is O-Tannen Bar, a pop-up actually inside a tree. The 45-foot tall German-style tree is hollow on the inside, perfect for keeping warm with a boozy (or not) hot cocoa and cider, along with s’mores kits available all season. Check out the website for all the details on time.
1820 Market St., St. Louis, 314.923.3900, stlouisunionstation.com

Planter’s House
The Tiki-themed Christmas bar is back. For a tropical holiday, check out Sippin’ Santa at Planter’s House, whose menu covers everything from themed drinks to food and dessert. The namesake Sippin’ Santa features aged demerara rum, amaro, lemon, orange, nutmeg and ginger, and the Sugar Plum Mai Tai riffs on an old favorite. They’ve also got merch, appetizers and entrees like Waikiki meatballs and Spam sliders. Don’t miss the pineapple upside down gooey butter cake, either. Reservations can be made online and benefit The St. Louis Community Foundation. Sippin’ Santa runs through Dec. 28.
1000 Mississippi Ave., St. Louis, 314.696.2603, drinkchristmas.com

Public School House
Christmas is back in session at Public School House. Their Toasted Chestnut holiday pop-up runs through New Year’s, and they’ve got reservation options for groups from small to large. The special drink menu features festive cocktails and mocktails, and Oak Street Inn & Lounge has crafted a unique food menu. After their reservations, guests have access to the Winter Light Walk on the property. Toasted Chestnut will be hosting a family day on Dec. 7 too, featuring ornament making, letters to Santa (plus photos with Mr. Claus himself), access to the Winter Light Walk, surprise guests from the North Pole and more. Kids get in free with an unopened gift benefiting Marcy’s Project. See all the date and ticket options on Public School House’s website.
5546 Chestnut St., Cottleville, 636.720.1905, publicschoolhouse.com

Riverboat Cruises
All aboard The Tom Sawyer for St. Louis’ floating pop-up bar. The riverboat will stay docked to show off its festive decorations and give guests access to holiday food and drinks like Prancer’s Passion and Rudolph’s Red Fizz while they enjoy this experience on the Mighty Mississippi. Tickets are available online, but walk-ups are also welcome. The event runs from Dec. 4 to 28.
50 S. Leonor K Sullivan Blvd., St. Louis, 877.982.1410, gatewayarch.com/riverboats

Robust Bistro & Wine Bar
Visit a Winter Wine-derland this year at Robust Bistro & Wine Bar. Through Dec. 30, each night of the week features a different theme, from Aprés Ski on Mondays to Ugly Sweater Bash on Fridays. Every Saturday is Season of Sharing Night, where donations and items will be collected in support of local charities. Every evening comes with seasonal cocktails (Vodka Ginger Snow Globe, anyone?), photo ops and reindeer games. Reservations are highly recommended, and the event runs from 5 p.m. to close. The $10 ticket price comes with a complimentary glass of bubbles.
227 W. Lockwood Ave., Webster Groves, 314.963.0033, robustwinebar.com

Side Project Pizza
The whole family is in for fun at Side Project’s Polar Patio. The restaurant’s patio will be transformed with lights and decor to deliver holiday cheer. Pizza and beer are still a constant, but they’ll also have seasonal cocktails and children’s activities like snowflake decorating and holiday card making. Santa himself is even making an appearance on Dec. 13. Polar Patio is happening through Jan. 4; get more info online.
2657 Lyle Ave., Maplewood, sideprojectbrewing.com

Small Change
Miracle, St. Louis’ original holiday pop-up bar, returns to Small Change for its 10th anniversary. Reservations are already open for this nostalgic Christmas bar that promises to get anyone into the holiday spirit. They’ve got seasonal takes on classic drinks, like the Christmapolitan, featuring spiced cranberry sauce, and Jingle Balls Nog, which the bar also sells to-go. Miracle also has NA options and light snacks available. Proceeds from the reservation fees go toward Santa’s Helpers, Inc., which has been serving kids in St. Louis since 1968. Miracle runs through Dec. 28.
2800 Indiana Ave., St. Louis, drinkchristmas.com

Steve’s Hot Dogs
For fun for the whole family, check out Cane at Steve’s Hot Dogs in the Delmar Maker District. This candy cane wonderland has all-ages excitement, from a hot chocolate station and board games to cocktails like the spiced Naughty Nog. A portion of the proceeds will benefit Dollar$ for Delmar, which is helping rebuild the small businesses in the area after the May 16 tornado. This pop-up is presented by Foodies Eat First; check out their website for more information. Cane runs 5 to 9 p.m. Thursdays through Saturdays.
5248 Delmar Blvd., St. Louis, 314.335.7522, foodieseatfirst.com

The Attic Music Bar
For an immersive holiday pop-up, check out Jingle Bar, which is taking over The Attic Music Bar. They’ve got holiday lights, themed cocktails and live entertainment this December. Jingle Bar seeks to blend the warm nostalgia of the season with an energetic vibe for a unique holiday experience. Don’t miss their Cocktails and Carols on Wednesday nights or their family friendly sessions on Saturday afternoons. They’re hosting group bookings, too, and offering 15% off to groups of 20 or more. Get more info and grab your tickets online; the event runs from Dec. 4 to 28.
4247 S. Kingshighway Blvd., St. Louis, 314.376.5313, theatticmusicbar.com

The Fountain
Foodies Eat First presents The Iced Fountain in the Delmar Maker District this year. A ticket to this mid-century retro pop-up includes a commemorative glass and access to a signature menu and drinks like the St. Louis Sapphire. The pop-up, which runs through the first week of January, will also feature themed entertainment like retro Christmas movie trivia. This event will benefit Dollar$ for Delmar, which seeks to rebuild the Maker District after the May tornado. Get your tickets online.
5242 Delmar Blvd., St. Louis, 314.226.9269, foodieseatfirst.com

The Marquee
This event at The Marquee at New Town isn’t just a pop-up; it’s a Christmas party. Dasher’s Dive Bar has thousands of lights, 30+ Christmas trees, reindeer games, live singing, dancing and a rockstar Santa. Each ticket includes a take-home pair of reindeer antlers, plus interactive games, bar bingo and the chance to win fun prizes. Their seasonal cocktail menu includes a Mistletoe Margarita, Old Dominick Christmas Manhattan and Sugarlands Peanut Butter Moonshine served up in a “shot-ski” for friends to share. They’ll also have mocktails and a la carte food options. Check out the website for tickets.
3544 Galt House Drive, St. Charles, 314.575.2240, dashersdivebar.com

The Shack
The Shack in Frontenac is hosting its inaugural Shack the Halls this year. This Christmas pop-up will take place after normal business hours and promises kitschy decor, holiday cocktails and appetizers from The Tavern Kitchen & Bar and The Corner Pub & Grill. The $15 ticket price benefits Shop with a Cop, which The Shack has committed to donating $15,000 this year. The annual Shop with a Cop event supports the community by having the St. Louis County Police Department take families in need on shopping sprees, getting each family up to $500 worth of toys and household needs during the holiday season. The tickets are available now for reservations; the event will run through Dec. 27, Wednesdays through Saturdays, 5 to 10 p.m. Learn more about Shack the Halls online.
731 S. Lindbergh Blvd., Frontenac, 314.736.5900, eatatshack.com

The Wolf Cafe
Bling! is returning to The Wolf Cafe this year. They’re accepting seating on a first-come, first-serve basis for this cozy pop-up. Guests can expect lights and decorated trees, along with drinks like the Christmas Vacation and Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy, along with specialty coffees and appetizers. Bling! will take place during regular business hours, and The Wolf Cafe’s normal menu will still be available. Reservations can be taken for parties of six or more, and Bling! is open to all ages from Dec. 2 to 31.
15480 Clayton Road, Ballwin, 636.527.7027, thewolfstl.com

Three Sixty
Both 360 Downtown and 360 Westport are hosting guests Up on the Rooftop this year, no reservations required. This snowglobe experience has views, food and drink for a unique experience overlooking the city. Festive drinks include the Fruitcake Paloma, Spiced Pumpkin Painkiller (our Drink This recommendation this month) and a Sugarplum Old-Fashioned. Each location will have its own food offerings.
Multiple locations, 360-stl.com

Train Shed
The Train Shed at Union Station has transformed into The Sleigh Shed. The restaurant’s full menu will be available alongside seasonal drinks and desserts. Don’t miss out on drinks like the Crisp Kringle, which has a base of bacon fat-washed Four Roses, or Santa’s Red Eye Fix, a coffee cocktail designed to keep him awake all Christmas Eve. They’re not taking reservations (except for large parties), so guests at this event are taken on a first-come, first-serve basis through Dec. 31. 
201 S. 18th St., St. Louis, 314.923.3949, trainshed-stl.com

Work & Leisure
Work & Leisure has partnered with BradENSTL to bring back Avalanche Ski Lodge. They’ve got food from The Table, new drinks, immersive activities and more. They’re promising to take Avalanche’s fourth year to a whole new level. This pop-up runs Thursdays through Saturdays, from Dec. 3 to 28; tickets are available here. A portion of ticket sales will go toward Action St. Louis and their tornado relief efforts.
3015 Locust St., St. Louis, 314.620.3969, workandleisurestl.com

GLOW-UPS, LIGHT SHOWS & FAMILY MAGIC 

Anheuser-Busch Brewery Lights
The Brewery Lights are back for their 40th year, and this time, Anheuser-Busch has something special in store. The light show extends the length of the brewery, including a new light tunnel. The Budweiser Clydesdales will make an appearance at the nightly parade, and the Kid’s Winter Wonderland comes with its own DJ this year. Guests 21 and older are in for a special surprise; for the first time in almost half a century, Anheuser-Busch will be reopening The Bevo Fox Den for an exclusive speakeasy experience that requires a password each night. The den is offering elevated appetizers like teriyaki meatballs and caprese bruschetta, along with classic Anheuser-Busch drinks, live jazz, games and more. Brewery Lights runs through Dec. 30; get tickets and more information online.
1200 Lynch St., 314.577.2626, budweisertours.com

City Museum
The City Museum is serving up some Weirdly Wonderful Holidays through Jan. 4. The museum is decked out in holiday lights, and they’ve got fun on multiple floors. Kids can meet Santa while he’s preparing for Christmas in his workshop, and Mrs. Claus will be telling stories. Karaoke at Beatnik Bob’s is fun for the whole family, and adults can enjoy specialty holiday cocktails. No extra ticket is needed for admission; check out their website for all the details.
750 N. 16th St., St. Louis, 314.231.2489, citymuseum.org

Grant’s Farm
Holiday Lights are back at Grant’s Farm, and this year, guests have multiple ways to experience the fun. Guests can enjoy the light display during the Holiday Lights walk-through and drive-through events, which can be enjoyed at their leisure. The farm will have seasonal food and drink options, as well as animals in the Tiergarten. For a special treat, Mr. and Mrs. Claus are excited to have breakfast with children and families, including a buffet, family photos, and guest animal experiences.

7385 Grant Road, St. Louis, 314.843.1700, grantsfarm.com

Missouri Botanical Garden
Missouri Botanical Garden’s Garden Glow is back for another holiday season. They’ve got more than 2 million lights to dazzle and show off the gardens. This year, tickets have optional add-ons, from Dine and Glow (with a special holiday dinner at Sassafras), festive snacks and drinks available for purchase, as well as private fire pits that can warm up to 20 people. Santa Claus and The Winter Sisters will be available for guests to meet, and Garden Glow has two new, nature-inspired pieces. The Linnean Lilies, sponsored by Kathy and David Hollo, pay homage to Monet’s lilies, and the twinkling tinsel blooms can be found in Swift Family Gardens. The Beaming Butterflies, sponsored by Karen and Mike Stern, mimic the beauties found in the Sophia M. Sachs Butterfly House in Chesterfield and can be found near the Climatron. Advanced registration is highly recommended for Garden Glow; tickets can be found here through Jan. 3.
4344 Shaw Blvd., St. Louis, 314.577.5100, missouribotanicalgarden.org

Saint Louis Zoo
The Saint Louis Zoo has Wild Lights for the holidays this year. Along with the light displays, guests can take photos with Santa and shop at a new holiday market. Penguin & Puffin Coast will be open, along with Sea Lion Sound and the Insectarium for a warm-up. Seasonal food and drink, like turkey dinner in a cone and hot chocolate (including a 21+ option) will be available for purchase inside the park, along with special s’mores kits. The event runs after regular zoo hours from 5 to 8:30 p.m. on select nights until Dec. 28, with a sensory-friendly night on Dec. 8. Get your tickets online.
1 Government Drive, St. Louis, 314.781.0900, stlzoo.org

Winterfest
Winterfest will be in full swing through Jan. 11 in downtown St. Louis. Returning favorites include ice skating, s’mores stations and holiday drinks from Pour Decisions at the Winterfest Cafe. This year, Ed’s Food Shop and Crumbl Cookies will also be offering food and treats. Gateway Arch Park Foundation has also added private igloos with themes like Candyland and Haunted Christmas that are available for reservations. Check out a rotating schedule of free activities, new this year, in the Greater St. Louis, Inc. Lodge @ Winterfest, including spirits tastings and a DJ series from Sophie’s Artist Lounge.  For all the info about dates, tickets and parking, go to the Winterfest website.
500 Chestnut St., St. Louis, archpark.org/events/winterfest

WHERE TO FIND SANTA THIS SEASON

Santa Claus will be all around St. Louis this year, ready to spread his holiday cheer. 

• To make breakfast plans with him, check out SqWires on Dec. 7 and 13. Tickets include a buffet, plus hot cocoa, crafts and pictures with Santa. The family in the best set of pajamas wins a prize, too.
sqwires.com 

• Mr. Claus will also make morning appearances at Union Station for Pancakes with Santa on Saturdays and Sundays, with extra appearances the week of Christmas. Grab tickets online. For a cinematic experience, Union Station is once again offering their Polar Express Train Ride, set to the soundtrack from the movie. Holiday pajamas are encouraged, and guests will enjoy a reading of the book, plus cocoa and cookies before Santa boards the train to meet the kids. Get tickets online.
stlouisunionstation.com

• If the elves are interested in something a little elevated, Casa Don Alfonso is offering a brunch perfect for kids and adults, with reservations online.
casadonalfonsostlouis.com

• The reindeer don’t need to worry, though, because Grant’s Farm will remind them of home when they make their stop for breakfast; all the details are online.
grantsfarm.com

• When the crew crosses the river into Illinois, they’ll stop at Eckert’s Belleville Farm for breakfast on Saturdays and Sundays through Dec. 21. Save a seat on their website and check out details about the gingerbread house decorating party, too.
eckerts.com

• For photos with a sweet treat, Santa will visit five different Clementine’s locations for Ice Cream with Santa. These dates vary by location, and Mrs. Claus has promised to visit a few spots, too. Reservations are required and can be made online.
clementinescreamery.com

• Starting the first week in December, families can take a cruise with Santa, too. Riverboats at the Gateway Arch is hosting PJ’s and Pancakes with Santa in the mornings, and in the afternoons, belt out your favorite holiday songs by Caroling with Santa. Tickets for both cruises can be purchased online.
gatewayarch.com

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Award-winning Southern Italian restaurant Casa Don Alfonso, inside The Ritz-Carlton, St. Louis, at 100 Carondelet Plaza in Clayton, will soon introduce a new concept. Casa Boutique is slated to open this winter, offering handcrafted pastries, espresso beverages and elegant takeaway gifts. Though construction delays have pushed back the full build-out, the team plans to open holiday preorders for their centerpiece desserts, including the Panettone and Yule Log, ahead of the boutique’s official debut.

Nestled within the Casa Don Alfonso lounge, immediately to the left when guests enter and look toward the bar, the boutique will temporarily operate from this cozy corner until construction is complete. Once finished, Casa Boutique will feature a dedicated pastry counter framed in glass, along with a retail display offering imported olive oil, espresso beans, pastas, sauces and other curated Italian goods. Regardless of construction timing, the boutique will remain a permanent fixture in the lounge area.

Designed to evoke the warmth and charm of Sorrento, Casa Boutique will offer delicate Italian pastries, savory sandwiches, seasonal specialties and expertly crafted espresso drinks, all prepared with the same passion and precision that define the restaurant’s celebrated cuisine. “We wanted to create a space that feels like home in Southern Italy,” said Mario Iaccarino, partner of Casa Don Alfonso, who hails from Sorrento, Italy, where his family’s Don Alfonso 1890 restaurant resides. “From the morning croissant to the afternoon espresso and evening pastry box to-go, the Casa Boutique offers guests a way to experience a day-in-the-life of our family’s most cherished traditions.”

A highlight of the new concept is the Whole Cake Collection, a rotating line of elegant, handcrafted cakes ideal for celebrations, gifting, and special occasions. Made with the meticulous attention to detail that defines Casa Don Alfonso’s dessert program, each whole cake is available by preorder with a minimum 72-hour notice.

Holiday offerings will be available through December, including the signature Panettone and the Yule Log Holiday Cake. Holiday ordering is now open, and pick-up begins Dec. 10; all Christmas orders must be placed by Friday, Dec. 19. Preorders may be made by calling the restaurant at 314.719.1496.

When Casa Boutique officially opens this winter, guests can expect fresh breakfast offerings daily from 6:30-10:30 a.m., followed by an all-day menu from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m., featuring classic Italian pastries, savory bites and whole-cake preorders.

The post Casa Don Alfonso will open Casa Boutique this winter appeared first on Sauce Magazine: Intelligent Content For The Food Fascinated.

A new modern Mexican restaurant is headed to one of the Central West End’s busiest corners. After launching Lapez Mod Mex just outside Kansas City earlier this fall, the team behind Session Taco is ready to bring the concept to St. Louis, taking over the current Session space at 398 N. Euclid Ave. Session will close Sunday, Nov. 30, and the restaurant will undergo a quick 10-day refresh before Lapez opens.

The concept comes from brothers Jason and Adam Tilford, who said the ideas behind Lapez had been percolating long before Session Taco returned this summer. “We actually had this idea before we reopened Session, but we were too far along,” Jason said, noting how much the Central West End has shifted in recent years, from nightlife-heavy to a full-fledged dining district. With that change, the timing felt right to bring a more ambitious project to the neighborhood.

Lapez draws early inspiration from the brothers’ former Webster Groves hit, Milagro Modern Mexican, a small but widely acclaimed restaurant that earned them a Riverfront Times Best Local Chef award and helped launch what eventually became Mission Taco Joint, which later rebranded to Session Taco due to trademark infringement. Milagro’s seafood-forward cooking and layered flavors serve as a reference point again, but Jason emphasized that Lapez goes further, thanks to a wood-fired grill and smoker they didn’t have back then. “We’ve got authentic wood-grilled flavors now,” he said. “We’re bringing back that emphasis on fresh seafood we were known for at Milagro.”

The menu will be a complete overhaul from Session Taco’s offerings. Jason said nothing from the current menu will carry over. Instead, guests can expect dishes such as shrimp al pastor with achiote butter and smoked pineapple, chile-braised short ribs with pistachio mole, and wood-grilled carne asada topped with huitlacoche butter. A special happy hour menu, available from 4-6 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday, will pay homage to Mexican street food and seafood with items exclusive to that time slot.

The cocktail program is also getting an upgrade. The team is removing Session’s frozen drink machine to shift focus toward crafted cocktails developed by industry veteran Josh Laney. Expect Mexican-inspired riffs built with house-made ingredients like chile de árbol–infused tequila, ginger-serrano lemon syrup and smoked pineapple syrup.

Inside, the restaurant will keep its minimalist look with light changes to paint and décor since most of the space was rebuilt brand-new during the post-fire renovation. “Everything is new, so it won’t take much,” Jason said.

Lapez Mod Mex is set to open Wednesday, Dec. 10, for dinner service only. The restaurant will be closed on Mondays and will not serve lunch.

The post Lapez Mod Mex will replace Session Taco in the Central West End appeared first on Sauce Magazine: Intelligent Content For The Food Fascinated.

From a coastal stunner in Lafayette Square to a moody speakeasy, a new fine-dining escape in Washington, and a sunny Mediterranean café in Kirkwood, these four spots are giving us plenty of reasons to get out and explore the St. Louis area. Here’s where to eat and drink right now.

Extra Wavy
From the team behind Yellowbelly and Lazy Tiger, Extra Wavy makes a splash in Lafayette Square with a coastal-inspired menu, perfectly made cocktails, and a space that feels like vacation meets date night. The newest On Point Hospitality concept transforms the historic Centennial Malt House into a lush, tropical escape with green and coral tones, layered textures and plenty of charm.

Seafood takes center stage here, but the creativity stretches well beyond the raw bar. The lobster donut – a crisp sweet potato and molasses donut filled with chilled North African–spiced lobster salad – is a showstopper. Pork belly skewers melt in your mouth with a tangy glaze, and the fried polenta with zucchini and currant pepper jam is an unexpected hit. Even the fries impress, dusted with salt-and-vinegar powder that lends just a hint of tang without overwhelming the senses.

Drinks are every bit as dialed in as the food. The Skinny Dipper, a coconutty rum-and-Aperol cocktail, is refreshing with a touch of effervescence, while the Harmony Circus offers a fun, lightly salted riff on a strawberry Negroni. Confetti Cowboy, a complex and velvety amaretto sour, is another winner. (Let’s be real: They’re probably all winners.) Don’t skip dessert either: the pistachio praline ice cream, made in-house, is rich but perfectly balanced.
2017 Chouteau Ave., St. Louis, extrawavystl.com

Prohibition
Tucked inside the historic Centennial Malt House, Prohibition is the kind of speakeasy that makes you forget what time it is – in the best way. The moody bar is surprisingly spacious and feels cinematic with high ceilings, stone walls, gold frames, and flickering light that flatters everyone in the room. 

The cocktails deliver on both craft and character. Liquid Gold – a velvety whiskey sour with a silky foam topper – lives up to its name, while Poetic Legs, tropical and bright, hits all the right notes. The Jungle Bird is as classic and balanced as they come. 

Era-appropriate music hums through the space, the lighting is just right, and the overall vibe is immaculate. Prohibition shares its 19th-century building with Extra Wavy, making it the perfect companion stop: ideal for a pre-dinner drink if your table isn’t ready, or a nightcap afterward (our preferred move). Either way, once you find the secret entrance, you’ll want to linger.
2017 Chouteau Ave., St. Louis, stlprohibition.com

Mangia Bella
Housed in the historic Elijah McLean mansion in Washington, Missouri, Mangia Bella (“eat beautifully”) brings a new fine-dining destination to Franklin County. The 1839 Southern Colonial-style estate offers a striking backdrop for dinner or drinks, with elegant chandeliers, antique mirrors, and multiple dining rooms that make it easy to spread out and settle in for the evening.

The menu leans classic with comforting standbys done well. The garlic steak bites are tender and flavorful, and the bruschetta is a standout starter. You can also go lighter with a soup-and-salad combo; the cranberry-orange salad, with its bright dressing and crunchy pecans, was the table favorite. French onion soup hits the spot too, even if it didn’t deliver the dramatic cheese pull we hoped for. We also enjoyed the French dip, though we realized after the fact that it is satisfying enough on its own to not need the giardineira we added. To drink, the raspberry mojito is on the sweet side but undeniably refreshing. Overall, Mangia Bella isn’t reinventing the wheel, but it’s delivering solid, satisfying dishes in one of the most atmospheric dining settings around.
600 W. Front St., Washington, mangiabellamo.com

Café Amalia
Café Amalia in Kirkwood offers a warm, Mediterranean-inspired dining experience rooted in Greek hospitality. During our visit, we tried a few items from the rotating lunch menu. The salad is fresh and light, with a nice mix of sweet elements, though we longed for a crunchy component. The tartine is tangy and flavorful, with fresh tomatoes and basil, but it was a bit messy and best eaten with the provided golden fork. Coffees were good, with the fall iced coffee packing plenty of fall flavors without the sweetness so often present in an autumnal latte. We wish we had gotten there in time to try the breakfast menu too, which looks promising.
10907 Manchester Road, Kirkwood, amaliaculinaryart.com 

The post 4 new St. Louis restaurants and bars to try now appeared first on Sauce Magazine: Intelligent Content For The Food Fascinated.

DD Mau, the modern Vietnamese restaurant known for its fresh flavors and creative takes on classics, opens the doors to its new Webster Groves location today, Friday, Nov. 21, at 8169 Big Bend Blvd. The move marks a major step forward for the fast-casual favorite, which outgrew its longtime home on Allen Avenue after more than a decade.

We’ve long been fans of DD Mau’s bright, housemade Vietnamese dishes, and we even highlighted their standout roti shell tacos in our Eat This column earlier this year. And after attending the restaurant’s soft opening this week, we can confirm another must-order: DD Mau is serving some of the best wings in town. (Don’t miss owner Julie Shih’s episode on The Sauce podcast, where she shares more about the restaurant’s evolution.)

The new 6,000-square-foot space, formerly home to Weber’s Front Row, gives DD Mau room to stretch into the vision Shih said she’s been working toward for years. “We finally have the space we dreamed of,” she said. “It’s been in the works for two years, and now it’s really coming to life.” The spacious dining room, larger kitchen and added event area allow the team to host private dinners, parties and corporate gatherings, something Shih says customers have increasingly asked for. “We hope we can host more events and try fun new items, things like beef dumplings and potstickers,” she added.

The relocation also brings new features to the menu experience. DD Mau now holds a beer and wine license, giving diners a curated beverage selection to pair with their pho, bánh mì, noodle bowls and those now-essential wings. Diners can also expect rotating seasonal specials and the debut of DD Mau’s small-batch, house-made chile oil, which will be available for retail purchase starting in December.

For Shih, expanding while many restaurants face headwinds is both humbling and energizing. “Honestly, I feel very fortunate,” she said. “I think we’re lucky, and the food is really good. We’re just grateful to keep growing with our community.”

DD Mau Webster Groves is open Monday through Friday from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Saturday from 11:30 a.m. to 8 p.m., offering dine-in, carryout and online ordering.

The post DD Mau’s new Webster Groves restaurant opens with expanded menu appeared first on Sauce Magazine: Intelligent Content For The Food Fascinated.

When a tornado tore through the Delmar Maker District in May 2025, it didn’t just damage buildings – it disrupted a neighborhood in the middle of a major transformation.

The area, tucked between the Central West End and the Delmar Loop, has long been seen as a bridge between two of St. Louis’ most bustling districts. For developer Doug Auer – co-founder of the Maker District’s anchor business Third Degree Glass  – that location is what makes it so full of potential. “It’s right between two thriving areas,” Auer said. “It should be a connector – a vibrant link that brings people and energy between them. That’s what we’re building toward.”

Auer said that vision has guided every part of the district’s redevelopment. “We did our very best to make this easy and attractive to all of our tenants,” he said. “We paid for the full buildout for all of the development work in the district. Tenants handled their furniture and equipment needs on their own, with some of them being given low-cost loans as needed, in addition to the lease payments. Tenants were not asked for any other capital up front, other than security deposits at time of occupancy.”

A CULINARY ANCHOR
No one embodies that vision more than restaurateur Ben Poremba, whose restaurant group now anchors much of the district’s culinary energy. After more than a decade shaping the dining landscape in Botanical Heights, Poremba made the bold move to shift the majority of his restaurant group to Delmar.

“I was looking for a neighborhood that had a lot of growth potential,” Poremba said. “There were vacant buildings, yes, but more importantly, there was a budding enterprise and community forming there. It felt like the right kind of thing, a neighborhood still taking shape, with the right partners and the right energy.”

He found those partners in Auer and Jim McKelvey, the creative minds behind the Maker District, who shared his belief that Delmar could become one of the city’s most dynamic and entrepreneurial corridors. “We liked the idea of the Maker: people being creative and doing things with their hands,” Poremba said. “We didn’t just want to open one restaurant. We wanted to move three and open a couple more.”

By the time Poremba closed Nixta, Olio and Elaia in Botanical Heights on Dec. 31, 2023, the buildout on his new chapter was already underway. Esca opened in March 2024, Florentin followed in June, and a revived Nixta began serving guests that December, fully reopening by February 2025. His Deli Divine, located just down the street, had already debuted in May 2023.

The momentum was strong. “Esca has been very busy since the beginning,” Poremba said. “Florentin’s weekends are solid, and Nixta had incredible energy when we opened. Those first few months were packed, and we’d started doing salsa and DJ nights.”

THE TORNADO HITS
Then came the tornado.

“It was surreal being there during the storm,” Poremba said. “We went to the basement – we were just getting ready for service – and when we came out, it was overwhelming to see all the destruction around us.”

The storm caused major damage throughout the district. Steve’s Hot Dogs and The Fountain on Delmar, both neighbors to Nixta, sustained heavy damage but have since reopened, a testament to the area’s resilience. Just down the block, however, Beyond Sweet Kitchen + Bar was hit so hard that it doesn’t appear it will ever reopen. Requests for comment from owner Dallas Holland were not returned as of press time.

PICKING UP THE PIECES
Danni Eickenhorst, co-owner of HuSTL Hospitality Group, which operates both Steve’s and The Fountain, remembers that day vividly. “I was in St. Charles when it came through,” she said. “We had guests on our patio, and one of our employees saw a tornado had touched down. They got everyone inside and into the walk-in. It was terrifying – but everyone was OK.” When she arrived afterward, the damage was extensive. “There were holes in the roof, windows blown out, HVAC ripped off the building – but because it was newer construction, the walls held. We were lucky.”

Eickenhorst and her team quickly shifted into recovery mode. “Because our buildings were in decent shape, we immediately started serving food and handing out personal supplies and opened space for nonprofits to provide aid,” she said. They reopened just 31 days later, in June, with a Build Back the Block concert that raised $50,000, later matched by a private donor.

Still, the neighborhood has struggled to regain its footing. “Almost every business on the street is significantly down because our regulars aren’t there,” she said. “Operating revenue is down 30 to 50 percent right now. We’ve reduced our hours to get through the winter – we’re just trying to make it to spring.”

RALLYING SUPPORT WITH DOLLAR$ FOR DELMAR
To help, Eickenhorst has launched a long-term effort called Dollar$ for Delmar, a regional fundraising campaign dedicated to the economic recovery of the Delmar Maker District and surrounding areas impacted by the tornado. The campaign officially launches on Dec. 11 and will be managed through Delmar Main Street and the Delmar Maker District.

Seventy percent of all funds raised will go directly to businesses that have reopened and have the greatest need, while the remaining 30 percent will fund marketing, events and placemaking initiatives designed to bring more people to the area. The goal is to raise at least $1.5 million, ensuring that the Maker District not only rebuilds but thrives, cementing its place as a cornerstone of the St. Louis arts and business scene.

“Our hope is that the entire region will rally behind this effort,” Eickenhorst said. “This neighborhood needs what we’re giving – safe spaces, affordable meal options, a sense of community. We want to be here on the other side when everyone comes back.”

REBUILDING AND REGAINING MOMENTUM
Poremba’s own buildings were battered too. The property that will eventually house Olio and Elaia collapsed entirely, while the others suffered extensive damage. “We worked very hard to get everything cleaned up,” he said. “We didn’t even have all the windows in or power for a while. It took about five weeks to reopen.”

Even with the doors back open, recovery has been uneven. “The tornado killed some of that momentum,” he said. “A lot of people who lived nearby can’t move back yet or never will. Especially on weekdays, traffic has been down. Esca’s been affected too. It’s a slow go; the neighborhood still needs a lot of work.”

Still, signs of renewal are emerging. The Delish on Delmar event in mid-October drew big crowds, bringing fresh energy and visibility to the district’s restaurants and makers. For many business owners, it was a hopeful sign that people are ready to return and rediscover the area.

Despite the challenges, the district remains lively. On any given weekend, there’s still a steady hum of diners spilling out of Esca and Florentin, the smell of hot dogs wafting from Steve’s, ice cream sundaes clinking next door at The Fountain. “It’s still a bustling area,” Poremba said. “It just needs more people to come see what’s here.”

LOOKING AHEAD
Poremba is not done yet. “In addition to Olio and Elaia, we’re going to add a couple more concepts over the next year or so,” he said. “That’s part of the excitement: We’re fully committed to that neighborhood and to attracting more operating partners to make it the best it can be.”

For Poremba, the investment is about more than food, it’s about reimagining what Delmar represents. “Delmar has had a bad stigma as a divide,” he said. “But it’s really one of the city’s main arteries: It connects the county to downtown, it’s close to the airport and the universities. If we’re serious about rebuilding and rebranding St. Louis as a fun, active entrepreneurial city, the focus should be on Delmar.”

Eickenhorst shares that belief in the district’s potential. “This is where healing and partnership can happen,” she said. “When people come together in community – that’s when the momentum starts to benefit both sides of Delmar. The Maker District facilitates that creativity and connection, and we want to see it thrive.”

Auer agrees. For him, every new storefront, every restaurant reopening, and every mural or maker space is part of that bigger mission. “This district has always been about creativity and collaboration,” Auer said. “The tornado was a setback, no doubt – but it also reminded us how strong this community is. What’s happening here isn’t temporary. It’s rebuilding, it’s reimagining and it’s just getting started.”

The post How the Delmar Maker District is bouncing back after the 2025 tornado appeared first on Sauce Magazine: Intelligent Content For The Food Fascinated.

After working alongside and learning from her family at Private Kitchen and Soup Dumplings STL, Yue Zhai wanted to create something of her own. In June 2022, Tiger Soup Dumplings was born, and the Sauce team liked it so much it was named a Best New Restaurant that year. Owned by Zhai and her boyfriend, Victor Lai, the pair opened up their first location in Fenton. After gaining popularity, they then opened up their second location in 2024 in Des Peres. Now they are gearing up for a third location coming this spring to 1900 First Capitol Drive in St. Charles. 

Opening in spring 2026, with more details to come later, their new location is around 1,900 square feet. Zhai noted they are using the same design team they had used for the Des Peres location, with a similar elevated design following their black and wood theme. In addition to the other locations, there will be an open window for guests to take a peek into the carefully crafted soup dumpling process. The menu will stay the same without skimping on quality or freshness. 

Everything at Tiger Soup Dumplings is house-made. Zhai notes that she believes the popularity of the restaurants is due to the fresh quality her and her team bring to every meal. She believes that a dish needs to be held at the utmost quality for guests to enjoy. 

“I request that our staff does everything to follow the rules. If the food is not perfect, I won’t let them through, or never bring it out to the customer, because we are really strict to the quality and really strict for the food quality,” Zhai said. 

It was important for Zhai to venture out on her own to change the perspective on how Americans usually consume Chinese food, which Zhai noted is usually through takeout. She wants young people to try her cooking, and encourages guests to eat at the restaurants, instead of the takeout option.  

“I call it the new Chinese fusion food; I want to make some changes. I want to show confidence in the culture. I want to teach people what is real Chinese food, or new Chinese food, besides the old takeout. American Chinese food is totally different,” Zhai said. 

Zhai stressed the success of the third location is especially important to her long-term goals of getting a central kitchen to supply to even more locations down the road. With a central kitchen, she and her team would be able to supply the same level of quality to even more locations. 

“If I can open the third store and it goes well, that means this business model can be a long-term business model. So, this third story is our really important store. If it goes well, that means I can open four, five, six, and open more stores. So, this is a really important, big step for us,” Zhai said.

The post Tiger Soup Dumplings will open a location in St. Charles in spring 2026 appeared first on Sauce Magazine: Intelligent Content For The Food Fascinated.