Sauce Magazine // August 2025

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R EA S O N S W HY W E LO V

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CITY FOU NDRY STL

S T . L O U I S ’ I N D E P E N D E N T C U L I N A R Y A U T H O R I T Y // S A U C E M A G A Z I N E . C O M // A U G U S T 2 0 2 5

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August 2025

August 2025

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AUGUST 2025 • VOLUME 25, ISSUE 7 OWNER & CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

Lucas Farrell

OWNER & CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Kyle Stevens EXECUTIVE EDITOR Lauren Healey DIRECTOR OF ADVERTISING Kelli Jones CREATIVE DIRECTOR

Haimanti Germain

GRAPHIC DESIGNER Aspen Smit CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Julia Fallert, Lucas Farrell, Lauren Healey, Brad Henderson, Kadin McDaniel, Charlotte Vieth

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Amanda Bretz, Lauren Healey, Salem Prestien

COT TLE VILL AGE PHOTO BY L AUREN HE ALEY

Sauce was founded by Allyson Mace in 1999.

TO PLACE ADVERTISEMENTS IN SAUCE MAGAZINE, contact the advertising department at sales@saucemagazine.com.

The entire contents of Sauce Magazine are copyright 2024 by Big Lou Holdings, LLC. No portion may be reproduced in whole or in part by any means, including electronic retrieval systems, without the expressed written permission of the Publisher, Sauce Magazine, PO Box 430033, St. Louis, MO 63143.

The Sauce name and logo are both registered to the publisher, Big Lou Holdings, LLC. While the information has been compiled carefully to ensure maximum accuracy at the

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time of publication, it is provided for general guidance only and is subject to change. The publisher cannot guarantee the accuracy of all information or be responsible for omissions or errors.

EDITORIAL POLICIES The Sauce Magazine mission is to provide St. Louis-area residents and visitors with unbiased, complete information on the area’s restaurant, bar and entertainment industry. Our editorial content is not influenced by who advertises with Sauce Magazine or saucemagazine.com.

Our reviewers are never provided with complimentary food or drinks from the restaurants in exchange

for favorable reviews, nor are their identities as reviewers made known during their visits.

Sauce is available free of charge.

Additional copies of the current issue may be purchased for $1.00 plus postage, payable in advance to the Sauce Magazine office at PO Box 430033, St. Louis, MO 63143.

Sauce may be distributed only by Sauce authorized distributors. No person may, without prior written permission of Sauce, take more than one copy of Sauce's monthly issue.

August 2025

contents AU G U ST 2 02 5

editors’ picks

features

by Lauren Healey

15 UPSHOT COFFEE FLYBY MOVES INTO ROAD CREW COFFEE

by Lauren Healey

9 DRINK THIS

18 BEN'S PICKS

7 EAT THIS

Tacos at DD Mau

Monstera at Monstera Mezcaleria & Natural Wine Bar

by Lauren Healey Restaurateur Ben Poremba Photo by Kadin McDaniel

10 HIT LIST

by Lauren Healey

4 new places to try this month

by Lauren Healey

Ben Poremba’s 10 favorite STL restaurants

22 12 REASONS WE LOVE CITY FOUNDRY STL

by Lauren Healey

last bite 30 STUFF TO DO THIS AUGUST

by Amanda Bretz

COVER DETAILS The bustling City Foundry STL is one of the coolest spots in town. Learn more on p. 22 Cover photo by Brad Henderson, STL Aerial Arts

August 2025 2024

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Eat This

E D I T O R S ’ P I C K S

Tacos at a Vietnamese restaurant aren’t exactly traditional, but this delectable collision of flavors has created what are now some of our favorite tacos in town. DD Mau swaps tortillas for buttery, crispy roti shells, then loads them up with your choice of protein (we’re partial to the lemongrassmarinated chicken, but the beef, pork and tofu all hold their own) and a colorful mix of pickled veggies, red cabbage, jalapenos and fresh cilantro. This dish nails the balance of savory, spicy, tangy and totally delicious.

P H OTO BY C H A R LOT T E V I E T H

11982 Dorsett Road, Maryland Heights, 314.942.2300; 20 Allen Ave., Webster Groves, 314.926.0900, ddmaustl.com

August 2025 2024

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E D I T O R S ’ P I C K S

DRINK THIS An eponymous cocktail always hits, and the Monstera at Monstera Mezcaleria & Natural Wine Bar on South Grand is no exception. This flagship drink is built around a mango-infused raicilla, a coastal agave spirit from Jalisco, and elevated with Genepy liqueur to brighten its herbaceous undertones. A housemade garden elixir of basil, cilantro and mint adds a vegetal freshness, while acidity from lime juice brings the cocktail into sharp focus. Light and fresh yet strong and earthy, this cocktail is a true showcase of agave's spirited range beyond tequila.

P H OTO BY L AU R E N H E A L E Y

3194 S. Grand Blvd., St. Louis, monsteramezcaleria.com

August 2025

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E D I T O R S ' P I C K S

4 new places to try this month

C OT T L E V I L L AG E P H OTO S BY L AU R E N H E A L E Y

hit list

Cottle Village

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Chicken lettuce wraps

COTTLE VILLAGE Cottle Village is the kind of multi‑concept destination that makes you want to stay awhile. Spread across 4.5 acres in the heart of booming Cottleville, it’s a mix of historic charm and modern hangout: a restaurant and bar set inside a restored house, a separate distillery lounge, an outdoor bar tucked into a converted barn, and a sprawling green space with lawn games, a stage for live music and plenty of room to roam.

The Honey Smash and Cappelletti spritz

Ribeye Philly Cheesesteak sandwich

The food and drinks hold up too.

Biscuit sliders are like chicken minis leveled up – buttery, with microgreens and a jalapeño‑tomato jam that tastes like a sweet salsa. The Ribeye Philly Cheesesteak sandwich is one of the best we’ve had in a while. The mac and cheese has French onion soup energy, with baked cheese and rich onion flavor, while the lettuce wraps bring a smoky freshness. For drinks, try the Cappelletti spritz – like Aperol but a little more bitter – or the Hot Honey Smash, which comes in hot with ginger and heat, almost like a Kentucky Mule.

6470 Highway N, Cottleville, 636.268.2123, cottlevillage.com August 2025

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Beef Bène

Grilled Cheese

P H OTO S BY L AU R E N H E A L E Y

Big Mouth Sandwich Co. You can find the delectable Italianstyle sandwiches of Big Mouth Sandwich Co. at both Perennial Artisan Ales and The Mack Bar & Grill in South City, and they’re bringing the kind of flavor-packed dishes that go way beyond typical brewery fare. The garlicky, rich Beef Bène is the standout with an Italian cheese blend, aioli, and mild cherry peppers for a pop of freshness – so good it doesn’t even need the side of au jus served alongside. The beet sandwich is surprisingly satisfying, fresh and hearty with slices of green apple plus golden raisin chimichurri and a creamy burrata-ricotta spread.

The grilled cheese feels grown up thanks to a delicious spread of fresh basil-almond pesto. Everything’s piled high, so expect a little chaos; fillings tend to tumble out, but that’s half the fun when you use the house chips to scoop up the extras.

8125 Michigan Ave., St. Louis, perennialbeer.com; 4615 Macklind Ave., St. Louis, 314.832.8199, mackbarandgrill.com

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Beet sandwich

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FLIGHT CLUB

The space is surprisingly comfortable for summer (not overly chilled like so many bars and restaurants) and channels a whimsical, fairgroundmeets-Victorian-pub vibe. The cocktail list is playful too: We enjoyed the Snapdragon with vodka, lychee, dragonfruit and lime, and the spicy Bee Sting with bourbon, hot honey and apricot. The food menu has a few hits and few misses. Highlights included the chicken skewers over the most incredible mango chutney (which we sopped up with the soft bao buns we also ordered so as not to leave a drop of that amazing yogurt-based sauce left on the plate), and cinnamondusted churros with a side of creamy mousse for dessert.

P H OTO C O U R T E S Y O F F L I G H T C L U B

Part darts bar, part British pub, part carnival, Flight Club is a solid pick next time you’re planning a game night.

The 6,250-square-foot space features eight semi-private “oches” (that’s dart lingo for gaming area), and several interactive games like Donkey Derby and classic bullseye. Before playing, you’ll snap a selfie so your name and photo show up on screen when it’s your turn to compete. After every win, you get an instant replay video, which is a really fun aspect – so get your game face on. On our visit, we even joined a spontaneous bullseye contest with players at another board and walked away with a $25 gift card.

Inside the Flight Club

Pork ribs and kimchi fried rice

7710 Forsyth Blvd., Clayton,

SIKAO LIFE CHINESE BBQ

P H OTO BY L AU R E N H E A L E Y

flightclubdartsusa.com/st-louis

August 2025

Sikao Life is a no-frills Chinese barbecue spot tucked just off the Delmar Loop, part of a growing wave of more authentic Chinese eateries in the area. The menu is extensive and flavorful. Both the beef strips and the pork ribs come intensely seasoned (though a bit dry), the kimchi fried rice is a nice departure from steamed or even standard fried rice, and you can adjust the spice level on every dish to your liking, but even “little spicy” packs quite a punch. The space is simple, with just enough tables if you’d rather eat in than take it to go.

You can order from a QR code at your table, then a server will bring you your food; add as much as you’d like to your tab throughout the meal, then pay at the end. It’s not fancy, but the flavors are on point.

567-A Melville Ave., University City, 314.818.2681, sikaolife.com saucemagazine.com I SAUCE MAGAZINE I 13

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on the COFFEE FLY Upshot Coffee Flyby is opening in the Road Crew Coffee space in Tower Grove South

By Lauren Healey

A popular Tower Grove South coffee spot is

getting new life this fall. Upshot Coffee, a Cottlevillebased roaster, will launch a new concept called Upshot Coffee Flyby in September at 3172 Morgan Ford Road, the current home of Road Crew Coffee.

The opening marks Upshot’s fourth location and its first in the city. The new café will bring the company’s signature coffee and an expanded menu while preserving the cycling culture that has defined Road Crew for its loyal community.

Road Crew Coffee will operate through Sept. 1, hosting bike-related community events and offering in-store discounts throughout August. After a brief closure, Flyby is scheduled to debut Sept. 12 and plans to retain much of Road Crew’s current staff.

The shop’s name, “Flyby,” nods to a racing term for overtaking a competitor on a turn, a subtle homage to the cycling roots of the space.

Road Crew owner Andi Zekthi, who is stepping back to pursue new business opportunities, expressed

August 2025

support for the transition. “We’re very happy to be working with Upshot and excited where they’re going to take the space and the community,” Zekthi said. “We will stick around for community events, cycling team, group rides, run club – all of it.”

Upshot partners Eric Peters and Conor Vanbuskirk said they aim to honor the foundation Zekthi built while enhancing the offerings. “We’re 100 percent committed to maintaining Road Crew’s cycling culture and community,” Peters said. “We’re proud to become the title sponsor of the Road Crew Cycling Team and keep the weekly group rides going strong.”

Peters added that Flyby reflects Upshot’s passion for creating distinctive neighborhood spots. “We love creating unique and exciting spaces for our neighborhoods to enjoy ethically sourced specialty coffee and damn good, real food,” he said. “We are excited to express that through-line with our new beer and wine menu for the first time at Flyby. Flyby is Upshot. Pressing copy-paste would be easier for us no doubt, but all of our cafés have their own soul, yet all of them are an expression of Upshot and the values we share. We are looking forward to carrying on

and growing the rich community that Road Crew has cultivated over the past several years.”

The expanded menu will showcase fan favorites like the Brake Shop Burrito and Avocado & Stuff Toast, alongside new lunch items like The Bada Bing hoagie stacked with capicola, pepperoni and mortadella. A selection of Kyoto cold brews, Berry Sparklers, and specialty drinks like the Orange Cardamom Tonic and Blueberry Smash will complement espresso classics from cortados to lattes.

Flyby will also introduce a beer, wine and brunch cocktail program, featuring espresso martinis, Brake Shop Bloody Marys and Motor Mimosas. Guests can grab a cold beer from the “garage fridge,” stocked with options like Cloud City Hazy IPA, Montucky Lager and Busch Light, or enjoy a glass of Bariano Prosecco or Poggio Anima Sangiovese.

Founded in Cottleville, Upshot Coffee also has locations in St. Charles and Clayton. Known for its creative drinks, baked goods and community focus, the company said Flyby is its next step in connecting with St. Louis city coffee lovers. saucemagazine.com I SAUCE MAGAZINE I 15

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PA RT N E R CO N T E N T

In crust we trust 4 local restaurants with great pizza

St. Louis might be known for Provel, but our pizza scene goes way beyond that. Whether it’s wood-fired and blistered, hand-tossed and nostalgic, or piled high with local ingredients, these local spots are worth a visit.

Anthonino’s Taverna

Anthonino’s Taverna, which was ranked in the Top 100 Pizza Spots in the U.S. by Yelp, takes their pizza very seriously, including gluten-free and vegan options. The handtossed crust can be topped with a wide variety of ingredients, from gyro meat and classic pepperoni to fresh figs. Their high-quality mozzarella provides a creamy, mouthwatering cheese pull that will keep you going back for another slice. All ingredients are fresh and sourced locally as much as possible. You can conveniently find their frozen gourmet pizza at your local Schnucks. Next time you are craving pizza, head to Anthonino’s for dine in, carryout or catering.

Pizzeoli

Tucked into historic Soulard since 2014, this locally owned pizzeria is a hidden gem with vintage charm and a loyal following.

Known for its “charred & flimsy” Neapolitanstyle pizzas, each pie is fired in a blazing 900°F wood oven. Ingredients are natural and thoughtfully sourced: no seed oils, and plenty of vegan, vegetarian and gluten-free options. The cozy, candlelit space feels like a throwback in the best way, with dim stained glass lighting and jazz on the speakers.

Don’t skip the cocktails: classic favorites like the negroni or martini are just $10 during happy hour from 4-6 p.m. Monday through Thursday. Seating is limited, so join the waitlist online before heading over.

2225 Macklind Ave., St. Louis, 314.773.4455, anthoninos.com

1928 S. 12th St., St. Louis, 314.449.1111, pizzeoli.com

Madrina

Schlafly Beer

At Madrina, pizza isn’t just a dish; it’s a love letter to Italian-American tradition. Each pie begins with a perfectly blistered crust, handstretched and ready for its next chapter.

Toppings range from nostalgic classics to seasonal riffs, all made with serious heart.

It’s about taste, tradition and taking your time. Come hungry. Leave full-hearted. This pizza is more than a meal, it’s a memory in the making. Available only during Aperitivo Hour, the happiest hour, from 4-6 p.m.

Tuesday through Friday and Sunday.

101 W. Lockwood Ave., Webster Groves, 314.963.1976, madrinastl.com

August 2025

P H OTO CO U R T E SY O F A N T H O N I N O ’ S TAV E R N A

Schlafly brings the same attention to detail and local pride found in their beer to every pizza they make. With bold, housemade sauces, craft-inspired toppings and ingredients sourced from nearby farms, each pizza is a celebration of creativity and flavor.

Seasonal specials keep the menu fresh, and every slice is designed to pair perfectly with your favorite Schlafly brew.

Multiple locations, schlafly.com

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Ben’s Picks Ben Poremba shares 10 of his favorite restaurants around St. Louis

BY LAUREN HEALEY

A

ward-winning restaurateur Ben Poremba is the visionary behind some of St. Louis’s most distinctive dining spots, including Nixta, Florentin and Esca in the Delmar Maker District and Deli Divine just down the road, as well as AO&Co. Market in Botanical Heights and Bar Moro in Clayton. (Olio remains temporarily closed after a May tornado tore through the Delmar Maker District; a planned November reopening has been indefinitely postponed.) Known for his inventive approach to Mediterranean and global cuisines, Poremba fuses finedining technique with a deep appreciation for comfort and cultural storytelling. Since relocating much of his culinary footprint from Botanical Heights to the emerging Delmar Maker District, he’s continued to evolve while staying true to his roots. Here, he shares 10 of his favorite restaurants around the city, plus a bonus spot outside of St. Louis that has some of the best pizza in the country.

August 2025

Adriana’s on the Hill

“I’m very loyal to Adriana’s for sandwiches; the meatball sandwich is the best in town.”

5101 Shaw Ave., St. Louis, 314.773.3833, adrianasonthehill.com

Balkan Treat Box

Charlie Gitto’s on the Hill

“When we want to go somewhere nostalgic, we like Charlie Gitto’s on the Hill. It’s very consistent. Best toasted ravioli in town. My kids love the meatballs. I get the veal Milanese and chicken spiedini. Inside that room, you never know what time of day it is – it always feels the same because it’s so dark.”

5226 Shaw Ave., St. Louis, 314.772.8898, charliegittos.com

“I don’t go as often as I’d like, but I love Balkan Treat Box. I get the pide, or more and more I’ll get a salad with grilled chicken. My son loves the cevapi. It’s all good. Last time I was there, I tried the vegan lahmacun.”

Corner 17

8103 Big Bend Blvd., Webster Groves, 314.733.5700, balkantreatbox.com

6623 Delmar Blvd., University City, 314.727.2402, corner17usa.com

“My son loves it. Great noodles, soups, dumplings. Their green beans – I think they call them dry-fried – are great.

It’s a fun spot with a huge menu.”

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Fordo’s Killer Pizza

“It’s the best pizza in town. I don’t always get pizzas – I just get pizza dough and bake it at my house. It’s very light and airy. For a street food thing, that’s my go-to. We do pizza nights with the kids and friends. They just have really great dough; it’s hard to beat.”

City Foundry STL food hall, 3730 Foundry Way, St. Louis; Urban Chestnut Brewing Co., 4465 Manchester Ave., St. Louis, 314.222.0143, fordoskillerpizza.com

Peacemaker Lobster & Crab Co.

“It’s great when we have a craving for seafood. We love the lobster rolls. It’s fun to take the kids – they get bib aprons and get to play with things. If you get some peel-and-eat shrimp and lobster, it’s occupational eating.”

1831 Sidney St., St. Louis, 314.772.8858, peacemakerlobstercrab.com

Robin Restaurant

“I haven’t been yet, but I really want to go to Robin Restaurant in my old place [The Benevolent King]. [Alec Schingel] is a very talented chef. It’s my kind of cuisine. I think I would really enjoy the pace of the meal. I like that it’s very focused and chef-oriented.”

7268 Manchester Road, Maplewood, robinrestaurant.com

Sado

“I think it’s the most ambitious restaurant in St. Louis from an operational standpoint. To have something like that in St. Louis is really special – it requires real skill and commitment. Buying and aging the fish is not something you can just read about and recreate, you really have to have skill to do it.”

5201 Shaw Ave., St. Louis, 314.925.8250, sadostl.com

Sameem Afghan Restaurant & Catering

“Sameem is an all-time favorite of mine – I would go to lunch by myself occasionally. I love the people. The rice might be the best in town. Their spicing is very exotic and something I wouldn’t cook at home even though it’s a cuisine I relate to.”

4341 Manchester Ave., St. Louis, 314.534.9500, sameems.com

Songbird

“We don’t go often enough, but we like to take out-of-town visitors there for breakfast or lunch. I always get the frittata. I just like the space – it feels very urban, very big-city, but at the same time very neighborhood-oriented.”

P H OTOS BY J U L I A FA L L E R T

4476 Chouteau Ave., St. Louis, 314.781.4344, songbirdstl.com

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Bonus bite worth the drive: Speck Pizza

“Can we take a road trip to Cape Girardeau? One of the best pizzas in the country is at Speck. My buddy, Gabriele Ruggieri, is the owner.

I’m working hard to get him to St. Louis. I would put Speck up against anyone.”

430 Broadway St., Cape Girardeau, 573.419.4326, speckpizza.com August 2025

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Aerial photo by Brad Henderson, STL Aerial Arts Remaining photos by Charlotte Vieth

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August 2025

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REASONS WHY WE LOVE CITY FOUNDRY STL City Foundry STL is the kind of place our city needs to remind you that

St. Louis is still thriving. This century-old industrial site has been transformed into one of the most happening spots in town, complete with sizzling food stalls, indie boutiques and interactive attractions, plus plenty of space to roam around and explore. It’s family-friendly and full of casual energy by day, and transforms into the perfect spot for date nights, drinks or catching a movie each evening. Every visit feels a little different, and every corner hums with the kind of ingenuity that makes St. Louis special. City Foundry isn’t just a place to eat or shop, it’s a place to experience.

August 2025

By Lauren Healey

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1. Food hall More than just a food court, the City Foundry food hall is a showcase of local flavor and creativity. Our favorite stalls include Fordo’s Killer Pizza for some of the best pizza in town, BerryBox Superfood Bar with nutrient-dense options galore, Intergalactic Burgers for some far-out indulgences, and Chez Ali, which offers a compact selection of Afro-Caribbean favorites. But with about 20 different options to choose from, there is truly something for everyone as the cuisines represented here run the gamut. There’s also a bar right inside the food hall for those looking for an adult beverage or two.

2. Expat BBQ Adjacent to the food hall and spanning three floors, Expat BBQ offers some seriously good barbecue, along with laid-back rooftop vibes.

The comfortably furnished patio is a major draw: you can sip a cocktail, look out over the Midtown skyline and snack on smoked meats tinged with a range of global influences or simple yet succulent cheese curds.

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3. None of the Above The cocktails aforementioned in this list are undoubtedly worth a sip, but if you want something really stellar, find the red light outside the unmarked door (aside from a faint logo) and head down to arguably the coolest speakeasy in town. You can hardly go wrong with any of their inventive drinks, but In the Mood for Love is a crowd pleaser, as are Claws of Light and Blood of the Dawn.

They only serve light snacks, but the charred scallion dip is exactly what you need in this setting.

4. Puttshack Think of Puttshack as mini golf with a literal glow-up. This spot uses techy, high-energy scoring systems and a slick course design to turn mini golf into a full-on night out.

Add in better-than-expected craft cocktails (we are partial to the Hennessy Island and the NA spritz) and shareable plates, and you’ve got a grown-up version of the arcade experience that still works for families during the day.

5. Alamo Drafthouse Now that you can watch almost any movie from the comfort of your home with a mere click of a button, theaters where the movie is just part of the experience are the new norm. Alamo Drafthouse offers plush seats, full-service food and drinks, and themed screenings that make it feel like an event. If you haven’t watched a cult classic here with a specialty cocktail in hand, you’re missing out. Plus, watching a movie in a theater and not on your couch harkens back to the days of old, and a deja vu moment of core youth memories is something money cannot buy.

August 2025

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6. City Winery Part music venue, part tasting room, part urban winery, City Winery is a great place to catch national touring acts or local bands in a warm, intimate space. Otherwise, it’s a nice place to sip through a wine flight and share some charcuterie on a casual evening.

7. Fresh Thyme An everyday essential, Fresh Thyme is perfect for a quick stop after work or a full weekend grocery run. It’s smaller and more curated than a big-box store, but still has everything you need.

8. Museum of Illusions This one’s for the kids and your camera roll. The Museum of Illusions is filled with mind-bending photo opps, including tilted rooms, optical tricks and brain-teasing exhibits that get you laughing and second-guessing what you see. It’s an hour well spent, especially on a hot or rainy day.

9. Retail therapy City Foundry’s mix of local and lifestyle shops gives it more texture than your typical development.

Whether you’re browsing vintage finds, picking up handmade gifts, or shopping for sustainable goods, it feels more intentional and not like just another mall.

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10. Location, location, location Nestled in Midtown, just off the highway and with easy access to the Central West End and downtown, it’s nice to see an attraction within the actual city of St. Louis truly thriving.

11. Live music & events From casual weeknight performers to weekend festivals and seasonal markets, there’s almost always something happening. The vibe is approachable: you can join in, hang back or just let the sound spill into the rest of your night. It’s the kind of passive programming that makes a place feel alive.

12. More fun around the corner This isn’t a place that’s standing still. Additions like Sandbox VR, Trufusion fitness studio, an escape room, and the forthcoming Urban Fort Play Cafe keep rounding out the experience, and there’s more growth planned in every direction. It’s the rare development that keeps getting better, not just bigger.

3730 Foundry Way, St. Louis, cityfoundrystl.com

August 2025

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PA RT N E R CO N T E N T

TRUCKIN'

P H OTO CO U R T E SY O F FA R M T R U K

St. Louis serves up some of the best meals on four wheels

We’ve got no shortage of great food trucks, offering everything from globally inspired tacos to farm-fresh comfort food. These local favorites make it easy to find a delicious meal on the go.

Farmtruk

Farmtruk is bringing the farm-to-table concept to the St. Louis streets. They partner with local farmers to create classic dishes with a fresh twist. Must-try dishes include the brisket mac, Farmtruk burger, fried green tomatoes, and their Reuben sandwich. In addition to their usual stops at Frankie Martin’s Garden and the Tower Grove Farmers’ Market, you can catch them at Sauce Food Truck Fridays. farmtrukfoodtruck.com

Hog Call BBQ

Hog Call BBQ is dedicated to bringing you the best barbecue in the St. Louis area with bold, slow-cooked recipes that have been refined to perfection over the past 20 years. The Hog Call BBQ food truck serves all the crowd favorites, from mouth-watering pulled pork tacos and nachos with street corn to classic comfort food like smoked brisket sandwiches, chicken wings, Razorback baked beans, and smoked mac and cheese with bacon. Whenever Hog Call’s one-of-a-kind food truck arrives on the scene, fans can expect smiling, friendly service and flavor they will dream about until next time.

Facebook: Hog Call BBQ

Mr. Papa’s 2 Go

This family-owned food truck brings gourmet flair to the streets with fully customizable loaded potatoes and globally inspired flavors. From Philly cheesesteak and chicken fajita to plant-based and gluten-free options, every dish is crafted to satisfy a wide range of tastes and dietary needs. Chef Jose draws on more than a decade of experience in New York’s fine-dining kitchens, infusing each bite with upscale quality and heart. While spuds are the specialty, the menu goes well beyond potatoes, with tailored offerings for weddings, August 2025

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festivals and private events. Mr. Papas 2 Go serves St. Charles, O’Fallon, and the greater St. Louis area.

Facebook: Mr. Papas 2 Go

Scoops of Joy

Because every moment deserves a sweet celebration, Scoops of Joy is here to turn everyday moments into unforgettable memories – with a scoop (or two) of joy! The treats: Over 10 crave-worthy flavors, served in cones, cups or dreamy ice cream sandwiches. Whatever the vibe, they’ve got the scoop to match. Expect a dream team of sweet smiles and top-tier service: the fully trained staff brings the energy, the fun and the quality every single time. The women-owned business has been serving up happiness since 2021. Planning a party, pop-up or private event? They bring the scoops, you bring the smiles.

P H OTO CO U R T E SY O F M R . PA PA' S 2 G O

314.645.0066, scoopsofjoy1@gmail.com

Wok-o Taco

Wok-O Taco is a St. Louis-based food truck serving handcrafted tacos that fuse Mexico City street food with bold Asian flavors. Founded by Julian Engels and Brad Hatton, everything is made from scratch using top-quality ingredients.

Fan favorites include Thai chili chicken, beef bulgogi and esquites. Known for its bold graphics and high-energy vibe, the truck has built a loyal following across the region. Julian and Brad come from families where food brought people together, and that spirit drives everything they do. Now booking private events, corporate lunches, and festivals.

Follow Wok-O Taco on Instagram and Facebook and bring the flavor to you.

P H OTO CO U R T E SY O F S CO O P S O F J OY

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stuff to do AUGUST

D OW N TOW N S UMME R N I G H T S MOV I E N I G H T P H OTO BY C RO O K LY N

BY AMANDA BRETZ

Downtown Summer Nights

Festival of the Little Hills

Defiance Ridge Summer Concert Series

Pickle & Pint Festival

Multiple dates – Kiener Plaza, 500 Chestnut St., St. Louis, stlsummernights.com Back for its second year, Downtown Summer Nights continues in August, bringing movies, live music, food and drinks to Kiener Plaza every Thursday and Saturday night. This month, enjoy live music, a showing of the film “The Wiz” and a Shakespeare In The Park performance of “A Midsummer Night’s Dream.” Find the entire schedule online.

Most Fridays – 2711 S. Missouri 94, Defiance, defianceridge.com Defiance Ridge Vineyards continues its Summer Concert Series on Friday nights throughout August and into September. The series features live music from local bands and each concert concludes with a fireworks display. This month, catch a number of bands such as Anthology Allman Brothers Band Tribute, Butchwatch & The Hollywoods, Magic Man, Dr. Zhivegas and more.

Find the full concert schedule, list of bands and ticket prices online.

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Aug. 15 to 17 – Frontier Park, St. Charles, festivalofthelittlehills.com The Festival of the Little Hills is an annual arts and crafts show that takes over Frontier Park and Historic Main Street in St. Charles. Shop from vendors selling handmade goods such as jewelry, home decor, artwork, and more, listen to live music, be entertained with blacksmith demonstrations, and find numerous food vendors, or dine at any of the restaurants located on historic Main Street.

Aug. 16 – 3 to 9 p.m., 7260 Southwest Ave., St. Louis, schlafly.com/events Schlafly Bottleworks in Maplewood is hosting its first ever Pickle & Pint Festival. This free, family-friendly outdoor event is a playful celebration of local flavor, creativity and summer fun. The event will feature live music and pickle-inspired food and drinks, including a specialty pickle beer for the festival that was created in partnership with Two Men & A Garden. Attendees can also have fun at the onsite pickleball courts, watch community demos from the Saint Louis Science Center and participate in a variety of other activities.

Barbecue, Bourbon, and Beer Festival

Aug. 16 – 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., 9 Mile Garden, 9375 Gravois Road, 9milegarden.com 4 Hands Brewing and The St. Louis Barbecue Society presents Barbecue, Bourbon, and Beers at 9 Mile Garden in Affton. The festivities include bourbon and beer tastings, live music from Cottonwood Gunners, mouthwatering food from local food trucks and BBQ-themed vendors. And you can put your backyard grilling skills to the test by registering to be a backyard griller at the event. Get more details about the festival online.

Back to You: Parents’ Day Out

Aug. 18 – 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., 7730 Bonhomme Ave., Clayton, marriott.com Le Meridien St. Louis Clayton is giving parents a well-earned reason to celebrate with Back to You: Parents’ Day Out, a rooftop pool party designed for ultimate relaxation. The hotel invites parents to enjoy a much-needed breather after the first morning drop-off of the year with a relaxing daytime event. Guests can enjoy a serene, adultsDenotes a Sauce event.

August 2025

STUFF TO DO

food: it’s about community, creativity, and culture. I want every guest to feel like they’re stepping into something luxurious, flavorful, and unforgettable,” Chef Bailey said about the event. Tickets are available online.

Festival of Nations

only atmosphere featuring curated poolside bites, handcrafted cocktails like the “Mom-osa” and “Drop-Off Daiquiri,” and a vibrant, music-filled atmosphere. Tickets are $45 and can be purchased online.

F ES T I VA L O F T H E L I T T L E H I L L S , C O U R T ES Y P H OTO | F ES T I VA L O F N AT I O N S M A R K E T P H OTO BY A L E X F I S H

Milpa Dinner Series at El Molino

Multiple dates between Aug. 20 & Sept. 3, El Molino del Sureste, 5005-5007 S. Kingshighway Blvd., St. Louis, elmolinostl.com The acclaimed farm-to-table regional Mexican restaurant El Molino del Sureste is hosting a late summer dinner series exploring the Milpa – Mexico’s ancestral method of regenerative farming centered around corn, beans and squash.

At each dinner guests will be treated to a fivecourse menu of Mexican dishes highlighting the night’s featured crop designed by acclaimed executive chef Alex Henry and making use of the house-butchered cuts, locally sourced produce as well as freshly milled masa and house-made tortillas that El Molino has become known for. Tickets are $65 per person and include complimentary fountain drinks or iced tea with alcoholic beverages available for purchase a la carte. Tickets are available on online.

Night at the Zoo

Aug. 22 – 6 to 9 p.m., Saint Louis Zoo, stlzoo.org/night-at-the-zoo If you need a night out, try a night at the zoo. Sip, stroll and see the zoo like never before and enjoy special nighttime animal views and a sea lion show, ride the Emerson Zooline Railroad and Mary Ann Lee Conservation Carousel and more. This is a 21+ event, and the first drink is included in the ticket price. Tickets are $30 for Zoo members and $40 for non-members. Get more details and purchase tickets online.

August 2025

Alton Food Truck Festival

Aug. 23 – 4 to 8 p.m., Alton Amphitheater 1 Riverfront Drive, Alton, altonriverfrontamphitheater.com Located along the Mississippi River, the Alton Amphitheater is an outdoor, open-air venue that’s hosting the Alton Food Truck Festival. This is a free event that will include live music from the band Almost Famous, as well as popular regional food trucks such as Grace Chicken + Fish, Beast Craft BBQ Co., The Spud Shack, Tuk Tuk Thai and many more.

In addition to the food trucks, beverage stations will also be located throughout the event to purchase separately.

Sunset Cinema at Schlafly Bottleworks

Aug. 23 – 7 p.m., 7260 Southwest Ave., St. Louis, schlafly.com/events Schlafly Bottleworks location in Maplewood continues its Sunset Cinema series with a showing of the family film “Honey, I Shrunk the Kids.” The film will be shown on an outdoor projector in Schlafly’s parking lot. Schlafly Beer, canned cocktails, kids’ drinks and movie snacks will be available for purchase. Guests are encouraged to bring blankets and chairs to watch the movie to ensure seating. Admission is $3.50 per person, but kids 10 and under are free. Tickets can be purchased online or in person at the event.

A Night with Chef Bailey

Aug. 23 – 7 to 10 p.m., 1706 Washington Ave., St. Louis, form.jotform.com/250988804490064 Chef Bailey, Founder of Chef Bailey & Co., presents a refined cannabis-infused dinner party called A Night with Chef Bailey: Infused Dinner Experience – All White Affair. The night will feature a carefully curated multi-course menu, specialty cocktails and a limited Chef’s Table experience, while the dress code is all-white attire, reflective of the sophisticated event. “This experience is about more than just great

Aug. 23 & 24 – Tower Grove Park, festofnations.com The Festival of Nations is an event that represents over 80 countries and includes more than 100 vendors, such as food vendors, artisans and organizations, along with dozens of stage performances and interactive experiences.

Throughout the two-day event, guests can expect an immersive experience filled with international flavors, live entertainment, and artisan goods, many from immigrants and refugees supported by the International Institute of St. Louis. The annual event serves as a joyful and inclusive space that celebrates the cultures shaping St. Louis and the people proud to call it home.

Japanese Festival

Aug. 30 to Sept. 1 – Missouri Botanical Garden, 4344 Shaw Blvd., St. Louis, missouribotanicalgarden.org This Labor Day Weekend, the Missouri Botanical Garden will continue a tradition it’s held for over 45 years, as the organization will produce its annual Japanese Festival in conjunction with the Japanese Activities Committee. The Committee is a coalition of several Japanese-American organizations that provide art, dance, food and entertainment for thousands of visitors each year. Attendees of the festival will experience the thunderous pounding rhythms of the taiko drums, sumo wrestling and more at this three-day cultural adventure. New this year, guests will be delighted by Bentenya, a chindon group traveling throughout the festival grounds with glamorous kimonos, colorful wigs and lively music.

This unique street performance style is used in Japan as a way to promote businesses with theatrical flair.

Purchase admission to the festival in person, or online.

STL POT Chef Munchie Market

Aug. 31 – 1 to 6 p.m., The Little Bevo, 4751 Morgan Ford Road, St. Louis, stlpotchefs.com The ultimate cannabis-infused food experience featuring 10 amazing vendors serving up a mix of infused and non-infused eats, sweets, drinks, and treats, including options for vegans and vegetarians, is happening at the Little Bevo. There will be tunes from a live DJ, hourly raffles with prizes like St. Louis Cardinals tickets, a pair of Uncle Charlie’s R&B Cookout concert tickets, exclusive Pot Chef merch and more. VIP ticket holders will receive a goodie bag filled with curated surprises from local brands.

Tickets available for purchase online.

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