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contents June 2012
60 fashion 66 features 68 sweet home Designers fall back on tradition this season—granting rich prints and impeccable tailoring another day in the sun.
King of Talk STL’s Andy Cohen gets chatty about his new book, his skyrocketing latenight show and the outlandish success of his “Bravolebrities.”
the hot list 100 things we love about St. Louis in one sizzling list—from dining and nightlife to shopping, arts and culture and more. Sole & Blues
4
Alivemag.com june 2012
photo by jennifer silverberg
Experience
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contents june 2012
46
stl now
style
18
7 Things you must do this month.
22
adar A preview of the new Mercantile r Exchange District, which aims to breathe fresh energy into Downtown culture. Plus, Kathleen Quinlan stars in a local theater production, and St. Louis’ first Fringe Festival takes to the streets.
24 Shop Talk Local jewelry designer Scarlett Garnet opens a shop on Cherokee; Gucci gets a little nostalgic with its new retro line at Saks; and Yoga Six chaturangas into town. 26 Now Serving Three new STL eateries are going small in size and big on intimacy. Plus, two local foodies release a guidebook to Missouri farms, and Table 36 Cigar Company lights up its first line.
38 designer watch An exclusive first look at former “Project Runway” contestant Laura Kathleen’s Fall 2012 collection. 40 Trends Pack your suitcase with beautiful, breezy pieces, destined for a luxe resort. 42 Men's Style The season’s star players are a winning combination of sporty and sleek. 46 Acc essories Designers’ newest shades are best for those who dress to impress. 48 m y Style Charles William Moreland, coordinator of communications for Missouri History Museum, heats up his summer style. 52 e ntertaining Take your place at the table for the perfect patio party.
56 Engagements Two recently ringed St. 28 Hot Eats Tavolo V in The Loop serves up Louis couples share their love stories. Italian fare with a taste for vegetables, grass- fed beef and craft beers. 58 weddings After secretly tying the knot in Vegas, a love-struck couple says “I Do” 30 Buzz ALIVE checks in with STL native once more in a St. Louis ceremony. Brian Owens during his latest soul and blues recording. eat + drink 32 Column Prove the naysayers wrong and treat your out-of-town guests to an STL adventure worth bragging about.
95 Spirits ALIVE spirits writer Matt Sorrell studies up at a mixology class at Taste.
56
96 Restaurant Guide The best places in town to eat, drink and dance.
agenda 107 Calendar Defy gravity with Cirque du Soleil, bend genders at Aisle 1 Gallery and have some fun. 108 Get Involved A new charity aims to help adult cancer patients live out their bucket lists. 111
Arts South Broadway Art Project hosts Summer Art Camp for kids and teens.
113 Community Spend some quality time outdoors this summer with free events around the city. 114 Fitness Great Rivers Greenway plans to develop more than 1,000 miles of bicycle- friendly greenways, parks and trails.
scene 119 Scene in St. Louis Party pics from ALIVE’s 10th Anniversary Party, ARTrageous Baubles Ball, A Tasteful Affair and more. 128 Archetypes An interview with Michael Uthoff, artistic and executive director of Dance St. Louis.
ALIVE, June 2012, Volume 9, Issue 6 (Periodical #025092) is published monthly by ALIVE Media Group, L.L.C., 2200
34 Job Envy Ladies and gentlemen, girls and boys…introducing Ivor David Balding, the man behind the magic of Circus Flora.
6
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June 2012
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Left photo by Jennifer Silverberg. Middle photo by Carmen Troesser. Right photo by Heather Roth Fine Art Photography.
28
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from the editor presents
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Jennifer dulin wiley executive editor
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the hottest party in town, presented by Bud Light, and hosted at Erney’s 32º.
Photo by Wesley Law, shot on location at The Lawrence Group.
news hasn’t exactly been kind to St. Louis this past year— which made us at ALIVE take our annual challenge of identifying the best of the best in our hometown all the more seriously. And, now that the 2012 Hot List of all the things (100, in total) we love about St. Louis is officially complete (p.68), I proudly offer it as a friendly rebuttal to the naysayers as proof that there’s more than enough to love about St. Louis—so much so, that we could barely contain it all in one list! From dining and nightlife to shopping and culture, our editorial team did some serious research— leaving no stone unturned in our search for the top contenders to fill our “Best of STL” issue. We even asked some local celebs to weigh in during the process—see the personal Hot List picks of Joe Buck, Sen. Claire McCaskill, Joe Edwards and more throughout the 21-page mega list. Join us to celebrate the winners at our annual Hot List event on June 7 at Mandarin (expect a sizzling party, to say the least). And, don’t forget to share your own Hot List winners at alivemag. com, or on our Facebook, Twitter or Pinterest pages, for a chance to win passes to the exclusive Hot List winners’ pre-party before the main event on June 7. But, that’s not the end of our hot streak. STL’s rising temps got us in the mood for a luxe resort getaway—and Fashion Editor Jill Manoff pulled all of the top pieces to make packing your suitcase a much happier, and more stylish, experience (p.40). Charles William Moreland shows off his sizzling personal style in the second installment of our new My Style series (p.48), and local designer and “Project Runway” alumna Laura Kathleen Planck keeps things cooking with an exclusive first look at her Fall 2012 collection. (p.38) But, perhaps, the most Hot List-worthy of the entire issue is St. Louis’ muchloved Andy Cohen of Bravo TV (p.66). An avid hometown supporter—the backdrop on his show, “Watch What Happens: Live,” is the St. Louis Arch, after all—Cohen named many local spots as part of his own Hot List (Erney’s 32º, Companion and Blueberry Hill all made the cut) during this month’s cover interview. With his cast of “Bravolebrities” becoming more famous than ever—and his recently released memoir, “Most Talkative,” in bookstores nationwide—life couldn’t get much better for the undeniably charming star. Consider Cohen reason No. 101 why St. Louis seriously rocks. We rest our case.
“
behind the issue
GET YOUR FIX WITH
”
What did we do at ALIVE this month, you ask? We were lucky enough to…
Join the Circus “It seems fitting that Circus Flora’s home would be in an enchanted forest,” says photographer Attilio D’Agostino, when thinking back on this month’s Job Envy shoot with Artistic Director Ivor David Balding (full story on p.34). “Pulling onto the fog-covered country lane at sunrise, I was greeted by a menagerie of deer, horses, roosters and peacocks—along with their cacophony of morning chatter. Waiting for the sun to rise, I had the opportunity to chat with David and witness the comings and goings of a cast of characters from the show. I then headed back to the city—though I should have spent the entire day.”
“It was great to see Brian Owens’ artistic direction at work,” says contributing writer Ettie Berneking, who was lucky enough to sit in on the STL-bred soul singer’s most recent recording at Shock City Studios (full story on p.30). “I was able to see how passionate he is about this album, but I also got to see how passionate he is about his musical journey as a whole. I had so much content to work with that we have an entire online-extra piece on ALIVEMag.com!”
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“It’s not only a tall order to determine who will make the Hot List each year, but it’s also a fun and exciting challenge to determine the art direction for this annual feature (p.68),” says Executive Editor Jennifer Dulin Wiley. “We looked to countless city mags across the country for inspiration—as well as blogs and other online resources. I love what our talented designer Mary Delaware came up with—it’s fun, it’s energized, and it has a new celebrity caricature element that we’ve never done before. I’d also be remiss if I didn’t give a shout out to our amazing team of writers who took on this year’s list: Katie Davis, Amy De La Hunt, Jill Manoff, Matt Sorrell and Jennifer Wells.”
Circus Flora photos by Virginia Harold. Brian Owens photos by Christipher Gibbons.
Lay Down a Track
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Wednesday Night Out Bartender Competition Voting has officially begun for the sixth annual Wednesday Night Out Bartender Competition. Taste signature cocktails from St. Louis’ best bartenders at participating Wednesday Night Out bars, featuring Captain Morgan rum, Smirnoff vodka and Crown Royal whisky. Then, go online at ALIVEMag.com and vote for your favorite. Voting is To vote in the 2012 open through July Wednesday Night 23, and the top Out Bartender three winners and Competition, visit their cocktails will alivemag.com/ be revealed in the contests or scan September issue the tag. of ALIVE.
online extras! What’s on Your Hot List? St. Louis celebs, ALIVE staff and readers sound off on their favorite STL shops, restaurants, bars, gyms and more. See what they have to say, and share your own picks! Everyone who shares their own Hot List picks—on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest or by leaving a comment on the blog post—will be entered into a drawing for a pair of tickets to the exclusive Winners’ Reception before the Hot List Party on June 7 at Mandarin.
Interview
Why I Ride Meet Graham and McKenzie Goldwasser, cocaptains of the St. Louis Children’s Hospital team at this fall’s Pedal the Cause cycling challenge. Hear the Goldwassers’ story and learn why they choose to pedal each year— and find out how you can help.
Find us on Facebook.com/ alivemagstl
Follow us on Twitter @ALIVEMagSTL
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Brian Owens photo by Christopher Gibbons.
ALIVE chats with STL soul singer Brian Owens on p.30. See even more of the conversation and behind-thescenes photos of his recording session at Shock City Studios.
Executive Chef Fabrizio Schenardi welcomes you to experience his new menu at Cielo Restaurant, where you will enjoy modern Italian cuisine as you take in sweeping views of the Gateway Arch. Located on the 8th floor of the Four Seasons Hotel, Cielo offers co plimentary valet parking when you dine with us. Breakfast, lunch, dinner and Ă la carte Sunday brunch are available. For more information or reservations, kindly call (314) 881-5759.
C I E L O R E S TA U R A N T 8th Floor Four Seasons Hotel St. Louis 999 North Second Street St. Louis, Missouri 63102 (314) 881-5759
from the editor
16
Alivemag.com
June 2012
STL NOW
STL’s Next Hotspot | New Festival Alert | Bite-Sized Eateries
shop talk
Get set to rock some metal from this new Cherokee-based jewelry shop. continued p.24
Photo by nicole caleo
June 2012
Alivemag.com
17
stl now
7
Things
you must d o this month
2
Feel the Heat
Join ALIVE for a rooftop soiree on June 7 at Mandarin, as we raise a glass to the 2012 Hot List winners at the annual Hot List Party. Meet the people behind STL’s best spots to eat, drink, shop and play, and enjoy Pearl cocktails and Miller brews. Check out the feature on p.68 for a sneak peek at who will be there.
Tickets at alivemag.com.
3
Be Spellbound
Don’t miss Circus Flora’s 26th annual production, “The Wizard,” running through June 24 in Grand Center. Step inside the big top and immerse yourself in the magical world of Merlin, the legends of King Arthur and mystical Camelot, brought to life by animals, aerialists and more. It’s a show that’s sure to awaken even the most stoic of imaginations.
See the nation’s top male and female gymnasts compete in the 2012 Visa Championships, June 7-10 at Chaifetz Arena. This is the national championship for USA gymnastics, and it is only the second time it has been hosted in St. Louis. Watch gravitydefying feats of fitness as elite gymnasts at both junior and senior levels go head-to-head for the chance to advance to the Olympic Trials in California. Tickets at thechaifetzarena.com.
4
Taste Heritage
Beer-lovers, unite! Head to Ballpark Village for the St. Louis Brewers Heritage Festival, June 15-17, and sample 80 beers from 15 local breweries, including the established Anheuser-Busch and Schlafly, as well as newcomers like Urban Chestnut and 4 Hands. Sit in on brewing tutorials from the city’s top brewers, and enjoy live music from local bands.
Tickets at stlbrewfest.com.
Tickets at circusflora.org.
5
Show Your Colors
Celebrate Pride Weekend at the hottest party in town, the ULTRA White Party, presented by Bud Light, on June 23 at Erney’s 32°. London Calling DJs Clockwork and Nick O spin during the VIP party from 7-9pm, with complimentary beer by Bud Light, sponsored cocktails by Erney’s and light apps by Hamburger Mary’s. Later, Lola Van Ella and friends keep it sexy with a Pride burlesque show, and DJs Sinamin and Karma and Hustler go-go dancers keep the party going all night. Partial proceeds benefit Promo.
Alivemag.com
Kick off the summer concert season with two-time Grammy Awardwinning artist Colbie Caillat and platinum recording artist Gavin DeGraw at Peabody Opera House on June 24. Hear these two pop-rock musicians perform hit singles like Caillat’s “I Do” and DeGraw’s “Not Over You” in the Peabody’s intimate live music setting. If the critics’ reviews are any indication, the sizzling summer show is sure to be “Brighter Than the Sun.” Tickets at peabodyoperahouse.com.
Tickets at alivemag.com.
18
6
Be Bubbly
June 2012
7
Go Country
Don’t miss the wildly popular popcountry group Lady Antebellum as it takes the stage at the Verizon Wireless Amphitheater June 29 to perform hits like “Need You Now” and “Just a Kiss.” You’ll be mesmerized by the band’s signature duets and harmonies, but not before Darius Rucker and Thompson Square kick off the show, making for a memorable night of country greats underneath the stars at St. Louis’ premier ampitheater.
Tickets at livenation.com.
Circus Flora photo by Jim Newberry. Gymnastics photo by John Cheng.
1
Flip Out
Lola 314.621.7277 500 N. 14th Street
June 2012
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stl now / radar
New Kids on the Block
The MX development aims to breathe fresh energy into Downtown culture.
by ettie berneking
ton Avenue, nestled between Seventh and Sixth streets, new life is emerging this summer in the Mercantile Exchange District. A collection of creative minds and visionaries has been busy over the past two years, transforming this otherwise lackluster block of Downtown into a hotspot for retail, dining, theater, history and urban living. But, the work is far from over. As new tenants settle in and the papered-over windows are wiped clean, the masterminds behind this facelift hope to see a continued revival of the pomp and swagger of Downtown’s glory days. Live It Up At the center of the MX District stands
the old Dillard’s building, now fully renovated into an Embassy Suites Hotel. One door down is the entrance to The Laurel Apartments, home to more than 200 luxury lofts. National Blues Muesum rendering
Eat & Play Across Wash
Ave is where the bread and butter of the district lies. Pi Pizzeria is opening a new location in the MX Building, with Robust Wine Bar, Snarf’s, Takaya New Asian and more tasty delights moving in soon. And, because there’s nothing better than dinner and a show, the district will also be home to MX Movies, a luxury threescreen movie theater. Due to open in the fall, the St. Louis Cinemas theater will be equipped with a full-service kitchen, allowing movie-goers to order tasty finger foods from the comfort of their seats.
Mixed Merchants
After scouting the best boutiques around St. Louis, Nicole Benoist, Mercantile director and Exchange managing curator District night of the MX Retail rendering Collective, has pieced together a chic mix of apparel, home décor, gifts and paper goods. The 4,300-square-foot space will offer a highly curated retail experience, with plenty of potential for fashion shows and pop-up stores. To create a sense of community, retailers
will be displayed on an open floor—no doors or walls here. Coming Attractions The last piece of the puzzle will be the opening of the National Blues Museum, which promises to be as much of an experience as it is a history lesson. With a tentative 2013 open date, the museum will provide a national home for the blues, a tribute to the music genre that has defined St. Louis culture for decades.
For more information about the Mercantile Exchange District, visit mxstl.com. Follow @TheMXSTL on Twitter to stay in-the-know as more exciting new tenants are announced.
New to town
On the Fringes The five-day St. Lou Fringe Festival materializes for the first time in St. Louis from June 21-25, bringing more than 100 performing arts acts to the streets around Grand Center and the Locust Business District. Fringe may be new to St. Louis, but it’s far from a toddling performing arts fair. The concept dates back to the 1940s in Edinburgh, Scotland, when local media referred to alternative art fairs as surviving “on the fringe” of other more mainstream arts festivals. Since then, fringe festivals have taken root in communities around the world, striving to help established and budding artists showcase their work in inexpensive and innovative ways. The unique strategy of St. Lou Fringe uses burgeoning neighborhoods as the stage for artists and highlights areas of both artistic and economic growth. For more info, visit stloufringe. tumblr.com. – EB
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Top right photo courtesy of Friends of The National Blues Museum; middle photo by St. Louis Convention & Visitors Commission; Fringe Festival photo by Brian Peters.
Under the twinkling lights of Washing-
the knot
As seen on
Kathleen Quinlan
now available exclusively at Albarré Jewelry! Come in and see the fabulous collection of Elma Gil engagement rings and wedding bands we’ve added to our selection!
Theater
Going Cuckoo
St. Louis Actors’ Studio goes a little nuts for the movie star joining the cast of its June production. alongside St. Louis actors. Roth says “One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest” he was originally looking at booking comes to life on stage this June, Christian Slater for “One Flew Over bringing all the delusional, painful the Cuckoo’s Nest” before Quinlan’s and mind-twisting antics of antihero name came up. Randle McMurphy to St. Louis. This year marks the 50th anniverAlthough Jack Nicholson will not sary for Kesey’s novel, adapted for be coming to town to play McMurthe stage by Dale Wasserman. The phy, another famous face will join 16-member cast will take the stage the St. Louis Actors’ Studio cast as at the 1,400-seat Roberts Orpheum the tyrannical Nurse Theater Downtown. The Ratched. Academy theater will be a change Award-nominated acfrom the intimate quarters One Flew tress Kathleen Quinlan of the company’s usual Over the will be in town for four Gaslight Theatre, with its Cuckoo’s Nest weeks—including three 100 seats and a stage that’s The Roberts weeks of rehearssnug for eight cast memOrpheum Theater, als and one week of bers. The extra space will 416 N. Ninth St., performances. Founder no doubt be put to good Downtown and Producing Direcuse by the crowd that will June 12-17 tor William Roth says be drawn by Quinlan’s Tickets: $25-$65 the condensed timetaname on the bill. ticketmaster.com ble will require the cast Audience members “to get down and dirty will also appreciate the with acting.” expanded legroom, as the story, Even with the glow of a Holwith its crew of oddball characters, lywood star lighting up the stage, wasn’t originally written for close the production remains true to the encounters. From electro-shock St. Louis Actors’ Studio’s mission therapy to several failed escape of providing a stage for local talent. attempts, the tortured souls inside “One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest” this mental institution don’t always is the first production in a new play well with others. Let’s just say initiative by the group that brings that audiences are in for an exciting A-List actors to town to perform show. – eB
Photo by Cliff Lipson/CBS.
Ken Kesey’s iconic novel
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stl now / shop talk
fitness
Meet Yoga Six
Going Solo: Scarlett Garnet Get set to rock some metal from this new Cherokee-based jewelry shop. Accessories junkies who frequent STL boutiques are likely
already fans of Scarlett Garnet—the earthy-elegant jewelry line has been inching into such stores as Charm (Maplewood) and the gift shop at the Contemporary Art Museum St. Louis (Grand Center) since 2006. Somewhere along the line, shoppers have probably helped themselves to a pair of Bullet Fringe Earrings from the line’s Spaghetti Western Sunset collection or a Chevron Drape Necklace from the more recent Glam and Neon lineup, but it’s a safe bet most never knew that their beloved metal baubles were handmade in their own neighborhood. In fact, there’s a good chance the pieces were produced in the designer’s former basement studio within the confines of Maplewood’s Maven boutique.
by jill manoff
But, such is no longer the case (we knew it was only a matter of time). Driven by her company’s recently expanded distribution to many more boutiques across the country, St. Louisan Katie Miller—Scarlett Garnet’s co-founder and designer (her business partner, Garnet Griebel, is based in KC)—found it necessary to seek out a larger space. An expansive storefront on Cherokee Street proved perfect, and as of April, she has a new base of operations, which doubles as a colorful, eclectic gift shop. In addition to the statement earrings, bracelets and necklaces, shoppers can browse handmade soaps and candles from Maven, revamped vintage clothing by Ruby Francis and artwork by local talents. Open Thursday through Sunday, and by appointment. 2619 Cherokee St., Cherokee, 314.540.0300.
style files
Retro Station
The new Gucci 1970 handbag stops by Saks Fifth Avenue. For Spring/Summer 2012, Gucci turned back time—and, consequently, came out with the must-have bag of the season. Named after the year the style house introduced metal corners to its handbag designs, the Gucci 1970 is now available at Saks Fifth Avenue (Plaza Frontenac)—in all of its glorious forms. Each complete with a metallic gold tassel, an Art Deco feel and traditional plate accents, styles include medium and large shoulder bags in such luxe materials as green python, gold anaconda and white leather. Score your choice incarnation before it sells out. Equally timeless and versatile, you’ll want to carry it for years to come—for both day and night at the discoteque. – JM
24
Alivemag.com
june 2012
At the soon-toopen Yoga Six, the name speaks volumes about the philosophy and approach the new studio plans to bring to St. Louis yogis. Hailing from California, the studio is set to open in June in South City with a chic space and healthy menu of yoga formats, including Hot Yoga, Vinyasa Flow, Warm 60, Athletic Deep Stretch, Yoga Fundamentals, Y6 Sculpt and Y6 Barre. The “six” refers not only to the interconnectedness of all people (through the six degrees of separation theory), but also the six basic principles of the Tantra yoga philosophy: awareness, freedom, fullness, community, abundance and revelation. 5724 Oakland Ave., South City, 314.802.7447. – Jorie Jacobi
Scarlett Garnet jewelry photos courtesy of Scarlett Garnet; interior photo by Nicole Caleo. Bag photo courtesy of Saks Fifth Avenue.
The new studio opens this month, sporting a moniker with a message.
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stl now / now serving
Bite-Sized Three new STL eateries are going small in size and big on intimacy. by Christopher Reilly Across the nation, big-name chefs and restaurateurs—both established
and first-timers—are moving toward smaller, more intimate dining establishments. The motivation ranges from the desire to indulge a passion project to a simple case of economics— with fewer employees, lower rent and a menu offering only the best-selling dishes. Customers certainly aren’t complaining. As foodies continue to seek out relationships with small-scale farmers and creators of boutique food items at farmers’ markets, they’re craving the same kind of intimacy in their favorite restaurants. We’ve got our eye on three new St. Louis eateries setting out to prove that size doesn’t matter. Bitty Bakery Christy Augustin, instructor at Le Cordon Bleu St. Louis and former pastry chef at Sidney Street Cafe, is embracing the intimate approach for her first venture, Pint Size Bakery in South City. “It’s literally a kitchen with a counter,” Augustin says. Whichever baker has a free moment takes your order, and everything is cooked in small batches with natural ingredients—made from scratch, baked and sold that day. Choose from a rotating menu of items like scones, cupcakes, tea cakes, breads, quiche and seasonal flatbreads. You can also pick up doggie treats, a jumbo cookie or place special orders for events or parties (3825 Pint Size Watson Road, South City, Bakery 314.645.7142). A Little Brotherhood
Zoe Robinson has taken over the former shoe repair shop located across the street from her popular Clayton restaurant I Fratellini. Bar Les Frères, or “The Brothers Bar” in French (I Fratellini means “little brothers” in Italian), will seat approximately 25 patrons indoors and 25 on the patio. Robinson has coveted the intimate space for years, and says moving into the 84-year-old building required a complete renovation while preserving its antique charm. From its tiny kitchen, the restaurant will serve appetizers and a few full entrées “with a French accent.” Customers can also come in
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simply to enjoy drinks in an intimate, romantic setting. And, if I Fratellini is any indication, the space’s interior will be like no other. Look for a mid-summer opening (7637 Wydown Blvd., Clayton).
Double the Fun Ben Poremba, co-owner of Salume Beddu Salumeria, has purchased the former Standard Oil station at Tower Grove and McRee avenues—and the house next door—to convert them into an intimate restaurant and wine bar. The house will become Elaia, seating 30 diners who will enjoy contemporary classic cuisine from the Middle East, Southern Europe and Northern Africa. Olio, in the former gas station, will accommodate 20 patrons, with more potential seating outdoors. In nice weather, the garage doors can be opened to extend the al fresco feel to indoor diners. The Olio menu will include an extensive wine selection, meats from Salume Beddu, artisanal cheeses and other pantry items. Poremba hopes to open Elaia and Olio in late summer or early fall (Tower Grove Ave. and McRee Ave., Tower Grove).
Photos by christopher gibbons
foodie news
Harvest Time
Vodka at its Purus Purus Vodka is made from 100% organic
Missouri Harvest photo by Jules Brown. Illustration by Julia Soderberg from thenounproject.com.
Eating local is easier than ever, thanks to a new release by two STL foodies. At a time when consumers are increasingly concerned about where their food originates and how it is produced, a new book by Maddie Earnest and Liz Fathman not only introduces readers to more than 200 Missouri farmers who grow and raise the food that ends up on our tables, but it also informs us where to buy the products locally and which restaurants have them on the menu. Earnest is co-owner of Local Harvest Grocery and Café, and Fathman is a food fanatic who works at the Missouri Botanical Garden. “Missouri Harvest: A Guide to Growers and Producers in the Show-Me State” took a year of research to write, and serves as a handy guide to the entire state for those wanting to make a greater effort to eat fresh and local. Armed with this book, developing the habit may turn out to be easier than you thought. Fathman suggests making incremental changes to your eating habits, rather than trying to do too much at once. “The book makes you want to do it,” she says, explaining that fresh and local food tastes better and helps support local economies at the same time. The book is easy to navigate, with each chapter covering a
wheat and pristine water from the Italian Alps. It is column distilled five times and filtered for a distinctively clean, smooth velvety finish. Authors Maddie Earnest & Liz Fathman
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different food group, divided by region. Want to know where you can pick your own Missouri blackberries or grab some pasture-raised pork burgers? No problemo. In this day of Big Ag, Missouri still has many small family farms growing and producing food the old-fashioned way. Earnest and Fathman also share ideas and suggestions for preparing some of the foods that are available from Missouri growers, often in the form of recipes provided by the growers spotlighted in the book—whether it’s pot roast from Rain Crow Ranch or spring onion, spinach and goat cheese bread pudding from Goatsbeard Farm. “Missouri Harvest” is available through its co-publishers, Reedy Press and Webster University Press, as well as at Local Harvest Grocery, The Missouri Botanical Garden, Left Bank Books and other independent bookstores. Visit missouri-harvest.com for more info. - CR
buzz
Light My Fire
Table 36 Cigar Company is the brainchild of a local group of friends who meet once a month at a steakhouse—at table 36—to eat and smoke cigars together. One day, they decided they could come up with a pretty good smoke of their own. Now, a year later, Table 36 is releasing its first line of cigars, appropriately dubbed Fellowship. Available in four sizes, Fellowship cigars are medium-bodied and on the fuller side, with a complex flavor. The company holds monthly tastings, pairing cigars with food and drinks, like Fitz’s Cream Soda, Pearl Vodka or barbecue. For more info, visit table36.com. - CR
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stl now / hot eats
Pasta Primavera
Inside Dish
Tips for a top-notch experience at Tavolo V. Top Dish: Pasta Primavera Popular Pour: Local craft brews on tap Worth Fighting Over: The last piece of crusty bread Best Place to Perch: Just inside the garage-style doors, for a view of The Loop streetscape outdoors and the flame-lit pizza oven indoors
Tavolo V: Not Your Nonna’s Italian The Loop’s latest eatery favors vegetables, grass-fed beef and craft beers. by Amy De La Hunt You have to hand it to a restaurateur with the Small Plates, Big Veggies All but three of the 17 chutzpah to install a pizza oven just a few doors down antipasti on the menu prominently feature vegetables Delmar Boulevard from the much-ballyhooed Pi Piz(or fruit, in the form of olives and tomatoes). Most of zeria. Michael Del Pietro, who did just that with Tavo- the veggies are raw, roasted or grilled, lightly dressed lo V, is not making a rookie mistake—this is with vinaigrette or balsamic glaze the sixth restaurant open on his watch right and popping with flavor. Soak up now. So, odds are that he knows exactly the last bits with thick slices of Where To Go what he’s doing. One hint: The Neapolitancrusty, herb-studded bread. Or, soak style thin-crust pizzas coming from his the bread in olive oil and freshly 6118 Delmar Blvd., gas-fired, brick-lined oven are a world apart grated Parmesan. You can even The Loop 314.721.4333 from Pi’s American-style pies—as is the rest savor it plain—it’s several steps Entrées: $12 to $17 of Tavolo’s Southern Italian fare. above the usual complimentary Hours: Sun.-Thu., Sidewalk dining—a prerequisite for sucbread basket. 11:30am-9pm; Fri.cess in The Loop—is expanded at Tavolo via Notably absent from the Tavolo Sat., 11:30am-1am. the garage-style doors that let customers at menu are two local Italian-Amerthe first three rows of indoor tables feel like ican favorites: toasted ravioli and they’re also dining al fresco. There’s a small bar area Provel cheese. Fans will have to find solace in the partitioned with a wooden fence; otherwise, the floor flash-fried calamari and oozy mozzarella instead. plan is wide open, straight through to the kitchen. The most decadent dishes are listed under pastas, The lively depiction of St. Louis history in a huge mu- with tomato-cream sauces and meatballs of beef and ral provides a focal point and fun conversation piece pork. Yet even in the pasta section, vegetables make for indoor diners. frequent appearances, especially in the risotto del
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giorno, which during our visit, featured perfectly cooked rice studded with asparagus, summer squash and cherry tomatoes under a thin layer of shaved Parmesan. Something Borrowed, Something New
Del Pietro sampled from his other eateries to create Tavolo’s menu—several salads, pizzas and pastas could be interchanged with the fare at Sugo’s Spaghetteria (Frontenac), Babbo’s Spaghetteria (Chesterfield and Columbia, MO) and Pazzo’s Pizzeria (Kirkwood). The tweaks to his formula, like the previously mentioned vegetables, were made with The Loop’s young, hip clientele in mind. This also seems to be the case with the beer list—with craft brews on tap from several of the city’s newest microbreweries—as well as the art and music. It’s not hard to imagine a DJ spinning from the lofty perch above the bar at some point in the future. Then again, it’s even easier to imagine Tavolo hosting business lunches from the nearby tech start-ups and boutique hotel. A sixth recipe for success? We think so.
photos by jennifer silverberg
© 2012 THE BOSTON BEER COMPANY, BOSTON, MA LM18814
SAVOR THE FLAVOR RESPONSIBLY ®
stl now / buzz
Brian Owens
Soul Searching
ALIVE goes behind the scenes with STL soul singer Brian Owens. by ettie Berneking
St. Louis’ Brian Owens is quickly making waves as an up-and-coming American soul singer. He started out singing country covers for the troops as a lead vocalist with the US Air National Guard band, Sidewinder, but his newest album, “Moods and Messages,” has helped him find his own voice—with much industry acclaim. When Owens recently returned to his hometown to record a bonus track with Angie Johnson (a former contestant on “The Voice” and fellow Sidewinder band member), ALIVE jumped at the chance for a backstage pass (at our neighboring Shock City Studios) to talk about life, music and the journey Owens has begun as a singer-songwriter. ALIVE: When do you first remember being
introduced to music? BRIAN OWENS: I have tons of memories of my
parents singing around me—singing was just a part of what we did. I was singing harmony when I was 4, and already mimicking really good singers. ALIVE: Who were your musical influences
growing up? BO: A lot of my favorite singers are soul singers:
Marvin Gaye, Sam Cooke, Otis Redding, Al Green and The Temptations. ALIVE: What made you decide to ultimately
pursue soul and blues? BO: I think, after a while, it just made sense. I
had so many influences and did so many styles of music that when I found my own voice, it was about finding the genre that best suited the message of my music and the style of my voice. ALIVE: You joined the Air Force at 21 to sing for
the troops; what did you learn about performing during this time? BO: I had to sing a lot of things in the military. I even sang country. Mostly, I learned how to be a front man and how to sell anything. Then, I learned how to sell anything and be myself— ’cause those are two very different things.
stuff—if I’m just singing covers? That’s when I really started writing. ALIVE: Is this album part of the legacy you want
to leave them? BO: With this project, if it’s the last thing I do, I
feel comfortable leaving. It’s my legacy, and it can spawn another legacy. When you’re doing what you’re supposed to be doing, it’s a whole different feeling, and I finally feel like I’m there.
ALIVE: Why did you decide to transition away
from singing covers?
ALIVE: Your singing career has really taken off—
BO: I asked myself, if I died today, what would
where would you like to see it head next?
my kids have of me that tells them what I want them to know about life, love, faith—all of that
BO: People always ask, “Where do you see your-
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I can tell you what state of mind I want to be in. There are things about our dreams that we can’t control, and I don’t want to miss out on the journey because I’m so focused on the destination.
For bonus interview content and behind-thescenes photos, visit alivemag.com or scan the tag.
self in five years?” You know what? I don’t know.
photo by christopher gibbons
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stl now / column
and television shows that happen to feature some St. Louis surroundings, drive them past the locations filmed. Sweetie Pie’s and Jilly’s Cupcake Bar & Cafe have earned national accolades, so why not treat guests to those great places? Share your favorite spots When my son was a bit younger, he loved to visit the Butterfly House. Then, we’d often stop by the St. Louis Carousel at Faust Park. As a result, that became our go-to spot when hosting visitors with kids. Whether it’s a favored eatery, farmer’s market or coffee shop, show off your St. Louis. Keep ages and interests in mind For a single, child-free friend of mine who lives in Dallas, I’m thinking we’ll spend some quality time in The Loop. Perhaps we’ll visit the Third Degree Glass Factory, and depending on what’s going on at The Pageant, we might take in a concert and hit the Rooftop Terrace Bar at the Moonrise Hotel. We’re also expecting extended family to visit this summer. We’ll be entertaining three boys ages 10 and older. I’m thinking a trek to Alton, IL for a Mineral Springs Haunted Tour would capture their interest. Do your homework on your choice destinations One day, we drove 40 minutes to
Arch City Adventure Prove the naysayers wrong with a rendezvous in the ‘Lou worth bragging about. by Lisa Bertrand
L
et’s face it. Although we know St. Louis has lots of innovative
residents, tasty dining options and fun places to frequent, sometimes the image that others carry of our fair city isn’t so…kind. Fortunately, that’s changing. A few years ago, when my family and I hosted some out-of-town relatives for the day, one of our guests commented on her experience traveling to St. Louis for work a decade prior. Her opinion wasn’t very positive. But, after a trip to the City Museum, a walk through Forest Park and a fishbowl at Rigazzi’s, her impression was dramatically altered. Those who write us off as just another “flyover” city are clearly missing out on a host of hidden gems St. Louis has to offer. So, for any visitor or resident who’s ever been down on STL, I’m willing to bet there are several attractions you’d love that you’ve yet to discover or have simply overlooked.
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I’ve lived here for more than 16 years, and I’m a little embarrassed to admit that I’ve only recently visited the St. Louis Ballet and The Pulitzer Foundation for the Arts. Whether you decide to play tour guide to outof-towners or opt for a staycation, here are a few aspects to consider when planning your Arch City adventure. Think about what makes St. Louis special Sure, we’re known for Budweiser beer,
toasted ravioli, The Gateway Arch and St. Louisstyle pizza. But, did you know The Griot Museum of Black History & Culture is one of only two like it in the country? If your guests are fans of movies
Cahokia Mounds only to realize the attraction was closed. Most attractions in the area have websites, so your best bet is to check them first for hours of operation, especially if you’re entertaining during a holiday like Memorial Day or the Fourth of July. In some cases, attractions are open only by appointment (like the Frank Lloyd Wright House in Ebsworth Park). Don’t forget health limitations Laumeier Sculpture Park is a lovely place to explore, but for someone who’s got knee or hip problems, the walk might be a bit much. If you’re planning any outdoor expeditions, like a bicycle tour around the city, you might want to check the air quality for those days. For someone battling outdoor allergies, check the ragweed and pollen count. Hatch a back-up plan Maybe you had your heart set on browsing the Saint Louis Art Museum’s latest exhibits, followed by lunch in the onsite café. If there’s an unexpected issue that impedes you, try visiting the Contemporary Art Museum instead. If you were hoping to delight motor enthusiasts with a visit to the Museum of Transportation, but the weather won’t cooperate, why not check out the Kemp Auto Museum? The bottom line? There’s plenty to do and see in St. Louis, as well as its surrounding areas—so start exploring! ALIVE ParentPop Lisa Bertrand discovered a passion for social media more than six years ago. In that time, she’s written for a host of local and national websites. Currently, she’s finishing a second novel. She lives in West County with her son, husband, puppy and a little old lady dog. Illustration by Sarah Quatrano
stl now / job envy
Ivor David Balding 73, Artistic Director/Producer/Co-Founder, Circus Flora Interview by jennifer dulin wiley
Ivor David Balding is literally the man who ran away with the circus—and he hasn’t stopped enchanting since. He’s made a living creating and sharing the magic of the circus for years—and he’s about to add one more starting this month, with the opening of his 26th season at the one and only Circus Flora. How he got into the Biz I knew at a very
early age that I wanted to be a producer. My first real job was at The White Barn Theater in Connecticut, where I worked under the famous actress Miss Eva Le Gallienne. It was Le Gallienne who advised me to go to Paris to start working in circus. Later on, I apprenticed under Joe Papp at the New York Shakespeare Festival and founded the New Theatre in New York. To this day, my theater roots greatly influence my circus productions. Education/Training I left Harvard to join
Cirque Medrano in Paris. My parents were horrified, but most of my friends were jealous. My father was appalled and disapproved heartily, but
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meetings, promotions and (most importantly) lunch. Starting in April, I spend as much time as possible at Three Creek Farm, my wife’s family farm, where we rehearse the animal acts for the show. Proudest Moment It’s been a lifetime of proud
my mother used to secretly send money for fictitious French lessons. Best Work Day Ever The very first Circus Flora premiere in 1986. It was at the Spoleto Festival in Charleston, SC, and Circus Flora had been commissioned by Gian Carlo Menotti. My dream of having my own circus—one that told a story—was finally coming true. Why His Job Rocks It is the best of all possible
jobs! Who else gets to present the magic of circus to standing-room-only audiences and 1,400 smiling faces? Who else gets to take an elephant on long walks? Joe Papp always told me that a producer’s job was to create an environment in which great artists could do their best work. The circus is my opportunity to follow his advice. Typical Day I’m up at 5:30am, my wife lets our rescue dog in, who has spent the night keeping the coyotes away from our chickens, and the three of us cuddle for half an hour. I’m at the computer and emailing by 7:30am. Then, it’s
moments and awards in the theater, circus and personally. The most recent is collaborating with the St. Louis Symphony in Powell Hall. But, a moment I’ll never forget is our elephant Flora’s swimming scene in “Big Top Pee-Wee.” At that moment, it was clear to everyone on the set that Flora was the real star of the movie. Best Job Perk Not having to wear a tie and
working with animals. One thing people would be surprised to learn How little I am paid. But, like everyone in
the arts, the paycheck is not why I do what I do. Most Outrageous Anecdote Losing my
pants when presenting Flora at Caesar’s Palace, and having shared a girlfriend with the legendary Harold Pinter in 1968 while he was directing “The Man in the Glass Booth” for me on Broadway. Goals for the Future More circus touring,
more circus shows, more collaboration with symphony orchestras…more, more, more.
Photo by attilio D'agostino
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style
A Vacation from typical | Sunny Sensations | New! my style
Most Valuable The season’s star players are a winning combination of sporty and sleek. continued p.42
Alexander McQueen for Puma sneakers available at 10denza, Central West End, 314.361.1010.
Photo by Carmen Troesser
june 2012
Alivemag.com
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style /
Designer Watch
Dream House
An exclusive first look at the Fall 2012 collection of “Project Runway’s” popular “Barbie,” local fashion designer Laura Kathleen Planck. by Jill Manoff While making everything by hand may sound like a
sweet service, many emerging fashion designers have no choice; their labels are one-man—or -woman—operations, and they spend their days working tirelessly to produce pieces, with their sewing machine pedals to the metal. But, undoubtedly motivated by great momentum resulting from her stint as a fan-favored contestant on Season 9 of “Project Runway,” local designer Laura Kathleen Planck is braving exclusive territory: large-scale production, starting with her self-described “Bohemian-French” Fall 2012 collection. Composed of nine pieces, ranging from a t-shirt and a biker jacket to a cocktail dress and a floor-length gown, the luxe lineup—marked by prints she personally designed, with inspiration from the movie “Moulin Rouge”—is set to join her new Love Armour brass jewelry collection in stores next season.
Laura Kathleen Fall 2012 Collection Biker chic jacket, lace hip mini, sketches and fabric swatches.
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Photo by Carmen Troesser
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trends
Almost Paradise Designers’ abundance of beautiful, breezy pieces are perfect for suitcases destined for luxe resorts. by Jill Manoff On most mornings, you likely review a mental checklist of the grab-and-go items you’ve deemed workday essentials. From your cell phone and laptop to your coffee and keys, the burdening (and all-black, coincidentally) load serves as a daily reminder of just how much you could use a sunny vacation. With designers sweetening the idea of a hotspot with their latest array of light-and-easy separates and island-perfect swimwear, now seems the perfect time to book it. Give yourself a break! Trade in your business suits and Siri for a few days spent in nothing but gauzy cover-ups, glam sundresses and oversized sunnies. Be sure to pack them in a rollaway that leaves a hand free (at last!) for a pink drink with a miniature umbrella.
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1/ Tumi suitcase available at Neiman Marcus, Plaza Frontenac, 314.567.9811. 2/ Greylin sweater available at Klutch, Town & Country, 636.220.6110. 3/Franco Sarto sandals available at shoes.com. 4/ Parker dress available at Saks Fifth Avenue, Plaza Frontenac, 314.567.9200. 5/ Stephanie Johnson travel caseS available at Esther, Ladue, 314.432.5300. 6/ Chanel sunglasses available at Neiman Marcus, Plaza Frontenac, 314.567.9811. 7/ Emilio Pucci scarf available at Saks Fifth Avenue, Plaza Frontenac, 314.567.9200. 8/ Chan Luu necklace available at Esther, Ladue, 314.432.5300. 9/ Wildfox Couture bikini available at Cha, Ladue, 314.993.8080. 10/ Bangles available at Blush, Kirkwood, 314.965.4411.
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Photos by Carmen Troesser
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style /
men’s
Most Valuable
The season’s star players are a winning combination of sporty and sleek. by Jill Manoff
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As a rule, designers have decided to play the field this season—subbing a
number of surprisingly sporty pieces for those more traditional. Their aggressive move has several implications for today’s modern man—for one, there’s a good chance your “for the gym only” sneakers rule is about to go bust. With lines from Missoni to Hugo Boss turning out trendy footwear that seems best suited to turf, Bieber won’t be the only one working lace-ups with a tie. Two, you’ll likely rue the day you wrote off your high school look as unsophisticated; backpacks are back, rubber watch bands are big, and even Prada is producing belts with your once-beloved box-frame buckles. On the same note, top brands have opted to keep last year’s comeback letterman jackets in their runway rotations—which goes to show that your self-proclaimed “fashion low point” was instead a strong start to your current stylish streak. Whoever said jocks are dumb hadn’t seen their closets.
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Photos by Carmen Troesser
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Modern Man
The gentleman's guide to all things stylish and male. If your dad is like our dad, he really likes two things: relaxing and an ice-cold beer. (Usually together.)
It’s no surprise that the Modern Man can shop— especially for his Dad. And, with these top Father’s Day gift ideas, he’ll be more stylish than ever.
So give him something he’ll appreciate—like the Draftmark Tap System. The system holds a 128-oz. refill and can sit on a fridge shelf. Its compressor locks in freshness for up to 30 days so every beer tastes as great as the last. What your dad will love best, though, is the beer. Refill kegs are available in Bass Pale Ale, Budweiser and Shock Top Belgian Wheat. For more information, scan this tag or visit Draftmark.com. Hole in One He’ll appreciate the boost to his golf game afforded by the ultra-sleek SkyCaddie SGX. With survey-grade equipment, this gadget provides accurate and reliable information on distances from potential obstacles and green targets. Available at Golf Galaxy, Brentwood, 314.962.9100. Book Worm Have Dad set aside some quiet time this month
to spend with the 25th Edition of “Advertising from the ‘Mad Men’ Era,” a fascinating compilation of advertisements for cars, liquor, gadgets and more from the ’50s and ’60s. Available at Left Bank Books, Central West End, 314.367.6731. Smoker’s Haven Show your father you share his respect for fine craftsmanship with a savvy Vauen pipe. These Danish pipes are handcrafted using top-of-the-line materials
and will complement any smoker’s collection. Available at Jon’s Smoke Shop, Clayton, 314.721.1480. Dressed to Impress Add some charisma to Pop’s closet with a polished button-up blazer. It’s a sharp impression-maker for any modern gentleman, whether he’s headed to a summer soiree or hitting the town with the guys. Available at 10denza, Central West End, 314.361.1010.
ENJOY RESPONSIBLY. © 2012 Anheuser-Busch, Budweiser® Beer, St. Louis, MO. © 2012 William Bass & Co’s., Bass® Pale Ale, Baldwinsville, NY. © 2012 Shock Top Brewing Co., Shock Top® Belgian-Style Wheat Ale, St. Louis, MO. Draftmark® is a registered trademark of Anheuser-Busch.
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ALIVE SPECIAL PROMOTION
HONOR DAD FOR FATHER’S DAY WITH FRESH DRAUGHT BEER AT HOME.
ENJOY RESPONSIBLY
www.draftmark.com
© 2012 Anheuser-Busch, Budweiser® Beer, St. Louis, MO. © 2012 William Bass & Co’s., Bass® Pale Ale, Baldwinsville, NY. © 2012 Shock Top Brewing Co., Shock Top® Belgian-Style Wheat Ale, St. Louis, MO. Draftmark® is a registered trademark of Anheuser-Busch.
style /
accessories
Optic Nerve
Designers’ newest shades are best for those who dress to be noticed. by Jill Manoff When it comes to the
inevitable statement look of the moment, the eyes have it this season—as dozens of designers have decided to supplement their wire-framed aviators and neutral-hued wayfarers with extreme sunnies that are just begging to be seen. From Miuccia Prada’s oversized baroque shades that accessorized her just-as-retro ready-to-wear collection to Marco Zanini’s cat-eyed glasses with pretty pastel rims, innovative eyewear defined the focal point of many a spring and summer catwalk—which explains why the extra has been hailed as an essential. This season, score your usual strappy sandals and lightweight tote, but don’t forget to pack punch with the piece you’re used to working as camouflage. Case closed. Super by Retro superfuture sunglasses available at 10denza, Central West End, 314.361.1010. Fendi sunglasses available at Nieman Marcus, Plaza Frontenac, 314.567.9811. Rouen by Dita sunglasses available at Erker’s, Ladue 314.997.0002. Prada sunglasses available at Saks Fifth Avenue, Plaza Frontenac 314.567.9200. Ray Ban sunglasses available at The Eye Bar, Central West End, 314.367.1848.
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Photo by Carmen Troesser
at
Visit our Central West End location at 7 N. Euclid for more by Rough Justice and other designer brands including: Diane Von Furstenberg John Varvatos Michael Kors Lacoste Pucci Coach Fendi Sama
888.EYECARE ClarksonEyecare.com
style /
accessories my style
Charles William Moreland Coordinator of Communications, Missouri History Museum Describe your personal style. It’s like a good martini: classic and clean with the occasional funky twist. What are you wearing today? A Ralph Lauren sweater, a J.Crew shirt, Original Paperbacks shorts, a Brooks Brothers bowtie and Bass & Co. shoes. What fashion era inspires you most? It’s a toss-up between the preppy, sugarcoated 1920s and the tailored sartorialism of the early 1960s. Who do you consider the best-dressed man of all time? The fabulously suited Cary Grant. I also adore Tilda Swinton’s bold, androgynous style; she’s proof that masculine style doesn’t have to be bound by gender. And Liberace; it takes a strong man to pull off a sequined cape while still living at home with your mother. What item from your closet can you not live without? Everything in gingham. Which designers are you obsessed with? My two Toms—Pink and Ford. What accessory do you find yourself relying on most? A tie—bow, skinny or regular—can spice up any outfit. Also, a good set of eyebrows. What trend are you loving now? I’ve always been a huge fan of bright pops of color; it’s great to see so much color hitting the runways. Where do you shop? I shop everywhere, from the Salvation Army to Neiman Marcus, and focus on finding classic pieces and statement accessories. Plus, I am from the Midwest; I think we all love a good factory outlet extravaganza. What are your biggest fashion pet peeves? Monochromatic minimalism and pleated pants. What is the next piece you hope to add to your closet? A Ferragamo canvas duffel bag. – Interview by Jill Manoff Got Style? Email a photo and brief description that represents your personal style to jennifer@alivemag. com for consideration to be featured in My Style.
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Thank you for voting for Meka Boutique! Check out our designers & arrivals!! Hope to see you soon!! “Like” us on facebook for updates.
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1634 Clarkson Rd. · Chesterfield, MO 63017 636.536.6300 · MekaBoutique.com
Destination: Clayton GRAB A MAP AND EXPLORE THE TOP HOTSPOTS IN CLAYTON.
RED fITNESS LOuNgE
TuCCI & fRESTA’S
139 Carondelet Plz. Clayton, MO 63105 314.497.8838 redfitnesslounge.com
15 N. Central Ave. Clayton, MO 63105 314.725.6588 tucciandfrestas.com
CRuShED RED uRBAN BAkE & ChOP ShOP
SOL ORgANIC SPRAy TAN BOuTIquE
8007 Maryland Ave. Clayton, MO 63105 314.725.8007 crushed-red.com
927 Demun Ave. Clayton, MO 63105 314.459.3930 sol-stl.com
Crushed Red urban Bake & Chop ShopSM serves the freshest and fastest chopped-to-order salads along with a diverse offering of warm, flavorful dishes such as made-to-order handcrafted pizzas, hearty soups and savory shareables. Call it healthy eating with edge or appealing to the lighter side with flair, Crushed Red is the new neighborhood spot taking fresh and delicious to a revolutionary level.
CITy COffEEhOuSE & CRÊPERIE
St. Louis’ Original french Crêperie! City Coffee house & Crêperie serves over 40 different traditional crêpes, savory or sweet, and are made with white or 100 percent organic gluten-free buckwheat flour. Other treats available are pastries, quiches, sandwiches, soups, salads, rich coffees, espressos, teas and smoothies. Party Trays! Private Parties! Box Lunches! free delivery in Clayton! Mon-fri 6:30am – 4:00pm Sat-Sun 7:00am – 3:00pm (kitchen closes 30 minutes earlier)
Alivemag.com
June 2012
BLuE ELEMENT SALON
Blue Element is a full-service hair salon, located in bustling downtown Clayton—just minutes from Downtown St. Louis and the Central West End. Its skilled stylists offer expert hair design and color, manicures, pedicures and waxing. Step into the warm and welcoming atmosphere, and let us help you achieve your perfect style and leave looking and feeling your very best. 7529 forsyth Blvd. St. Louis, MO 63105 314.725.1200 blueelementsalon.com
36 North Brentwood Blvd. Clayton, MO 63105 314.862.2489 citycoffeeandcreperie.com 50
Sol is tanning gone green! This unique organic sunless tanning boutique offers every client a flawless application by certified personal spray artists, using organic anti-aging formulas. Purchase specialty pre- and post-sunless tan skincare products, created exclusively for Sol by Maven. Look no further than Sol for convenient, affordable luxury and a safe alternative to the dangers of conventional uV tanning. Join us for a grand opening cocktail party June 2!
ALIVE SPECIAL PROMOTION
SM
SM
Red Fitness Lounge photo by Christopher Gibbons. Crushed Red Urban Bake & Chop Shop photo by Katherine Bish Photography.
Red fitness Lounge is the newest destination for complete health and fitness service, with private, semiprivate and small group training, as well as a speaker series and nutritional education. Its unique boutique design will redefine the way you think and feel about exercise! Contact CEO Jamie Mushlin, to book your appointment today.
Tucci & fresta’s Trattoria and Bar invites you to taste the Art of Italy in the heart of Clayton with aged steaks, chops, seafood, pastas and Italian specialties. Select from a variety of great wines and listen to your favorites at the piano bar. Lunch Tue.-fri., dinner Tue.-Sat. and Sunday brunch, lunch and dinner. Party room and catering available.
HOT 2012
LIST
WINNER
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style /
Entertaining
All Set
Take your place at the table for the perfect patio party. by Ruth Lee
STL Style Show your hometown pride with this delightful set adorned with the traditional Fleur-deLis. Ancient Graffiti rock placemat, Mud Pie dinner and dessert plates, Danica napkin and Fleur-de-Lis napkin ring available at Terra, 11769 Manchester Road, Des Peres, 314.966.0800.
When it comes to outdoor entertaining, being the “hostess with the most-est” is easier than
you think—once you know where to start. Choosing the right table setting can set the tone for your entire outdoor soiree, and it can even inspire a fun trend or theme. With the bevy of place settings to choose from, there are many elements to consider—from patterns and color schemes to china and glassware styles. Vickie Jeude, general manager of Terra home store, says if you’re looking to keep things classy, pick modern pieces with a clean finish that will leave your patio table looking fresh and sophisticated. To really dive into summer, infuse inspiration from the outdoors into your napkins or plates, and experiment with different shapes, textures and colors in the form of beaded napkin rings, wicker placemats, colored utensils and the like. Finally, make sure you choose pieces that are strong in both form and function—and you’ll be all set to (patio) party.
Au Naturale Take a cue from Mother Nature with this setting inspired by the great outdoors. Rattan placemat, Staccato salad plate, low bowl and dinner plate, Marimekko Puutarha napkin and silver napkin ring available at Crate and Barrel, 1 The Boulevard, Richmond Heights, 314.725.6380.
Asian Sensation Introduce East to Midwest with this charming summer setup. Casablanca square placemat, Court salad and dinner plates, Cotton Flame napkin and Acacia oval napkin ring available at Crate and Barrel, 1 The Boulevard, Richmond Heights, 314.725.6380.
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Make an impression! Stationery • Invitations • Women’s Accessories
All profits donated to charities since 1930 9773 Clayton Rd • 314.991.1104 • stlservicebureau.com Appointments available
7212 Delmar Blvd. | St. Louis Missouri 63105 2 blocks west of Big Bend & Delmar 314.725.7559 | winslowshome.com
Realtor Guide Discover St. Louis’ most accomplished home-finders—and their hottest finds. Lynn Andel Laura McCarthy - Town & Country Office 314.609.0139 · lynnandel@me.com lauramccarthy.com
Stephanie Bahn Dielmann|Sotheby’s International Realty 314.495.9559 (M) · 314.725.0009 (W) Stephanie.Bahn@Sothebysrealty.com dielmannsothebysrealty.com
Featured Listing 1805 N. Ballas, Des Peres. Like-new brick ranch. Beautifully executed design plan nestled on an acre lot. Luxurious amenities: plank oak floors, travertine, granite and crown molding are details you will love about this gutrehabbed one-level gem! $489,900.
Featured Listing 236 Gay Ave., Clayton. 4,800 sq. feet of European architectural charm tucked away into Clayton Gardens address. Gaggenau Tuscan kitchen, floor to 11-ft. ceiling pella windows, elevator and media room are just a few of the many perks that dwell within! $1,575,000.
Boutique Realty 314.266.2520 facebook.com/BoutiqueRealtyPage
Featured Listing 2029 Urban Dr., Brentwood, 63144. Charming home filled with rich architecture and design detail. $299,900. Contact Julie at 636.634.1161 or Robin at 314.922.3339 to learn more! Marcia Harris Dielmann|Sotheby’s International Realty 314.791.3777 (M) · 314.881.3811 (W) Marcia.Harris@SothebysRealty.com MarciaKHarris.com
Alivemag.com
June 2012
Featured Listing 4349 Westminster Place, Central West End. A manse fit for Gatsby! Majestic grand home, meticulous attention to original fixtures and system upgrades. Remarkable offering includes full third floor apartment with private entrance to generate income! 585,000. The Susie O. Johnson Team Coldwell Banker Gundaker 314.283.7355 (M) · 636.936.3463 (W) Susie@SusieOJohnson.com SusieOJohnson.com
Featured Listing 59 Maryland Plaza #B Stunning luxury town home overlooking Plaza fountain and courtyard gardens. Premier CWE location across from Chase Park Plaza and Forest Park. Superior finishes. $585,000.
Featured Listing 973 Whitmoor Drive, Weldon Spring. Outstanding atrium ranch in the prestigious Whitmoor Country Club subdivision, views of the 14th green and 15th fairway. Finished lower level with stone fireplace, bar, bedroom and spa room. $585,000.
The Susie O. Johnson Team Coldwell Banker Gundaker 314.283.7355 (M) · 636.936.3463 (W) Susie@SusieOJohnson.com SusieOJohnson.com
Ted Wight Dielmann|Sotheby’s International Realty 314.607.5555 · tedwight@aol.com stlouisstyleblog.com
Featured Listing 1620 Watson, St. Charles. Gorgeous historic St. Charles home features 4 bedrooms and 2.5 bathrooms. This home is the best of both worlds—renovated, but still has an authentic feel. Absolutely darling...Must see to believe! $470,000.
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J. Warner & Sam Hall The Warner Hall Group 314.725.5100 jwarner@lauramccarthy.com samhall@ lauramccarthy.com lauramccarthy.com
ALIVE SPECIAL PROMOTION
Featured Listing 13428 Conway Road Town and Country. 18+ acres, 6400+ sq ft Bernoudy-designed home. $3,500,000.
PICKLES deli
An Original & Authentic Deli
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Hours Mon-Fri 9am-7pm Sat 10am-3pm Closed Sun
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Luxury Living Downtown Starting at $228,500.
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style /
engagements
Recently Ringed
Two newly engaged St. Louis couples share their love stories.
Sonya Bhakta, 26 & Mayur Patel, 25 Occupations: I am a case manager at BJC Behavioral Health, and Mayur is an architect with ASD in Atlanta. The Proposal: We went on a two-week trip to Greece, and our last stop on the journey was Oia, Santorini. The sunset overlooking the northern cliff is a sight to see. We were sitting alone, away from the crowds, watching the beautiful sunset when he asked the magical question. Believe it or not: After Mayur proposed, I was on the phone with my parents sharing the good news when a friendly stray dog came up and sat next to me. When we walked back into town, the dog followed behind until he lost us in the crowd. Later, Mayur and I were taking pictures in the middle of town when that same dog found us in the large crowd of tourists, and sat down next to me again. I was very tempted to take him home with us!
Our “Meet Cute”: The first time I saw Mayur, I was picking him up from the airport for a visit. It was like a movie—we walked toward each other, talking on the phone as we tried to find one another in the crowd. I spotted him first, and he gave me a hug so comforting and warm, I knew then and there that he was someone special. Our Song: “Lucky” by Jason Mraz and Colbie Caillat. Together, we like to: We don’t get to spend a lot of time together, but generally we are goofing off, making each other laugh and always looking for fun and tasty places to eat. Home Sweet Home: After the wedding, I am moving to Atlanta, GA, where Mayur is currently living. The Big Day: September 23, 2012 at World’s Fair Pavilion in Forest Park and Renaissance St. Louis Airport Hotel.
Occupations: I work in marketing and communications at Enterprise Holdings, Inc., and Shane works in the IT department at Cassidy Turley. The Proposal: It happened on Leap Day 2012. We took a snowy group vacation with four other couples to Northwest Montana to ski, ride snow mobiles and go dog sledding. First Impressions: We used to work together at Build-A-Bear Workshop World Bearquarters. I was in marketing, and he was in IT, so I used to think of him as the “IT nerd.” He tells me he used to call me the “cute new marketing chick.” Perfect Date Night: Every year, we make time to grab a drink at Kilkenny’s in Clayton, where we had our first kiss, and toast to everything we’ve been through together. We also love Franco in Soulard. It was the first fancy restaurant we visited as a couple, and we like to think of it as our special place. We celebrate there for birthdays, anniversaries or just to grab some oysters and champagne after work. Together, we like to: Go to concerts at The Pageant, The Firebird and other amazing STL venues, or attend wine classes at The Wine Merchant. Most recently, we enjoy hanging out on our patio with our two dogs while smoking a cigar, sipping wine and watching a movie projected onto the side of our house. The Big Day: Sept. 2, 2012 in Galveston, TX.
Recently ringed? Email your story to gwen@alivemag.com, and your engagement could be featured in ALIVE!
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Edited by Gwen Ragno. Top left photo by Heather Roth Fine Art Photography; top right photo by Keith Lee Studios.
Katie Cernuto, 30 & Shane Duke, 30
The Diamond Family SINCE 1978
-Presents-
Diadori Engagement Rings
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(636) 391-6622
style /
weddings
the Bride
Laura Miles,
34, Veterinarian the Groom
Dio Turner,
31, Ph.D. Student
More than Words
After secretly tying the knot in Vegas, a love-struck couple says “I Do” once more in a St. Louis ceremony. by KATE ALLEN Their story Laura Miles and Dio Turner were both born and raised in St. Louis, and spent their entire lives mere miles away from each other. When their paths finally crossed, both were working in the Ritz-Carlton’s Lobby Lounge, Dio as a bartender and Laura as a server. The chemistry between the pair was undeniable, and it wasn’t long before the two college students found themselves in a long-distance relationship. During her fall break in 2008, Laura packed her bags and headed west to visit Dio, who was studying in Las Vegas at the time. They’d joked about it plenty, but today there was something about the Vegas chapel that they just couldn’t resist. Laura left Las Vegas a bride, and despite the thousands of miles between them, nothing could separate the blissful newlyweds. Laura and Dio admit it wasn’t the most conventional way to the tie the knot, but that’s how they wanted it. And, they say, sharing the secret between just the two of them made the sanctity of marriage all the more special.
The couple continued their long-distance relationship until the summer of 2010, when after a night out with friends, Dio gave Laura the surprise of a lifetime. Dio knew his mother-in-law had always looked forward to seeing her only daughter walk down the aisle. So, following a day of massages and roller derby, the couple was taken by limousine back to where it all began, at the Ritz-Carlton Hotel. There, in a suite lined with roses and candlelight, the groom asked his bride to be his all over again. Dio proposed with a white and dark chocolate molded ring, and the couple celebrated with a bottle of their favorite champagne.
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Photos by Benjamin Trevor Photography
At First Sight Laura made her way down
the aisle towards Dio in a stunning Melissa Sweet gown—her “something new.” The bride’s “something old” and “borrowed” came from her grandparents; Laura’s grandfather loaned her his lucky pennies to be worn in each of her shoes, and her grandmother was happy to pass down a stunning vintage necklace, which was the perfect complement to the bride’s birdcage veil. Making it Official Laura and Dio chose The
Loop’s Moonrise Hotel for the site of their spring wedding ceremony and reception. During their evening nuptials, held on the Moonrise’s signature rooftop, a small group of family and close friends gathered to watch a heartfelt exchange of handwritten vows, complete with a performance of The Beatles’ “I Will” by the bride’s nephew.
Love is Sweet The couple opted for mini
cupcakes as opposed to a traditional wedding cake, and Jilly’s Cupcake Bar outdid itself. The custom cupcake tower contained a wide variety of St. Louis signature flavors, complete with bride and groom cupcake toppers. The maple bacon cupcake was definitely a guest favorite. Can’t Fight the Moonlight Following the outdoor ceremony, guests were wined and dined in the hotel’s Eclipse Restaurant. Dennis Bello and Jonathan Siezholtz of Steady Rising Entertainment kept the dance floor packed all night, and guests loved the wax lips, moustaches and sunglasses the newlyweds provided for a bit of extra fun. From the Heart The couple shared their first dance to the heartwarming Ani Difranco hit, “Smiling Underneath,” but it wasn’t the only moment in the evening that had emotions running high. Laura’s brother, Curt, had huge shoes to fill, making a speech in place of the siblings’ father, who had passed away. Needless to say, he surpassed everyone’s expectations with a heartfelt toast to his sister and brotherin-law on their wedding day.
june 2012
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Petal to the Metal
Adrianna Papell dress available at Saks Fifth Avenue, Plaza Frontenac, 314.567.9200. Stephanie Anne bangles available at Neiman Marcus, Plaza Frontenac, 314.567.9811.
Sweet Home Designers fall back on tradition this season—granting rich prints and impeccable tailoring another day in the sun. Photography + Art Direction by Attilio D'Agostino Styling by Jill Manoff Model: Whitney Ford Raidt for Mother Model Management, mothermodelmanagement.com Makeup + Hair by Attilio D’Agostino
june 2012
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Country Living
Escada blazer and pants and Alexis Bittar necklace available at Saks Fifth Avenue, Plaza Frontenac, 314.567.9200. Stuart Weitzman heels and Stephanie Anne stone ring available at Neiman Marcus, Plaza Frontenac, 314.567.9811. Gold ring available at Klutch, Town & Country, 636.220.6110.
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Horsing Around
9x15 leather jacket available at Saks Fifth Avenue, Plaza Frontenac, 314.567.9200. Equipment blouse available at Vie, Ladue, 314.997.0124. Kerrits riding pants available at GiddyUp Jane, Ladue, 314.993.9944. Gold ring available at Klutch, Town & Country, 636.220.6110.
june 2012
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Big Red
Alice + Olivia blouse and SW3 pants available at Vie, Ladue, 314.997.0124. Etro scarf (as belt) available at Saks Fifth Avenue, Plaza Frontenac, 314.567.9200. Stephanie Anne stone ring available at Neiman Marcus, Plaza Frontenac, 314.567.9811.
Fashion assistant: Morgan Gillespie. Shot on location at Three Creek Farms. Special thanks to Circus Flora, David and Laura Balding, DJ Moore, Sasha and Katherine Nevidonski, Carlos Svenson, Lindi Niedner and Laura McCarthy.
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Back in the Saddle
Escada blazer and Alexis Bittar necklace available at Saks Fifth Avenue, Plaza Frontenac, 314.567.9200. Rich & Skinny jeans and gold ring available at Klutch, Town & Country, 636.220.6110. Charlie 1 Horse boots available at GiddyUp Jane, Ladue, 314.993.9944.
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STL’s Andy Cohen gets chatty about his new book, his skyrocketing late-night show and the outlandish success of his “Bravolebrities.”
By Jill Manoff Cover and inside photos by Frank Veronsky
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In terms of big bucket-list moments, I’ve written a book, my show has gone five-nights-a-week, I’ve played myself in a sketch on ‘Saturday Night Live,’ I threw out the first pitch at a Cardinals game, and I was on ‘Letterman.’ It’s been wild! It’s a typical, bustling Wednesday for the Bravo network’s Executive Vice President of Development and Talent, better known as Andy Cohen. Just two hours in, he has already screened several DVDs pitching new reality shows, vetted potential cast members for Beverly Hills “Housewives” (a term that, thanks to his own direction, has become widely redefined as “wealthy socialites with big hair, big breasts and big personalities”) and is mid a number of meetings centered on various plans and projects, including the reunion special for “The Real Housewives of Atlanta.” If all goes as scheduled, he’ll hit the set of “Watch What Happens: Live” in time for its customary 11:30pm taping, and then will retire to the Cubbyhole, a lesbian bar in his NYC neighborhood, with either his guests or crew in tow. And, at some point, he’s “supposed to get a burger with Jerry Seinfeld.” Even so, Cohen seems giddy (his trademark demeanor, granted) to be spending time with someone from his hometown, rehashing the many meaningful goings on since he was first acquainted with ALIVE by way of his cover story in early 2010. Late-Night Bloomer “Have you seen my Lite-Brite backdrop of the St. Louis skyline on the set of my show?” he asks proudly, narrowing his focus to bucketlist item No. 2 (one of a pair of very recent milestones he is currently labeling “very big deals”). I have. The bold homage to the Gateway Arch appeared in January when “Watch What Happens: Live”—the show he hosts and executive produces—received a Sundaythrough-Thursday time slot, evolving from its original twice-weekly late-night treat. “I’m still in the midst of the transition,” he admits. “I don’t think I’m balancing it yet; I’m just trying to keep sane.” If the past is any indication, Cohen will soon adapt with flying colors. After all, he is the guy who launched a 10-year tenure at CBS News— highlighted by appointments as a producer for “48 Hours” and “CBS This Morning,” and senior producer of “The Early Show”—with a mere internship between semesters at Boston University. With his subsequent bold move to Head of Programming for the pop-culturefueled cable channel TRIO, he maintained his pace. The start-up witnessed many successes, including a Peabody Award for an original documentary and such cult-classic series as “Freaks and Geeks.” Then Cohen set his sights on Bravo—largely motivated by its innova-
tive star program, “Queer Eye for the Straight Guy.” Today, as reality shows make up the bulk of Bravo’s lineup, few would refute dubbing Cohen a pioneer in television’s flourishing, comparatively new realm. Keeping It Real “It’s all about the casting,” Cohen says, regarding what makes Bravo’s shows resonate so loudly with its audience—which is consistently rated the most affluent, educated and engaged in cable entertainment. “In terms of a lot of our shows—like ‘Flipping Out,’ ‘[The] Rachel Zoe [Project]’ or ‘Tabitha [Takes Over]’—I think those are people who are just great at what they do. They are big, aspirational characters who are so fun to watch. In terms of ‘The [Real] Housewives’ [franchise], we have people who are one-of-a-kind. They are sometimes people you think you don’t like, but wind up liking; they’re funny, whether it’s purposeful or not.” And, they’re the biggest “Bravolebrities” the network has churned out yet. Emerging with everything from skincare products to collections of low-calorie cocktails following their first appearances as “Housewives,” standout castmates from “Orange County” to “Miami” (and all five series in between) have Cohen to thank for their expansive fame (case in point: Even Gigolo, the Pomeranian owned by “Beverly Hills” star Lisa Vanderpump, has upwards of 50,000 followers on Twitter). In addition to appointing them to a season’s inner circle, Cohen and his colleagues had the keen sense to expand their spotlights outside of weekly hour-long shows to spin-off series, live tours and oft-heated reunion specials. Where the “Housewives” went, their fans followed. As the reunions were regarded as an extension of the web shows he was moderating following early episodes, Cohen was eventually asked to host them, which paved his way to “Watch What Happens: Live.” Typically populated by Bravo’s beloved characters, “SNL” comediennes past and present (“I love funny women,” Cohen confirms) and celebrities plucked from Cohen’s own circle of friends (he’s been known to rub elbows with Kelly Ripa and Sarah Jessica Parker), “Watch What Happens: Live” is a casual setup in which nothing is rehearsed, alcohol is a fixture and references to the off-camera skeleton crew are not only permitted, but common. “I’m just inviting you into my den, basically—to have a cocktail, hang out, have some laughs and play a
game.” One fan favorite is “Plead the Fifth,” in which guests can opt out of one of three decidedly awkward questions. “Which celebrity was a bit of a letdown when you first met them?” Cohen recently threw out to “The Office” star and fellow St. Louis native Jenna Fischer. She pleaded the fifth. According to Cohen, his ability to man such on-camera antics and feel comfortable chatting up big names stems from a lifetime of preparation. “I went from sitting two inches away from the TV—while growing up in Clayton, MO, obsessed with pop culture—to moving to New York, producing TV and meeting a lot of the idols I had from my childhood, to being on TV.” Unique in its almost bizarre natural progression, Cohen’s exciting journey to what can safely be labeled his dream job is the centerpiece of his new book—the other of his recent “very big deals.” New Chapter Titled “Most Talkative: Stories from the Front Lines of Pop Culture,” the hardcover memoir, released in May, is replete with tales of lifedefining moments (including his coming out to family and friends during college), unlikely recurring characters, mistakes and triumphs, and instances that clearly foreshadowed his career. “Working the green room was like hosting a cocktail party,” Cohen reflects on p.55, regarding an internship duty while at “CBS Morning News.” “I wonder how my life will ever take me back to this place, where I can sit with an idol and talk about something I love,” he remembers on p.9, following an interview for his college paper with lifelong obsession Susan Lucci. Also included is a chapter titled “Perfect Pitch,” which includes a play-by-play of his experience throwing out the first pitch at Busch Stadium in 2010—a very big deal to the fervent Cardinals fan. “I always go to the Cardinals Clubhouse store at the Galleria when I’m in town; I’m always in the market for Cardinals gear,” he confesses. In addition, Cohen lists Companion, Erney’s 32° and Blueberry Hill among his favorite local haunts—though fulfilling bucketlisted goals left and right doesn’t leave much time for hometown bars and burgers. “I have to say, I’m pretty much livin’ in the bucket right now,” he laughs. “The only thing left is that I have to fall very heavily in love, and a psychic told me that it’s happening this year, so that’s next.”
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The
HOT LIST Edited by Jennifer Dulin Wiley Photos by Jennifer Silverberg
100 things we love about St. Louis in one sizzling list.
dining The STL dining scene is serving up local and national acclaim like never before. Our money’s on the creativity and passion of our beloved hometown chefs and restaurateurs—hands down.
1.
by Amy De La Hunt
Best chef
Kevin Willmann, Farmhaus
Last year, Willmann earned a nod from Food & Wine magazine as one of the nation’s Best New Chefs. This year, the James Beard Foundation followed suit, naming him as a nominee for Best Chef: Midwest. Notice the “new” was dropped—Willmann’s cred is officially established. The Florida-raised chef always has freshly flown-in fish on the dinner menu, but the majority of his ingredients are locally sourced and sustainably raised. His team also cures meat, makes cheese, pickles veggies and bakes bread—and still finds the time to whip up a $10 Blue Plate lunch special five days a week. It’s a fabulous deal, and pretty much your only opportunity to try Farmhaus without a reservation booked well in advance. 3257 Ivanhoe Ave., South City, 314.647.3800. 68
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2.
Best Burger
Baileys' Range
There isn’t a single “best” burger on the menu here. For one, all the burgers are juicy and delicious. For another, the menu has been evolving since the restaurant opened last November—and with our luck, the “best” would have been replaced with something even better. You really can’t go wrong, whether you choose a beef patty or a specialty (pork, chicken, lamb, bison or veggie). It will come on a house-baked bun with house-made condiments, something almost unheard of in the world of burger joints. Even the ice cream is made on-site—with choice booze added to several milkshake varieties. 920 Olive St., Downtown, 314.241.8121.
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3.Salt Best New RestauranT
If you think no one’s used the word “larder” since your grandma’s day, dust off the dictionary. Salt’s tagline, “An American Larder,” is a fitting description of a kitchen that uses everything you might have found in an old-fashioned pantry—from pickled pig’s tongue and duck fat to humble potatoes. Behind the bar, there are house-made tinctures (another classic term, essentially high-proof alcohol with an essence of herbs or fruit). By embracing wholesome ingredients with creativity and passion, chef and owner Wes Johnson helped Salt book a nomination for Best New Restaurant in this year's James Beard Foundation Awards. 4356 Lindell Blvd., Central West End, 314.932.5787.
6. Bixby's
Salt
4.Cielo
Best ambiance
5. Home Wine Kitchen Best brunch
The vistas over the Arch, Riverfront and Downtown skyline from Cielo’s Sky Terrace are worthy of their own “best of” category, but they’re just a part of the overall ambiance. Reflecting pools…cushions and throw pillows… candles…savvy servers who know when to step forward and when to fade into the wood-paneled background. Ah, the perks of a pampered existence. For a behind-the-scenes experience, arrange to be seated at the chef’s table inside the kitchen to witness Executive Chef Fabrizio Schenardi’s artistry firsthand. 999 N. Second St., Downtown, 314.881.5759.
What’s the point of going out to brunch if you’re going to order something you could make at home? It's definitely not a problem at Chef Cassandra Vires’ Maplewood eatery. She’ll whet your appetite for spice (tasso on the eggs Benedict), sweetness (bread pudding French toast), freshness (spinach salad with radish and fennel) or sheer decadence (chicken and waffles). Technically, you could replicate some of these at home—Vires frequently shares her recipes with local magazine and TV audiences—but after you’ve relaxed with a specialty mimosa (Meyer lemon, honey and sparkling wine), you'll likely decide to make Vires your permanent Sunday morning chef. 7322 Manchester Road, Maplewood, 314.802.7676.
7. Robust
Best wine list
Robust
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Three-quarters of us grab lunch at our desks at least a couple of times a week. But, when we actually steal away some time for a real lunch, there’s no better place than the green expanse of Forest Park, as seen through the windows of Bixby’s in the Missouri History Museum. Chef Callaghan Carter and his team, working under the leadership of the Butler’s Pantry catering company, offer seasonal dishes—like the spring vegetable tart, grilled shrimp and lemon basil lasagna—in addition to a short roster of delectable salads, soups and sandwiches. You could take it back to your desk…or not. 5700 Lindell Blvd., Forest Park, 314.361.7313.
One of the many wonderful things about wine is that every year there are countless new bottles to explore. Of course, that’s also one of the most intimidating things about it—and the reason even longtime wine aficionados like to do some guided exploration every now and then. Enter the Robust team, led by owner and certified sommelier Stanley Browne. They are constantly refining the selection of wines within Robust’s eight-category easy-to-follow classification system. Not only are the staff members (including five sommeliers) ready to pour, they’re also ready to talk about the 45 by-the-glass selections and dozens of bottles in each category to bring the wine list to life. It’s no wonder a second location Downtown is set to open this summer. 227 W. Lockwood Ave., Webster Groves, 314.963.0033.
Robust and Blondie's photos by Christopher Gibbons. Tony's photo by Katherine Bish.
Best lunch spot
8.
9. Park Avenue Coffee Best coffeehouse
Best Deli
Pickles At this neighborhood deli, the art of the sandwich is all about the meat. Pastrami, corned beef, ham, salami… take your pick. And, they don’t skimp when it comes time to fill the bread (available in seven varieties, including the delectable pretzel roll, and worthy of a whole separate conversation). You can create your own sandwich or order one of theirs, like the Cuban, French dip, Reuben or Italian sub. Either way, you’ll want to save room for the bakery-fresh cupcakes. Not every deli can boast about its proteins and its carbs, but this one can. Multiple locations, picklesdelistl.com.
Quick, what’s the first thing you thought of when you read Park Avenue Coffee? The Chauvin coffee? Low-fat muffins? Fat-free latte? Admit it, none of the above—it was the crave-worthy gooey butter cake. With more than 70 flavors in its rotating selection, we guarantee you’ll find one you like, even if you profess not to like this particular local delicacy. With a second location now open Downtown and sales of boxed gooey butter cake mixes from its own Ann and Allen Baking Company spreading across the nation, Park Avenue is poised to be a name you’ll be seeing a lot more of in the future—which won’t help your cravings one bit. Multiple locations, parkavenuecoffee.com.
10. Companion Best bakery
Because Companion’s 15 or so styles of artisan breads show up in so many grocery stores, markets and restaurants around town, you might not make the trip to the two cafés or the early bird outlet all that often. That means you could be missing out on some of the delicacies—like the top-selling MoMos (brioche cinnamon-sugar rolls) or the delectable pain au chocolat—that have helped Companion owner Josh Allen continue to expand since 1993. Besides, Companion is all about breaking bread in the community sense, both with its customers and through the CollaBREADtive project with chefs at its many partner restaurants. Multiple locations, companionstl.com.
11. Scape American Bistro Best Date Spot
The indoor restaurant at Scape is all about sophistication and chandeliers, which is good for a date, no doubt. But, the Back Bar at Scape exudes romance. The private courtyard is tucked away from the hustle and bustle of the CWE, with live music, twinkly lights, specialty cocktails and the same menu as the indoor restaurant until 9pm. The menu is a secret weapon for a first date, satisfying every dietary whim, from filet mignon to raw veggie lasagna. The crowning touch is the banana cream pie—for two, naturally. 48 Maryland Plaza, Central West End, 314.361.7227.
Blondie's
12. Blondie's Best cafe
Blondie’s fits the definition of an overachiever. First thing weekday mornings, it’s all about coffee, smoothies and specialty caffeinated beverages. Weekend mornings, it offers bottle service at brunch. (Yes, you read that right.) For lunch, there’s chicken salad, and those who prefer a glass or two of wine around 4pm can choose from small plates like beef carpaccio, smoked salmon, baked olives or pork tenderloin with polenta. They can also try a wine flight, three 3-oz. pours of red, white or sparkling selections. Then there’s the dessert menu, a full page of chocolate, cake, ice cream and martinis. We rest our case. 1301 Washington Ave., Downtown, 314.241.6100.
13.Tony's
Best fine dining
Decades from now, we hope to dine out with our children’s children at Tony’s. We expect some longtime favorites will still grace the menu, like filet mignon and lobster albanello. We also expect to watch, transfixed, as the staff puts the finishing touches on our salads, or ignites a perfect flambé tableside. But, because this is 2012 and the grandkids are still a long way off, we’re all about the new dishes that Executive Chef Vincent P. Bommarito is easing into the rotation. Even with the somewhat relaxed dress code, we love that, at age 60 years and counting, Tony’s continues to inspire everyone to sit up a little straighter in their seats. 410 Market St., Downtown, 314.231.7007.
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14.Winslow's Home Best locavore menu
It’s surprising that no imitators have popped up to replicate the symbiotic relationship between this popular U City eatery and the four-acre Augusta farm that supplies it. The concept is brilliantly simple: The farmers collaborate with Executive Chef Cary McDowell, who tweaks his soups, salads, quiche of the day and entrées based on whatever is freshest that day or that week. And, if it’s eggs you’re hungry for at breakfast time, you should know that the chicken feed at Winslow’s Farm comes from the restaurant’s compost bin—which is about as full circle as it gets. 7213 Delmar Blvd., University City, 314.725.7559.
HOT MEAL joe buck "Breakfast is my favorite meal of the day, and the best place in town to get it is Half & Half in Clayton. When I’m in the mood for Italian, it’s Paul Manno’s in Chesterfield—don’t be fooled by the strip mall surroundings. For barbecue, I head Downtown to Joe Buck’s, of course!"
For a card-carrying carnivore, the opportunity to order half a hog at the butcher counter is reason enough to visit The Block. By daring to pair his new steakhouse with a real live butcher shop, owner Marc Del Pietro has hit on a winning combination. Because it has total control over the butchering, aging, curing, preserving, barbecuing, smoking and roasting, the kitchen can guarantee top-quality cuts and preparation. It also finds time for fun, with non-traditional steakhouse fare like pork rinds, bacon candy, bacon jam and bacon ice cream. 146 W. Lockwood Ave., Webster Groves, 314.918.7900.
16. Tani
Best sushi
Rather than try to hold back the wind, Tani bows to the fact that most St. Louisans use “sushi” in the broadest sense possible. In describing itself as a fusion restaurant, it frees itself of the burden of defining sushi as only nigiri (the raw fish that has defined sushi’s reputation for so long). Tani’s nigiri is stunningly fresh, the pricier cuts tending to be even more buttery and meltin-your-mouth delicious. However, the maki rolls can get pretty elaborate, and shouldn't be ignored. When you see one set on fire tableside, you’ll know what we mean. 16 S. Bemiston Ave., Clayton, 314.727.8264.
18.
Best Pizza
The Good Pie
Foodie circles were buzzing when this Neapolitan-style pizzeria fired up its wood-burning stove in 2009, and the love affair has only grown over time. Now the restaurant’s two other main offerings, salads and beer, are earning accolades, too. But, to us, it’s still all about the pizza—thin crust, tenderly topped with three or four ingredients and then thrust into a fiery semicircle. Purists stick with the first two pizzas on the menu: The Margherita with tomato, fresh mozzarella and basil, or The Good Pie, which swaps in a richer and more expensive mozzarella made from the milk of water buffalo. It’s well worth the price. 3137 Olive St., Midtown, 314.289.9391.
The Good Pie
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17.
Best mexican
Chava’s Mexican Restaurant Soulard is not often associated with international cuisines (aside from Irish). But, tucked away in its side streets are a handful of unexpectedly authentic ethnic eateries, including Chava’s. Tortas, fried tacos and stuffed peppers weren’t as familiar to diners as they are now when Chris Ybarra opened his restaurant in 2006, but he’s still in a league of his own with El Mireko (flash-fried ranchero-style chicken burritos topped with chile con queso and guacamole). And, because this is Soulard, after all, there are nine tequilas and six hand-blended margaritas made with real fruits like pineapple and mango to get the fiesta started. So, what are you waiting for? ¡Salúd! 925 Geyer Ave., Soulard, 314.241.5503.
The Good Pie photo by Katherine Bish. Illustration by Vidhya Nagarajan.
15. The Block Best steakhouse
19. best dessert menu
Brasserie
Brasserie
20.Aya Sofia 21. VegaDeli Best Mediterranean
It’s hard to resist a menu that transports a diner to far-away Turkey, where a dish like eggplant casserole is transformed into Ímam Bayıldı, and soup of the day becomes Günün Çorbası. Aya Sofia is all about the escape from the everyday, which helps explain its growing popularity on special occasions like Mother’s Day and Valentine’s Day—not to mention the draw on a plain old Sunday night that needs a little spicing up. Our favorite getaway also boasts a good wine list, colorful décor and welcoming staff. Even if you're not the most adventurous diner in the world, we're willing to bet you'll find a dish to your liking. 6671 Chippewa St., South City, 314.645.9919.
Best vegan menu
The crew at VegaDeli isn’t out to convert you to the vegan cause, but that doesn’t mean you couldn’t be persuaded. It’s true that no animal products appear on the menu—and many items are also organic, fair trade or raw—but new owner Gina Gerber is more interested in getting customers to try a new juice blend, smoothie, muffin or wrap than extolling the benefits of veganism. That said, she is delighted to share information, should you happen to ask. She's also ramping up cooking classes and other outreach efforts so those who are hungry for a lifestyle change can fill up on that—along with tasty vegan chili, burgers and brownies. 177 Hilltown Village Center, Chesterfield, 636.536.6938.
Brasserie’s desserts have been described by Pastry Chef Summer Wright as straightforward, country French dishes with no fancy plating. We disagree— the Floating Island, for example, is a lovely meringue dollop on crème anglaise, drizzled with caramel and almonds. We also find it hard to believe that country folk in France are noshing on house-made ice creams in flavors like brandy and crème fraiche, or pot de crème flavored with maple. And yes, it’s true that profiteroles (aka cream puffs) are not hard to make…so when was the last time you whipped up a batch? Thought so. Wright can probably pop out these delicacies in her sleep, but we’re impressed nonetheless. 4580 Laclede Ave., Central West End, 314.454.0600.
22. I Fratellini Best italian
I Fratellini is something of a stealth candidate in this category. Up against a lot of muscle (and, let’s face it, testosterone), Zoe Houk Robinson and her chic 11-year-restaurant prevailed. It’s an intimate space, with only 35 seats, so dinner reservations are a must. The size is a plus for the kitchen; it can pay extra attention to every order of the zucchini carpaccio, pistachio-encrusted trout and squid ink linguine with shrimp and mussels. Ravioli are a highlight, whether they’re filled with mushrooms, lobster or spinach and rabbit. Authentic dishes aside, what really seals the deal is the ambiance that wraps diners like a fond embrace from an old Italian friend. 7624 Wydown Blvd., Clayton, 314.727.7901.
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25.
Nightlife How do we love the Lou when the sun goes down? Let us count the ways...
Best bar
23. Horizon at Harry's 24. Houlihan's Best New club
Best Happy Hour
Horizon burst onto the nightlife scene just this spring, and it’s already making ample noise. Created from part of the dining space at its parent restaurant, Harry's, the boutique nightclub features an elevated VIP area to enjoy bottle service with posh appointments like yellow suede banquettes and handcrafted stonework—not to mention the stellar view of the St. Louis skyline. Some of the best spinners frequent the high-tech DJ booth, and the beats are accentuated with special effects like a liquid nitrogen jet that instantly cools down the crowd when things heat up. 2144 Market St., Downtown, 314.421.6969.
Urban Chestnut
Houlihan's has been a fixture on the STL dining scene for years, and its happy hour offerings are a big part of the reason why. With food and drink menus that feature crazy deals on app favorites like wings, nachos and lettuce wraps—plus multiple drink specials that make it easy to sample from a variety of top-flight libations—Houlihan's makes happy hour even happier. Plus, with restaurants in Brentwood, Creve Coeur and Chesterfield, there's a location convenient for anyone who wants to drop in and unwind. Multiple locations, houlihans.com.
26. Urban Chestnut Brewing Company Best craft brewery
Since arriving on the St. Louis scene last year, this craft brewery has been making big waves in the beer world, garnering such accolades as one of the top five best new breweries in the world, according to Ratebeer.com. The roster of beers includes the Revolution series, a group of modern, creative American brews, and the Reverence series, which hearkens back to more traditional European styles. The attached brewpub also offers some pretty tasty snacks to accompany the many varieties of beers on tap. Look for a newly expanded beer garden to be up and running this summer. 3229 Washington Ave., Midtown, 314.222.0143.
Three Sixty
You don’t need a password to get inside, like the speakeasies of years past, but maybe you should. The rich, intimate interior of Taste makes you feel like you’re part of one of the best-kept secrets in town—especially once you experience its rotating selection of craft cocktails, made the old-school way, like most else in the cool establishment. Drinks are listed by flavor profiles, and the culinary offerings go well beyond the usual bar fare, featuring unique dishes made with locally sourced ingredients and created in plain sight in the open kitchen. Need we say more? 4584 Laclede Ave., Central West End, 314.361.1200.
27. Three Sixty Best New Nightspot
Three Sixty hasn’t stopped buzzing since it opened late last year, and don’t plan on the hype diminishing anytime soon (we are in its first full Cardinals baseball season, after all). With a premium view of the panorama of Downtown, including a bird's-eye view of Busch Stadium, Three Sixty is the place to party in Downtown St. Louis. But, the view is just the beginning of the experience. Guests get to delve into a menu that includes all manner of creative cuisine from Executive Chef Rex Hale, including artisan cheeses and meats and a bevy of small plates and snacks—in addition to the healthy lineup of creative cocktails, wines and beers from behind the bar. We’ll drink to that. 1 S. Broadway, Downtown, 314.241.8439.
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Urban Chestnut Brewing Company photo by Greg Rannells Photography. Three Sixty photo by Lily Liu.
Taste
by matt sorrell
28.
Most Innovative Concept
Blood & Sand
As soon as you push through the revolving door on the nondescript stretch of St. Charles Street and enter the plush interior, it's apparent that Blood & Sand isn't your grandparents' social club. It’s a members-only culinary coalition of sorts, where creativity in food and drink go hand in hand, allowing members to explore the boundaries of their palates in a comfortable, intimate atmosphere. For a modest fee, members get access to top-notch cuisine featuring the best local ingredients, as well as an array of liquid creations, courtesy of the expert bar staff. So, why become a member? The more appropriate question is, why not? 1500 St. Charles Street, Downtown, 314.241.7263.
Blood & Sand
29. Sanctuaria
30. Mandarin
There are plenty of places around town to have a fine cocktail, but no watering hole comes close to matching the quality and quantity of Sanctuaria's offerings. From the innovative cocktail club menu with a choice of 150 creations, to the seasonal cocktail list, to the cocktails on tap, and even a menu featuring select concoctions created by club members, Sanctuaria boasts around 200 total choices. Its beverage program isn't just a big deal locally—the list was nominated as the Best Cocktail Menu in the World at last year's Tales of the Cocktail in NOLA. Still undecided? The awardwinning bar staff will create a libation to fit your personal taste. 4198 Manchester Road, The Grove, 314.535,9700.
Located in the heart of the Central West End, Mandarin has positioned itself as the center for upscale nightlife. From the chic East-meets-West décor to the gorgeous rooftop bar overlooking Maryland Plaza, the club exudes a level of sophistication and class that few other nightspots have managed to achieve. Guests can choose from an extensive bottle service list and a decidedly high-end drink menu that includes indulgences like the $50 Gold Standard Cosmo, garnished with real gold. Cocktails are also available tapas-style, so guests can sample a variety of libations. A little bit of NYC in the CWE, for sure. 44 Maryland Plaza, Central West End, 314.367.4447.
Best cocktail menu
Best Lounge
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31. Lester's Sports Bar & Grill Best sports bar
joe edwards "I still find live music riveting. Seeing El Monstero at The Pageant or Fitz & the Tantrums in the Duck Room at Blueberry Hill leaves me exhausted and extremely satisfied. My go-to drink? Old Fitzgerald 100-proof bourbon. It definitely wakes me up!"
32. Sasha's on Shaw Best wine bar
With 40 wines by the glass and 150 by the bottle, Sasha's on Shaw definitely has the inventory to stand above the pack of area vino establishments. Nestled as it is in a largely residential stretch of Shaw Boulevard, Sasha's is just as much a neighborhood bar as it is a wine bar. The warm, inviting interior and cozy patio encourage guests to drop in, have a glass of the grape and kick back without a worry in the world. The delectable dishes, served until 1am, also make it the perfect spot for nighttime noshing. 4069 Shaw Blvd., Shaw, 314.771.7274.
33. Lumiére Place Casino & Hotels Best casino
As a top-of-the-line casino, Lumiére hosts a mind-boggling array of gaming options, including a 13-table poker room, 55 table games and more than 2,000 slot, video poker and multi-game machines. But, the Lumiére experience goes beyond the casino floors. Guests can take a break from the tables and catch some live entertainment, indulge in dining options that run the gamut from casual to fine fare or take a longer staycation in the luxurious accommodations of the adjacent Four Seasons Hotel. 999 N. Second St., Downtown, 314.881.7777.
34.
Best Late-Night Hangout
Lucas Park Grille
Lucas Park Grille
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One of the cornerstones of the revitalization of Wash Ave, Lucas Park Grille has been a late-night fan favorite for eight years and counting. Come midnight, throngs of partygoers faithfully file into the expansive 8,000-square-foot space featuring soaring ceilings and a chic lounge atmosphere, with music to match. Crowds still come early to sample from the eclectic menu of small and large plates and the selection of some 300 wines by the bottle. But, cocktails aplenty keep the bar bumping till 1:30am Sunday through Thursday, and 3am Fridays and Saturdays. Night owls need not look any further for a perch. 1234 Washington Ave., Downtown, 314.241.7770.
Illustration by Vidhya Nagarajan. Lucas Park photo by Christopher Gibbons. Coliseum photo by Lily Liu.
Hot Night Out
The latest location of the venerable local chain in the CWE finally brings the Lester's experience to city dwellers, and they’re soaking it up in droves. The space features plenty of the things that have endeared Lester's to sports fans across the metro area, like the plethora of TV sets (more than 30 at last count) tuned in to all of the must-see games—and plenty of sports memorabilia to keep even super fans agog—in addition to CWE-specific amenities like the rooftop patio area. The latest Lester's also features the same menu available at the other restaurants, including the famous pastrami and other house-made meats. 4651 Maryland Ave., Central West End, 314.932.6040.
The Coliseum Music Lounge
36.
35.The Coliseum Music Lounge best Live Entertainment Venue
Best LGBT Hangout
Just John
Located just west of Jefferson Avenue, The Coliseum is bringing a host of entertainment options to Wash Ave. An homage, of sorts, to the original St. Louis Coliseum, which was located across the street until the early 1950s, the new venue is a hotspot not only for live music, but for live events of all types—from comedians and fashion shows to seminars and product launches. The striking interior features a custom bar, chandeliers and waterfalls to entertain the eyes, while the array of creative cocktails and local eats tantalize your taste buds like no other. 2619 Washington Ave., Midtown, 314.531.2842.
37. The Pepper Lounge 38. Copia Best djs
There are plenty of places around town that claim to have the best DJs spinning on the reg, but none can compare to the nationwide roster of mix-masters that regularly rotate through The Pepper Lounge, including DJ Costik, DJ Kid Cut Up, DJ Greasy, DJ Big D and more. Unlike some venues that do away with amenities in order to pack the dance floor, Pepper presents guests with soaring wood-lined ceilings, plenty of plush seating and a bar that houses enough spirits to satisfy anyone's cocktail needs. If the beats get to be too much, step outside for a breather at the bamboo and elephant grass Tiki bar. 2005 Locust St., Midtown, 314.241.2005.
best patio
There's nothing quite like the airy enjoyment of drinking and dining al fresco—the only problem is the mercurial temperament of Mother Nature. Copia has solved this quandary by installing a retractable roof over its massive 7,500-square-foot wine garden. With the flick of a switch, diners can enjoy their wine under the stars, or get instant protection from the elements. The best part? The soaring ceilings, water features and abundant greenery still give the patio the feel of the great outdoors no matter what’s happening outside. 1122 Washington Ave., Downtown, 314.241.9463.
Located in the center of The Grove, Just John has cemented a reputation for itself as a place where anyone and everyone can go to have a good time. The open vibe is bolstered by fan-favorite events like Homo Bingo and JANE Wednesday Nights for the ladies. There are also plenty of drink specials, hot local DJs, a rockin' dance floor and tons of indoor and outdoor seating for those who just want to hang out and do their thing. The term all-inclusive just got a whole new meaning. 4112 Manchester Road, The Grove, 314.371.1333.
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Shopping St. Louis has yet to be named an official fashion capital, but these stores are set to put us on the map. by jill manoff
39. Blush
Best women’s boutique
40. Meka Boutique Best casual wear
There’s a certain confidence that comes from shopping a boutique stocked by someone with killer taste—which likely explains much of Blush’s overwhelming success. Established by the notoriously stylish Sarah King in 2006, Blush has since remained home to an expertly curated lineup of clothing and accessories by such of-the-moment lines as House of Harlow, Free People, Amanda Uprichard and Alternative Apparel. Confused as to which will work on you? Just ask the fashion plate at the counter. 110 N. Clay Ave., Kirkwood, 314.965.4411.
If you’re a little bit country, a little bit rock ’n’ roll, Meka Boutique’s well-stocked selection of better-than-basics and superwearable separates will read like music to your ears. Among the shop’s biggest hits are Hard Tail tees, Big Star denim, Wildfox Couture staples and Old Gringo boots. Based on both her unique inventory and her many repeat customers, it’s obvious that owner Meg Meyer has succeeded in selling her belief that “easy” and “edgy” go hand in hand—like chocolate and peanut butter, or Donny and Marie. 1634 Clarkson Road, Chesterfield, 636.536.6300.
41. Cha
42. Saks Fifth Avenue
So, you don’t have Rachel Zoe or Kate Young or any of the other famed Hollywood stylists on speed dial. It doesn’t mean you can’t look every bit the celeb. Just ask Cha Boutique’s many regulars. Thanks to owner Sarah Garlich’s carefully chosen array of star-beloved styles—like feminine Shoshanna dresses, cool James Perse casual wear and flirty Wildfox Couture separates (including the Sparkle Heart Baggy Beach Top, worn by everyone from J-Lo to Taylor Swift)— shoppers have come to count on the fact that they can fly in just before any event and leave with a perfect, camera-ready look. 9666 Clayton Road, Ladue, 314.993.8080.
In the midst of a makeover set to transform the store from fabulous to off the charts, Saks is clearly a retailer that doesn’t settle. As if Chanel handbags, Gucci heels, David Yurman jewelry and Armani ready-to-wear weren’t enough, the Frontenac staple is receiving first-time shipments of such industry-cherished pieces as Yves Saint Laurent stilettos, Miu Miu pumps, Celine handbags and more daily. When it comes to high-end fashion, it seems serious shoppers have found their match. Finally, a store that understands the need for “more, more, more!” 1 Plaza Frontenac, Frontenac, 314.567.9200.
Best Celeb Looks
Best luxury department store
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43.
Best boutique
Sole & Blues
The name is somewhat deceiving— after all, it’s a men’s and women’s fashion mecca, with no obvious musical connection. But, it’s safe to say that Tammy White marches to her own beat. The brains behind the innovative sibling stores’ concept, she has remained established in a territory that few boutique owners have braved and many have fled: fashion-forward. It’s evident in her buys of G-Star ready-to-wear, Sam Edelman shoes, Ben Sherman menswear and more. Together, they’ve earned her an impressive following of trendsetting fans— which is to be expected of anyone who rocks the boat. 6317 Delmar Blvd., The Loop, 314.863.3600.
Best men's boutique
Moris Fashions
After just one visit to Brian Smith and Michael Pagel’s 7-yearsstrong menswear boutique, many are inclined to dub them supermen—the duo seems to be extraordinarily attuned to the closetfocused needs of their every customer. As such, they maintain a revolving selection of pieces by Ted Baker, Hugo Boss, John Varvatos and more, and oft nix the need for fashion-savvy St. Louisans to shop New York and LA; why spend the time and money needed to shop the coasts (that is, unless you come equipped with a cape) when the same stellar merch can be found locally? 26 Maryland Plaza, Central West End, 314.361.6800.
45.
Best contemporary selection
Ivy Hill You've finally admitted you have a shopping addiction—and have since realized that Ivy Hill is your choice drug. Dealing French Connection dresses, Trina Turk separates, House of Harlow jewelry and Oryany handbags, owner Hillary Dutcher has successfully created the ultimate temptation for those with a weakness for contemporary trends. Shopaholics, beware. 304 N. Euclid Ave., Central West End, 314.367.7004.
46. Verde Kids 47. Klutch Best kids' apparel
You’ve made attempts to go green in most areas of your life—you buy locally grown produce, you’ve given up bottled water, you’ve even learned to take shorter showers for the sake of saving water. But, unfortunately, your kiddos have flown under your radar. Maybe you didn’t know that “cute” and “organic” could come hand in hand in the kiddy department, and so proceeded to buy up itty-bitty dresses, jackets, headbands and more from any store with a cute style and a sale. You should probably sit in the corner—or simply transfer all future “little me” shopping to Verde Kids. From toys and games to garments and accessories, all is sustainable—and decidedly darling. 27 S. Old Orchard Ave., Webster Groves, 314.962.5437.
49.
Best new boutique
Esther
Best one-stop-shop
If you’ve ever watched one of those makeover shows that grants a sartorially confused lady or gent a lump sum to shop one store, chances are you’ve wondered where in the world you’d go—because no girl can reinvent herself with new denim and dresses alone. Klutch owner Liz Irwin understands, and so has equipped her chic boutique with all of the pieces necessary to transform anyone from geek to chic, plain to pretty, tired to trendy…you get the point. Shoppers of every style can score shoes by Zodiac, handbags by Ivanka Trump, BelleStyle jewelry, Meghan Fabulous frocks and more. They might walk in a “don’t,” but leaving a “do” is practically a given. 1126 Town & Country Crossing Drive, Town & Country, 636.220.6110.
She’s the new girl in town, but she’s making friends fast. If you have yet to become acquainted, you’ll want to meet Esther. She stands out from the crowd, thanks to her winning personality (she’s upbeat, yet sophisticated) and killer good looks (the décor is as inviting as its inventory). She consistently works Rebecca Taylor dresses, Mother denim and Elizabeth & James separates, providing inspiration on the daily (visit seven days a week). If only all gal pals were so chic. 1556 S. Lindbergh Blvd., Ladue, 314.432.5300.
48.
Best shoe selection
Nordstrom It’s safe to say that shoes replaced diamonds as a girl’s best friend years ago. Disagree? Seek out any modern woman with a credit card, and compare her closet to her jewelry box. She likely frequents Nordstrom to regularly indulge in Jimmy Choo stilettos, Valentino heels, Kate Spade flats and a number of other casual to luxe styles. If you’re craving something with bling, you can always pick up a glittered pump. Multiple locations, nordstrom.com.
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50. Mavrík Jewelry 52. Eileen Fisher Best custom jewelry
Your excitement over a new fashion find tends to fizzle the minute you find out someone scored the same thing—like when that girl walked in wearing your Wang dress, or your sister thought it would be great to copycat your car. You are an individual, and—admittedly—you like to stand out. Consistently buying custom jewelry is one way you dodge blending in, and you count on Mavrík Jewelry to deliver just what you’re looking for. Whether you have an idea for a pendant necklace, want to redesign an heirloom piece or price stones for a show-stopping new ring, you’ve come to believe that owner Igal Alon never disappoints. If only he could paint cars, too... 200 S. Kirkwood Road, Ste. 104, Kirkwood, 314.909.6818.
51. Albarré
Best classic jewelry
Ever since one willpower-less jewelry shopping experience—which resulted in you splurging on enough statement accessories to appease Elizabeth Taylor—you’ve been hesitant to hit any glass counter. Clearly, you haven’t visited Albarré. A tradition since 1976, the Ladue-based jeweler has long been a go-to for special occasion presents and heirloom-worthy pieces. From three-stone diamond rings and cultured pearl necklaces to bold estate earrings and custom engagement bands, the store’s fine-tuned selection caters to a wide variety of budgets and tastes—and the knowledgeable staff is refreshingly helpful. In other words, they won’t sell you five cocktail rings if you’re really on a mission for a men’s watch—even if your lack of willpower is glaring from the get-go. 9711 Clayton Road, Ladue, 314.997.1707.
Best classic looks
It’s hard to fall in love with your wardrobe if it’s only comprised of über-trendy pieces that you’ll inevitably desert for something new six months down the road. The key to an improved relationship with your clothes? Become attached! As Eileen Fisher’s numerous devoted shoppers know well, falling for pieces that never go out of style means you’ll never have to say goodbye. Many have allowed the store’s multiple experts to set them up with casual knitwear, timeless suiting, elegant dresses and more—and they’ve never been more content with their looks. Ah, the power of eternal love. 84 Plaza Frontenac, Frontenac, 314.983.0975.
53. Neiman Marcus Best handbags
You’ve never been one to switch your handbag on the daily; you decide on a style, and stick with it for a season—that is, until you walked into the handbag department at Neiman Marcus. Ever since, you’ve been keeping an abundance of clutches, totes, messenger bags and more in constant rotation—as though they were socks or skivvies. Understandable. Your newly-acquired Fendi pouch, Prada purse, Gucci hobo and others were clearly meant to be seen—and equally so. When it comes to fabulous high-end accessories, one should never play favorites. 100 Plaza Frontenac, Frontenac, 314.567.9811.
54. Jule Lingerie & Loungewear Best Loungewear
The brains behind Jule know that we ladies are much more likely to be found lounging in a Honeydew cami set, a Cosabella robe or colorful pajamas by Eberjey than lacy push-up bras and gstrings—and so have complemented their amazing everyday-tosexy lingerie selection with plenty of shorts, chemises and more— all of which would prove much more practical if a pillow fight were to break out…except that doesn’t happen, either. 1590 Clarkson Road, Ste. 105, Chesterfield, 636.536.9777.
Best Accessories
CODI
If you can’t help but regard Coco Chanel’s popular quote as blasphemy (why on earth would anyone want to take off one piece of jewelry before leaving the house?), then CODI Jewelry is for you. In your opinion, more is more—which is why choosing between designer Courtney Hopson’s covetable spread of bracelets, necklaces, earrings and more has never been a problem. You regularly pile on her “funky for day, fancy for night” pieces, boldly mixing accessories featuring freshwater pearls with those heavy in Swarovski crystals and semi-precious stones. In fact, if it means being made to minimize, you’d rather just stay home. Multiple locations, codijewelry. com.
56. 10denza
It looks like a sleek nightclub (indeed, there is a DJ station), it feels like a clean showroom, and its inspired inventory makes anyone who enters excited to stay. Meet 10denza. Furnished with art books, fashion magazines, trendy sneakers by Puma, colorful wristwear by Toy Watch and Nixon, AIAIAI headphones, Ksubi sunglasses and racks of readyto-wear (think Scotch & Soda for him, Shakuhachi for her), it’s no wonder that the Central West End’s rookie store has already earned a slew of regulars— who actually are welcome to stop in and hang out. To think that at the mall, it’s called loitering. 44 Maryland Plaza, Central West End, 314.361.1010.
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10denza photo by Gwen Ragno.
Most innovative selection
57.
Best LocallyMade Fashions
Skif
If you have yet to venture into the confines of Skif’s expansive design studio-slash-store, but are determined to see the “cool sweaters” you heard are made on The Hill—then get excited. You’re not going to find the traditional cableknits, vests or crewnecks typically found at The Gap and J.Crew. Instead, you’ll be greeted by an assortment of avantgarde knits in shapes that range from asymmetrical tops to colorful frocks. Nina Ganci and her fellow crafters have maintained an outsidethe-box approach to their made-to-order designs since 1994, and it has clearly worked. Today, their unique apparel is sold in more than 300 boutiques nationwide. 2008 Marconi Ave., The Hill, 314.773.4401.
Skif
58. AG Adriano Best denim
Skif photo by Lily Liu.
Goldschmied
For many, shopping for the perfect pair of jeans is comparable to trying on swimwear at the start of summer; they'd rather get a teeth cleaning. That is, until they've visited AG Adriano Goldschmied. While not entirely dedicated to denim (browsers can buy cool tees, button-downs, dresses and more), it’s the store’s specialty. On any day of the week, guys and gals are guaranteed to find classic to cutting-edge jeans in shapes made to fit and flatter. In other words, they won’t cause a muffin top—which will brighten the mood of anyone who shopped elsewhere first. 36 Maryland Plaza, Central West End, 314.361.6161.
59.
Best Vintage Gear
Retro 101
Maybe you’re having a Holly Golightly moment. Or, maybe you’re feeling inspired by Don Draper’s décor. Either way, it’s nice to know that Retro 101 is right around the corner—and fully equipped to fulfill any throwback want or whim. Whether you simply need a break from your overly contemporary style, or you have long been obsessed with retro fashion and mid-century modern furniture, you’ll be happy to find a huge selection of ’40s dresses, ’80s accessories, vintage fur coats, couches and more at your fingertips. As for actually having breakfast at Tiffany’s? Good luck. 2303 Cherokee St., Cherokee, 314.762.9722.
60. Erker's
Best eyewear selection
You’ve never been one to commit. But, like it or not, there are some things you find yourself forced to live with for extended periods of time—your car, your house, your cell phone plan...Luckily, as you’re an avid shopper of Erker’s Fine Eyewear, your glasses aren’t one of them. You’ve long looked to company owners Jack and Tony Erker to keep your eyewear styles exciting—and, right now, they’re stocked with a wide variety of current frames by Barton Perreira, David Yurman, Judith Ripka and more. As a result, “statement glasses” have prevailed as your signature—which is definitely a more desirable calling card than your current "variety"-defined love life. Multiple locations, erkers.com.
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62. Niche
best furniture
most unique frames
The Eye Bar
Ever since you stopped into The Eye Bar and bought the most amazing pair of Chanel shades, you’ve been tempted to revert to your 6-year-old self—when you didn’t require braces, but popped a paperclip in your mouth to achieve the effect. Luckily, you’re not alone this time around—as buying cool glasses you don’t “need” is, in fact, a trend. Feel free to scoop up those retro Oliver Peoples frames, those fab Face a Face specs and even that chunky, chic-geek style by Robert Marc. They don't have sharp edges, so you don't have to worry about being yelled at by mom. 401 N. Euclid Ave., Central West End, 314.367.1848.
Ever since you discovered Niche, and gave in to the consequential urge to redo your entire living room, you must admit—you’ve been pretty impressed with yourself. Thanks to your new Herman Miller chair, your expansive GUS sectional and those ultra-modern end tables recommended by an onstaff interior designer, you’ve finally given your place the look you’ve always dreamed it would have. Let’s just say, if you’re cheating on fashion with furniture, there’s no better place to do the deed. 300 N. Broadway, Downtown, 314.621.8131.
63.
Best gifts
The Service Bureau
In a society overridden by emails, texts and the like, one should never underestimate the power of a handwritten letter. Aided by your choice stationery and maybe even a decorative stamp, it sends the message that you’re thoughtful, caring and way more classy and sophisticated than the average guy or gal. The same can be said of a hostess gift, a thank-you present or most any gift not practically mandated by a national holiday. The brains behind The Service Bureau would easily back all such sentiments—as they’ve built their entire shop on posh paper and a variety of sweet somethings that—unlike any email, evite or well wish text—are guaranteed to earn you brownie points. 9773 Clayton Road, Ladue, 314.991.1104.
Niche
64.
Best Home Accessories
Savvy Surrounding Style
You would have thought that any skills needed to outfit an abode would have come about around the same time you stopped looking to “mommy” to pick out your clothes. No such luck. You’re officially lost, without a clue as to which couch pillows complement each other, what dinnerware would look nice on your new kitchen table (luckily, a gift) and what on earth you’re going to put on all of those bare walls. Your best bet? Visit Savvy, where every available lamp, vase and piece of artwork would prove a good buy—as it was chosen by a staff of style-savvy interior designers, who are happy to give advice. Funny how—when it’s not coming from mom—you’ll take it. 9753 Clayton Road, Ladue, 314.432.7289.
65.
GiddyUp Jane
GiddyUp Jane
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It’s true; you’re a city slicker. You get your shirts dry-cleaned, you order takeout on the regular and you freak when your cleaning lady cancels an appointment with your loft. Still, like Billy Crystal’s famous country-loving character, you’ve come to fancy the sophisticated western wear consistently carried at GiddyUp Jane. From the cowboy boots, belt buckles, baubles and hats to the denim, fringe jackets and traditional snap-front shirts, every unique piece serves as a welcome break from your overly modern usual—as well as a firm reminder to take it to the great outdoors every once in a while—if only to break in your new gear. 9670 Clayton Rd., Ladue, 314.993.9944.
Niche photo by Katherine Bish. GiddyUp Jane photo by Eric Lawson.
Best Western wear
Blue Moon Activewear
66. Blue Moon Activewear Best Activewear
Illustration by Vidhya Nagarajan. Blue Moon Activewear photo by Ryan R. Archer.
It’s that time: swimsuit season. You’re determined to hit the gym—so you can wow when you finally strap on that skimpy bikini. If the thought of six-pack abs isn’t quite enough to get you going, invest in a backup motivator: a killer new workout wardrobe from Blue Moon Activewear—where you’ll purchase a few complete looks by Electric Yoga, a cool jacket by Calvin Klein Performance, bright pants by Lucy, sports bras, a yoga mat and more. Who knew working out ever looked this good? Now, if you can only find a way to get the clothes to lose the weight for you. 159 Carondelet Plaza, Clayton, 314.256.1823.
HOT BLOCK
67. Devil City
68. Left Bank Books
It’s likely that local rebels with cause to shop have already come to consider Devil City their choice haunt. Specializing in American labels, gals typically go to score pin-upperfect outfits by way of Pleaser pumps, Switchblade frocks, flirty pencil skirts and swimwear in cute, retro cuts—while guys count on browsing raw denim, rugged jackets and tough boots by the likes of Pendleton, Schott and Red Wing. Let’s just say, you’ll find everything you need to achieve the look of a classic James Dean, minus the cigarettes. 6301 Delmar Blvd., The Loop, 314.863.8080.
There are some places in which you never fail to lose all concept of time: there’s your bed on a lazy Sunday morning, the beach on vacation days...and Left Bank Books. While you typically go to meet with your book club or to hear an author’s reading (both local and national writers are brought in regularly), you always get so sucked into the expertly curated shelves of locally-authored books, indie paperbacks, hardcover fiction novels and international news and fashion magazines, that you find yourself leaving many hours later than you’d intended. If only your phone alarm wouldn’t prove disrupting to fellow bookworms. Multiple locations, left-bank.com.
Best Classic American Styles
best local bookstore
debra bass
Fashion Editor, St. Louis Post-Dispatch
“I'm a fan of the retail growth in Maplewood. It's diverse, and it doesn't hurt that there's a Kakao Chocolate shop in the middle of it. Charm Boutique and Mezzanine are must-stops, and then it's an easy stroll to the other boutiques along the main drag.” june 2012
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Health & Beauty Whether treating ourselves to a spa day or getting our booties kicked in boot camp, we know we can count on St. Louis to keep us looking and feeling hot. by jennifer wells
69.
Best New Workout class
The Dailey Method If attaining a long, lean dancer’s body isn’t enough motivation to try The Dailey Method, then maybe cute ballet hair (the bun is back!) and Natalie Portman (“Black Swan”) will be enough to push you over the edge. The winning combination of ballet barre work, core conditioning, stretching and orthopedic exercises will keep you coming back for more. Seeing avid devotees’ rock-hard bodies day in and day out doesn’t hurt either. 1560 S. Lindbergh Blvd., Ladue, 314.569.9073.
70.
Best Yoga instruction
71.
Best salon
72.
Best Massage Therapy
YogaSource
Dominic Michael Ginger Bay
Yogis may come for the amazing class selection, but they stay for the sense of peace and community offered by YogaSource. The two yoga rooms—one all-purpose class area and the other equipped to handle the intense 85-degree conditions of Power Vinyasa—are filled with ultimate concentration and expert instruction. Although the heated room definitely draws the masses, the list of alternative methods is as varied as it is long. 1500 S. Big Bend Blvd., Richmond Heights, 314.645.9642.
Keeping up with the newest celeb and runway trends is par for the course at Dominic Michael Salon. Fashionistas flock to these stylists for next season’s “it” color, supermodel-inspired extensions and blowouts that will blow your mind. Their cuts are truly a cut above the rest, and the knowledgeable stylists have been known for their fashionforward advice and meticulous execution for longer than it took you to finally take the plunge on those straight-across bangs. Multiple locations. 314.721.4230.
It’s not only the variety of massages that makes it stand out, but it's also the execution. Rest assured that whether you’re being pampered with a hot stone massage or relieving stress with a Thai massage, you are literally in good hands. These well-trained therapists understand that it’s the little things that matter—heated pillows, hot towels and full-body cushions, anyone? If you’re feeling particularly indulgent, try the Waterfall Massage, a signature hydrotherapy service. 437 S. Kirkwood Road, Kirkwood, 314.966.0655.
73. Best spa
The Spa at Four Seasons
Stunning floor-to-ceiling windows and posh décor beckon spa guests to stay for just one more treatment—and who could refuse? Instead of choosing à la carte (which is next to impossible), opt instead for the Five-Star Treatment signature package—six hours of the most decadent services available. A steam, bamboo and lemongrass scrub and Balinese Massage are only a few of the services provided in this ultra-luxe indulgence. While you’re there, be sure to take a plunge in the irresistible whirlpool. 999 N. Second St., Downtown, 314.881.5800. The Spa at Four Seasons 84
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Rock Workout
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Best Personal Training
Rock Workout photo by Christopher Gibbons. Illustration by Vidhya Nagarajan.
Lionheart Personal Training Studio At Lionheart, you’ll not only get a great workout, but you'll also get a great education. As former coaches and teachers, the staff goes above and beyond to make sure each client understands the ABCs of fitness, so you leave each session armed with the knowledge to maintain a healthy lifestyle. The welcoming feeling is reinforced by the positive, upbeat vibe of the staff who makes even the most apprehensive first-timer feel instantly at ease. 1039 S. Big Bend Blvd., Richmond Heights, 314.452.2392.
Best boot camp
Rock Workout
If the thought of a boot camp brings to mind intense images of pushing yourself beyond all of the physical limits you thought you had, then you’re pretty much right on track. Drill sergeant—ahem—we mean master trainer Val Strang has 18 years of experience whipping people into serious shape. From newbies to seasoned fitness veterans, Val and her team continually keep Rock recruits of all skill levels challenged. Think you’ll have this boot camp mastered after a week or two? Think again—because the routine at Rock is that there is no routine. So, just when you think you’ve got the hang of things, the crew will switch it up and keep your muscles guessing at what’s coming next. 3001 Locust St., Midtown, 314.531.7625.
76. Santé Best gym
Granite countertops and modern design, coupled with an immaculate 18,000-square-foot space, make Santé in the Chase Park Plaza feel more like a spa than a gym—and that’s the point. In addition to all of the trendiest new classes (Power Yoga, Kettlebell, TRX), the gym also offers massage therapy, nutrition coaching and a smoothie station to grab a drink and relax in the Wi-Fi-equipped lounge after a workout. The platinum membership includes special guest privileges, daily laundry and, of course, valet. 212 N. Kingshighway Blvd., Central West End, 314.633.3020.
77. Red Fitness Lounge Best New Workout space
We don’t want to just work out at Red Fitness Lounge— we want to spend some serious time there. Sky-high ceilings, a dazzling black chandelier and walls painted in striking contemporary colors make this gym as much of a treat for the eyes as it is for the waistline. The sleek décor—and nightlife-like smoothie bar—bring renewed motivation to those tired of the usual humdrum gymosphere. The innovative setting is further enhanced by the entirely customized personal workout sessions its trainers offer. 139 Carondelet Plaza, Clayton, 314.497.8838.
78. FitChix Fitness Studio Best Group Workouts
Sure, FitChix is known for its fun and flirty classes (Burlesque Fit, Chair Dance, Cardio Stripfit, Pole Dancing, etc.), but don’t let the sexy fun fool you—there’s a whole lot of fitness happening amidst the gravity-defying pole work and rigorous booty shaking. You might not feel the burn while you’re at class (you’ll be having way too much fun for that), but you’ll definitely feel it the next day while nursing aching muscles you never even knew you had. Multiple locations, fitchixfitnessstudio.com.
79. Sweat
Best Calorie-Burning Routines
Want a workout that packs a powerful punch? Look no further than Sweat, where the vibe is similar to that of an old-school boxing gym, but the classes and equipment are anything but. Learn the basics in The Puncher’s Class, train like a fighter with The Boxer’s Workout, or take things up a level and watch the calories visibly pour out of you with The Sweat Workout. If you’re a follower of fitness trends, you simply must try the new VibeFit Class. Vibration training is all the rage among celebrities and athletes, and for good reason. Rumor has it this new fitness phenomenon increases muscle power while decreasing cellulite—sign us up! 8011 Maryland Ave., Clayton, 314.725.2714.
80. Stonewater Spa Best mani-pedi
As if Plaza Frontenac wasn’t dangerous enough already, now we’ve discovered yet another reason to walk through the doors. The sophisticated setting inside Stonewater Spa instantly transports you from the hustle and bustle of rigorous shopping to a serene atmosphere that’s made for pampering. The staff have been trained to take their time, ensuring that each client walks out satisfied. And, how could we not get behind a mani-pedi that lets you choose your own signature scent for exfoliation from a list of fun fragrances like Honey Pumpkin, Hot Toddy and Orchard Custard? 3 Plaza Frontenac, Frontenac, 314.569.2111.
Hot Workout Becky Sauerbrunn U.S. Olympic Soccer Player
“If I'm home and need to do strength training, I go to Gold's Gym on Dorsett. They've got all the equipment I would ever need, and the space is huge. When I'm feeling adventurous and try something like Gold's yoga, I know it's quality because the next day, I feel like I played a 90-minute game. ” june 2012
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81.
Best new arts & culture Venue
Peabody Opera House
Arts & Culture If you haven’t treated yourself to a cultural education for some time, then prepare to get schooled—because the St. Louis arts and culture scene is sizzling. by Katie davis
83. The Fox Theatre
82.
Best live theater venue
Best art fair
St. Louis Art Fair It’s hard to argue against the planning, expertise and passion poured into this fair each year. Held Sept. 7-9 in downtown Clayton, the eclectic festival has continued to ramp up the city’s fine art status nationwide. The diversity is outstanding—there are woodworks, paintings, photos, glass art and sculpture, to name a few. But, it's the undeniable style and class of the event that has truly elevated it to national attention. Downtown Clayton, culturalfestivals.com. 86
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Patrons who frequent The Fox know that it deserves the “fabulous” in its official name. The building’s grandiose interior is unmatched, with its velvet staircases, marble pillars and gold statues. The go-to spot for musicals, concerts and other live performances (this year’s highlights include “The Lion King,” Sting and Barry Manilow), The Fox keeps the tradition of dressing up and heading to Grand to see a show alive and well. 527 N. Grand Blvd., Grand Center, 314.534.1678.
84. The Repertory Theatre Best season lineup
Now in its 46th season, The Rep consistently draws us in with its incredible selection of high-quality productions. We're already impressed with the 2012-2013 lineup, featuring Jane Austen’s witty “Sense and Sensibility,” crime-thriller “Double Indemnity” and romance-musical “Daddy Long Legs.” What can we say? Longtime Artistic Director Steven Woolf’s skillful interpretations of the top productions around seem to get us every time. 130 Edgar Road, Webster Groves, 314.968.4925.
85. Bruno David Gallery
86. Best theater company
HotCity Theatre
Edgy, thought-provoking and progressive, HotCity Theatre is known for its eclectic shows and deep city involvement. Its current season examines the lives of professorsmitten students and runaway wives. But, perhaps what’s most award-worthy is its focus on human relationships and its constant, actor-centric mission of portraying those relationships with truth and vulnerability. 3547 Olive St., Midtown, 314.289.4060.
Best gallery
In the heart of Grand Center, Bruno David Gallery has certainly positioned itself as a well-connected dealer of contemporary art. Featuring a main gallery, project room, front room and new media area—continually filled with provocative art, videos installations and interactive exhibits—this hip gallery has definitely earned its spot amidst STL’s top art mavens. 3721 Washington Blvd., Midtown, 314.531.3030.
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Bruno David Gallery
Peabody Opera House photo by Todd Morgan. Bruno David Gallery photo courtesy of the gallery.
Peabody Opera House
A St. Louis landmark resurrected, the Peabody Opera House has lived up to the city’s grand expectations, and then some. From the elegantly restored historic architecture to the diverse performance lineup—everything from Oprah to “Mary Poppins”—it is quickly reestablishing itself as a heavy hitter in STL culture. We should’ve known when Aretha Franklin and Jay Leno showed up to perform on opening night. 1400 Market St., Downtown, 314.499.7600.
87. 88. Saint Louis Art Museum Best Museum
Best Arts Educator
Illustration by Vidhya Nagarajan. LouFest photo by Corey Woodruff.
COCA When dancers, actors and other performing artists gather to discuss “who’s doing what” or “who’s performing where,” it’s understood that mentioning COCA demands instant respect. The center has been serving St. Louis with workshops, classes, performances, exhibits and community events in support of the arts since 1986. Audiences see eclectic ballets, musicals and hip-hop performances, as well as storytellers, musicians, photographers and more. Art is displayed in the Millstone Gallery, and the organization works closely with schools through its Urban Arts and Interchange programs. Vital to local arts development, COCA is the backbone of St. Louis’ artistic future. 524 Trinity Ave., University City, 314.725.6555.
SLAM earned its place in the city long ago, but it refuses to rest on its laurels. Boasting over 30,000 pieces of art, SLAM has expanded its exhibits to contemporary photography and multimedia projects, as well as free lectures and video discussions. A massive expansion is planned for its interior galleries and the building’s perimeters—keeping with its mission to constantly change and grow—like all great artists strive to do. 1 Fine Arts Drive., Forest Park, 314.721.0072.
89. St. Louis Symphony best arts innovations
Although Rachmaninoff, Dvorak and Beethoven will forever hold their permanent thrones at Powell Hall, the St. Louis Symphony also has shows based on Final Fantasy scores, James Bond and the music of Led Zeppelin and The Beatles—not to mention bringing in stars like Sinatra-influenced Michael Feinstein. It’s no wonder the organization embarks on a prestigious European festival tour come fall. 718 N. Grand Blvd., Grand Center, 314.533.2500.
90. Dance St. Louis Best dance organization
Originally started as a collaborative effort between local dancers, teachers and enthusiasts, Dance St. Louis consistently brings troupes like Hubbard Street Dance Chicago and The Joffrey Ballet to the city’s stages. The 20112012 season brought in the Martha Graham Dance Company and “Billy Elliot the Musical," among others, and next year promises the likes of "STOMP," "Moulin Rouge the Ballet" and the New York City Ballet. Most recently, fans of contemporary dance got their annual fix with the ever-growing Spring to Dance Festival. 3547 Olive St., Midtown, 314.534.5000.
91. Touhill Performing Arts Center Best Performing Arts Organization
Hot outing Sen. claire mccaskill
"When I’m home in St. Louis, I love to visit the Zoo and The Magic House in Kirkwood with my grandchildren—because they’re simply the most adorable grandkids on earth. I take out-of-town guests out for Italian food on The Hill, Cardinals baseball and, of course, Ted Drewes."
Whether your particular fancy is ballet, jazz, symphony, global music or something a bit more alternative—like a spokenword ballet or improv comedy sketch—Touhill caters to fans of the stage…period. The organization is one of the most current in the area—allowing its web visitors to choose their ideal series and its patrons to join the E3 program, which allows show-goers to meet after performances to review, debate and discuss. 1 University Blvd., Florissant, 314.516.4949.
92. Japanese Festival Best cultural festival
Aesthetically speaking, there are not many places that trump the Missouri Botanical Garden. Add a nationally recognized Japanese Festival (Sept. 1-3) to the mix of gorgeous, well-maintained gardens, heavily involved team members and a location in the heart of Shaw, and you’ve created the perfect festival setting. One of the first Japanese festivals in the US, this annual event features dozens of traditional performers—including dancers, martial arts masters and drummers—as well as authentic Japanese cuisine, Sumo wrestling, storytelling, bonsai art and eye candy galore. Don’t miss the official kickoff, held in the lantern-clad Japanese Garden. 4344 Shaw Blvd., Shaw, 314.577.5100.
93. LouFest Best Music Event
The music festival underdog to cities like Chicago and Portland, St. Louis finally upped its summer music game when Brian Cohen organized the city’s first indie-influenced festival in 2010. With bands like Broken Social Scene and She & Him, LouFest immediately clicked with STL’s music-adoring fans. The next year saw The Hold Steady, TV on the Radio and an even larger crowd—with many more out-oftowners making the trek to hear great music and sample from local vendors. When this year’s lineup (Aug. 25-26)—The Flaming Lips, Girl Talk, Phantogram and more—was announced to a screaming crowd at Plush this spring, one thing became absolutely certain: LouFest has not only grown—it has exploded. Central Field, Forest Park, loufest.com.
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94.
Best theater event
Shakespeare Festival
95. Missouri History Museum Best special exhibits
Known for in-depth looks at historical events and trends (most recently with its “Mammoths and Mastodons” and “The Language of Portraits” exhibits), the Missouri History Museum is branching out and planning more outside-the-box events and exhibitions than ever before. The Titanic Centennial Weekend and Pink & Purple Fashion Show are just two of the recent initiatives that allow the museum to connect with a variety of artistic communities and present history to St. Louis in unique and unexpected ways. Guests can stroll through numerous exhibits, attend museum-sponsored plays and films and even listen in on lectures, like “The Coming War with Robots.” 5700 Lindell Blvd., Forest Park, 314.746.4599.
96.
Best culinary festival
Taste of St. Louis
Art and foodie cravings are no laughing matter at this culinary extravaganza. With its gourmet food samples, a juried Art & Wine Walk, national and local bands and the highly anticipated Chef Battle Royale, Taste of St. Louis (Sept. 28-30) has grown into a multidimensional event. Filled with plenty to see, touch, smell, hear and—well—taste, this festival has rightly earned its premier status in food-lovers’ hearts. Soldiers Memorial, Downtown, tastestl.com.
97.
best free event
Fair St. Louis Locals sound a little like World’s Fair-goers as they reference the city’s expansive—and, of course, free—July 4th celebration. In the thick of St. Louis’ infamously humid summer, Fair Saint Louis manages to distract its throngs of attendees with festivities like the Veiled Prophet Parade, multiple races, air shows, fireworks displays and big-name concerts—this year featuring Third Eye Blind, Heart and Dierks Bentley. Gateway Arch grounds, Downtown, fairsaintlouis.org.
Media Personalities If all you wanted was the news, you could go online—but it’s much more fun to tune in to see what our fave STL media pros are going to say. by amy de la hunt
98. Jasmine Huda, KMOV 99. Tim Ezell, KTVI
100. Curt Copeland, Z107.7
Pretty faces on TV are a dime a dozen. But, underneath Huda’s glamorous exterior is a serious reporter who cut her chops in DC, at NPR and FOX News, before returning to Missouri. Since coming to KMOV, the news veteran has transitioned gracefully into the anchor chair, where she brings a winning mix of reporter’s tenacity, hometown savvy and upbeat personality. She’s not afraid to tease fellow reporters via Facebook, or admit she’s wearing fleece pants under the news desk to ward off a chill—and viewers love her for it.
The hilarious and loveable Curt Copeland has been "best friends" with listeners—thanks to his popular Free Therapy Thursdays and coverage of his beloved Cardinals—for 7 years and counting. A St. Louisan in the truest sense, Copeland works Cards postgame shows at Mike Shannon’s and Grizzlies minor league games on the side. And, he's also tried his hand at wedding officiating. What started as a promotional gambit for White Castle has morphed into real requests from people to do their weddings.
best Female TV Personality
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Best male TV Personality
It’s hard to imagine something Tim Ezell wouldn’t do on-air. In fact, it’s hard to imagine something he hasn’t already done on-air— until we turn on the TV and see him doing it. The FOX 2 anchor and feature reporter brightens weekday mornings with antics that range from bro-ga to cross-dressing, ballroom dancing to race car driving. He has a knack for interviewing everyone with the same wit, irreverence and respect. And, no matter how goofy things get, Ezell always manages to leave us with that “who’d a thunk it” mentality.
Best Radio personality
Shakespere Festival photo by J.David Levy. Flag photo courtesy of Missouri History Museum.
Shakespeare Festival
City-dwellers roaming Forest Park in the summertime have often been shocked to find Shakespearian plays taking place—for free. Audiences are now enjoying the 2012 performance, “Othello,” under the supervision of Director Bruce Longworth. But, the fun doesn't stop there. The crew also organizes “Shake-38,” a series of 38 Shakespeare plays performed around the city, as well as educational camps for kids. Shakespeare Glen, Forest Park, sfstl.com.
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Monday-Friday 8:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. & Saturday 8:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. june 2012
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outdoor
dining guide ALIVE takes you on a delicious tour of St. Louis’ best outdoor dining locations.
Novak's
Chevys Fresh Mex Chevys serves up full-flavored food and drinks in a vibrant, energetic atmosphere, with authentic Mexican cuisine made entirely from scratch. Known for its energetic ambiance, Chevy’s is perfect for couples, families with children or foodies on the lookout for the next exciting place to grab a bite. MuST-TRY Menu ITeM: Sizzling Steak Fajitas with 21-day aged outside skirt steak—great with a handmade El Mayor Margarita on the rocks. 90
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SuMMeR HAppY HOuR SpecIALS: Happy hour is every day, 2-8pm in the Cantina. $3 margaritas, domestic bottles, house wine and well drinks, $7 specialty drinks and discounted appetizers. TOp SuMMeR DISH: Fresh fish tacos with tableside guacamole
7 area locations! facebook.com/chevysstl @chevysstl · chevysstl.com ALIVE SPECIAL PROMOTION
Hamburger Mary's photos courtesy of Jules Brown and Christopher Gibbons.
Hamburger mary’s Hamburger Mary's is an openair bar and grill for openminded people. Come by any day of the week for great drink and food specials, including Mary-tinis for only $8. Join us "Tini Tuesdays" for $2 off. Mary’s Rec Room is Midtown Alley’s premier sports bar, no matter what the season, located on the Mezzanine level of Hamburger Mary’s. It’s the perfect neighborhood bar to hang out with friends, grab a drink and even play a game of pool. Party on the patio every day, complete with its own bar and live entertainment when
ALIVE SPECIAL PROMOTION
weather permits. Hamburger Mary’s is open daily for lunch, dinner and cocktails Sunday through Wednesday, 11am-midnight and Thursday through Saturday, 11am1am—it's always a party at Mary's! Top Summer Dish: Mini Mary’s Sliders are smaller and cuter versions of the grown-up Mary, with American cheese, pickle, tomato and Mary’s special sauce. Summer Happy Hour Specials: Peel and drink on
the patio every Friday, with 3 for $1 peel-and-eat shrimp and $2 draft beers, from 5pm until the shrimp runs out! Must-Try Menu Item: Marg’s & Mo’s are muy bueno southof-the-border concoctions, including tasty house margaritas, flavored ‘ritas, mojitos and more!
3037 Olive St. St. Louis, MO 63103 314.533.MARY (6279) hamburgermarys.com/stlouis
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JoaNie’s PiZZeria Joanie’s, located in the historic Soulard Neighborhood, offers a nice, cozy atmosphere, delicious dining and a great outdoor patio. For 18 years, Joanie’s has been serving great pizzas, fresh salads, hearty sandwiches, tantalizing pasta dishes, house specialties (try Joanie’s delicious stuffed calzone) and a variety of mouthwatering cakes, brownies and cheesecakes for dessert. Whether you’re a regular customer or a first-timer, the friendly staff at Joanie’s will make you feel like family. Sports fans can catch Joanie’s shuttle to any local sporting event free of charge.
DiD you know: Joanie opened a new fast-casual location at 5441 Telegraph Road in Oakville.
BIG DADDY'S SOULARD
HARRY’S RESTAURANT AND BAR— HORIZON EVENT SPACE
Big Daddy’s expansive beer garden has a full-service bar and an unmatched ambiance. Find out about daily lunch, dinner and drink specials at the website, check out Big Daddy’s on Facebook or download the mobile app. Big Daddy’s also has a full-service upstairs bar available to book for private parties. DiD you know: When the Big Daddy’s shuttle is not taking customers for free to Cardinals and Blues games, it is available for private rentals as well. muST-Try menu iTem: Big Daddy’s roasted-and-shaved-daily Roast Beef Cadillac Sandwich is known worldwide for its supreme flavor. If you like wings, try the signature sauces.
Summer Happy Hour SpecialS: 3:30-6:30pm, Monday-Friday. Beer and well drink specials and a wide variety of half-price appetizers. Top Summer DiSH: Pesto Chicken Margherita Pizza 2101 menard St. · St louis, mo 63104 · 314.865.1994 Joanies To go · 314.865.5800 · joanies.com Joanies oakville · 314.487.9999
Harry’s patio is a true St. Louis landmark, with numerous awards, including best view of the Downtown skyline and the Arch, best outdoor happy hour and outstanding service. It’s perfect for dining, cocktails or afternoon happy hours, and the live entertainment on weekend nights is truly legendary. DiD you know: If the weather gets too hot on crowded weekend nights, cool off in the new Horizon room, St. Louis’ hottest new weekend venue. Summer Happy Hour SpecialS: Happy hour is 4-7pm with $4 wine and $5 liquor.
can’T-miSS-upcoming ouTDoor paTio evenT: For lunch, happy hour and late-night gatherings, Big Daddy’s beer garden has been a favorite meeting place and playground for 20- and 30-somethings for over 13 years.
muST-Try menu iTem: Harry’s famous house-made pizzas, with your choice of toppings. These fantastic thin-crust creations are sure to please!
1000 Sidney St. · St. louis, mo 63104 314.771.3066 · bigdaddystl.com
2144 market St. · St. louis, mo 63103 314.421.6969 · harrysrestaurantandbar.com
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ALIVE SPECIAL PROMOTION
Novak’s Bar & Grill
Great Grizzly Bear photo courtesy of Christopher Gibbons. Novak's Bar & Grill photos courtesy of Jules Brown.
Novak’s Bar & Grill opened its doors in 1996. The original location, a block away, was primarily frequented by lesbianfriendly patrons. Today, the bar has grown into a premier entertainment destination for people of various orientations and backgrounds: lesbian, gay, transgender, bisexual and straight people alike. The outdoor entertainment playground features a luxurious three-tiered patio, hand-built marble bar, fountains, statues, a gazebo stage and a surround-sound patio theater. Novak’s also has more than 7,000 square feet of indoor space, including a dance floor, stage, kitchen, game room, party rooms and a magnificent horseshoe bar that accommodates tons of thirsty customers nightly.
DiD you know: Many think of Novak’s as just another “gay” bar. Actually, it is truly a “pansexual” mecca, catering to people from all walks of life. muST-Try menu iTem: The build-your-own burger is a must-try. Starting with choice cuts of beef and finishing with a huge selection of toppings, our burgers are simply delicious. upcoming ouTDoor paTio evenT: Thousands of people pepper our patio throughout Pride Weekend every June. Although customers line up around the block, VIP patrons use a special no-wait entrance. 4121 manchester ave St. louis, mo 63110 314.531.3699 novaksbar.com
VITO’S ORIGINAL SICILIAN PIZZERIA & RISTORANTE
GREAT GRIZZLY BEAR
Vito’s has been dishing up family recipes and award-winning pizza since 1996. Sip a refreshing cocktail, like the Watermelon Mojito or Italian Bellini, while enjoying spectacular views and live music (check vitosstl.com for the schedule). Vito’s is a great place to meet friends and co-workers for happy hour, and private parties are always welcome. Summer Happy Hour SpecialS: Happy hour is Monday through Friday, 3-6pm, with $2 domestic bottles, $3 premium pints and wells, $5 wines and halfprice appetizers. Top Summer Drink: Vito’s Watermelon Mojito, with Bacardi grand melon rum, fresh watermelon, cane sugar, lime and fresh mint. can’T-miSS paTio evenT: Vito’s is introducing “Karaoke for a Cause.” Visit Vito’s every Friday night and sing your heart out to raise money for local charities. 3515 lindell Blvd. · St. louis, mo 63103 · 314.534.8486 · vitosstl.com
Great Grizzly Bear is one of the longest-running establishments in Soulard, boasting a hidden patio nestled amongst historic Soulard buildings. The patio offers a great setting for special occasions, or simply relaxing with friends while watching STL sports and movies on the large outdoor screen. It also features a variety of entertainment, including trivia, DJs and live music. Summer Happy Hour SpecialS: Happy hour is 3-6pm, with daily specials on beer buckets and appetizers. muST-Try menu iTem: A must-have when dining at The Grizz are the Grizzly Balls—don’t let the name scare you! can’T-miSS upcoming ouTDoor paTio evenT: Join us on the last Sunday of every month for the Blues Brunch, featuring live music, local Blues players and blueberry mimosas. 1027 geyer ave. · St. louis, mo 63104 314.231.0444 · greatgrizzlybearsoulard.com
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Indulgence Sweet
Treat yourself to our ultra-premium, creamy Culinaria Ice Cream – only at Schnucks! We custom churn it with 16% butterfat. You’ll find all of your favorites, plus delicious new flavors like Peanut Butter Cup, Crème Brûlée and Strawberry. For the most decadent of sundaes, top your ice cream with our exclusive Culinaria Dessert Sauces. Whether you choose Chocolate Fudge with a hint of coffee or Sea Salt Caramel Chocolate, they both add a depth of flavor that’s unforgettable!
©2012 Schnucks
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Eat+Drink
the best places in town to eat, drink & dance | A Taste of Summertime
spirits
Cocktail Class
ALIVE spirits writer Matt Sorrell studies up at the latest mixology course at Taste. by Matt Sorrell St. Louis’ amateur mixologists now have a golden
opportunity to learn the tricks of the trade from two of the premier cocktail experts on the scene. Ted Kilgore, who oversees the bar program at Taste, and his wife, Jamie, the bar manager at Niche, are offering a monthly mixology course through their consulting company, Last Word Cocktails, at Taste in the Central West End. The couple first launched the program with a few classes at the old Taste location in Benton Park in fall 2010, and a couple more were conducted at Taste’s current digs in the Central West End. The sessions proved so popular that the pair is now putting on the sessions on a monthly basis, and I was fortunate enough to attend one on behalf of ALIVE to see what the buzz is all about. We took our seats around the bar at Taste, and started the day with a glass of Brandy Milk Punch, a simple, classic New Orleans libation. As one of the 10 exclusive students within the cozy confines of Taste, I felt right at home in the comfortable and intimate atmosphere. Of course, we all wanted to immediately continued p.96
Brandy Milk Punch at Taste
photo by Samuel Zide
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eat+Drink / where to go
spirits
Cocktail Class
Last Word Cocktails mixology class at Taste
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St. Louis Restaurant Guide
visit alivemag.com for an expanded list of recommended spots to eat and drink.
Midtown/ Downtown
dinner daily. 1004 Locust St., 314.241.8141. $$
AL’S RESTAURANT In its 85th year of service, featuring award-winning steaks and seafood. Dinner Tue.-Sat. 1200 N. 1st St., 314.421.6399. $$$
BURGER BAR Celeb chef Hubert Keller offers build-your-own gourmet burgers with a large list of breads, meats and condiments. Lunch and dinner daily. 999 N. 2nd St., 314.881.7580. $$
BAILEYS’ RANGE Creative, upscale takes on the classic burger, as well as boozy milkshakes and niche sodas. Lunch and dinner daily. 920 Olive St., 314.241.8121. $$
CAFé PINXTOS A bright, busy breakfast shop by morning, a trendy tapas bar by night. Breakfast and dinner daily. 3407 Olive St., 314.338.2500. $$
Blondie’s Delectable eats, treats and a selection of specialty drinks inspired by famous blondes. Breakfast and lunch daily; dinner Thu.-Fri. 1301 B Washington Ave., 314.241.6100. $
Café Ventana An extensive lunch selection, including sandwiches, beignets and pastries with your coffee. Open daily. 3919 W. Pine Blvd., 314.531.7500. $
BLOOD & SAND A members-only spot boasting bold and exciting creations in the kitchen and behind the bar. Dinner Mon.-Sat. 1500 St. Charles St., 314.241.7263. $$$ BRIDGE TAP HOUSE and WINE BAR A large craft beer and wine selection, as well as meat and cheese plates, sandwiches and salads. Lunch and
CHUY ARZOLA’S Spicy fajitas, chilled margaritas and a relaxed atmosphere. Lunch and dinner daily. 3701 Lindell Blvd., 314.535.3800. $
key $ Entrées average under $10 $$ Entrées $10–$17 $$$ Entrées $18+
CIELO Quality Italian cuisine, dynamic beverages and stunning views. Open daily. 999 N. 2nd St., 314.881.5759. $$$ B
Copia Modern interpretations of classic American cuisine, with a legendary wine garden. Lunch and dinner Mon.-Fri.; dinner Sat. 1122 Washington Ave., 314.241.9463. $$$ new DIABLITOS CANTINA Fresh, authentic Mexican cuisine with more than 100 types of house-infused tequila. Lunch and dinner daily. 3761 Laclede Ave., 314.644.4430. $
FLANNERY’S PUB Traditional Irish pub known for an impressive beer list and game-day coverage. Lunch and dinner daily. 1324 Washington Ave., 314.241.8885. $ The Fountain on Locust Freshly made appetizers, entrées, fine ice
Hot List 2012 Winner Kitchen open past 11pm Outdoor seating new Opened in the last 6 months B Serves brunch
Photo by Samuel Zide.
start shaking and stirring, but before we delved into the mechanics of how cocktails are put together, we went all the way to the beginning by learning the basics of how to taste straight spirits. As Ted says, you can’t make a quality cocktail without quality spirits to build upon, and it’s of utmost importance to be able to judge for yourself whether your booze is going to be worthy of your final cocktail creation. Lined up in front of us were tasting portions of gin, tequila, rum, Scotch and bourbon. Ted skillfully led us through each spirit, teaching how to suss out the various flavor notes unique to the spirit, and how to get an idea of the alcohol content and quality of the distillation by taste alone. Amidst the happy sipping, we also learned some of the verbiage to articulate what we experienced on our tongues. Then, it was on to some serious cocktailing. The Kilgores demonstrated some basic techniques like proper shaking and stirring and when each is appropriate, plus some flavorful tips to enhance the final product, like how to flame an orange peel. Just as important, they broke down the process of how a cocktail is created, covering everything from standard ratios to the importance of ice. Armed with this knowledge, we each tried our hand at making a martinez, a classic drink thought by many to be the precursor to the martini. Buoyed by that exercise, I then got to take a solo turn behind the bar to create my own custom cocktail under the Kilgores’ expert guidance. I chose Scotch for a challenge and created what we now call “I’ve Had Worse.” We walked away from the day with a set of bar tools, a list of some of the basic recipes and detailed notes on everything that was covered. The plan is to hold the classes on the last Sunday of the month. Look for classes covering specific spirits or cocktails, as well. I, for one, can’t wait! More info at lastwordcocktails. com.
creams and retro cocktails in a hand-painted Art Deco interior. Lunch and dinner Tue.-Sun. 3037 Locust St., 314.535.7800. $ The Good Pie Specialty pizzas Napoletana-style, like The Good Pie with buffalo mozzarella. Lunch and dinner Mon.-Sat. 3137 Olive St., 314.289.9391. $$ new HAMBURGER
MARY’S Unique burgers and a whimsical, fun-loving atmosphere. Lunch and dinner daily. 3037 Olive St., 314.533.6279. $ B
HARRY’S Great food, happy hour and view of the Arch with a casual atmosphere. Lunch Mon.-Fri.; dinner Mon.-Sat. 2144 Market St., 314.421.6969. $$ LOLA French and American cuisine, and a large selection of unique cocktails. Open daily. 500 N. 14th St., B 314.621.7277. $$ Lucas Park Grille A seasonal menu featuring soups, salads and New American entrées. Lunch and dinner daily. 1234 Washington Ave., B 314.241.7770. $$$ Mango Peruvian fusion dishes add a twist to foods you thought you knew. Lunch Mon.-Sat.; dinner daily. 1101 Lucas Ave., 314.621.9993. $$ Mike Shannon’s A St. Louis landmark serving upscale American cuisine. Lunch Mon.-Fri.; dinner daily. 620 Market St., 314.421.1540. $$ MORGAN STREET BREWERY Upbeat microbrewery and pub with great drink specials and live music. Lunch Tue.-Sun.; dinner daily. 721 N. 2nd St., 314.231.9970. $$ Mosaic A modern fusion restaurant with an array of cold and hot tapas. Lunch and dinner Mon.-Sat. 1001 Washington Ave., 314.621.6001. $$ Pickles Classic sandwiches like New York Pastrami and one of the best roast beef sandwiches in town. Lunch Mon.-Fri. 701 Olive St., 314.241.2255. $
THREE SIXTY Located on the rooftop of The Hilton St. Louis, with a spectacular view of the city, stellar cocktails and small plates. Dinner daily. 1 S. Broadway, 314.241.8439. $$$ TONY’S A St. Louis institution known for fine Italian cuisine and an extensive wine selection. Dinner Tue.-Sat. 410 Market St., 314.231.7007. $$$ VIto’s Known for exceptional Italian cuisine and Sicilian-style pizza. Lunch Mon.-Fri.; dinner Mon.-Sun. 3515 Lindell Blvd., 314.534.8486. $$
Lafayette Square/ Benton Park/ Soulard BAILEYS’ CHOCOLATE BAR Offering a mix of savory and sweet items, with desserts such as Baileys’ Chocolate Brownie and bread pudding. Open daily. 1915 Park Ave., 314.241.8100. $ blues city deli A charming turn-of-the-century storefront with an expansive menu of sandwiches, salads and Po’ Boys. Lunch Mon.-Sat. 2438 McNair Ave., 314.773.8225. $ BOGARTS SMOKEHOUSE Smokey, Memphis-style BBQ with generous portions. Lunch Tue.-Sat. 1627 S. 9th St., 314.621.3107. $$ Chava’s Mexican Authentic Mexican cuisine known for large portions and tangy margaritas. Lunch and dinner daily. 925 Geyer Ave., 314.241.5503. $ Eleven 11 Mississippi Blending old- and new-world culinary classics from Tuscany and Northern California. Lunch Mon.-Fri.; dinner Mon.-Sat. 1111 Mississippi Ave., 314.241.9999. $$$ Franco Country-French fare with a modern twist. Lunch Mon.-Fri.; dinner Mon.-Sat. 1535 S. 8th St., 314.436.2500. $$$
Prime 1000 High-end steaks in a chic setting. Lunch Mon.-Fri.; dinner Mon.-Sat. 1000 Washington Ave., 314.241.1000. $$$
MOLLY’S IN SOULARD Southern Creole favorites, with one of STL’s largest outdoor patios. Lunch and dinner Tue.-Sat. 816 Geyer Ave., 314.241.6200. $$ B
rosalita’s cantina A happening Tex-Mex restaurant offering Mexican favorites like fajitas, tacos and margaritas. Lunch and dinner daily. 1235 Washington Ave., 314.621.2700. $
the Mud house Fresh-roasted coffee, sandwiches, soups and pastries. Breakfast and lunch daily. 2101 Cherokee St., 314.776.6599. $ B NICHE An award-winning neighborhood bistro with a fabulous menu of
American cuisine. Dinner daily. 1831 Sidney St., 314.773.7755. $$$ Park Avenue Coffee Chauvin coffee, bagels, house-made muffins, smoothies and a selection of more than 70 gooey butter cakes. Open daily. 1919 Park Ave., 314.621.4020. $ PW Pizza Classic pies and one-of-akind recipes, with a focus on fresh, local and seasonal ingredients. Lunch and dinner daily. 2017 Chouteau Ave., 314.241.7799. $$ SHAMELESS GROUNDS A coffee shop known well for its socially progressive and artistic atmosphere. Open daily. 2650 Sidney St., 314.773.9900. $ The SHAVED DUCK A cozy atmosphere, live music and meats smoked to perfection. Lunch Tue.-Fri.; dinner Mon.-Sat. 2900 Virginia Ave., 314.776.1407. $$ Siete Luminarias Traditional Mexican fare featuring such staples as tacos and gorditas and specialties like pambazo. Lunch and dinner daily. 2818 Cherokee St., 314.932.1333. $
in season
Berry-licious Small but mighty, blueberries and blackberries pack a flavorful punch. Plus, they contain loads of healthy antioxidants and crucial vitamins. Baked into muffins, tossed over cereal or enjoyed by the handful, these summer fruits combine the best in taste and nutrition.
new
Soulard’s Restaurant Contemporary Southern cuisine and grilled-toperfection steaks. Lunch and dinner Mon.-Sat. 1731 S. 7th St., 314.241.7956. $$$ B SqWires A seasonal menu featuring fresh interpretations of American classics. Lunch Tue.-Fri.; dinner Tue.-Sat. B 1415 S. 18th St., 314.865.3522. $$$ vin de set French cuisine served under the stars on the rooftop bar and bistro. Lunch Tue.-Fri.; dinner Tue.-Sun. 2017 Chouteau Ave., 314.241.8989. $$$ B
Central West End/ The Grove Bixby’s Located on the second floor of the Missouri History Museum with breathtaking views of Forest Park. Lunch daily. 5700 Lindell Blvd., 314.361.7313. $ B BRASSERIE BY NICHE Casual French dining with an evolving menu of bistro fare, an impressive beer list and classic desserts. Dinner Mon.-Sun. 4580 Laclede Ave., 314.454.0600. $$ B
Chi A trendy Japanese sushi bar with some of the best rolls in St. Louis.
Pick Your Own: Wind Ridge Farm 636.828.5900, New Melle, MO (blackberries & blueberries) Liberty Blueberry Farms 573.701.0281, Farmington, MO (blackberries & blueberries) Eckert’s Belleville Farm 618.233.0513, Belleville, IL (blackberries) – Jorie Jacobi
Lunch and dinner Mon.-Sat. 4 N. Euclid Ave., 314.367.2209. $ CrÊpes: etc. An upscale patisserie serving both sweet and savory crêpes, as well as a variety of homemade pastries, soups and sandwiches. Breakfast and lunch daily; dinner Fri.-Sat. 52 Maryland Plaza, 314.367.2200. $ the Drunken Fish Japanese sushi lounge with everything from tuna tataki to traditional rolls. Half off signature martinis on Martini Mondays. Lunch and dinner daily. 1 Maryland Plaza, 314.367.4222. $$ La Dolce Via Family-owned bakery and café with delectable handmade desserts. Breakfast and lunch Wed.-Sun. 4470 Arco Ave., 314.534.1699. $ B Herbie’s Vintage 72 Contemporary American cuisine in an elegant atmosphere. Dinner daily. 405 N. Euclid Ave., 314.769.9595. $$ B
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eat+Drink / where to go
Pi Creative cocktails, homemade desserts and delicious San Fran-style pizza. Open daily. 400 N. Euclid Ave., 314.367.4300. Multiple locations, restaurantpi.com. $$
Gian-Tony’s Owner Tony Catarinicchia brings recipes straight from Sicily, with fresh ingredients from the onsite garden. Dinner daily. 5356 Daggett Ave., 314.772.4893. $$
Salt Upscale dishes from Chef Wes Johnson, like sorghum lacquered duck, served in the unique ambiance of a former CWE mansion. Dinner Wed.-Mon. 4356 Lindell Blvd., B 314.932.5787. $$
GUIDO’S A distinguished mix of Italian and Spanish cuisine. Lunch and dinner daily. 5046 Shaw Ave., 314.771.4900. $$
SANCTUARIA Fresh, Pan-Latin tapas, paired with a world-class menu of handcrafted cocktails. Dinner Tue.-Sun. 4198 Manchester Ave., 314.535.9700. $$ Scape american bistro A wide range of dishes from paella to burgers and everything in between, with a great patio and happy hour. Dinner Tue.-Sun. 48 Maryland Plaza, 314.361.7227. $$$ B scottish arms Authentic Scottish fare, including the bestselling lamb burger and Celtic crisps, with an extensive single-malt scotch list. Lunch Mon.-Fri.; dinner daily. 8 S. Sarah St., 314.535.0551. $$ B Sub Zero More than 300 international labels of vodka, with a sushi bar and build-your-own burger menu. Dinner daily; lunch Sat.-Sun. 308 N. Euclid Ave., 314.367.1200. $$
DON’T LET YOUR PLEASURES BE GUILTY.
TASTE Small plates and handcrafted cocktails made with strong attention to detail. Dinner daily. 4584 Laclede Ave., 314.361.1200. $$
Life is too short to endure anything less than happiness. Step into our warm atmosphere and be yourself; order what you want, be who you are, and feel no shame.
Tavern of Fine Arts Fine wines, seasonal appetizers and small plates, surrounded by art from local artists. Lunch and dinner Mon.-Sat. 313 Belt Ave., 314.367.7549. $
Open daily 10am to 10pm and until midnight on Friday and Saturday. www.shamelessgrounds.com
Come Get Your Greek On!
ndd 1
Monday - Saturday Dining 11 am - 11 pm Bar until 1 am Sunday Dining 4 pm - 10 pm Bar until midnight
Happy Hour 1/16/12 9:21 AM Aya Sofia Exotic Turkish MediterMonday-Friday, 4-7p ranean cuisine, combining Middle Sunday, 9 pm-close Eastern, Greek and Southern Italian Mondays 4pm-close flavors and cooking styles. Lunch 1/2 off wine bottles Tue.-Fri.; dinner Tue.-Sun. 6671 Chippewa St., 314.645.9919. $$ B Tuesdays 4pm-close 1/2 price Mojitos FARMHAUS Edgy Southern and Midwestern food with a locavore Wednesdays 4pm-close focus from Chef Kevin Willmann. $1 Stag Beer Lunch Mon.-Thu.; dinner Wed.-Sat. Private Rooms Available 3257 Ivanhoe Ave., 314.647.3800. $$
630 North and South, University City, MO 63130
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South City/ Hampton/ The Hill
LORENZO’S TRATTORIA Northern Italian cuisine with contemporary flavors. Lunch Tue.-Fri.; dinner daily. 1933 Edwards St., 314.773.2223. $$ MANGIA ITALIANO Casual cuisine in an intimate interior, with live music several nights a week. Lunch and dinner daily. 3145 S. Grand Blvd., 314.664.8585. $$ B modesto Amongst a sea of Italian restaurants, Modesto serves up classic Spanish tapas and flat breads. Dinner Mon.-Thu. 5257 Shaw Ave., 314.772.8272. $ O’CONNELL’S PUB Famous for burgers, fish and chips and Coney Island hot dogs. Lunch and dinner daily. 4652 Shaw Ave., 314.773.6600. $ The ROYALE A tavern-style restaurant and bar with drinks named for different parts of the city. Lunch and dinner daily. 3132 S. Kingshighway Blvd., 314.772.3600. $$ Sasha’s on Shaw A cozy neighborhood wine bar with a tasty selection of small plates and crêpes. Lunch and dinner daily. 4069 Shaw Blvd., Shaw, 314.771.7274. $$
University City/ The LooP Bici café Mediterranean and Italian cuisine and a dog-friendly outdoor patio. Lunch and dinner Mon.-Sat. 7401 Pershing Ave., 314.721.8484. $$ Blueberry Hill Joe Edwards’ flagship restaurant, known for its beer selection and great burgers. Lunch and dinner daily. 6504 Delmar Blvd., 314.727.4444. $ Blue Ocean Sushi A contemporary Japanese restaurant with all-you-can-eat sushi and à la carte items like chicken teriyaki. Lunch and dinner daily. 6335 Delmar Blvd., 314.726.6477. $$
HOT 2012
LIST
ECLIPSE Located in the Moonrise Hotel, featuring cosmic dècor and a creative American menu. Open daily. 6177 Delmar Blvd., 314.726.2222. $$$ B
BRIO TUSCAN GRILL Delicious Tuscan-inspired food that’s upscale yet affordable. Lunch and dinner daily. 1601 S. Lindbergh Blvd., 314.432.4410. $$ B
Ginger Bistro Asian fusion cuisine in a cozy, modern atmosphere. Lunch and dinner daily. 6665 Delmar Blvd., 314.222.2588. $$
CITY COFFEEHOUSE & CRÊPERIE Sweet and savory crêpes, Belgian waffles and more. Open daily. 36 N. Brentwood Blvd., 314.862.2489. $ B
HIRO Sushi The flavors of the izakaya explosion with unique ingredients and beautiful presentation. Lunch Mon.-Fri.; dinner daily. 609 Eastgate Ave., 314.721.9168. $
COASTAL BISTRO & BAR Freshfrom-the-coast oysters and low-country cuisine. Stop by during happy hour for oyster shooters. Lunch and dinner Mon.-Sat. 14 N. Central Ave., 314.932.7377. $$$
Market Pub House A traditional American eatery with a lively atmosphere. Lunch and dinner daily. 6655 Delmar Blvd., 314.727.8880. $ B
MoMos Mediterranean tapas in a festive setting. Lunch Mon.-Sat.; dinner daily. 630 North and South Road, 314.863.3511. $$ new Nico Mediterranean cuisine with a seasonally inspired menu, featuring items like Serrano Croquettes and Moroccan Lamb. Lunch and dinner daily. 6526 Delmar Blvd., 314.727.0200. $$$ B
Three Kings Traditional Mediterranean cuisine with classic burgers and Reubens. Lunch and dinner daily. 6307 Delmar Blvd., 314.721.3355. $$
Clayton/ Ladue/ Richmond heights Araka A delightful eatery in The Crescent featuring delicious globally-inspired cuisine. Lunch Tue.-Fri.; dinner Mon.-Sat. 131 Carondelet Plaza, 314.725.6777. $$$ BARcelona A see-and-be-seen hotspot to nosh on Spanish tapas. Lunch Mon.-Sat.; dinner daily. 34 N. Central Ave., 314.863.9909. $$ new BLACKFINN AMERICAN GRILLE Seafood, steak, chicken and pasta in a comfortable, casual atmosphere. Lunch and dinner daily. 1147 Saint B Louis Galleria, 314.726.5300. $$
BOCCI BAR A taste of northern Italy with contemporary flair. Lunch Mon.-Fri.; dinner Mon.-Sat. 16 N. Central Ave., 314.932.1040. $$
COMPANION Acclaimed for fresh ingredients and signature sandwiches and soups. Breakfast and lunch daily. 8143 Maryland Ave., 314.721.5454. Multiple locations, companionstl.com. $ THE CROSSING A seasonal menu of farm-to-table fare. Lunch Mon.-Fri.; dinner Mon.-Sat. 7823 Forsyth Blvd., 314.721.7375. $$$
WINNER
Voted Best Lunch
Missouri History Museum - Forest Park
Daily Lunch & Sunday Champagne Brunch bixbys-mohistory.com 314-361-7313
Crushed Red Urban bake and chop shop serving pizzas and salads made with the freshest ingredients. Lunch and dinner daily. 8007 Maryland Ave., 314.725.8007. $ new
Demun Oyster Bar The ultimate destination for seafood enthusiasts, with fresh oysters from the West Coast daily. Lunch Sat.; dinner daily. 740 Demun Ave., 314.725.0322. $$ I Fratellini Fine Italian dining with an intimate atmosphere and mouth-watering entrées and desserts. Lunch Mon.-Fri.; dinner Mon.-Sat. 7624 Wydown Blvd., 314.727.7901. $$$ Half and Half A quaint café renowned for inventive recipes with fresh, seasonal ingredients. Breakfast and lunch Tue.-Fri. 8135 Maryland Ave., 314.725.0719. B J.Buck’s A Clayton staple for business lunches and happy hour, with pizza, pasta, burgers and baby back ribs. Lunch and dinner Mon.-Sat. 101 S. Hanley Rd., 314.725.4700. $$$ Kaldi’s Local coffee chain boasting a variety of flavored coffees and premium blends. Open daily. 700 Demun Ave., 314.727.9955. Multiple locations, kaldiscoffee.com. $ LESTER’S SPORTS BAR & GRILL Every sports-lover’s dream, with TVs at every post, top-notch bar fare and
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eat+Drink / where to go
Mad Tomato A seasonal, farm-totable menu, with a fine selection of Italian wines, desserts and pastries. Lunch Mon.-Fri.; dinner Tue.-Sat. 8000 Carondelet Ave., 314.932.5733. $$ MISO ON MERAMEC A popular sushi spot, famed for its Pan-Asian food and lounge. Dinner Tue.-Sun. 16 N. Meramec Ave., 314.863.7888. $$ Océano Premier seafood bistro known for fresh selections and exquisite flavor. Lunch and dinner daily. 44 N. Brentwood Blvd., 314.721.9400. $$$ B Roxane A cozy tapas-style spot with a bohemian atmosphere and eclectic menu. Lunch Mon.-Fri.; dinner Mon.-Sat. 12 N. Meramec Ave., 314.721.7700. $$ Tani Sushi bistro with traditional and fusion-style rolls, like the deep-fried Miami Roll with smoked salmon and eel sauce. Lunch Mon.-Fri.; dinner daily. 16 S. Bemiston Ave., 314.727.8264. $$
5046 Shaw Avenue • St. Louis, MO 63110 314.771.4900 • guidosstl.com
Open 7 days a week for lunch and dinner dine in, carry out and delivery. Banquet and catering space available.
Tucci & Fresta’s Traditional Italian fare and an exceptional wine list, bringing a taste of The Hill to Clayton. Lunch Mon.-Fri.; dinner Mon.-Sat. 15 N. Central Ave., 314.725.6588. $$$ B VINO NADOZ WINE BAR An intimate destination with an international wine experience and savory American fusion cuisine. Dinner Tue.-Sat. 16 The Blvd., 314.726.0400. $$
Kirkwood/ Maplewood/ Webster Groves the block A restaurant, butcher shop and bar boasting a farm-to-table
concept, with contemporary American fare. Dinner daily. 146 W. Lockwood Ave., 314.918.7900. $$ boogaloo Caribbean-inspired cuisine with a wide selection of smoked meats and tapas. Lunch and dinner Mon.-Sat. 7344 Manchester Rd., 314.645.4803. $$ CYRANO’S CAFÉ Upscale café fare, famous for unique desserts like Cherries Jubilee and World’s Fair Éclair. Lunch and dinner daily. 603 East Lockwood Ave., 314.963.3232. B $$ Home wine kitchen Seasonal American comfort food and wine pairings, with service that treats you like family. Lunch and dinner Wed.-Mon. 7322 Manchester Road, 314.802.7676. $$$ B Houlihan’s Great burgers and apps, with one of the best happy hour specials in the city. Lunch and dinner daily. 1221 Strassner Dr., 314.863.9116. Multiple locations, houlihans.com. $$ MAI LEE RESTAURANT Traditional Chinese and Vietnamese dishes. Lunch Tue.-Fri.; dinner daily. 8396 Musick Memorial Dr., 314.645.2835. $$ MAYA CAFÉ Pan-Latin cuisine with house-made salsas and margaritas, and live music regularly. Lunch Tue.-Fri.; dinner daily. 2726 Sutton Blvd., 314.781.4774. $$ One 19 North Tapas complete with an impressive wine list. Lunch Mon.-Sat.; dinner daily. 119 North Kirkwood Rd., 314.821.4119. $$$ B OLYMPIA Greek classics like gyros, spanakopita and kebabs, with traditional baklava or creamy rice pudding to finish. Lunch and dinner daily. 1542 McCausland Ave., 314.781.1299. $$ RANOUSH Classic Middle Eastern
New to town
A Taste of Summertime Lemonade and beer are two ice-cold beverages undeniably aligned with hot summer days—combine them, and the delicious result is shandy. Leinenkugel’s summer seasonal, Summer Shandy, is a light wheat beer brewed with just the right balance of sweet malt and sour lemon. Pair it with seafood, chicken and mildly spiced Tex-Mex fare. - Gwen Ragno
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Summer Shandy photo courtesy of Miller.
Mon.-Fri. happy hour from 3-6pm. Open daily. 9906 Clayton Road, 314.994.0055. Multiple locations, lestersrestaurant.com. $$
HOT TIP
Jam Session Chef Cassandra Vires of Home Wine Kitchen in Maplewood is now jarring up her homemade sauces, jams and preserves. Fans of her creative house-made condiments no longer have to settle for ordering off the menu to get a hefty helping of delectable lemon or tomato jam. And, since you’ll surely be back for more, empty jars can returned for a Blues City Deli definitely delivers on be its name, combining refill at afrom 20-percent discount. smooth Blues music the ’20s through the ’50s with a - Ettie Berneking tremendous array of delicious sandwiches, soups and salads. Classic menu items from cities such as St. Louis, Chicago, Memphis and New Orleans perfectly complement the deli’s turn-of-the-century décorCountry to create an atmosphere rich with Crossing Dr., 636.394.1130. $$$ cuisine like shawarma, falafel and vintage St. Louis charm. Bring your appetite and a couple of tabbouleh. Lunch and dinner daily. 200 friends and stop in to Blues City deli for live music every ThursN. Kirkwood Rd., 314.984.8899. $$ BRISTOL SEAFOOD GRILL Fresh day from 6pm-8pm and Saturday from 1pm-3:30pm. Robust The Robust Factor helps you navigate an impressive wine list and pair your vino with a unique tasting plate. Lunch Mon.-Sat.; dinner daily. 227 W. Lockwood, 314.963.0033. $$ TRATTORIA BRANICA Formal Italian dining and a sharp wine bar. Lunch Mon.-Fri., dinner daily. 451 S. Kirkwood Road, 314.909.7575. Multiple locations, trattoriabranica.com. $$$ Twin Oak Wood Fired Fare Specialty wood-fired pizzas with toppings like seasonal veggies and roasted chorizo. Lunch and dinner Tue.-Sun. 1201 Strassner Dr. 314.644.2772. $$ Water street Excelling in specialty and vintage cocktails, with an intriguing menu of small plates. Lunch Thu.-Sat.; dinner Tue.-Sat. 7268 Manchester Rd., 314.646.8355. $$
West County annie gunn’s Known for heartwarming dishes and seasonal specials. Lunch and dinner Tue.-Sun. 16806 Chesterfield Airport Rd., 636.532.7684. $$$
Photo by Jules Brown.
bistro 1130 Contemporary French cuisine in an elegant atmosphere. Dinner Tue.-Sat. 1130 Town and
seafood and handcrafted cocktails in a modern atmosphere. Lunch Sun.-Fri.; dinner daily. 11801 Olive Blvd., 314.567.0272. $$$ B Dave & Tony’s Premium Burger Joint The ultimate destination for burger-lovers. Lunch and dinner daily. 12766 Olive Blvd., 314.439.5100. $
PoBoys from the Blues Music cities of St. Louis, Chicago, Memphis, and New Orleans. Blues City Deli’s turn of the century building’s interior pays its respect to Blues Music Icons with décor rich in musiccity nostalgia and St. Louis charm.
GIANFABIO’S ITALIAN CAFÉ Italian dishes, brick-oven pizza and pastries. Lunch Mon.-Fri.; dinner Mon.-Sat. 127 Hilltown Village Center, 636.532.6686. $$ J. GILBERT’S Western-inspired wood-fired steaks and seafood, with artful presentation. Dinner daily. 17A West County Center, Ste. A102, 314.965.4600. $$$ TABLE THREE Beautiful interior with a casual feel and varied menu offerings. Lunch and dinner Tue.-Sat. 16765 Main Street, 636.458.4333. $$$ B TACHIBANA JAPANESE CUISINE The oldest Japanese restaurant in St. Louis, with authentic décor and a sushi bar. Lunch Mon.-Fri.; dinner daily. 12967 Olive Blvd., 314.434.3455. $$ VEGADELI Vegetarian and vegan entrées, fresh juice and smoothies and a great selection of gluten-free baked goods. Breakfast, lunch and dinner Tue.-Sat.; lunch Sun. 177 Hilltown
2438 McNair Ave • 314.773.8225 • bluescitydeli.com
lafayette square
1919 Park Avenue • St. Louis, MO 63104
downtown
417 N 10th Street • St. Louis, MO 63101
parkavenuecoffee.com
More online! Log on to alivemag.com for our searchable, comprehensive directory of St. Louis restaurants, bars, nightclubs, bakeries, coffeehouses and more.
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GETTING OUT GUIDE
eat+Drink / where to go
The top places in town to eat, drink and be merry this summer.
Sunday 10am—2pm Piper Palm House in Tower Grove Park 314.575.5658 · palmhousestl.org
J.Buck’s J.Buck’s is featuring a new dinner menu, containing many seasonal local ingredients. Ask us about our private rooms, or let us cater your next event!
Joe Buck’s 1000 Clark Ave. St. Louis, MO 63102 314.436.0394
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Olympia Kebob House and Taverna Home to some of the best authentic Greek food in town for the past 31 years, Olympia is open daily for lunch and dinner. Savor homemade Greek specialties like gyros and kebobs, in a cozy European atmosphere complete with a full bar and open-air patio. Find us on Facebook! 1543 McCausland Ave. St. Louis, MO 63117 314.781.1299
Vito’s Original Sicilian Pizzeria & Ristorante Vito’s has been dishing up its awardwinning pizza along with other family recipes since 1996. Sip a refreshing cocktail while enjoying spectacular views of Saint Louis University and the Saint Louis Arch. Take advantage of the great food and drink specials Monday through Friday from 3-6pm.
J.Buck’s 101 S. Hanley Rd. Clayton, MO 63105 314.725.4700 · jbucks.com
3515 Lindell Blvd. St. Louis, MO 63103 314.534.8486 · vitosstl.com
Chevys Fresh Mex Chevys serves up full-flavored food and drinks in a vibrant, energetic atmosphere, dishing out authentic Mexican cuisine made entirely from scratch. Known for its energetic ambiance, Chevy’s is perfect for couples, families with children or foodies on the lookout for the next exciting place to grab a bite.
Pointer’s Pizza Our signature product, the “Pointersaurus,” is a 28” ten pound pizza that feeds 15-20 people for only $40. We challenge two people to eat the pizza in an hour for an award of $500. We also carry pasta, sandwiches and salads while specializing in fast delivery in the Clayton/Richmond Heights/Maplewood/ Brentwood areas. Open until 2am seven days a week.
7 Area Locations! facebook.com/chevysstl @chevysstl · chevysstl.com
1023 South Big Bend Blvd. St. Louis, MO 63117 314.644.2000 · pointersdelivery.com
Mile 277 Tap & Grill Voted #1 Lounge/Club in the Riverfront Times, Mile 277 is one of St. Louis’ most exciting restaurant and live music destinations. Located on Historic Route 66 at Watson and Lindbergh in Sunset Hills, Mile 277’s upscale, motorcycle-themed décor makes it the perfect spot to eat, drink, cruise and meet!
Kirkwood Station Restaurant & Brewing Co. Kirkwood’s only microbrewery, with five seasonals and five annuals always on tap! Award-winning executive Chef Jack MacMurray III offers culinary surprises you won’t expect from a brew-pub! Great live music Thursday through Sunday and ladies night specials on Thursdays round out the excitement! Come to The Station!
10701 Watson Rd. St. Louis, MO 63127 314.645.3277 mile277.com
105 E. Jefferson Ave. Kirkwood, MO, 63122 314.966.2739 (BREW) kirkwoodstationbrewing.com
june 2012
ALIVE SPECIAL PROMOTION
Pointer’s Pizza photo by Alex Pangilinan.
Café Madeleine Enjoy Sunday Brunch at Café Madeleine in Tower Grove Park and savor the seasons in the oldest greenhouse west of the Mississippi River. Every Sunday we provide our patrons with a French-inspired fresh and flavorful culinary experience.
Rue Lafayette Café & Boutique A vacation without leaving town! Enjoy breakfast, lunch and dessert, and a full espresso bar and wine. Gorgeous setting and patio facing beautiful Lafayette Park. Authentic French croissants, macarons and delicious savory food. Open daily with weekend brunch and live jazz. Check our calendar for fabulous events: ruelafayette.us.
The Fountain On Locust See for yourself the most photographed restaurant in St. Louis! The Fountain is home to the ice cream martini and fresh, made-from-scratch soups, salads, creative sandwiches and entrées, fine ice creams, chocolates and retro cocktails—all in a one-ofa-kind, hand-painted Art Deco interior! Three blocks from The Fox!
2026 Lafayette Ave. · St. Louis, MO 63104 314.772.CAFE order by fax (weekdays) 314.772.2275
3037 Locust St. · St. Louis, MO 63103 314.535.7800 fountainonlocust.com
Erney’s 32 Erney’s 32 is the most voguish place to get your vodka on. It is the first place in St. Louis to house the famed VODBOX, a glass walk-in cooler kept at 32 degrees or below, exclusively for premium vodka tastings.
Helen Fitzgerald’s With one of the largest patios in the St. Louis area, Helen Fitzgerald’s keeps it cool during the hot summer months with drink and shot specials every night. Live music, entertainment and beats from the hottest DJs in St. Louis keep this venue buzzing seven days a week.
4200 Manchester Avenue St. Louis, MO 63110-3826 314.652.7195 erneys32.com
3650 S. Lindbergh St. Louis, MO 63127 314.984.0026 helenfitzgeralds.com
Nick’s Pub With 65 beers on tap—36 from Missouri brewers—Nick’s is open until 3am nightly, with specials every day—especially during hometown sports games, which you can catch on one of 30 HD TVs. Check out the upstairs game room, or come by Thursday through Saturday for live music. Find us on Facebook and Twitter!
Robbie’s House of Jazz In the heart of Webster Groves, Robbie’s House of Jazz offers live jazz entertainment, featuring a house band as well as well-known and up-andcoming jazz artists. Catch jam sessions every Tuesday. We serve both alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages with light, healthy appetizers and hors d’oeuvres.
Humphrey’s Restaurant & Tavern photo by Christopher Gibbons.
6001 Manchester Ave. St. Louis, MO 63110 314.781.7806 · nickspub.info
Humphrey’s Restaurant & Tavern Humphrey’s is family-owned and operated, loved by many for its patty melts, fresh garlic fries, burgers and wings. Stop by for daily happy hour, or catch a Sunday football game. For breakfast, try the Boys Famous Cheese Eggs. The beautifully landscaped patio features a live band every Wednesday. 3700 Laclede Ave. St. Louis, MO 63108 314.535.0700 · humphreysstl.com ALIVE SPECIAL PROMOTION
20 Allen Ave # 150 Webster Groves, MO 63119 314.968.5556 robbieshouseofjazz.com
Saratoga Lanes Enjoy bowling the way it used to be: intimate, fun and exciting. Rent lanes for private parties, with unlimited bowling, shoe rental and pool. Visit the website to sign up for a free game of bowling, compliments of Saratoga Lanes, and to join the birthday club! 2725 Sutton Blvd. St. Louis, MO 63143 314.645.5308 saratogalanes.com june 2012
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HaPPYHourguIDe Your guide to St. Louis’ best Happy Hour specials. Delmar restaurant & lounge
rutH’s CHrIs steak House
6235 Delmar Blvd., The Loop 314.725.6565 delmar-lounge.com Find us on Facebook
Downtown · 315 Chestnut St. (inside Hyatt) · 314.259.3200 Clayton · 1 North Brentwood 314.783.9900 · ruthschrisstlouis.com
BIg DaDDY’s soularD
CHarlIe gItto’s From tHe HIll
Gearing up for the night or winding down from the day, the Delmar Restaurant & Lounge has you covered. Join us for The Loop’s best happy hour, with discounted apps, drafts, bottles and drinks featuring 360 Vodka and Epsolon Tequila. The Delmar is just a block west of The Pageant, open for lunch, happy hour, dinner and latenight, with live entertainment nightly.
Big Daddy’s has been serving great food and throwing the best party’s in St. Louis for over 13 years. Known as “The Best Bar in the Whole Wide World,” it has one of the best happy hour crowds in the city. Happy hour specials include beer buckets, cocktails, and several half-priced appetizers from 2-7pm, Monday-Friday.
Find unparalleled happy hour prices at one of St. Louis’ most distinguished steakhouses, every weekday from 4-6pm. Ruth’s Chris Steak House offers select appetizers at special happy hour pricing, including sizzling dishes like Shrimp Voodoo and Kobe Beef Sliders. Sip the handcrafted cocktail of the month, like the Peach Berry Tini, or choose from 20+ wines by the glass, and select craft, domestic and import beers.
Charlie Gitto brings a taste of The Hill to Chesterfield, with happy hour seven nights a week from 3-6pm. Grab a table in the bar and enjoy delicious selections from the Sicilian Sampler Menu, like meatball sliders and spiedini lollipops. Then, wash it down with discounted wine by the glass, half-price house-infused martinis and craft beers on draft.
1000 Sidney St. St. Louis, MO 63104 314.771.3066 bigdaddystl.com
15525 Olive Blvd. Chesterfield, MO 63017 636.536.2199 charliegittos.com
kIrkwooD statIon restaurant & BrewIng Co
CHevYs FresH mex
105 E. Jefferson Ave. Kirkwood, MO 63122 314.966.2739 (BREW) kirkwoodstationbrewing.com
7 area locations! facebook.com/chevysstl @chevysstl chevysstl.com
Kirkwood’s only microbrewery! Special prices on our award-winning draft beers, domestic bottles, well drinks and selected appetizers Monday through Friday, 2:306:30pm! Thursday night is ladies night with live music by Dr. Zhivegas and a $5 cover charge getting the ladies all the well drinks and draft beers they like! Live music weekend nights! Sunday is all day happy hour for beer and well drinks!
ALIVE SPECIAL PROMOTION
Every day is happy hour at Chevys Fresh Mex, from 2-8pm in the Cantina. Take your pick of $3 margaritas (on the rocks, frozen or fresh fruit), domestic bottles, well drinks and house wine, $5 shots of El Major Reposado or $7 specialty drinks like the Mexican Bulldog or Long Island. Satisfy your Fresh Mex cravings with spicy wings or hearty nachos.
2011 WORLD’S BEST COCKTAIL MENU NOMINEE
STOp By TODAy AND jOIN SANCTUARIA’S COCKTAIL CLUB ENjOy DISCOUNTED COCKTAILS AND RETAIL pRODUCTS, MONThLy DRAWINgS, SpECIAL EvENT pRIvILEgES AND MORE!! LIKE US ON FACEBOOK: facebook.com/sanctuariastl
*All discounts for members only.
ST. LOUIS’ BEST KEPT SECRET 4198 MANChESTER | ST. LOUIS, MO 63110 314.535.9700 | WWW.SANCTUARIASTL.COM
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Photo by: Jacqui Segura.
The Back Bar
$
HAPPY HOUR Every Thursday
$5 appetizers $5 wine $5 cocktails Plus - enjoy $2 beers 48 Maryland Plaza Historic Central West End 5pm-7pm
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S T L “b e S T o f” AWA r d S
Celebrate on the rooftop with St. Louis’ best restaurants, bars, shops and more!
June 7, 7-10pm Join ALIVe magazine as we toast our 2012 Hot List winners at this rooftop party in the Central West end. experience our list of the city’s best spots to eat, drink, shop and play all in one place. TiCkeTS $10 in advance, $15 at the door | Mandarin Lounge 44 maryland plaza | Central West end
P u r C h a S e T i C k e T S aT a L i v e M a g . C o M
agenda
on the calendar | Free Summer Fun | New Ways to Get Involved
hot pick
Cirque du Soleil presents “Quidam�
Photo by Matt Beard.
June 20-24, Chaifetz Arena
The mesmerizing Cirque du Soleil tells the story of a young girl and her adventure into a stunning imaginary world. Tickets at cirquedusoleil.com (1 S. Compton Ave., Midtown).
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agenda / key
Free
calendar
Hot Pick
MUSIC
STING June 5, The Fox
BOND & BEYOND: 50 YEARS OF 007 June 2, Powell Hall
St. Louis Symphony performs much-loved music from films like “Goldfinger,” “Casino Royale” and “From Russia with Love.” Tickets at stlsymphony.org (718 N. Grand Blvd., Grand Center).
Sting has sold 100 million albums and earned 10 Grammy Awards, a Golden Globe and multiple Oscar nominations. Tickets at fabulousfox.com (527 N. Grand Blvd., Grand Center). FLOGGING MOLLY June 8, The Pageant
St. Louis Symphony helps The Pulitzer celebrate its 10th anniversary with contemporary works by Unsuk Chin, George Crumb, Steve Reich and more. Tickets at stlsymphony.org (3716 Washington Blvd., Grand Center). EXTR-ABBA-GANZA June 15-16, Edison Theatre
Celtic punk-rockers Flogging Molly stir up the crowd with songs like “Salty Dog” and “What’s Left of the Flag,” as well as hits from 2011’s “Speed of Darkness.” Tickets at thepageant.com (6161 Delmar Blvd., The Loop).
Singing ’70s ABBA hits like “Super Trouper,” “Waterloo” and “Mamma Mia,” the Gateway Men’s Chorus will have audience members feeling like dancing queens. Tickets at edisontheatre.wustl.edu (6445 Forsyth Blvd., University City).
FUN. June 9, The Pageant
IDINA MENZEL June 17, Peabody Opera House
THE SHINS WITH THE ANTLERS June 4, The Pageant
Created by Nate Ruess, former singer of The Format, the band began in 2008, but its popularity blew up this year with hits like “We are Young.” Tickets at thepageant.com (6161 Delmar Blvd., The Loop).
After Tony-nominated roles in “Wicked” and “Rent,” and much acclaim for her role in “Glee,” Menzel tours for her new “Barefoot at the Symphony” album. Tickets at peabodyoperahouse. com (1400 Market St., Downtown).
Indie-rockers rejoice with old favorites like “New Slang” and tracks from the new album, “Port of Morrow.” Tickets at thepageant.com (6161 Delmar Blvd., The Loop).
THE PULITZER CONTEMPORARY MUSIC FESTIVAL June 14-17, The Pulitzer Foundation for the Arts
CLASSICAL MYSTERY TOUR: TRIBUTE TO THE BEATLES June 22, Powell Hall
BALKAN BEAT BOX June 3, Old Rock House
The high-energy American-Israeli group’s latest album, “Give,” combines hardcore electronic sounds with political messages in songs like “Look Like You” and “Enemy in Economy.” Tickets at metrotix.com (1200 S. 7th St., LaSalle Park).
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After a sold-out performance in 2010,
get involved
Dreams Come True A local woman has launched a new charity called 3 Little Birds 4 Life with a mission to give adult cancer patients the chance to live out their bucket lists, in the hopes that they can discover peace and closure in their final days. Founder Ashley Swip of Collinsville, IL, was inspired to start the organization after granting her own brother, Tyler, a day of bliss before he died from advanced cancer in 2010. Find out how you can volunteer or donate at 3littlebirds4life.org. – Mary Poppell
Photo courtesy of The Pageant. Hummingbird symbol by Fabio Grande, from thenounproject.com collection.
fun. at The Pageant
For a Limited Time, The Lemp Mansion Offers Brides Our Exclusive
Sweetheart tDeal!
In addition to our regular selection of banquet possibilities, The Lemp Mansion Restaurant and Inn is currently offering St. Louis brides two special packages: The Sweetheart Deal and The Rehearsal Dinner Package. The Sweetheart Deal is an all inclusive package for $40 per person that includes everything except table and chair rental. The Rehearsal Dinner is $38 per person and is offered for a minimum of 35 guests. Visit www.lempmansion.com for more details on these and our other great packages.
THE LEMP MANSION • 3322 DEMENIL PLACE • ST. LOUIS, MO 63118 314-664-8024 • WWW.LEMPMANSION.COM Valid through March 31, 2013, new bookings only. Only available on open dates. June 2012
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agenda / key
Free
calendar
Hot Pick EMBLEMS: BOOK OF TRANSFORMATION June 1-23, SOHA Gallery
Heavily influenced by the use of symbols, Travis Lawrence presents woodcut prints of iconic visuals disguised in simplistic backgrounds. More info at sohastudioandgallery.com (4915 Macklind Ave., South Hampton). BLISS OF BEING AND RETREAT June 1-30, Compônere Gallery
Cathie Crawford shows her wood-cut prints, “Bliss of Being,” and Joel Price exhibits his ceramics collection, “Retreat.” More info at componere.com (6509 Delmar Blvd., The Loop). BLUR AND OVER THE EDGE June 11-July 26, Art St. Louis
the Symphony brings back its tribute to The Beatles with renditions of classics like “Penny Lane” and “Yesterday.” Tickets at stlsymphony.org (718 N. Grand Blvd., Grand Center). REO SPEEDWAGON, STYX, TED NUGENT June 22, Verizon Wireless Amphitheater
Prepare for a night of ’80s rock as REO Speedwagon, Styx and Ted Nugent join for a larger-than-life show. Tickets at livenation.com (14141 Riverport Drive, Maryland Heights).
AMBASSADORS OF HARMONY: VOICES IN HARMONY June 23, Touhill Performing Arts Center
The award-winning a capella chorus puts its own spin on popular gospel, folk, Broadway, pop and jazz tunes that are sure to have you dancing in your seat. Tickets at touhill.org (1 University Blvd., Florissant).
ART WARHOL’S POLAROIDS: A METHOD Through June 10, SLU Museum of Art
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Fans of the iconic artwork of Andy Warhol won’t want to miss this unique exhibit, featuring some of the artist’s most compelling photos. More info at slu.edu/sluma.xml (3663 Lindell Blvd., Midtown). PERSPECTIVES Through June 16, phd Gallery
phd's second annual artist showcase features exotic porcelain sculptures by Ruth Reese and bold, shape-centric oil paintings by Mark Weber. For more info, visit phdstl.com (2300 Cherokee St., Cherokee).
See these two multimedia projects— one featuring blurred graphics and photos, and the other with artwork that plays with the canvas' edges. More info at artstlouis.org (555 Washington Ave., Downtown). ANN METZGER MEMORIAL NATIONAL ALL MEDIA EXHIBITION June 17-August 11, St. Louis Artists Guild
Marla Prather serves as exhibition juror in this national biennial art competition, welcoming all styles and media. More info at stlouisartistsguild. org (2 Oak Knoll Park, Clayton). GENDER BENDER June 21-23, Aisle 1 Gallery
In honor of Pride Weekend, photog-
Photo courtesy of SOHA Gallery.
"Emblems: Book of Transformations" at SOHA Gallery
rapher Sara Swaty Roger examines the vastness of gender identities, revealing the impact of society on individual thought. More info at aisle1gallery.com and saraswatyphoto. com (2627 Cherokee St., Cherokee).
SHOWTIME 2012 June 10, Edison Theatre
GEORGIA O’KEEFFE, MARSDEN HARTLEY AND THE WEST June 28-29, SLAM
ALICE IN WONDERLAND June 13-23, Loretto-Hilton Center
Paint palette symbol by Okan Benn, from thenounproject.com collection.
Join Flannery Burke, Associate Professor of History at SLU, for a gallery talk on artists like the venerable Georgia O’Keeffe. More info at slam.org (1 Fine Arts Drive, Forest Park).
THEATER & DANCE CINDERELLA June 1-3, Edison Theatre
The Missouri Ballet Theatre performs its rendition of the classic rags-to-riches fairytale. Tickets at edisontheatre.wustl.edu (6445 Forsyth Blvd., University City). AIN’T MISBEHAVIN’ June 1-July 1, Robert G. Reim Theatre
This Stages St. Louis production is a lively, jive-worthy tribute to the 1930s, the Harlem Renaissance and the rhythm of swing. Tickets at stagesstlouis.org (111 S. Geyer Road, Kirkwood).
Witness the outstanding moves and diverse talent of the St. Louis Academy of Dance in its annual showcase. Tickets at edisontheatre.wustl.edu (6445 Forsyth Blvd., University City).
Opera Theatre St. Louis presents Unsuk Chin’s new take on the classic, with beautiful music and fantastical characters. Tickets at ticketing.opera-stl.org (130 Edgar Road, Webster Groves). ONE FLEW OVER THE CUCKOO’S NEST June 12-17, Roberts Orpheum Theater
production takes the stage at The Muny. Tickets at muny.org (1 Theatre Drive, Forest Park). BIG MUDDY DANCE COMPANY IN CONCERT June 29-30, Touhill Performing Arts Center
St. Louis’ renowned contemporary jazz dance group performs pieces like “The 40s,” “A Fragile Heaviness” and “Tuatha de Danann.” Tickets at touhill.org (1 University Blvd., Florissant).
CHARITY BOARDWALK GALA 2012 June 2, Windows On Washington
St. Louis Actors’ Studio presents Ken Kesey’s classic story of the inner chaos of a mental asylum, starring Academy Award nominee Kathleen Quinlan as Nurse Ratched. Tickets at stlas.org (416 North 9th St., Downtown).
Presented by Centene Charitable Foundation, this black tie gala benefits The Adoption Exchange. Tickets at adoptex.org (701 N. 15th St., Downtown).
THOROUGHLY MODERN MILLIE June 18-24, The Muny
Join the Young Friends of the Saint Louis Science Center for a run, walk, wheelchair race, kids’ run and more. More info at donations.slsc.org (5050 Oakland Ave., Forest Park).
Don’t miss Tony and Emmy Awardwinning Leslie Uggams, starring as Millie, a small-town girl ready for a modern big city life. Tickets at muny. org (1 Theatre Drive, Forest Park). CHICAGO June 25-July 1, The Muny
Sing along with Roxie Hart and Velma Kelly as this internationally acclaimed
14th ANNUAL RUN FOR THE STARS June 2, St. Louis Science Center
TOUR OF THE LITTLE HILLS June 3, Foundry Art Centre
Avid bicyclists gather for a ride climbing the hills of St. Charles. More info at stlbiking.com (520 N. Main Center, St. Charles).
arts
Community Creativity The nonprofit South Broadway Art Project teaches children and adults to enrich their lives through creative expression— aiming to unite the community in the process. This June, the organization hosts its Summer Art Camp for children and teens, helping burgeoning artists explore new artistic outlets. Adults can get in on the fun, too, with workshops like the weekly Canvas, Cocktails ’N’ More. On June 8, learn to paint a “Safari Sunset,” stop by June 15 to make mosaic stepping stones, or try your hand at pottery on June 22. The organization recently launched a new public art project called the “South Broadway People Project,” placing lifesized silhouettes of “neighbors” in public spaces around the community. For more info, visit southbroadwayartproject.org. - Samantha Taylor
PEABODY OPERA HOUSE UPCOMING EVENTS CALENDAR Presented by
FIONA APPLE
Idina Menzel Photo Credit: Robin Wong
JUNE 17
JUNE 24
JULY 14
TRAIN JULY 29
AUGUST 14
To see our complete upcoming events schedule, please visit PeabodyOperaHouse.com June 2012
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JUNE 13 'n rocket pop JULY my11 friend mike AUGUST 8 concoction SEPTEMBER 12 idle american
4/23/12
4:44 PM
5:00-8:30pm on meramec 314.726.3033 www.partiesinthepark.org @claytonparties facebook
agenda / key
Free
calendar
Hot Pick
Sting at The Fox
1/2 price beer 5:00-5:30
HOT 2012
LIST
WINNER
ST. LOUIS GOLF CLASSIC June 11, Norwood Hills Country Club
RACE FOR THE CURE June 23, Downtown
This golf tournament for The Make-a-Wish Foundation is followed by cocktails, a gourmet dinner and live auction. More info at mo.wish.org (1 Norwood Hills Country Club Drive, Jennings).
Join thousands of other pink-clad runners and race for the cure to breast cancer. More info and registration at komenstlouis.org (Downtown).
RONALD MCDONALD HOUSE RIDE June 16, St. Louis Community College, Forest Park
With five races, a fitness village, music, a massage tent and more, the third annual Ronald McDonald House Ride welcomes bikers of all ages. More info at rmhcstl.com (5600 Oakland Ave., Forest Park). LIVER LIFE WALK ST. LOUIS June 16, Creve Coeur Park
Join the American Liver Foundation for a day of one-mile loops, a 5K and post-event fun. More info at liverfoundation.org (Tremayne Shelter at Creve Coeur Park, Maryland Heights). PINK & PURPLE FASHION SHOW June 22 and 24, Missouri History Museum
Support empowerment of women at the third annual Sisters of Hope fashion show, complete with trendy outfits, live music and more. Tickets at sistersofhope.org (5700 Lindell Blvd., Forest Park).
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LITERARY/ SPEAKING FAMILY-FRIENDLY OPEN MIC NIGHT June 12, Kirkwood Train Station
St. Louis Writers Guild hosts an evening of family-friendly open mic fun at the train station. More info at stlwritersguild.org (110 W. Argonne Drive, Kirkwood). RIVER STYX: THE HUNGRY YOUNG POETS SERIES 2012 June 18, Duff’s
Listen up as some of the city’s most creative, witty young poets share their words with River Styx. More info at riverstyx.org (392 N. Euclid Ave., Central West End). ELLEN ABRAMSON June 21, Schlafly Branch Library
Ellen Abramson speaks about her book, “Live to Dance,” how she survived after cardiac arrest and her mission to promote heart disease
Photo by Norman Jean Roy.
PIP_Alive Ad2_3.75x5.pdf
X
TASTE OF ST. LOUIS
September 28-30 community
Free Fun in the Sun As the weather heats up, the arts head outdoors with plenty of events that are free and open to the public. From music and movies to art and theater, here is a lineup of this summer's best free events. June Festivals Shakespeare Festival St. Louis’ beloved outdoor theater festival presents “Othello.” Nightly (except Tuesdays) through June 17, Forest Park, shakespearefestivalstlouis.org. Art & Air: Webster Groves Outdoor Art Festival Get a breath of fresh air, along with fine art, music and food at one of the Midwest’s most popular summer art festivals. June 1-3, Eden Theological Seminary, artandair.com. Twangfest Four days of country, rock, folk and roots music by musicians from across the country. June 6-9, Schlafly Tap Room and The Duck Room at Blueberry Hill, twangfest.com. PNC Arts Alive: Discover Laumeier Festival Explore Laumeier Sculpture Park through an interactive afternoon of creative activities, music and food. June 10, Laumeier Sculpture Park. PrideFest 2012 Since 1980, PrideFest has been praising and celebrating diversity with its magnificent Pride Parade down South Grand Boulevard, as well as drag shows, face painting, live music and more in Tower Grove Park. June 23-24, Tower Grove Park, pridestl.org. St. Lou Fringe Festival The city’s first Fringe Festival brings performance art, experimental theater and other cutting-edge creative endeavors to the streets of the city. June 29-30, Grand Center and Locust Business District, stloufringe.tumblr.com.
Summer Event Series Twilight Tuesdays Savor the eclectic sounds of various musical artists at the Missouri History Museum’s outdoor concert series. Every Tuesday through June 12, Forest Park, mohistory.org Truckin’ Tuesdays Take your pick of good eats from a fleet of local food trucks, and enjoy your dinner in the park with music and beer. June 12 and the second Tuesday of each month through October, Tilles Park, stlouisco.com. Parties in the Park Enjoy tasty drinks while listening to local band Pop ’n’ Rocket at the June edition of this popular outdoor happy hour series. June 13 and the second Wednesday of each month through September, Downtown Clayton, partiesinthepark.org. Whitaker Music Festival This outdoor concert series at Missouri Botanical Garden is in its 19th year and continues to lure excited crowds every summer. Every Wednesday through July 25, Missouri Botanical Garden, mobot.org. SLAM Outdoor Film Series Sit under the stars on Art Hill and watch classic movies, including “Monty Python and the Holy Grail,” “The Birds” and more. Food trucks will be on hand for tasty snacks, with live music on the plaza before the show. Every Friday in July, Forest Park, slam.org.
Food • Music • Art • Culture Soldiers Memorial FREE Admission • TasteSTL.com
Now Open!
Missouri History Museum Forest Park (314) 746-4599 mohistory.org To purchase tickets, visit mohistory.org or call (314) 361-9017.
HOT 2012
- Samantha Taylor
LIST
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agenda / key
Free
calendar
Hot Pick
Idina Menzel at Peabody Opera House
fitness
awareness. More info at slpl.org (225 N. Euclid Ave., Central West End). NOVEL IDEAS: A DISCOVERY OF WITCHES June 27, Left Bank Books
Dive into a world of enchantment, passion and underworld secrets as author Deborah Harkness discusses her book, “A Discovery of Witches.” More info at left-bank.com (321 N. 10th St., Downtown).
SPECIAL EVENTS The Painted Ladies Drag Show June 1, Meyer's Grove
Witness one of the most creative, talented and downright entertaining shows this side of the Mississippi. More info at meyersgrove. com (4510 Manchester Ave., The Grove). INDIHOP FESTIVAL June 2, The Grove & Cherokee Street
Pick up your IndiHop tasting glass and hop from venue to venue to sample 50 different locally-made brews. More info at facebook.com/ indihop (Manchester Street, The
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Grove; Cherokee Street, Cherokee).
TOUR DE PLANTS BICYCLE TOUR June 2, Bell Demonstration Garden
In an effort to increase access to fresh, affordable food, this ride travels through historic neighborhoods, the city’s bike routes and community gardens. More info at gatewaygreening.org (3871 Bell Ave., Grand Center). THE CYPHER 2: BADDEST DJ IN THE LOU June 3, Atomic Cowboy
A DJ battle showcasing some of the best amateur, freestyle and professional DJs in the city. More info at cypher2.eventbrite.com (4140 Manchester Ave., Tower Grove). URBAN ASSAULT RIDE June 3, Forest Park
This unusual and exciting bike ride involves improvised routes, obstacle courses and an after-party with the Cha Cha Chow food truck. More info and registration at urbanassaultride.com (Langenberg Field at Forest Park). FIREFLY FESTIVAL June 5, Sophia M. Sachs Butterfly House, Faust Park
Celebrate summer’s natural lan-
terns, the fireflies, with a remarkable flashlight show and familyfriendly activities. More info at missouribotanicalgarden.org (15193 Olive Blvd., Chesterfield). ST. LOUIS PAGAN PICNIC June 9-10, Tower Grove Park
Dance with the bardic circle of musicians, shop eclectic vendors and participate in spiritual workshops at the 20th annual St. Louis Pagan Picnic. More info at paganpicnic.org (4256 Magnolia Ave., The Grove). St. Louis Jewish Film Festival June 10-14, Landmark Plaza Frontenac Cinema
This 17th annual festival celebrates films and filmmakers influenced and inspired by Jewish culture, with themes ranging from family to the Holocaust. Tickets at stljewishfilmfestival.org (210 Plaza Frontenac, Frontenac).
Great Rivers Greenway is forging ahead in the development of a system of more than 1,000 miles of highquality greenways, parks and trails across the St. Louis region. The organization completed The Gateway Bike Plan last year, and is now working to promote the trails that already exist and form partnerships between the communities that will eventually help connect them. The plan aims to provide safe, convenient on-road bike paths connecting the region’s communities, greenways and trails. The impressive network not only encourages healthy, active lifestyles, but also makes bicycling a viable mode of transportation to work or school. The plan will be set into motion over the next 20 years, with the first phase due to be completed in 2017. To find out how you can help promote biking in your community, visit grgstl.org. – Jorie Jacobi
More online!
Log on to alivemag.com to search and browse our full listings of events around St. Louis.
Top left photo by Robin Wong. Top right photo courtesy of Great Rivers Greenway.
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summer in St. Louis
agenda /
calendar
Heat up your summer with these STL cultural events.
Missouri History Museum COCA Lindell and DeBaliviere in Forest Park • 314.746.4599 • mohistory.org
524 Trinity Ave. • St. Louis, MO 63130 • 314.725.6555 • cocastl.org
Summer at the Missouri History Museum offers interesting exhibits that entertain and educate! Open now and all summer long, The Civil War in Missouri explores our state’s crucial role in the war; Fire! Friend and Foe investigates the duality of fire, how it helps us and hurts us. Opening June 30, Underneath it All will showcase women’s undergarments throughout history, and examine how they reflected women’s changing roles in society.
COCA Summer Arts Camps and Summer Classes June 4 - August 18
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COCA offers half- and full-day Summer Arts Camps, as well as afternoon, evening and Saturday classes for all ages. COCA programs are taught by professional artist-instructors. Find camps or classes in vocal music, musical theatre, jazz dance, circus arts, illustration, painting, hip-hop, yoga (and more!) running all summer long. Join the fun—try something new or renew a passion at COCA. To register or find more information: cocastl.org.
ALIVE SPECIAL PROMOTION
Saint Louis Science Center At Amazing Nano Worlds!, the Saint Louis Science Center’s summer exhibition, a world that is usually too small to see will get bigger, easier to understand and much more fun! Come explore interactive, familyfriendly exhibits that will give you a closer look at how scientists are using nanotechnology to develop new tools and materials that will affect our lives.
5050 Oakland Ave. St. Louis, MO 63110 314.289.4400 • slsc.org
City of Maplewood The 7th Annual Let Them Eat Art is a self-guided tour of enchantment on Friday, July 13 from 6-11pm in Historic Downtown Maplewood. See live art demonstrations, gallery openings, live music with the Powerplay Band and an array of acoustic performers. Live entertainment includes hoop dance performances, belly dancing, dream interpretation, top spinning, face painting and surprises! There is also a Dog Costume Contest with cash prizes, as well as food and drink for purchase at Maplewood’s fine restaurants. 7300 Manchester Maplewood, MO 63143 314.6463607 cityofmaplewood.com/ltea
ArtDimensions’ Cherokee Nights ArtDimensions at 2720 Cherokee Performing Arts Center is leading the way on Cherokee Street, St. Louis’ newest art district. For 10 years, ArtD has provided programming and arts events for the community. Programs include: Live Art, ArtRotation, first Wednesday networking and artist talks. Cherokee Nights is the newest event presented by ArtD. Join us on the first Friday of each month, 6-10pm, for an art affair featuring Cherokee businesses and an after party at ArtD including dance, visual arts, spoken word and music. 2720 Cherokee St. St. Louis MO 63118 2720cherokee.com June 2012
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SAKS FASHION SHOW | A TASTEFUL AFFAIR | artrageous baubles ball
Spotlight
ALIVE 10th Anniversary Party continued p.120
Photo by PETER WOCHNiaK
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ALIVE 10th Anniversary Party April 13, Peabody Opera House
There’s no better occasion than a birthday to gather all of your favorite people and throw a party. And let’s face it—at ALIVE, we love throwing parties. The majestic Grand Lobby of Peabody Opera House was the perfect setting for us to celebrate 10 great years in St. Louis with more than 500 of our closest friends. The fabulous Lola van Ella emceed the evening, and we were thrilled to have Erin Daniels, our very first celebrity cover gal, come to town to wish us a happy birthday, along with fellow guests of honor: Derek Blasberg, Laura Kathleen and Michael Drummond. Kansas Whiskey created a special ALIVE-tini for the occasion, which was very popular among guests, as was the traditional Bud Select. Dawn Weber and the Electrofunk Assembly rocked the stage for the VIP portion of the party, and DJ Alexis Tucci and her House Kings kept things funky for the rest of the night before guests headed to The Pepper Lounge to continue the party. I know I speak for the entire ALIVE family when I say thank you to our loyal advertisers and readers who have supported us over the years. Special thanks also goes to our event sponsors: Kansas Whiskey, Budweiser Select, Boutique Realty and Plaza Motors. Here’s to many more! – Gwen Ragno, Associate Editor
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scene fashion
Zenobia Runway Show
April 25, Saks Fifth Avenue St. Louis’ fashion-forward crowd was sure to catch the Saks Fifth Avenue-hosted runway show featuring international designer Zenobia. Special guest, Zenobia Design Director Pina Ianelli, presented an exciting sneak peek of the Fall 2012 collection to a captivated audience, who enjoyed post runway show shopping, hors d’oeuvres by Franco and Nico and refreshments from Beaulieu Vineyards, Qream, Bud Select, Stella Artois and Shock Top Lemon Shandy. Guests’ $15 donation and 10 percent of all sales for the evening benefited Cardinal Glennon Children’s Hospital. 1 Danella Lang & Lisa Cohnes 2 Brittany McCarty & Marilyn Boyd 3 Kelly Arciszewski, Sabrina Martinez & Katie Lewis 4 Marie Senay & Kathryn Feldt 5 Alla Shteyn, Elena Rybak & Irina Dubinovski
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A Tasteful Affair
April 15, Chase Park Plaza More than 1,500 supporters of Food Outreach gathered for the 24th annual A Tasteful Affair. Guests at the see-and-be-seen charity event sampled scrumptious selections from over 40 fine restaurants in the St. Louis area, and enjoyed medieval-themed games and entertainers. Proceeds benefited Food Outreach in its mission to provide nutritional support for those living with HIV/AIDS and cancer. 1 Maggie Crane & Heidi Glaus 2 Dean VanMeter, David Lauber, Scott Holifield & Mike Livingston 3 Christian Lucas & Vincent Craig 4 Thomas Cash & Kasey Bergh 5 Maria Wolf & Brooke Beaussink 6 James Walter Moon & Albert Anglin 7 Stephanie Schmidt, Jennifer Owens, Tami Bowman & Brandi Hudges
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scene gala
ARTrageous Baubles Ball
April 13, The Palladium Art-lovers gathered for Craft Alliance’s ARTrageous Baubles Ball for a showcase of outrageous art and jewelry. Featuring New York fashion designer Timo Weiland as guest DJ, the event also hosted renowned fashion director and curator Valerie Steele, and Fashion Lab co-founders Anjali Kamra and Susan Barrett. Proceeds benefited Craft Alliance’s education and outreach programs in the St. Louis community.
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April 19, The Randall Gallery More than 125 supporters of Aim High St. Louis gathered for a swank cocktail party raising funds for the organization. Guests sampled lavish food and drinks while enjoying live music and casino-style games. Luminosity is Aim High’s biggest fundraiser of the year, raising over $45,000 to help provide academic and personal enrichment for middle school students from challenging social and economic circumstances. 1 Kendra Christian & Shelia Barnes 2 Jim Ripper, Carolyn Kindle & Jesse Ripper 3 Mark and Bebe Cusumano 4 Brad Modde & Ali Kindle
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Archetypes
Michael Uthoff An interview with Michael Uthoff, artistic and executive director of Dance St. Louis, adjunct professor at Webster University, avid soccer fan and closet Cardinals fan (New York Mets still have him…officially).
What is your current frame of mind? I’m feeling really great in this moment. When and where are you happiest? When I see a great dance performance. Or, when I’m doing nothing at all, and I’m surrounded by people. What is your favorite smell? The back of the woman I love. What is one word that describes you? For the most part, I’m an optimist. What did you eat for breakfast today? Half of a grapefruit, yogurt and coffee. Which words or phrases do you most overuse? “That was divino.” What is your most marked characteristic? I’m a very gregarious person. What is your greatest weakness? I trust people too much. What trait do you most admire in others? Honesty and commitment to excellence in whatever they are doing. Who or what is the greatest love of your life? I love life. To name one thing or person would be unfair. If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be? I’d be more tolerant and patient.
What do you consider your greatest achievement? In every job, I did exactly what I said I would do. Which living person do you most admire? Under the circumstances, President Obama. Putting up with all of the crap he’s had to—it’s a remarkable achievement. If you were to die and come back as a person or thing, who or what would it would be? Crazy as it sounds, a composer. What is your most treasured possession? I like the things that surround me. But, if I didn’t have them tomorrow, I’d be okay with that, too. What is your greatest fear? Not doing the right thing with the opportunities given to me—as a human being and as a professional. On what occasion do you lie? If it’s something that will not really affect the person in the long run, but will hurt them deeply in the short term. Who are your favorite dancers? Rudólph Nureyev and Margot Fonteyn. What they did onstage in the ’60s was spellbinding, and it changed dance forever. Who are your favorite directors? José Limón, Anthony Tudor, Robert Joffrey and my father. What is your favorite hobby? I love doing physical things, but after my hip replacement surgery, having dinners with friends and seeing movies. Where would you like to live? I am happy where I am. But, I’d love to live in Florence for six months, and have a home in my native country, Chile. Who are your heroes in real life? Paul Taylor, the choreographer. He succeeded for decades and stuck to his guns. And, my brother; he is the most selfless man I’ve ever met.
ALIVE MAGAZINE | June 2012
If you could have dinner with one person, dead or alive, who would it be? Mother Teresa— because I’m fascinated by how a person can be so selfless and because she would be a cheap date [laughs]. What is something interesting that you just learned? My work hasn’t changed since I was 18 years old, but it took 50 years for people to really see it and buy into it. I’ve learned that if you are true to yourself and honest in your work, eventually, you’ll win. What are you most looking forward to? To be able to do what I’m doing for as long as people will let me. What is something you still want to learn? How to play the piano. What is one thing you want to do before you die? See my grandchildren grow. If you could say one thing to your younger self, what would it be? You didn’t do so badly.
Interview by Elizabeth Tucker Photograph by Wesley Law ‘Archetypes’ are off-the-cuff interviews with St. Louis' most inspiring, well-known personalities based on the 19th century Parisian parlor game known as the Proust Questionnaire.