New Restaurants Archives - Sauce Magazine: Intelligent Content For The Food Fascinated https://www.saucemagazine.com/category/topic/new-restaurants/ Your Guide to St. Louis Restaurants, Recipes, and Food Culture Tue, 09 Dec 2025 17:27:52 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://www.saucemagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/cropped-sauce-magazine-favicon-Katrina-Behnken-32x32.png New Restaurants Archives - Sauce Magazine: Intelligent Content For The Food Fascinated https://www.saucemagazine.com/category/topic/new-restaurants/ 32 32 248446635 Fresh & Chill combines Latino cuisine with American comfort food in South City https://www.saucemagazine.com/places-2/fresh-chill-combines-latino-cuisine-with-american-comfort-food-in-south-city/ Wed, 03 Dec 2025 20:23:02 +0000 https://www.saucemagazine.com/?p=47992

Fresh & Chill is now open in the Tower Grove South neighborhood of St. Louis.

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After finding a gap in St. Louis’ options for the Latino dishes they grew up eating, Julieta Feliz and Rodolfo Martinez teamed up to bring something new to the city. On Nov. 15, they launched Fresh & Chill in the Tower Grove South neighborhood of South City. Located at 4621 Beck Ave., Fresh & Chill brings together American comfort food with classic Latino specialties.  

“Our vision was to open a place where people can experience the warmth and relief we feel at home. There are so many things going on right now, so much tension, so much stress. So, we wanted to provide a space for people to go and literally chill and unwind. We wanted to pair that with good food and unique flavors that can transport you to various Latin American countries,” Feliz said.

Though not related, Feliz and Martinez find commonality in the way their lives have been surrounded by family and food. Martinez is from Michoacan, Mexico, and brings years of restaurant experience, while Feliz draws inspiration from her California childhood, where her mother’s cooking was a constant source of community. In crafting their menu, the pair wanted to include items that were personal to how they were raised and a reflection of their multicultural team.

“My husband is from the Dominican Republic and there’s a traditional plate from there called los tres golpes “the three hits” you can’t really find that anywhere in St. Louis, so we have it at our restaurant,” Feliz said. We have classics from Central and South America and the Caribbean. We’re just trying to try to bring a little bit of home to St. Louis.”

Fresh & Chill co-owner Julieta Feliz // Credit: photo courtesy of Fresh & Chill

Fresh & Chill is open Monday through Thursday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. and until 6 p.m. on Friday through Sunday. Holding a capacity of 284 guests, there are two levels in their space, with a private room in the upper level that can be rented out for parties of any celebration. The restaurant is open and bright allowing guests to relax and enjoy comfort food at any meal of the day. 

“It has a really good feng shui about it, coming from the kitchen, then you pass the lower level, and then go up into the upper level. Then we also have a patio stage in the back, and then our bar is right in the center and easily accessible between both places,” Feliz said 

Feliz credits success to their chef Jacobo Berman, who is not afraid to change up traditional American meals. An example of this is their twist on chicken and waffles, replacing chicken with lamb chops for added flavor. 

“I think a lot of that comes from our chef. He is very bold and fearless in trying new things when we discussed the concept of the menu. One of our customers described it as eclectic. He was not afraid to combine flavors and ingredients in a nontraditional way,” Feliz said 

It was important for owners Feliz and Martinez to keep the foundation of classic American meals with the twist of Latino flair added in. With their inviting atmosphere and fresh meals that make guests feel right at home, Fresh and Chill is changing the game in St. Louis. 

“Our restaurant came to life out of a love for sharing a meal with someone, with a group of people. We share our love through food, conversation and memories,” Feliz said.

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Lapez Mod Mex will replace Session Taco in the Central West End https://www.saucemagazine.com/topic/places-topic/lapez-mod-mex-will-replace-session-taco-in-the-central-west-end/ Tue, 25 Nov 2025 22:03:59 +0000 https://www.saucemagazine.com/?p=47905

Session Taco's Central West End location will soon close to make way for Lapez Mod Mex.

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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.

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The Sports Bra opening in former Boogaloo space in Maplewood https://www.saucemagazine.com/places-2/places/the-sports-bra-opening-in-former-boogaloo-space-in-maplewood/ Tue, 28 Oct 2025 17:58:01 +0000 https://www.saucemagazine.com/?p=47673

The Sports Bra, a female-owned sports bar, is coming to Maplewood.

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The Sports Bra, a female-owned sports bar, is coming to Maplewood. The business, founded in Portland, shows only women’s sports as part of its mission to empower women. The St. Louis area is officially getting the first franchise location, owned by Heather Hill and Sara Pilsner, at 7344 Manchester Road.

Signs popped up recently on Manchester Road announcing that locals can expect an opening date in early 2026. “The bones in here are good,” co-owner Heather Hill said of the old Boogaloo space. They plan to keep the original wood floors, as well as the double-sided bar, though the new bar top will be made of reclaimed wood from a basketball court. Customers can expect at least 10 TVs on the inside, which will hold up to 160 people. The patio will be getting its own TVs, as well as rain guards and heaters to extend patio season as long as possible.

Much of the Boogaloo’s essence will remain intact at The Sports Bra, including an homage to the beloved swing chairs. // Credit: photo by Riley Hansen

“Part of the appeal of a franchise is that we didn’t have to build a menu from scratch,” Hill said. The Sports Bra has classic pub fare, like soft pretzels and wings, but they’ve also got Vietnamese clay pot-style pork ribs and a tempeh Reuben. Guests can make their smash burger vegan or their tuna melt gluten-free, allowing this already accessible menu to be dietary friendly as well. Every franchise location (fans in Indianapolis, Boston and Las Vegas will see their own spots soon) gets the opportunity to add one of their own items to each category on the menu. Hill can’t reveal what’s going on the St. Louis menu yet, but she’s already got some ideas.

It wouldn’t be a sports bar without a drink menu, and The Sports Bra has it all, from cocktails to mocktails to beer on tap. The Title IX features bourbon, peach liqueur and mint, while the Pickle Ball includes dry gin, dry vermouth and pickle juice.

“The ultimate goal of The Sports Bra is to empower women, across any aspect,” Hill said. “Anytime we can hire women, promote women, have women do construction, get women-owned breweries, distilleries, [that’s] what we’re going to go with.” The business is also committed to supporting local as much as possible too. To this end, Hill has been doing tastings around the area, including at Noboleis Vineyards for their ciders.

“I really think there’s a need in every city,” Hill said of female-centered spaces like The Sports Bra. According to a 2023 article in Forbes, 15% of sports media coverage for the previous year was about women’s sports, which was a vast improvement from around 5% in 2019. The numbers are expected to keep growing, and Hill credits social media and “the Caitlin Clark effect” for part of this. “My algorithm started to change,” she said. “I think every generation has that Caitlin Clark. For me it was the ‘99ers, and then it was Diana Taurasi. Sue Bird has always been iconic. The unfortunate thing is it has never been broadcast.”

As Hill stood outside of the site of what will soon be The Sports Bra for a photo opp, a young woman approached her. “Is this what’s going here?” she asked, referencing the signs. When Hill affirmed it was, the woman said she couldn’t wait to tell her friend. The excitement in St. Louis is already ramping up for space of female-empowerment like this one; Hill has been hosting watch parties with The Sports Bra in partnership with local businesses like The Great Grizzly. The next event is at Bluewood Brewing on Oct. 26 for the USWNT vs. Portugal match.

When the bar opens, hours will mirror what the community wants, and it will remain family-friendly as opposed to a late-night bar. “There would be nothing better than to have a little 9U softball team put in a reservation after they won a game,” Hill said.

Keep an eye on The Sports Bra’s socials for updates and more watch parties in the future.

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Buddy’s Premium Pub: first look at Overland’s new go-to spot for food, drinks and vibes https://www.saucemagazine.com/places-2/buddys-premium-pub-first-look-at-overlands-new-go-to-spot-for-food-drinks-and-vibes-18002303/ Wed, 25 Jun 2025 17:48:40 +0000 https://www.saucemagazine.com/places/buddys-premium-pub-first-look-at-overlands-new-go-to-spot-for-food-drinks-and-vibes-18002303/

Buddy’s Premium Pub is a new family-owned bar quickly earning a reputation as Overland’s favorite neighborhood hangout. Located at 9728 Lackland Road, Buddy’s isn’t just a place to grab a drink – it’s a welcoming space where everyone feels like a friend. After all, everyone can be a Buddy here. Buddy’s delivers not only affordable […]

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Buddy’s Premium Pub is a new family-owned bar quickly earning a reputation as Overland’s favorite neighborhood hangout. Located at 9728 Lackland Road, Buddy’s isn’t just a place to grab a drink – it’s a welcoming space where everyone feels like a friend. After all, everyone can be a Buddy here.

Buddy’s delivers not only affordable drinks, good energy and even better company—it offers a full experience. With a packed schedule of weekly events, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Feel the nostalgia as Buddy’s House DJ spins smooth R&B hits from the ’90s on Thursdays at 7 p.m. Whether you’re dancing, grooving at the bar, or enjoying a plate of wings, fries, or crispy fried green beans, Thursdays are all about throwback vibes. 

Fridays are all about flavor and fun, starting with the Fish Fry at 2 p.m. The rotating menu features comforting Southern classics like fried catfish, honey-glazed cornbread, collard greens, sweet potatoes, creamy mac and cheese, and old-school spaghetti. Happy Hour runs from 3 to 6 p.m., and at 8 p.m., the mic is yours for karaoke, followed by a live DJ set at 11 p.m. Smokin’ Saturdays bring a flavorful mix of smoked ribs and live music, featuring a rotating listing of talented St. Louis artists.

Soul Food Sundays at Buddy’s are a perfect time to grab a bite to eat and try their summer cocktails, all just $5 every Sunday. The signature cocktails lineup features the Blueberry Basil Lemon Drop, a refreshing twist on a classic, with muddled blueberries and fresh basil; the Watermelon Lime Margarita, lightly sweetened with agave and finished with a with tajín rom, the bold Strawberry Long Island, and the smooth, crowd-favorite White Peach Sidecar, elegantly garnished with rosemary and fresh peach slices. 

Whether you’re shooting darts, playing pool, enjoying live music, or just kicking back with friends or family, Buddy’s is your home away from home. 

Buddy’s Premium Pub is open Monday through Sunday from 12 p.m. to 1:30 a.m. Scroll through the slideshow below for a first look at the new concept.

Credit: photo by Kiana Fleming
Credit: photo by Kiana Fleming
Credit: photo by Kiana Fleming
Credit: photo by Kiana Fleming
Credit: photo by Kiana Fleming
Credit: photo by Kiana Fleming
Credit: photo by Kiana Fleming
Credit: photo by Kiana Fleming
Credit: photo by Kiana Fleming
Credit: photo by Kiana Fleming

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Stacked STL is opening a location in the Central West End https://www.saucemagazine.com/places-2/stacked-stl-is-opening-a-location-in-the-central-west-end-17995890/ Mon, 23 Jun 2025 18:18:00 +0000 https://www.saucemagazine.com/places/stacked-stl-is-opening-a-location-in-the-central-west-end-17995890/

Stacked STL is doubling down on its smash-hit burgers with a brand-new outpost in the Central West End later this summer.

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Stacked STL is doubling down on its smash-hit burgers with a brand-new outpost at 400 N. Euclid Ave. in the Central West End later this summer. Known for its inventive flavors and uncompromising approach to quality, the local favorite is entering a new era with its latest expansion.

Stacked’s latest move is more than a business decision – it’s the culmination of years of growth and groundwork. “We’ve always talked about a second location, but it had to be the right fit,” said co-owner of Stacked STL, Sam Siebenman. “With our families growing, it was just a matter of time before we had to make a move.”

The right space finally revealed itself after an unexpected twist. The group had been eyeing a nearby spot when, on a lunch break across the street at Pi Pizzeria, they ended up stumbling onto what would soon become their future home. “We fell in love with the layout and started shooting out ideas,” Siebenman shared. A few weeks later, Pi Pizzeria had officially closed and the team jumped at the opportunity.

Now, as they prepare for an August debut (possibly mid-month), final touches are underway, from designing the space to dialing in a menu and schedule, they’re focused on creating a space and experience that feels right at home in the CWE. While the original Carondelet location closes at 9 p.m. on weekdays and 9:30 p.m. on weekends, the CWE spot plans to keep the lights on a little longer: 10 p.m. on weekdays and midnight on weekends.

That shift is less about strategy and more about intention: showing up as a neighbor, not just a new business. “Everyone seems so welcoming,” Siebenman said. 

Guests can expect the same menu favorites from the original location, with one twist: the Burger of the Month will be unique to the CWE. They also pride themselves on accommodating dietary needs and sourcing as much as possible from local vendors, from Cope Grass Farms’ grass-fed beef to locally brewed beer and regional spirits. “We plan on giving customers the best burger experience … we want to make sure when you leave, you can’t wait to come back.”

Inside, the space has undergone a complete transformation from its former pizzeria days. Designed to be both sleek and social, the new space includes murals by St. Louis artists, a mix of indoor and outdoor seating and a semi-open kitchen that brings some of the action front and center.

As for what sets Stacked apart? For Siebenman it’s simple. “If you want to be the best at something, you have to make it the star and go 100%. And in this case, that something is one damn good burger.”

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Robin Restaurant in Maplewood: first look at chef Alec Schingel’s brick-and-mortar https://www.saucemagazine.com/places-2/robin-restaurant-in-maplewood-first-look-at-chef-alec-schingels-brick-and-mortar-17675926/ Wed, 12 Mar 2025 13:29:00 +0000 https://www.saucemagazine.com/places/robin-restaurant-in-maplewood-first-look-at-chef-alec-schingels-brick-and-mortar-17675926/

After two years of pop-ups and private dinners as The Robin Project, chef Alec Schingel is launching his first brick-and-mortar restaurant. Robin Restaurant will open Thursday, March 13, at 7268 Manchester Road in Maplewood, occupying the space that previously housed The Benevolent King. Robin Restaurant features a small but refined prix-fixe menu that highlights sustainability, […]

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After two years of pop-ups and private dinners as The Robin Project, chef Alec Schingel is launching his first brick-and-mortar restaurant. Robin Restaurant will open Thursday, March 13, at 7268 Manchester Road in Maplewood, occupying the space that previously housed The Benevolent King.

Robin Restaurant features a small but refined prix-fixe menu that highlights sustainability, seasonality and Midwestern culinary traditions. Sourcing ingredients from local farmers and purveyors, Schingel aims to create an experience he describes as “fine comfort,” a balance of indulgence and approachability in a welcoming environment.

“This is a highly personal endeavor and a vision that has been 18 years in the making,” said Schingel, who will serve as both executive chef and wine/beverage director. “We put a lot of thought and effort into the details of the experience, but we also want it to be in service of hospitality and warmth – to make everyone feel welcome.”

The restaurant’s menu will consist of a four-course prix-fixe priced at $75, offering three options per course. A rotating snack menu will also be available, featuring three to five small bites that reflect Schingel’s take on Midwestern cuisine. All menu items will evolve with the seasons, showcasing local ingredients at their peak. Schingel emphasizes working with the same local farmers as many well-regarded restaurants in the area, ensuring integrity in sourcing and seasonality.

A full beverage program will complement the food, including beer, wine, spirits and cocktails. Wines will be available by the bottle or carafe, encouraging sharing and flexibility for diners. Schingel, who holds a sommelier certification, has a particular passion for American wines, with a focus on California, Oregon and Washington. He also will feature a cider from Revival Cider Co. in Michigan. The rotating cocktail list will highlight classic builds with a unique twist, ensuring a well-balanced selection for guests.

Robin’s atmosphere is designed to be warm and inviting, removing the stress sometimes associated with fine dining. “Too much fine dining can end up feeling challenging or stressful,” Schingel said. “We don’t want that. Our goal is to create an experience that’s a little better than home, where people can feel comfortable regardless of their background or financial situation.” The space will feature an open kitchen, a selection of vinyl records playing throughout the night, and a service style focused on approachability and genuine hospitality.

Located in the heart of downtown Maplewood, the 1,400-square-foot restaurant has nine tables and a six-seat bar, accommodating up to 36 guests. The interior design retained the previous layout while brightening the space for a more natural feel with plenty of earth tones.

“After searching for years for the perfect space, we’ve finally found what we were looking for,” said Schingel. “The size and layout of the restaurant perfectly fit our vision of a place where guests can enjoy a great meal, gathered around a table with friends and family.”

Schingel, a native of Urbana, Illinois, studied economics at SIUC before moving to St. Louis to attend L’École Culinaire. His career includes stints at Chase Park Plaza restaurants and training under award-winning chef Gerard Craft at Niche. He later traveled the world, gaining experience at McCready’s and The MacIntosh in Charleston, In de Wulf in Belgium, and Blue Hill at Stone Barns in New York, where he worked with Michael and Tara Gallina. Upon returning to St. Louis, he joined the opening team at Vicia as chef de cuisine and later served as executive chef at Winslow’s Table before launching The Robin Project.

“The pop-up dinners we have hosted under The Robin Project have given us the opportunity to interact with St. Louis diners and to develop an incredible and loyal following,” said Schingel. “We are looking forward to growing that following and welcoming in a diverse range of customers at Robin Restaurant, from regulars and special occasion diners to travelers and tourists.”

Robin Restaurant will be open from 5 to 10 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday, and reservations can be made online. Follow @robinrestaurant for updates.

Check out the slideshow below for a first look at the new restaurant.

Assorted dishes and drinks at Robin Restaurant Credit: photo by Lauren Healey
Robin Restaurant chef-owner Alec Schingel Credit: photo by Lauren Healey
Robin Restaurant has taken over the former home of The Benevolent King. Credit: photo by Lauren Healey
Dorothy’s Potatoes Credit: photo by Lauren Healey
Caramelized tart Credit: photo by Lauren Healey
Gooey butter cake is served to every guest. Credit: photo by Lauren Healey
Mushroom cured trout Credit: photo by Lauren Healey
Sunchokes Credit: photo by Lauren Healey
Assorted dishes at Robin Restaurant Credit: photo by Lauren Healey

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Lydia’s by Sugar & Slice Bakery in St. Charles: first look at new bar and restaurant https://www.saucemagazine.com/people-2/lydias-by-sugar-and-slice-bakery-in-st-charles-first-look-at-new-bar-and-restaurant-17641938/ Fri, 28 Feb 2025 13:57:36 +0000 https://www.saucemagazine.com/people/lydias-by-sugar-and-slice-bakery-in-st-charles-first-look-at-new-bar-and-restaurant-17641938/

A popular Main Street St. Charles bakery has expanded to a second location, bringing a stronger focus on savory food items and introducing a brand-new bar program. Lydia’s by Sugar & Slice Bakery, now open at 1735 S. River Road, Suite 190, in St. Charles offers an inviting space for guests to enjoy handcrafted pastries, […]

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A popular Main Street St. Charles bakery has expanded to a second location, bringing a stronger focus on savory food items and introducing a brand-new bar program. Lydia’s by Sugar & Slice Bakery, now open at 1735 S. River Road, Suite 190, in St. Charles offers an inviting space for guests to enjoy handcrafted pastries, plated desserts and unique cocktails.

Lydia Allen, owner of Sugar & Slice Bakery, has been ready for expansion for quite some time. “Our original space is less than 1,000 square feet, and we outgrew it about a year after opening,” Allen said of her first business that opened in late 2019. “I had always wanted to do coffee and cocktails with desserts – there was nothing like that in St. Charles.”

After years of searching, the right space finally appeared. “I looked at this location a year ago, and as soon as I walked in, I got goosebumps. I knew immediately this was the one,” she said. The new 5,800-square-foot venue allows for a full bakery, a larger front-of-house area and a more efficient kitchen. “Now we bake for [the] Main Street [location] here too, which makes everything faster and of better quality.”

Lydia’s offers a selection of Sugar & Slice’s popular baked goods, along with an expanded menu of breakfast and savory items. “We have scones, savory brioche, and we’re going to add bar snacks like Buffalo chicken dip, candied bacon and marinated olives in mid-March,” Allen shared. Weekend brunch will also be a highlight, featuring dishes like brioche breakfast sandwiches, cinnamon roll French toast, and biscuits and gravy made with the bakery’s signature scones. Lydia’s will also showcase plated desserts such as cheesecakes, pies and specialty cakes, with an ever-rotating selection posted daily on social media.

The new bar program features coffee, cocktails and mocktails, including a lineup of dessert-inspired martinis. “Our Key Lime Pie Martini tastes just like our key lime pie – we came up with it on a whim,” Allen said. “We’re also launching coffee and martini flights.”

Other standout drinks include boozy coffees, classic cocktails and a small but curated wine selection. “Everything is made in-house, from simple syrups to macarons – no frozen doughs here,” she added.

Designed to be a welcoming and stylish escape, Lydia’s features an open, airy layout with floral wallpaper, colorful decor and will soon have gold bakery cases. “When you’re sitting at the bar, you feel like you’re at a bar, and when you’re at the bakery case, you feel like you’re in a bakery,” Allen explained.

The new location aims to be a comfortable gathering spot for all ages. “We’ve created a late-night space where anyone can come in alone or with friends and feel safe,” she said. “No judgment on whether you’re drinking coffee or a cocktail – just a laid-back, visually appealing space.”

As the bakery settles into its new home, Allen is planning for additional features, including live music in the spring, a patio out front with several tables, and themed events like trivia nights. Monday nights are designated as industry night, offering a 20% discount from 5 p.m. to close.

Lydia’s by Sugar & Slice is open Monday from 10 a.m. to 11 p.m., Wednesday through Thursday from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m., Friday and Saturday from 9 a.m. to 11 p.m., and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. The bakery is closed on Tuesdays. For updates on rotating desserts and special events, follow Lydia’s on social media.

Check out the slideshow below for a first look at the new space.
Credit: photo by Lauren Healey
Assortment of treats and cocktails Credit: photo by Lauren Healey
Credit: photo by Lauren Healey
Assorted macarons Credit: photo by Lauren Healey
Owner Lydia Allen Credit: photo by Lauren Healey
Cinnamon roll Credit: photo by Lauren Healey
Credit: photo by Lauren Healey
Savory items include an Everything-cheddar brioche and a bacon-cheddar scone. Credit: photo by Lauren Healey
Credit: photo by Lauren Healey
Dani’s Mojito Credit: photo by Lauren Healey
Credit: photo by Lauren Healey
Samoa brioche Credit: photo by Lauren Healey
Credit: photo by Lauren Healey
Chocolate chip cookies Credit: photo by Lauren Healey
Credit: photo by Lauren Healey
Raspberry sour cream pie Credit: photo by Lauren Healey
The blueberry scone is one of the most popular items. Credit: photo by Lauren Healey
Cappuccino flight Credit: photo by Lauren Healey
Credit: photo by Lauren Healey
Espresso martini Credit: photo by Lauren Healey

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Side Project Pizza opens this week in Maplewood https://www.saucemagazine.com/places-2/side-project-pizza-opens-this-week-in-maplewood-17581068/ Wed, 05 Feb 2025 17:45:12 +0000 https://www.saucemagazine.com/places/side-project-pizza-opens-this-week-in-maplewood-17581068/

The team behind the internationally acclaimed Side Project Brewing has launched a new venture, Side Project Pizza, in the former home of Pizza Champ at 2657 Lyle Road in Maplewood. After a soft opening this past weekend, it officially opens to the public on Friday, Feb. 7. The new family-friendly pizzeria combines expertly crafted sourdough […]

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The team behind the internationally acclaimed Side Project Brewing has launched a new venture, Side Project Pizza, in the former home of Pizza Champ at 2657 Lyle Road in Maplewood. After a soft opening this past weekend, it officially opens to the public on Friday, Feb. 7. The new family-friendly pizzeria combines expertly crafted sourdough pizzas with a curated selection of craft beers, cocktails and canned beverages in a relaxed, four-season patio setting.

With the closure of Pizza Champ, Side Project owners Cory and Karen King saw an opportunity to expand their brand into the culinary space. “We’re thrilled to bring Side Project Pizza to life as a true neighborhood spot,” said Karen King in a release. “Our vision is to create a space where our community can gather, enjoy nostalgic flavors with a twist, and feel right at home.”

The food program – led by chef Adam Altnether, who also helms the recently launched kitchen at Side Project Brewing – showcases 14-inch sourdough pizzas, appetizers and salads, with plans to introduce wings and hoagies in the near future. The pizza dough itself is made using the same yeast strain that brewer Cory King first captured on his family’s farm over a decade ago – a strain that also forms the foundation of Side Project’s signature Saison du Fermier.

Menu highlights include the BBQ Pork Pizza with St. Louis-style barbecue sauce, a Taco Pizza, and The SPB (Side Project Brewing) Pizza featuring sausage, Parmesan and bacon. Salads such as the chopped salad, with a sour cherry vinaigrette, and the kale salad with lemon garlic dressing, add fresh options to the lineup.

The drink menu complements the food with a selection of Side Project’s beers, a rotating draft lineup, and exclusive offerings like Pizza Lager, a Texas-inspired corn lager brewed specifically for Side Project Pizza. The bar also serves canned cocktails, sodas and High Noon.

The opening of Side Project Pizza coincides with Side Project Brewery’s nomination in USA Today’s 10 Best competition for both Best Beer Bar and Best Brewpub, further cementing the brand’s reputation for excellence.

Side Project Pizza is open from 4 to 8 p.m. Monday and Tuesday, 4 to 9 p.m. on Friday, noon to 9 p.m. Saturday, and noon to 8 p.m. Sunday. It is closed on Wednesday and Thursday. Hours may change seasonally.

Check out the slideshow below for a look at some of their offerings.

Pepperoni pizza Credit: photo courtesy of Side Project Pizza
Sausage pizza Credit: photo courtesy of Side Project Pizza
Spinach salad Credit: photo courtesy of Side Project Pizza
BBQ pork pizza Credit: photo courtesy of Side Project Pizza
Kale salad Credit: photo courtesy of Side Project Pizza
Cheese pizza Credit: photo courtesy of Side Project Pizza
SPB pizza Credit: photo courtesy of Side Project Pizza
Sausage pizza Credit: photo courtesy of Side Project Pizza

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Upscale international darts concept Flight Club opening in Clayton this week https://www.saucemagazine.com/places-2/upscale-international-darts-concept-flight-club-opening-in-clayton-this-week-17559504/ Wed, 29 Jan 2025 16:00:56 +0000 https://www.saucemagazine.com/places/upscale-international-darts-concept-flight-club-opening-in-clayton-this-week-17559504/

In what will be the eighth North American location for the brand, upscale darts concept Flight Club is opening in Clayton at 7710 Forsyth Blvd. this Friday, Jan. 31. Launched in the U.S. in 2018 by State of Play Hospitality, a leading international social entertainment operator, Flight Club combines craft cocktails and elevated cuisine with its […]

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In what will be the eighth North American location for the brand, upscale darts concept Flight Club is opening in Clayton at 7710 Forsyth Blvd. this Friday, Jan. 31. Launched in the U.S. in 2018 by State of Play Hospitality, a leading international social entertainment operator, Flight Club combines craft cocktails and elevated cuisine with its signature fast-paced, technology-driven dart experience.

Flight Club has locations in cities across the U.S., including Atlanta, Chicago, Denver and Las Vegas, and over 20 locations worldwide. And soon, St. Louis will also be home to the unique concept. 

In a statement released by the company, Toby Harris, Chief Executive Officer of State of Play Hospitality shared what drew the brand to open a location in Clayton. ”St. Louis has so many of the qualities we look for in a city including a strong sense of civic pride and an impressive and diverse food and entertainment culture,” Harris said.

Flight Club utilizes a proprietary scoring software that was developed by a NASA scientist that includes an advanced tracking system and automated scoring. The software also has the capacity for up to 300 players and an instant-replay camera captures winning throws, which are displayed on screen and can be shared on social media so players can relive their gameplay.

The St. Louis location will feature 6,250 square feet of indoor space with eight semi-private playing areas, called an oche, plus a large, covered patio which will be utilized in warmer months. The interior evokes the warm and welcoming atmosphere of a British Pub accented by charming decor reminiscent of the whimsical, playful aesthetic of Victorian-era fairgrounds.

Each location features an elevated food menu and a curated selection of cocktails made with premium spirits. The globally-inspired bites include items like Lobster Elote Dip which combines grilled street corn, cilantro, cotija cheese and a creamy lime base served with chips. 

There are also flatbreads to choose from like pepperoni and sausage or the vegetarian-friendly truffle mushroom. Other selections include buffalo chicken sliders, truffle fries and mini tacos, available in a poke-inspired version or barbacoa style. 

“It draws from the English pub background and Victorian-era whimsical elements, and features a globally inspired experience,” chef Jeff Martell, National Director of Culinary for Flight Club, said of the menu. 

That whimsy is also highlighted in the dessert offerings, which include a rotating variety of cotton candy, churros served with dulce de leche crema and profiteroles, which are cream puffs served with raspberry and chocolate dipping sauces.

The cocktail menu focuses on fresh ingredients such as fruits and botanicals, and each cocktail is developed so that it can also be offered as a mocktail. Some highlights include the lavender lemonade, made with Empress Gin, lavender and Fever Tree Lemon Tonic, as well as the Bee Sting, which combines Bulleit Bourbon, lemon, apricot and hot honey, adding a sweet, spicy finish. 

“As something inspired by a British pub, you don’t tend to think high-end food and cocktails, but we put so much thought into our food and beverage programs,” said Samantha Miller, Creative Director with State of Play Hospitality.

Miller went on to explain that all of the food is designed to be easily held while playing darts, while guests are seated at the bar or chatting with friends between plays. Although it’s a darts establishment, Flight Club is also a space for guests to gather with friends or coworkers at the bar for drinks and food without engaging in any gameplay.

In addition to the core menu and the happy hour drink menu which features classics like Cosmopolitan and Tom Collins, as well as beer and wine offerings, Flight Club also serves a weekend brunch menu. The selections range from a salmon flatbread to avocado toast and breakfast sliders, as well as coffee, tea, Bloody Marys and Mimosas.

Flight Club will be open seven days a week and will offer happy hour Monday through Friday, in addition to its regular menu and weekend brunch service. As part of the grand opening, they’ll be offering $20 bottomless mimosas. For more information about Flight Club and to stay updated on the grand opening details, find the establishment on Facebook or Instagram.

Check out the slideshow below for a look at the new concept.

Credit: photo courtesy of Flight Club
Credit: photo courtesy of Flight Club
Credit: photo courtesy of Flight Club
Credit: photo courtesy of Flight Club
Credit: photo courtesy of Flight Club
Credit: photo courtesy of Flight Club
Credit: photo courtesy of Flight Club
Credit: photo courtesy of Flight Club
Credit: photo courtesy of Flight Club
Credit: photo courtesy of Flight Club

The post Upscale international darts concept Flight Club opening in Clayton this week appeared first on Sauce Magazine: Intelligent Content For The Food Fascinated.

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La Pizza is opening a location in St. Charles https://www.saucemagazine.com/people-2/la-pizza-is-opening-a-location-in-st-charles-17548631/ Fri, 24 Jan 2025 18:18:27 +0000 https://www.saucemagazine.com/people/la-pizza-is-opening-a-location-in-st-charles-17548631/

For over two decades, La Pizza on Delmar Boulevard has been a beloved staple in the St. Louis dining scene. Known for its commitment to authentic, fresh ingredients and a family-friendly atmosphere, the pizzeria has earned a loyal following that spans generations. In 2025, after years of success in their Delmar location, husband-and-wife team Nicole and […]

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For over two decades, La Pizza on Delmar Boulevard has been a beloved staple in the St. Louis dining scene. Known for its commitment to authentic, fresh ingredients and a family-friendly atmosphere, the pizzeria has earned a loyal following that spans generations. In 2025, after years of success in their Delmar location, husband-and-wife team Nicole and Poli Bishop Jr. are ready to open a second location at 340 N. Main St. in St. Charles, which is slated to open in early February, marking the next chapter in their story of culinary passion and community-building.

Originally founded by Poli and his father Pauly Bishop Sr. in 2003, La Pizza began as a small, intimate pizzeria on Delmar Boulevard. With a focus on quality ingredients and a dedication to freshness, the Bishops quickly made a name for themselves. The decision to expand to St. Charles was driven by a growing demand that had been building for years. “We were selling out every day at the Delmar location,” Bishop Jr. explained. “People were coming in from St. Charles, and it just felt like the right time to grow and serve more customers.”

The new St. Charles location brings with it double the seating capacity of the original location, though the culinary ethos remains unchanged. Guests will still enjoy the same meticulously crafted pizzas made with fresh, hand-cut ingredients and dough that is hand-prepared daily. “We make everything fresh, from the sauce to the toppings,” Bishop Jr. emphasized. “It’s the way pizza is meant to be enjoyed – hot, fresh and made with care.” La Pizza dedication to quality extends to every corner of the operation, from the whole-milk mozzarella to the hand-cut vegetables, ensuring a truly authentic pizza experience.

One of the standout features of the new location is its expanded menu offerings, including the ability to serve slices all day, something that the smaller Delmar location couldn’t accommodate. The pizza menu is packed with favorites, but the “Roberto” pizza, named after the legendary baseball player Roberto Clemente, is a crowd favorite. Loaded with 11 ingredients, this pizza reflects the Bishops’ philosophy of giving everything they have to their craft. “Roberto Clemente gave his all every day,” Bishop Jr.  said. “So we give that pizza everything.”

The atmosphere of the St. Charles location promises to mirror the warmth and charm that has made the original location so special. With photos of the family, loyal customers and nods to both St. Louis and New York hanging on the walls, the Bishops aim to make their guests feel like they are part of the family. “It’s always been about community,” Nicole shared. “We’ve seen so many kids grow up over the years, and now they’re bringing their own families in. That’s what makes this so rewarding.” Open Tuesday through Sunday from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., this inviting space offers plenty of time for guests to savor the familiar, family-oriented atmosphere.

With its expanded capacity, extended hours and enduring commitment to quality, La Pizza is poised to become a cherished addition to the St. Charles community, just as it has been in St. Louis. For more details and grand opening updates, be sure to follow La Pizza on Facebook and visit their website.

Credit: photo courtesy of La Pizza
Credit: photo courtesy of La Pizza
Credit: photo courtesy of La Pizza
Credit: photo courtesy of La Pizza
Credit: photo courtesy of La Pizza
Credit: photo courtesy of La Pizza
Credit: photo courtesy of La Pizza
Credit: photo courtesy of La Pizza
Credit: photo courtesy of La Pizza
Credit: photo courtesy of La Pizza
Credit: photo courtesy of La Pizza
Credit: photo courtesy of La Pizza

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