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Articles by Daniel Puma
Jason Tilford goes beyond the burn with chiles at Session Taco
Browse the menu at any Session Taco location, and you’ll see an abundance of chiles used across the board. Staples in Southern California and of course Mexico – two places that inspire the laid-back taco joint’s menu – chiles serve numerous purposes, from adding obvious heat to achieving fruity or vegetal notes from fresh chiles and smokier ones from their dried counterparts. "All of our fresh salsas implement fresh and dried chiles,” Jason Tilford, co-owner of Session Taco, says.
Diego Gonzalez's cocktails are catching fire in The Grove
Diego Gonzalez has become one of St. Louis' premier mixologists, bringing a vibrant and innovative approach to cocktail creation. In the few years since moving to St. Louis, he’s been responsible for the beverage programs at Good Company, Aperi and the soon-to-come Chico Bueno. From finding influence while growing up in Mexico to working at top-notch establishments in New York City, Gonzalez has developed a knack for flavor combinations, paired with impeccable execution.
Craving ceviche? Here's where to find it this summer
Ceviche offers a bright, refreshing way to cool down with something savory during the summer months. Originating in Peru – and the country’s national dish – different versions have crept into the essential cuisines of coastal communities throughout Latin America. The dish was originally prepared using chili and salt or fermented juices, resulting in “cooked” fish.
10 summer-ready burger and beer pairings that never miss
Nothing beats a good burger other than pairing it with a great beer – it’s a classic combination for good reason. St. Louis is known for being an incredible beer city already, and in the last few years, iconic burgers have been popping up around town as well. We spoke to industry experts on their favorite beer and burger pairings, saving you the trouble next time you get a craving.
Go on a world tour with these globally inspired spritzes
The iconic spritz has grown in popularity over the last decade, and for many, it has become the unofficial drink of summer. Refreshing, easy to drink and often with a lower ABV than its cocktail counterparts, a spritz is a great way to cool down and recharge. Idol Wolf in Midtown, Pizzeria da Gloria on The Hill and Bistro La Floraison in Wydown all offer a well-rounded, rotating menu of spritzes – each with the distinctive style of the country which influences their respective menu.
From cave-aged gouda to quark, these four local cheesemakers bring the big flavors
Cheesemaking is an art form, and turning it into a business takes tremendous foresight and execution. Getting milk from cows, sheep and goats isn’t simply an on-or-off proposition – fluctuations in production take months of logistical support. From land stewardship to animal care, crafting cheese and overseeing the aging process, making cheese isn't for the faint of heart. Luckily, St. Louis is surrounded by exceptional cheesemakers who produce unique varieties for every palate.
Get to know Estie Cruz-Curoe, founder of Del Carmen Beans
Estie Cruz-Curoe, founder of Del Carmen Beans, moved to the United States from Cuba when she was 10 years old. Surrounded by delicious Cuban food from her family growing up in Miami, Cruz-Curoe embarked on a journey later in life to perfect, educate and share her distinctive Cuban black beans with the masses. Today, Del Carmen Beans serves up a variety of vegan-certified frozen black bean products at stores around St. Louis and at Tower Grove Farmers Market.
Last Call: Sarah and Scott Harkness of Dang Good Produce
Dang Good Produce has been delivering some of the most colorful, flavorful vegetables and fruit at Tower Grove Farmers Market for years. Owners Sarah and Scott Harkness are a favorite of market-goers and other vendors alike, and everyone seems to walk away from their stand with a smile. The couple took time out of a busy work day on the farm to answer our rapid-fire questions for this issue’s Last Call. Here’s what they had to say. What’s your favorite “St. Louis” food?
Where to find fresh, farm-raised meats at area farmers' markets
Most visits to the local farmers' market involve perusing a cornucopia of fresh, seasonal produce. However, meat – of course – has a place here too. From beef to poultry and pork, and much more, you’ll find plenty of variety at the market, thanks to these local farms. Alpacas of Troy & Brats of the World Located in Troy, Missouri, just north of St. Louis, this family-run operation is a regular at the Tower Grove, Lake St. Louis, University City, Ferguson and Point Labaddie farmers' markets.
Feast's guide to the 2025 famers market season
Neighborhood farmers markets have evolved significantly in recent years. As consumers increasingly focus on the origins of their food, how it is grown and the health and economic benefits of buying local, these community-focused markets have adapted to meet this demand, transforming into vibrant spaces filled with stall after stall of goods you’d be hard-pressed to find elsewhere. In St. Louis and around the country, visiting the farmers market has become a cherished weekend tradition.
Meet the man behind the wine at Parker's Table
At Parker’s Table, manager Simon Lehrer has been a fixture for the past decade, holding just about every role in the specialty food shop. For the past few years, he has been responsible for the majority of wine and specialty food products stocked throughout the store, in addition to the wine served at the next door Yale Bar. While an expert when it comes to wine, Lehrer’s initial entry was as a cheesemonger. “That's really most of my history; cheese and specialty foods in particular,” Lehrer says.
Indo debuts brand-new in-house designed sunroom
Nick Bognar’s Indo recently unveiled its newly redesigned sunroom. Previously, the patio featured an eclectic mix of furniture, lighting, shades and awnings, pieced together in a way only the restaurant could pull off. While the old patio was fun and intimate, the new year-round extension of the restaurant maintains that charm while providing comfort throughout the year. True to the restaurant’s roots, the updated sunroom was designed in-house by the Indo team.
Feast 5: Sarah Landry, the new general manager of Madrina
Not long ago, Madrina brought in a new general manager – Sarah Landry. It hasn’t taken long for her to put her stamp on the restaurant, influencing service, ambiance and overall operations to take the restaurant’s corner in Webster Groves to new heights. Originally from southern Louisiana, Landry has been a restaurant professional for years, running successful places from Waikiki Beach in Hawaii to Chicago, Charleston, and most recently, The Four Seasons in St. Louis.
Craving a burger? Try these 5 plant-based options around St. Louis
Plant-based eating is on the rise, and thanks to some stellar chefs around the area, St. Louis diners have plenty of options when it comes to a good vegan burger. Some are mainstays and some run as limited-time specials, but all of the choices below are delicious. The Royale The South City watering hole is a favorite for people who want stellar cocktails and delicious food, and its menu is the classic something-for-everyone variety.
Craving a burger? Try these 5 plant-based options around St. Louis
Plant-based eating is on the rise, and thanks to some stellar chefs around the area, St. Louis diners have plenty of options when it comes to a good vegan burger. Some are mainstays and some run as limited-time specials, but all of the choices below are delicious. The Royale The South City watering hole is a favorite for people who want stellar cocktails and delicious food, and its menu is the classic something-for-everyone variety.
Get your mac 'n cheese fix at these plant-based restaurants
Mac 'n cheese is one of those nostalgic dishes that hits all the right notes, and St. Louis is home to plant-based versions that are every bit as good as the traditional cheesy treat. Here are a few of our favorite vegan varieties in St. Louis. Plant Craft Kitchen City dwellers, get out to the county and check out Plant Craft Kitchen. This plant-based restaurant serves up a blend of homestyle favorites, innovative creations and international delights, all with a vegan touch.
Veg out with these vegan comfort classics around St. Louis
Plant-based menus are filled with a bounty of vegetables, fresh salads and more, but that's not all most have to offer. Vegan cuisine can often mimic and even surpass traditional versions of nearly any dish, and this is especially true when it comes to comforting classics like burgers, fried chicken, mac 'n cheese and sweet treats. If you're in the mood to indulge but want to keep things plant-based, we've got some ideas below.
Chick'n, Chik'n, ChickUn: Try these vegan fried chicken sandwiches
Whether you call it Chick'n, Chik'n or ChickUn, vegan chicken sandwiches are a staple item on the menu at many of St. Louis' plant-based restaurants. Below are some of our favorites. Station No. 3 For those who haven’t been to Station No. 3 yet, everything on the menu is vegan except for a couple of flexitarian options. However, if you just stopped in and ordered something, you’d never know the dish was vegan.
Terror Tacos is doing things its own way on South Grand
Terror Tacos – owned and operated by brothers Bradley Roach and Brian Roash – has always done things its own way. The restaurant is horror movie- and metal music-themed, the menu is 100 percent plant-based and every square inch of the space is a reflection of its owners. Upon entering, guests are greeted by the sounds of Black Sabbath echoing from the speakers.
Pizza Head's vegan slices continue to turn heads
Co-owners and partners Dylan Dodson and Sam Driemeier started out as avid fans of Pizza Head, even enjoying it as their first meal after moving to the neighborhood in 2019. In December 2021, they jumped at the opportunity to continue and evolve the punk rock-themed pizza joint despite having no previous pizza operation or restaurant ownership experience. “I have had a lot of different jobs over the years,” Dodson says.
Satisfy your sweet tooth with these 5 vegan chocolate chip cookies
Are plant-based sweets as satisfying as their traditional counterparts? We say yes, and these bakeries and restaurants can back that up – especially when it comes to the classic chocolate chip cookie. Here are some of our vegan favorites around town. Seedz Café This St. Louis staple is one of the more prominent names in plant-based cuisine in the region. Located within Clayton’s DeMun neighborhood, Seedz combines rustic design elements like reclaimed wood with sleek décor.
Celebrate Cinco de Mayo 2025 at these festive spots around town
Cinco de Mayo is right around the corner, and festivities start on Saturday with Cherokee Street's famous Cinco de Mayo festival. Elsewhere, look for events happening Saturday through Monday at restaurants and across the area. Saturday “The festival features two grand stages with live music & entertainment all day from a variety of genres. Plus, enjoy an action-packed family fun zone, a mechanical bull and Lucha Libre wrestling.
What you need to know before designing your home office
The home office has drastically evolved over the last few decades. Due to a combination of developing technology needs, the rise of remote work and changes in overall design appeal, home offices are no longer an afterthought. The COVID-19 pandemic sealed the deal on home offices’ newfound identity as a necessity rather than a nice-to-have.
Feast 5: Kait Kuchta-Goggin of Balkan Treat Box and Telva at the Ridge
Sometimes, the greatest fortunes in life come from chance encounters. Kait Kuchta-Goggin was working at Companion Bakery years ago when she was told to train the new employee — future James Beard Finalist Loryn Nalic. “I loved working with her,” Kuchta-Goggin says. “That’s when I learned about the food truck her and Edo [Nalic] were doing and working on together.
Atomic Pavilion and Atomic Lounge to debut updated spaces
Summer is nearly here and Atomic Pavilion is set to kick off its 2025 outdoor concert season. In the coming weeks, it will unveil a fresh and flexible layout featuring a moveable fence line. This is not just any ordinary fence; rather, it is sustainably created from repurposed shipping containers that have been transformed into mobile bars and merchandise booths.
Kevin Lemp and 4 Hands Brewing Co. continues to evolve
Beer is big in St. Louis, and 4 Hands Brewing Co. has carved out its rightful place among the city’s brewing greats. Since opening in 2011, 4 Hands has created some of the region’s most beloved beers – with no signs of losing momentum. In recent years, the brewery has expanded to include outposts at The District of St. Louis in Chesterfield with Hi-Pointe Drive-In and in Kirkwood through a partnership with Peacemaker Lobster & Crab.
Feast 5: Reed Joern of Sado and Pavilion
Working your way through the ranks has become a bit of a lost art – but not for Reed Joern, sushi chef at Pavilion and Sado. From his first job at a fly fishing shop to climbing the ladder at multiple kitchens around St. Louis, Joern built a strong foundation in Western culinary techniques and traditions. However, a few years ago, he met award-winning chef Nick Bognar and decided to transition his culinary pedigree to the Japanese and Southeast Asian realms.
Catching up with Kevin Lemp of 4 Hands Brewing Co.
Beer is big in St. Louis, and 4 Hands Brewing Co. has carved out its rightful place among the city’s brewing greats. Since opening in 2011, 4 Hands has created some of the region’s most beloved beers – with no signs of losing momentum. In recent years, the brewery has expanded to include outposts at The District of St. Louis in Chesterfield with Hi-Pointe Drive-In and in Kirkwood through a partnership with Peacemaker Lobster & Crab.
Rum is making a comeback in bars all over St. Louis
Rum-based drinks were popular in the United States in the early 20th century, but in recent years, spirits like bourbon, gin and tequila have dominated the market. Often seen as the misunderstood outcast of the spirits world, rum can be tricky to master. We talked to Tim Wiggins, co-owner of Yellowbelly and Lazy Tiger, about how to find the best ones on the market. What is rum?
Tim Wiggins and Travis Howard to open Extra Wavy in Lafayette Square
On Point Hospitality is making waves in the Lafayette Square neighborhood. Travis Howard and Tim Wiggins, the team behind Yellowbelly and Lazy Tiger, will open Extra Wavy – a raw bar with a full dinner menu and beverage program featuring the unique cocktails that have become a hallmark of the group. “We've actually been working on [Extra Wavy] for a year and a half," Wiggins says.
Rum is making a comeback in bars all over St. Louis
Rum-based drinks were popular in the United States in the early 20th century, but in recent years, spirits like bourbon, gin and tequila have dominated the market. Often seen as the misunderstood outcast of the spirits world, rum can be tricky to master. We talked to Tim Wiggins, co-owner of Yellowbelly and Lazy Tiger, about how to find the best ones on the market. What is rum?
Catching up with Kevin Lemp of 4 Hands Brewing Co.
Beer is big in St. Louis, and 4 Hands Brewing Co. has carved out its rightful place among the city’s brewing greats. Since opening in 2011, 4 Hands has created some of the region’s most beloved beers – with no signs of losing momentum. In recent years, the brewery has expanded to include outposts at The District of St. Louis in Chesterfield with Hi-Pointe Drive-In and in Kirkwood through a partnership with Peacemaker Lobster & Crab.
Adam Altnether has launched Side Project into the restaurant game
Adam Altnether joined the team at Side Project Brewing in early 2024 to launch a full food menu in the space and give fans of the brewery incredible food to pair with award-winning beer. A former co-owner of the beloved Elmwood restaurant in Maplewood, which closed in 2020, Altnether has created a menu of hits, helping solidify Side Project as a food and drink destination.
No Ordinary Rabbit is a cocktail destination thanks to co-owner Dave Zitko
In Botanical Heights, the former home of Nixta has been transformed into No Ordinary Rabbit, a sexy, intimate space with a food menu of Mediterranean-inspired small plates and entrées and a drink list that hits all the right notes. Co-owner Dave Zitko played a critical role in every element of the concept, from the finely layered cocktails to the colors and textures that bring the concept together. We caught up with Zitko to chat about what life has been like since opening.
Explore Missouri wines with expert Glenn Bardgett of Annie Gunn's
With more than 180 years of rich history and the distinction of being home to the oldest nationally recognized American Viticultural Area – Augusta, Missouri – Missouri and its wine industry are thriving with unique grape varietals that many outside the area have yet to experience.
How pastry chef Faith Humphrey found her people at Clover and the Bee
It's one thing to do what you love; it's another to do it in an environment that fosters your talents and reminds you why you started in the first place. Pastry chef Faith Humphrey has found that at Clover and the Bee and O+O Pizza. "I was planning on leaving the industry," Humphrey says. "I had enough. I was tired of, frankly, just bad hours, not being paid well, never getting to see my family, night shifts, early shifts. It was just getting to be a lot.
Madrina's Alisha Blackwell-Calvert discusses her James Beard nomination
Alisha Blackwell-Calvert’s journey through the wine and hospitality industry has been nothing short of remarkable. After passing her initial Sommelier exam in 2015, she earned her Advanced Sommelier certification in 2022 and subsequently became the beverage director at Madrina in Webster Groves. Now, her achievements in the field have garnered recognition from the prestigious James Beard Award Foundation.
Bubbles & Blooms Afternoon Tea returns this spring to The Ritz-Carlton
This spring, head to The Ritz-Carlton St. Louis for the return of its annual Bubbles & Blooms Afternoon Tea. The elevated tea and champagne service will be held on Sundays, March 30, April 27, May 4, and May 11, which will be a Mother’s Day celebration. Upon arrival, guests have the opportunity to build a petite bouquet at the Bouquet Bar before sitting at their table.
Nick Bognar, six-time James Beard semifinalist, on his 2025 Best Chef: Midwest nomination
This year, Nick Bognar is a James Beard semifinalist for a remarkable sixth time – and for a second time in the Best Chef: Midwest category. Bognar received the nomination for Rising Star Chef of the Year back in 2019 when he was working at Nippon Tei. In 2020, his restaurant iNDO was nominated for Best New Restaurant; that same year, he was again nominated for Rising Star Chef.
Biscuit Town, from the mind behind Neon Greens, debuts in The Grove
There’s a new pop-up in town from one of St. Louis’ favorite recent establishments. Biscuit Town, from Josh Smith and his team behind Neon Greens, has made its way to The Grove. Open Thursday through Saturday from 8 to 11 a.m., Biscuit Town will operate online only, enabling guests to order takeout or place an order for delivery. This model ensures each biscuit sandwich is prepared at peak freshness and allows the team to focus on quality over quantity.
Get to know Yellowbelly assistant GM Colleen O’Shea Jones
Assistant general manager at Yellowbelly. Classically trained flautist. Certified Sommelier. A few years ago, Colleen O’Shea Jones took the advice of her friends, who suggested she can be more than just one thing. “I think I told [myself] that you can only have one thing," Jones says. "Once I dealt with that mental hurdle, I decided to take the Court of Masters [sommelier] first level course.
The Scottish Arms aims to reopen in late May under new ownership
A St. Louis institution gets a new lease on life quite literally. The Scottish Arms is set to reopen its doors once again thanks to new owner Marla Hare-Griffin. Within days of its bittersweet farewell in July 2024, Hare-Griffin was on the phone with previous owner, Ally Nisbet, sharing her love of the pub and her desire to continue its legacy.
The staying power of the Niche Egg
Even casual participants in the St. Louis dining scene have undoubtedly heard of the Niche Egg. Created by Niche chef-owner Gerard Craft, the dish has become an unofficial symbol of fine dining history in the area, enduring even after Niche closed its doors in 2016. We caught up with Craft to discuss the inspiration behind his creation and the lasting impact it has made on fine dining.
The secret to Southwest Diner's menu? Eggs, and a lot of them
The crew at Southwest Diner scrambles, poaches, bastes, flips and fries more than 300 dozen eggs each week for the steady stream of guests who consider the restaurant a regular part of their routine. For over a decade, this vibrant diner has delighted patrons with a hearty offering of New Mexican cuisine, featuring standout dishes like Jonathan’s Fiery Scramble and breakfast burritos. The restaurant’s beginnings were serendipitous.
Turn and The Royale combining music, food and drinks each month in new collaboration series
"Fresh funky food, fresh funky drinks and fresh funky beats" – that’s the aim of the new collaboration series, Cool Breeze, between Turn and The Royale. The dinner, cocktail and music pairing series shows up the first Thursday of every month, starting on March 6. “It’s going to be fun,” Turn Chef and Owner David Kirkland says.
New mobile fish fry from Grace Meat + Three coming to Crestwood
Lent observers and fish fry lovers rejoice: Grace Meat + Three has announced a brand-new pop-up which will be stationed at its forthcoming Crestwood location, the former home of King Edward's Chicken. Known for its award-winning fried chicken and catfish, Grace opened its first location in The Grove in 2017. Every weekend in March, the Grace food truck will be on-site in Crestwood for Fish Fry Fridays, Sneak Peek Saturdays and Sunday brunch.
Where to eat & drink before during and after a CITY SC match
CITY SC has just kicked off its third season, and the culinary landscape inside and surrounding Energizer Park continues to evolve. Here, find all our favorite places to grab some food and drink before, during and after a match. Schlafly Tap Room The vibe: One of St. Louis’s iconic local breweries, the Schlafly Tap Room is a great spot to grab a beer, a little food and hang out with the scores of CITY SC fans at the Louligan Street Party happening right out front.
"The Godfather" Ray Edwards to helm Lucy Quinn and Little Lucy concepts as beverage director
Ray "The Godfather" Edwards is arguably the most well-connected veteran in the St. Louis beverage industry. Recently appointed as the beverage director at James Bear Award semifinalist Ben Welch's upcoming venues, Lucy Quinn and Little Lucy, he is truly a master of his craft. His network of apprentices stretches across St. Louis and extends globally. "I've always had a home bar, but then I've done a lot of Ronin stuff, where I've gone and worked an opening for something," Edwards says.
Another snow day? Grab the family and head to City Foundry STL
You'd be hard pressed to find a wider variety of global cuisine under one roof than at City Foundry STL in Midtown. Dominated by an expansive food hall and bookended with signature restaurants, entertainment options and locally owned shops, City Foundry will keep you and your group entertained for hours. 4 Hens Creole Kitchen The vibe: Creole fare comes up hot and fast in this lively kitchen found in the southwest corner of the food hall.
Feast's guide to the Food Hall at City Foundry STL
You'd be hard pressed to find a wider variety of global cuisine under one roof than at City Foundry STL in Midtown. Dominated by an expansive food hall and bookended with signature restaurants, entertainment options and locally owned shops, City Foundry will keep you and your group entertained for hours. 4 Hens Creole Kitchen The vibe: Creole fare comes up hot and fast in this lively kitchen found in the southwest corner of the food hall.
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