June 2015 by Guided: Saint Louis

THE PU LITZER REOPENS * BEACH BAG ES S ENTIALS * THE PATH TO M ARRIAGE EQU ALITY

WE POKEY LAFARGE STL’S FAVORITE HOM ETOW N M USICIAN

WE HEART S TL BES T OF THE CITY AWARDS 201 2015 W E’RE SP READIN G THE LOVE FORALLOF THE IN CREDIBLE P EOP LE AN DBUSIN ESSES THAT M AKE THIS CITY GREAT

Together is beautiful

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St. Louis summer survival kit

This May 30th, Witness

THE CIVIL WAR Come to Life. Bellefontaine Cemetery and Arboretum presents Homecoming, The Sesquicentennial: The End of the Civil War. Follow in the footsteps of our dearly departed Civil War residents as reenactors bring their stories to life. Explore the Marketplace for an interesting array of vendors, educational opportunities and food

concessions. For more information and to make a reservation, visit us at BellefontaineCemetery.org or call 314-381-0750. May 30, 2015, 9 AM to 4 PM Located at Bellefontaine Cemetery & Arboretum. Bus tour option available for $5 per person. This event is FREE. Advance reservations required.

4947 W. Florissant, 63105 BellefontaineCemetery.org/events

FRIENDLY.

ST. LOUISâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; FESTIVAL of INDEPENDENT PERFORMING ARTS

June 17-27 in GRAND CENTER

BRAVE ARTISTS + BOLD AUDIENCES

STLFRINGE.COM for Tickets, Venues & Event Details IF YOU LIKE PHONES, CALL 314.643.7853

IF YOU LIKE TYPING, E-MAIL buzz@stlfringe.com

CONTENTS JUNE 2015

52 COVER

STLâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s hometown musician, Pokey LaFarge, is right where he wants to be.

ALIVEMAG.COM

JUNE 2015

PHOTO BY WESLEY LAW

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CONTENTS JUNE 2015

FEATURES. 55 WE HEART STL We’re spreading the

34 RADAR Why Missouri is still on the

STYLE

44 MY STYLE Educator/blogger/TV host

AGENDA 116 CALENDAR Chill with Jimmy Buffet,

Christia DeShields talks style as a new

enjoy the zoo with Kenny Loggins and

mom.

more.

22 FASHION The CWE’s new projects+gallery aims to make St. Louis

102 RESTAURANT GUIDE The best places in town to eat and drink.

42 MEN’S Take a spin in ’70s-inspired gear that’s anything but tame.

20 7 THINGS you must do this month.

why our city’s drink culture is all that— and then some.

summer with a collection of must-haves.

STL NOW

100 MIXOLOGIST Columnist Matt Sorrell on

40 WOMEN’S Hit the water in style this

80 FASHION Throw shades this season in oversized jewelry, corals and blues.

for its first full summer in Fox Park.

brink of LGBT equality.

love for all of the incredible people and businesses that make this city great.

46 MADE IN STL Carmelita Nuñez crafts

a forerunner in the fashion-meets-art

functional and sculptural pottery that

world.

complements everyday moments.

SCENE 124 SCENE IN ST. LOUIS Moments from Mayor Slay’s birthday bash, Craft

26 ARTS The Pulitzer reopens with explorations from art’s most

48 RECENTLY RINGED A newly engaged St. Louis couple shares their love story.

Alliance Center of Art + Design Makers Ball and more.

fundamental level: the line. 50 WEDDINGS A globetrotting couple’s 30 DINING St. Louis’ restauranteurs take the booming fast-casual trend head on. 32 STARTUPS Eateria seeks to keep

128 ARCHETYPES A conversation with

chance encounter is at the heart of their

Carmon Colangelo, dean of the Sam

love story.

Fox School of Design & Visual Arts at

EAT + DRINK

Washington University.

restaurant entrepreneuers in business well beyond the critical first year.

96 HOT EATS Lona’s Lil Eats is heating up

ALIVE, June 2015, Volume 14, Issue 6 (Periodical #025092) is published monthly by ALIVE Media Group, L.L.C., 2200 Gravois Ave., #201 St. Louis, MO 63104-2848. Periodicals Postage paid at St. Louis, MO, and additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to ALIVE, 2200 Gravois Ave. #201 St. Louis, MO 63104-2848. One-year subscription rate $12.00; twoyear subscription rate $18.00. To order a subscription call, 314.446.4059 x222 or log on to alivemag.com.

ALIVEMAG.COM

JUNE 2015

Top left photo by Cate Jackson. Top middle amd top right photo by Jennifer Silverberg.

find live music and art Shop to the Beat at Taubman Prestige Outlets! Groove to music from local St. Louis musicians as you shop your favorite stores. Watch local artists by Chalk Riot in partnership with Art Saint Louis create chalk art live throughout the shopping center. Bring the family to enjoy live music, art, shopping and more! Dates: Saturdays in June and July Time: Noon-3 p.m. Location: Taubman Prestige Outlets For a list of bands and performance times, visit TaubmanPrestigeOutlets.com.

find your

creative outlet.

I-64/40 Booneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Crossing Exit Like us to receive the latest event updates.

Publisher/Co-founder: Elizabeth Tucker Editor-In-Chief/Co-founder: Kelly Hamilton Fashion Director/Co-founder: Attilio D’Agostino Executive Editor: Jennifer Dulin Wiley Fashion Editor: Sarah Stallmann Managing Editor: Krystin Arneson Online Editor: Rachel Brandt Associate Editor: Kelsey Waananen Contributing Dining/Spirits Editors: Amy De La Hunt, Matt Sorrell Contributing Calendar Editor: Katie Davis CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Katie Davis, Amy De La Hunt, Matt Sorrell ART

Art Director: Amanda Dampf Design & Production Coordinator: Billy Brown Art Assistant: Lexi Sesti Contributing Creative Director: David Hsia CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS & ILLUSTRATORS

Attilio D’Agostino, Matt Kile, Victoria Lafferty, Wesley Law, Noah MacMillan, Jennifer Silverberg, Sabrina Staires, Angie Vinson ADVERTISING

Sip The fineST

margariTa

Senior Account Executive: Brigid Pritchard Account Executive: Molly Fontana Account Executive: Susie Jensen Junior Account Executive: Devon Crouse Sales & Marketing Coordinator: Michael Boerner MARKETING

Marketing Manager & Digital Strategist: Lindsay Pattan Associate Creative Producer: Jessica Leitch Contributing Events Coordinator: Jennifer Elliot BUSINESS

Executive Assistant & Office Manager: Laura Runde EDITORIAL ADVISORY BOARD

Experience the modern side of Mexican cuisine

Sara Burke, Rhonda Broussard, Reena Hajat Carroll, Sam Foxman, Sara Hentz, Cabanne Howard, Damon Johnson, Tuan Lee, Rosa Mayer, Darin Slyman

Savor fresh seafood, enchiladas and more with sauces made from scratch

Azizah Badwan, Nick Bussell, Sarah Bussmann, Taylor Conran, Daniel Darkside, Matt Duchesne, Kim Dworzynski, Jeremy Gatzert, Madison Hedrick, Jacqueline Irigoyen, Kristine Kapatos, Courtney Kluge, Bryggen Korte, Ashley Lear, Seth Lewis, Matt Pfaff, Laura Schilli, Danielle Smart, Kelsey Stays, Morgan Stevens, Mai Tran, Christopher Williams

Join us for drinks, dinner, lunch or Sunday brunch

INTERNS

ALIVE MAGAZINE

2200 Gravois Ave., #201 St. Louis, MO 63104-2848 Tel: 314.446.4059 Fax: 314.446.4052 Sales: 314.446.4056 alivemag.com HOME DELIVERY

To subscribe to ALIVE, call us at 314.446.4056, ext. 222 or go to alivemag.com. ADVERTISING

For advertising rates and information, call us at 314.446.4056 or email advertising@alivemag.com.

CenTene plaza

7710 forsyth, at hanley 314.725.2447 cantinalaredo.com

PLEASE RECYCLE THIS MAGAZINE

top reasons St. Luke’s Hospital is

THE BEST PLACE to have a baby.

• Newly renovated, all-private, spacious Birth Care Suites for laboring, delivering and recovering all in the same room. • A free OB Nurse Navigator Program and excellent nurse staffing ratios offer a more personalized birth experience. • Exceptional patient satisfaction – among the highest in Missouri and nationally. • St. Luke’s is the only Spirit of Women® hospital in the area, recognized for excellence in women’s health services and education. • St. Luke’s is the only St. Louis hospital recognized as one of America’s 50 Best Hospitals™ by Healthgrades®, ranking among the top 1% in the nation based on superior clinical quality. Visit stlukes-stl.com/maternity or call 314-205-6385 to take a tour and learn more.

232 S. Woods Mill Road Chesterfield, MO 63017

3-2758

FROM THE EDITOR

JENNIFER DULIN WILEY EXECUTIVE EDITOR

Photo by Wesley Law, shot on llocation at Lawrence Group.

LIVE HAS CHANGED a lot during its 13-year history, but one thing has remained the same: our undying passion for the city of St. Louis. And this year, we’ve decided to take that passion one step further. We’re continuing our mission (with more enthusiasm than ever) to connect communities, support local small businesses and entrepreneurs and share the stories of civic progress and pride. We’ve added pages in the magazine dedicated to local makers and St. Louis startups, and we’ve created a brand-new issue theme dedicated entirely to our ongoing love affair with St. Louis. Behold the “We Heart St. Louis” Issue featuring our annual Best of the City Awards: twenty-two packed pages (beginning on p.55) of all the local businesses, organizations and people we love in the areas of dining, shopping, arts, culture and everything in between. Because, really, what better way is there to pay tribute to our fair city than by highlighting all of the incredible individuals and destinations that make it great? After exploring the nearly 200 Best of the City Awards chosen by both editors and St. Louisans themselves—our People’s Choice Awards raked in more than 12,000 votes—be sure to snag your tickets for the We Heart St. Louis Best of the City celebration, presented by Bud Select, on May 29 at the Old Post Office Plaza. The ultimate outdoor fest will feature a special preview of the Missouri History Museum’s “Walk in 1875 St. Louis” exhibit, as well as an Iconic St. Louis Tasting area and tunes by The Free Years. And don’t forget to use #WeHeartSTL when you go to check out any of the spots on the Best of the City list for yourself. There’s lots to love and celebrate on the local arts scene with the much-anticipated reopening of the Pulitzer Arts Foundation. Managing Editor Krystin Arneson followed the renovations and explored the new and improved space featuring exhibitions by Alexander Calder, Fred Sandback and Richard Tuttle (see the full article on p.26). And Fashion Editor Sarah Stallmann dove head-first into the opening of projects+gallery, a new fashion-meets-art space in the Central West End launched by longtime arts advocates Susan Barrett and Dorte Probstein (p.22). And speaking of fashion and artistry, I can’t think of a better cover subject for our “We Heart St. Louis” Issue than the one and only Pokey LaFarge. We caught up with St. Louis’ favorite hometown musician at his Cherokee Street studio during his quick stop home for back-to-back performances at Off Broadway (one of his favorite local hangouts). In between the impromptu jam sessions, jokes and other Pokey-isms, we traded stories on just about everything—from his band of Midwest musicians and heartland-focused new album to his relationship with Jack White and his “complicated” loyalty to both the Cardinals and the Cubs. You’ll find the mustread interview on p.52, but don’t forget to head to ALIVEMag.com for tons more from Pokey (including Online Editor Rachel Brandt’s detailed recount of the behind-the-scenes happenings of the interview and photo shoot). His fiery pride for St. Louis is something we certainly have in common. So, in the words of Pokey: “I’m livin’ on the Mississippi River where I like life the best … ’Cause there ain’t nothin’ goin’ to change my mind. I’m feelin’ fine, gettin’ by on Central time.”

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BEHIND THE ISSUE

We Heart STL This month we’re revealing the love affair we have with this city and sharing it with the world through the We Heart STL Best of the City Awards. In this issue, we gush over dining, arts, tech, fitness and beauty and everything else STL has to offer, then we throw it to you for your best-of-the-best People’s Choice picks. Managing Editor Krystin Arneson, who covered the arts and tech scenes for the feature, says the best part of this city love is how easy it can be: “Catching great art—visual, performing or otherwise—in STL isn’t hard: There’s so much the city has to offer. As a transplant from KC, I still can’t get over how genuinely fantastic the output is. Sharing it with readers for We Heart STL was a labor of love indeed.” Find out (who else is feeling the love this year) on p.55.

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Online Editor Rachel Brandt rubbed elbows with STL music royalty for our cover feature when she sat in on our photo shoot with Americana-lovin’, folk-playin’ Pokey LaFarge and then chatted with him for the cover story (p.52). “Pokey had the entire crew eating out of his hand by the end of the shoot,” she says. “We met in his Cherokee Street studio where he hammed it up for the camera and entertained us with impressions and favorite old stories as Jimmy Reed spun on the record player. His reputation is no joke. He really is that cool.”

Top and middle photos by Jennifer Silverberg. Bottom photo by Matt Pfaff.

Restaurateurs are taking note of our busy lives and offering more of what we want—healthy, delicious food in less time. Contributing Dining Editor Amy De La Hunt took a look at one of the fastest growing trends in our city: fast-casual (p.30). “As a part-time contributing editor who also has a full-time job and kids, I’m all about eating well in a hurry,” she says. “Fast-casual dining is a perfect fit for our lifestyle—and since my quirky kids would rather eat kale chips than French fries, I love the diversity in our choice of restaurants now.”

A fun-in-the-sun block party in Downtown St. Louis.

JULY 10, 2015 â&#x20AC;¢ 5-10PM

STREET PERFORMERS + LIVE MUSIC + LOCAL VENDORS MX District on Washington Avenue with an exclusive VIP COCKTAIL PARTY at THE LAUREL APARTMENTS MORE INFO stlsummerfest.eventbrite.com #STLSUMMERFEST

TH I S MO NTH O N

ALIVEMAG.COM MEET THE FIRST OFFICIAL EXPLORE ST. LOUIS SUMMER AMBASSADOR

After a flurry of public voting, a panel of judges deliberated on the top five finalists for the first Explore St. Louis Summer Ambassador Competition presented by the St. Louis Convention & Visitors Commission, ALIVE and KSDK NewsChannel 5. We’re thrilled to announce Jillian Pye of “A Little Slice of Pye” has emerged as our winner. Pye was honored at the CVC’s “Be a Tourist in Your Own Town” event in April and received a $1,000 cash prize. Pye will have a summer packed with unique opportunities to grow her blog reach and spread the love for St. Louis. Learn more about Pye on her blog, alittlesliceofpye.com.

ON OUR BLOGS

CELEBRATE PRIDE WEEKEND

After leafing through our We Heart STL Best of the City winners on p.55, we know you’ll have a few new places to add to your weekend plans. Head to The 314 blog on ALIVEMag.com to find bonus coverage on some of our top spots. Bookmark The Dish blog for up-to-the-minute updates on the latest restaurant and bar openings, the hottest dishes and the trendiest chefs around STL. Also, Father’s Day is around the corner on June 21. Blanking on ideas for the main man in your life? We’ve got you covered. Click through to ALIVEMag.com and find the best places to shop and dine for Father’s Day. Love it or hate it, swimsuit season is here. Save Style Notes blog on your toolbar and check back for the latest trends in swimwear and bookmark our Be Well STL blog for the best new ways to stay healthy and fit in St. Louis.

FIND US ON FACEBOOK.COM/ ALIVEMAGSTL

by RACHEL BRANDT

BEHIND THE SCENES WITH POKEY LAFARGE

The rumors are true: Pokey LaFarge really is that cool. Head to ALIVEMag.com for a behind-the-scenes peek at our cover shoot and interview with the Midwest crooner. Learn what songs LaFarge serenaded us with on his 1957 Gibson and what celebrity impression he nails every time. We guarantee you’ll learn at least a few surprising things about the local musician you thought you had pegged.

Top photo courtesy of Jillian Pye. Bottom photo by Wesley Law.

This month St. Louis’ ultimate VIP white party during St. Louis PrideFest weekend returns at the Public Media Commons in Grand Center on Saturday, June 27, from 7-11pm. This year, the anticipated party takes on a fresh, exciting spin as ALIVE and Bud Light team up to proudly present the first-ever Bud Light ULTRA Pride Awards, honoring three outstanding individuals in the categories of business, nonprofit and personal achievement. Purchase a ticket for the Wells Fargo Advisors VIP Lounge now at 2015ULTRA. eventbrite.com and select the nonprofit of your choice to support with your ticket.

EVERYTHING ST. LOUIS We have it all ... and then some.

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*Restrictions may apply. Offer ends June 16 and cannot be combined with other offers.

Clayton | 314.746.1500 Town & Country | 636.207.3000 WellbridgeAthleticClubandSpa.com

Jewish Federation of St. Louis makes connections to the programs and people you care about. Help us continue to deepen our roots in the community, build connections and strengthen the branches that ensure a bright future.

learn more about building your community at buildjewishstl.org

INSTLGRAM

Urban Artifacts by RACHEL BRANDT

To all of the alley adventurers, the urban explorers and those who see treasure in dilapidation, we see you. Thank you for documenting the dynamic face of our city and showing us both the need for renewal and the beauty in the broken-down. This month, we’re highlighting three artful Instagram accounts that both capture a moment in time and start a conversation.

@stlouisfixie St. Louis-based freelance photographer Oliver Clark regularly joins his friends to explore of some our city’s most neglected locales. Follow him for artistically framed posts of these lost gems.

TRUNK SHOWS FOR SIZES 0-18

@alleycatstl Local artist Grace Kenyon mixes self-portraits and shots of her travels to create an Insta-roll that’s definitely worth checking out. She hooked us in with her creatively framed shots of everyday objects.

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@MikeRomer32 Whether he’s documenting STL residents with striking portraits or experimenting with colored smoke bombs, Mike Romer’s feed is a powerful work of art. We’ve spent more than a few hours we don’t regret scrolling through his posts.

Tag photos with #inSTLgram to nominate them for inclusion on this monthly page.

EDITORS CHOICE: BEST COLOR What is the difference? The difference of Dominic Michael Salon is consistency in our extraordinary beauty services. The salon boasts a staff dedicated to the education and advancement of cut, color and beauty treatments. Our team of specialists are available 6 days a week. LADUE

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WWW.DMSALON.COM Hair: Katie Silver Clothes Design: Sophie Krueger Model: Sierra

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BUD LIGHT PRESENTS

Joan Lipkin Writer/Director/Social Activist Producing Artistic Director, That Uppity Theatre Company

Bud Light ULTRA Pride Awards Honoree for Personal Achievement Photo by Matt Kile Hair/Makeup by Jordan Fox

ST. LOUISâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; ULTIMATE VIP PARTY DURING PRIDE WEEKEND THIS YEAR FEATURING THE BUD LIGHT ULTRA PRIDE AWARDS

JUNE 27

7PM-11PM PUBLIC MEDIA COMMONS IN GRAND CENTER GET TICKETS NOW AT 2015ULTRA.EVENTBRITE.COM ALIVE Magazine and Bud Light are proud to present the first ever ULTRA Pride Awards honoring three outstanding individuals in the categories of business, nonprofit and personal achievement. The honorees will be recognized at the ULTRA VIP Pride Party Presented by Bud Light on June 27.

STL NOW

FAST-CASUAL SWEEPS THE RESTAURANT SCENE | INSIDE THE NEW PULITZER

FASHION

An Artists’ Revolution Art and fashion collide at projects+gallery, the newest addition to the CWE gallery scene. CONTINUED P.22

PHOTO BY ATTILIO D’AGOSTINO

JUNE 2015

ALIVEMAG.COM

STL NOW

PrideFest, June 26-28 at Soldiers Memorial

Things 2

YO U MUST DO THIS MO NTH Catch Some Shakespeare

Enjoy theater under the trees as “Antony and Cleopatra,” running May 22-June 14, kicks off the 15th anniversary of Shakespeare in the Park. The annual Forest Park series (part of the Shakespeare Festival St. Louis) has become one of St. Louis’ most popular summer events—and with ill-fated romances being one of the Bard’s favorite writing prompts, this season’s production is guaranteed to be a good night out.

1 5

Bud Light presents the ULTRA White Party, the ultimate Pride Weekend event, at Public Media Commons on June 27. Be there for the Bud Light ULTRA Pride Awards recognizing local LGBT icons, dance while enjoying Pinnacle Vodka cocktails in the Wells Fargo Advisors VIP area and feel good knowing a portion of ticket sales go to LGBT-allied nonprofits.

For more info, visit 2015ultra.eventbrite.com.

Be Proud

From June 26-28, PrideFest’s “Color My World” theme takes over Soldiers Memorial to celebrate the LGBT community and its allies with an exciting and colorful lineup of entertainers like MKTO and Margaret Cho, as well as events like a Pride 5K and the Pride Ride for cyclists. The Sunday pride parade will swing by the festival grounds, where—in addition to the performers—festivalgoers with families can enjoy a children’s area. For more info, visit pridestl.org.

Dine Al Fresco

For more info, visit laumeiersculpturepark.org.

ALIVEMAG.COM

Take a Trip to Africa

… with the Saint Louis Art Museum when “Senufo: Art and Identity in West Africa” arrives. A beloved style of African art, senufo encompasses 3-D forms such as masks, decorative objects and sculptures. From June 28 to Sept. 27, more than 160 pieces from museums and private collections across Europe, Canada and the United States will be on display at SLAM to be inspired by— just as Pablo Picasso and Fernand Léger once were.

For more info, visit slam.org.

Mark your calendars for Feast in the Park at Laumeier Sculpture Park. On June 5, the delicious aromas of STL’s best food trucks and the melodies of the city’s live music will fill the air. With mobile dining sweeping STL this summer, this festival makes for a unique tasting opportunity and a can’t-miss evening out.

Beat the Heat at ULTRA

JUNE 2015

Put On Your StrawberryColored Glasses

The Kimmswick Strawberry Festival is June 6-7, where you can find everything strawberry: shortcake, cheesecake, iced tea, wine and more (and if you like music, there’s a bluegrass festival going on as well). Bring the whole family: Kid-friendly activities include a petting zoo, bounce houses and pony rides.

For more info, visit kimmswick.com.

Hit a High Note

Enjoy the Opera Theatre of Saint Louis’ festival season with powerful performances of classics “The Barber of Seville” and “La Rondine,” the hidden-gem “Richard the Lionheart” and the contemporary “Emmeline” from May 23June 28. Whether a newcomer or veteran, the season makes for a great way to explore the art form’s canon.

For more info, visit opera-stl.org.

Top left photo by Scott Lokitz, courtesy of PrideFest. Top right photo by J David Levy, courtesy of Shakespeare in the Park.

For more info, visit sfstl.com.

Presented by

May 23 to August 23 Magic Reimagined In the summer of 2012, Chinese lanterns illuminated the Missouri Botanical Garden. This year the Garden is hosting an ALL-NEW Chinese lantern exhibit to amaze and inspire visitors once more. The 2015 Lantern Festival features unique installations with environmental, historic, and plant-based themes.

Get your tickets now! 4344 Shaw Boulevard, St. Louis, MO 63110 â&#x20AC;˘ www.mobot.org/lanternfestival For tickets, call: (314) 678-7442 ($5 service fee for phone orders) For information, call: (314) 577-5100

3 1875 ST. Louis Now Open! | FREE admission

a walk PRESENTED BY

JSM Charitable Trust

Missouri History Museum Forest Park | 314.746.4599 | mohistory.org

One of the countryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s premiere theatres, The Fabulous Fox hosts the first national tours of Broadway shows, holiday spectaculars and a variety of concerts in an opulent setting. For a current schedule visit FabulousFox.com

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STL NOW / FASHION

projects+gallery space featuring the work of Hideki Seo

An Artists’ Revolution

projects+gallery aims to make St. Louis a forerunner in the new and exciting collaborative world of fashion-meets-art. by SARAH STALLMANN PROJECTS+GALLERY ISN’T YOUR STANDARD

space: The intent of the newest addition to the ever-growing St. Louis arts community is to blur the line between fashion and art—a quest supported by expert pioneers Susan Barrett and Dorte Probstein. Located in the McPherson Arts and Design District in the Central West End, the gallery burst onto the scene in April with one of the highest-attended openings of the year. 2 ALIVEMAG.COM 22 ALIVEMAG.COM MONTH JUNE 2015 201x

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The gallery was created in conjunction with Barrett Barrera Projects, the consulting venture of Barrett, who was the former director of the World Chess Hall of Fame. It features cross-media national and international artists exploring art, culture and contemporary fashion. Dorte Probstein—a former gallerist, avid St. Louis arts community supporter and board member for organizations including Laumeier Sculpture Park and Contemporary Art Museum St. Louis—will be the gallery’s director. In addition to offering a uniquely curated point of view, Barrett plans to bring a new crop of artists to the city—many of which have never shown their work in the US—and hopes to become a jumping-off point for nontraditional artists who are looking to gain footing in respected museums and institutions all over the country. “St. Louis is fast becoming a capital in biotechnology, in business startups, in chess and in emerging fashion,” says Barrett. “We knew we’d have the support and enthusiasm of the city, especially the art and fashion communities, and thought that was a huge edge in bringing artists here. We really are right in the thick of it all.” The catalyst of the entire projects+gallery concept goes hand-in-hand with Barrett Barrera and finds roots in the work of the late, legendary Alexander McQueen, one of the first—and arguably most prominent—fashion designers to take the plunge into the art world. Now more than ever, artists across a variety of media are taking fashion headon to twist our conventional view of “wearability” and create pieces that can be shown adjacent to superstar artists like Jeff Koons or Damien Hirst. Although both Barrett and Probstein say their personal interests have always fallen within both genres, it was the expressive creativity of McQueen—and St. Louis’ now-famous nod to the master in the Barrett-directed WCHOF “A Queen Within” exhibit—that sent the sparks flying. “So much in fashion is already art,” says Probstein. “I think that the ‘gray area’ is what’s really special.” Although the duo has set their sights on artists from all over the world, the St. Louis-focused, local element is something that is also an important aspect of the gallery. “We really want to find people locally who are creating this type of art and give them a platform that they wouldn’t normally have in the art community,” says Probstein. “We don’t want someone to have to restrict their concept of creation because they are doing something that 24 ALIVEMAG.COM

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doesn’t fit into a specific category. We want to help give them a voice.” So far, the roster of upcoming exhibitionists consists of creatives who are breaking down boundaries within the industry: Performer and outspoken artist extraordinaire Larry Krone from New York and goth/punk duo Fantich & Young from east London have been confirmed for 2015, in addition to their current grand-opening exhibitionist, Paris-based fashion artist Hideki Seo, whose solo retrospective will be on display through June 20. When it comes to talent, Barrett and Probstein are happily swimming in it. “There are so many people we want to feature—we may need to have more exhibits in shorter periods,” says Barrett with a smile. “And did I mention that we have an inventory of secondary market contemporary art that I’ve been working on collecting for years [from the likes of Tom Friedman, Chantal Joffe, Cindy Sherman, Hassan Hajjaj, Andy Warhol, Marilyn Minter]? We really should show those, too.”

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An Icon Returns WHEN PULITZER ARTS FOUNDATION closed

for renovations in August of 2014, it created a void in the city’s art scene. The space has always walked the line between museum and avant-garde—going beyond the former to flirt with the latter, transforming art from a one-way viewpoint to an interactive experience. Now the city has its laboratory back: The Pulitzer re-opened May 1 with “Press Play,” its slate of summer programming incorporating three seasonal shows—two of them located in new gallery spaces carved from staff offices—that promises to enhance patrons’ experience of art. This marks the first time the Pulitzer’s been able to

facilitate multiple shows opening at once, and in a coincidental nod to its rebirth, each of the three shows pays homage to art’s most basic element: 26

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the line. For “Calder Lightness,” in the original exhibition space on the main level, curator and Guggenheim Bilbao-veteran Carmen Giménez broke Alexander Calder’s mobiles down into four components. First, and most essentially, there’s line: “Really Calder just tears down everything into small gestures and lines that make the work seem very dynamic,” Pulitzer Associate Curator Tamara Schenkenberg says. Second, brilliance, “which defines how the ambiance of the light-filled spaces interact with the work,” she adds. Third is gravity and fourth, movement: “The works themselves are not static,” she says. “They swivel; they move. These qualities are translated to lightness—the basis for the show.”

Rather than have audiences crane their necks up to see Calder’s work, artist Christina Kim of Dosa has created large cushions for the floor, so guests can recline, view and contemplate—a nod toward the Pulitzer’s intent of being somewhere people can go not just to see art, but a place to simply “go.” The space, curators hope, can transcend the “event” of going to a museum—its hushed tones and separated existence from daily city life—by becoming a spot to go to during lunch breaks, to talk in, to get comfortable with the art in. THE NEW GALLERIES

Moving downstairs to the first new gallery, Schenkenberg has curated Fred Sandback’s 1975 “64 Three-Part Pieces,” where three rooms within the gallery each house a line of yarn stretched out to “animate the space,” at eye level or below, she says.

Photo by Alise O’Brien Photography, courtesy of Pulitzer Arts Foundation.

The Pulitzer reopens with explorations from art’s most fundamental level: the line. by KRYSTIN ARNESON

In Sandback’s designs for the piece, there are 64 ways in which this yarn can be manipulated, so each week, Pulitzer staff swap out the permutations. “He considers these three lines and the space together as a single work,” says Schenkenberg. “One of the reasons I was drawn to this piece is because upstairs with Calder, you’re prompted to look up, and here you’re prompted to look down—so in a slight way changing how the body moves and responds in space.” In the second of the new galleries, the position of the viewer and the art shifts once more, to another line-centric installation by Richard Tuttle. Tuttle installed the work himself, drawing a line on a wall with pencil, then unwinding floral wire to follow it—or not. Light plays an important role in his work: A third 28

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line, one of shadow, is created to add to the other lines, also “delicate and immaterial,” says Schenkenberg. “People often describe it as really poetic and very intimate because he installs them at eye level, only as big as human arms can reach—so there’s a very human presence to them.” EXPERIENCING THE WHOLE

Together, the three exhibitions are a survey of the line, that most basic of building blocks for art, and in the new Pulitzer, visitors can explore the fuzzy lines of Sandback, the “jittery, nervous” lines of Tuttle and the fluid lines of Calder. “All these artists are sculptors, but they work outside traditional definitions of what space is—they don’t create an object and put it on a pedestal,” says Schenkenberg. The experiential nature of the art is critical to the

shows: “They take space into account and so it addresses its surroundings and the viewers and animates the spaces they inhabit,” says Schenkenberg. “For us, looking at the building in a new light, it was imperative to learn how galleries behave. We have three sculptors who strive to sit where art doesn’t overwhelm the space but takes visitors into account. We could have something really meaningful and powerful.” Beyond the exhibitions, the “Press Play” programming will activate the space through embedded musical performances, interactive viewing experiences, film screenings, meditation, artist residencies and more (there’s even a baby yoga class). The exhibitions and programming will run until Sept. 12.

Photos by Alise O’Brien Photography, courtesy of Pulitzer Arts Foundation.

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St. Louis’ restauranteurs take the booming fast-casual trend head-on. by AMY DE LA HUNT FAST-CASUAL FOOD used to be the domain of Chipotle Mexican Grill and Panera Bread, but with the genre’s continuing explosion in popularity (550 percent growth in 15 years and especially trending among millennials), local restaurant owners are jumping in too. Even Gerard Craft of Niche, the winner of the 2015 James Beard Foundation’s Best Chef in the Midwest award, has an Italian fast-casual concept coming this summer, Porano Pasta & Gelato. While we wait, there’s a few other great fast-casual places in town to taste-test.

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Equality, Asterisk Why Missouri is still on the brink of LGBT equality. A.J. BOCKELMAN DOES NOT HAVE the luxury of exhaling. The executive director of PROMO, a Missouri-based organization that advocates for LGBT equality, is talking on his cell phone on his way back from Jefferson City. It’s a trip that he makes often. From the events that happened late last year, most may think that he has reason to rest on his laurels. A flurry of court decisions both on the state and federal level have granted more marriage rights for gay and lesbian couples. But there is no rest for Bockelman: Marriage equality in Missouri still has an asterisk. THE LEGAL PATH TO EQUALITY

Confusion over same-sex marriage in Missouri and what marriage equality means is understandable: The Show-Me State has not had a reputation for warmth toward the LGBT community. In 2004, Missouri became one of the first states to vote for a constitutional ban on same-sex marriage, which defined marriage as a union strictly between a man and a woman. Also, the state still hasn’t enacted nondiscrimination legislation to protect LGBT Missourians in the workplace, public accommodations or housing, meaning you can still be fired, denied housing or prevented

ALIVEMAG.COM

JUNE 2015

by JEREMY NULIK

from using public facilities for being gay, lesbian, bisexual or transgender. Unlike in other states, in Missouri there is no single case or legal action that definitively grants gay and lesbian couples the right to legally be recognized as married. Instead, there have been three cases on a state level and even federal decisions that have created the current amalgamation of what “marriage” means to government. CASE 1: BARRIER V. VASTERLING

Last February, a case was filed by the American Civil Liberties Union of Missouri on behalf of 10 same-sex couples who were legally married outside Missouri and were seeking recognition of their married status by the state. The precedent for the suit was the Supreme Court’s ruling in United States v. Windsor: In June 2013, the court struck down the portion of DOMA in which “marriage” and “spouse” were terms that applied only to heterosexual couples. That decision is what led the Jackson County court to rule in favor of the ACLU of Missouri in October of 2014, a decision that gave legally married same-sex couples the recognition they were seeking: Missouri now honors their unions. Jeffrey Mittman, executive

director of ACLU of Missouri, points out that another important decision was Missouri Attorney General Chris Koster’s decision to not appeal the ruling. At the time of the ruling, Koster’s office explained, “Our national government is founded upon principles of federalism—a system that empowers Missouri to set policy for itself but also obligates us to honor contracts entered into in other states.” After Koster’s decision, an estimated 5,000-plus couples were recognized overnight as legally married in Missouri. Now, couples that get married in one of the 37 states with legal same-sex marriage are automatically recognized in Missouri. CASE 2: THE STATE OF MISSOURI V. SHARON QUIGLEY CARPENTER

Last June, while the out-of-state marriage recognition case was heating up, Mayor Francis Slay committed a bold act of civil disobedience to spur the conversation at the local level. Four St. Louis couples were married in a ceremony at St. Louis City Hall. St. Louis Recorder of Deeds Sharon Quigley Carpenter issued marriage licenses to the couples, sending a strong message from the mayor’s office.

Top left photo by Jeremy DeWeese, courtesy of St. Louis City Hall. Top right photo by Scott Lokitz, courtesy of PrideFest. Bottom right photo by Sabrina Staires.

STL NOW / RADAR

STL NOW / RADAR “We have created a clear, direct legal challenge to Missouri’s unconstitutional ban on marriage equality,” said Mayor Slay in a statement. “We hope to get this before the courts to settle this issue on behalf of all gay and lesbian people in our state.” That act of moral authority versus legal process prompted Attorney General Koster, in keeping with the duties of his office, to file State of Missouri v. Sharon Quigley Carpenter. “While many people in Missouri have changed their minds regarding marriage equality, Missourians have yet to change their constitution,” said Koster. In November, the court ruled Missouri’s marriage ban unconstitutional. As a result, marriage licenses are now being issued for same-sex couples in St. Louis City, St. Louis County and Jackson County, with an estimated 300-plus issued to date.

In June 2014, ACLU of Missouri filed a case in Jackson County on behalf of two couples. Four months later, the judge in this case ruled that Missouri’s ban on same-sex marriage from 2004 was unconstitutional. Shortly after the decision, Koster’s office released a statement saying he will appeal the decision to the 8th Circuit Court of Appeals. On April 29, 2015 the 8th Circuit Court of Appeals decided to delay hearing this case until the US Supreme Court makes a decision on the same issue. This means that gay and lesbian couples wishing to marry must wait to see how the Supreme Court rules on the matter, a decision expected by the end of June. The exceptions are St. Louis City and Jackson County, which, because of the outcomes of the local cases, continue to issue marriage licenses to same-sex couples, even to those who live out of state because there is no residency requirement.

THE FEDERAL LEVEL

Interspersed into this timeline has been activity on the federal level and from other states, which brings us to the current stage of the fight. In January, the US Supreme Court agreed to review four marriage-related cases, an extraordinary move that will require the court to issue a decision, ending the long, state-level battles. In April, the Supreme Court started hearing the split decisions from several state circuit courts regarding the question of the unconstitutionality of a ban on marriage for same-sex couples.

THE FIGHT CONTINUES

“The past few months have validated what we have said all along: The laws that discriminate against same-sex couples are unconstitutional,” says Bockelman. “There is more work to be done, and we will continue to see opposition to full equality.” Bockelman and I spoke just as the Religious Freedom Restoration Act in Indiana was gaining

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JUNE 2015

national attention. At the time of this writing, the act allowed for individuals and private businesses to refuse service to any person based on religious beliefs. Indiana Governor Mike Pence signed the bill into law, which will go into effect July 1, 2015. The timing of the original bill makes it seem like an attempt to halt the advancement of marriage equality, but backlash led the legislature to alter the bill, removing the adverse impact it would have for LGBT individuals. This attempt by Indiana lawmakers did not surprise Bockelman, an Indiana native, at all. Last year, Missouri lawmakers attempted to gain traction with a similar bill shortly after some of the courts ruled in favor of same-sex marriage. “Any time there has been a major civil rights decision, the opposition always retaliates with really grand overreaches, and those rarely get the communications attention that the initial decision did,” says Bockelman. “I am sure there will be other attempts to retaliate.” Another bill, heard by the Missouri Senate in April 2015, would exempt college-campus-based religious organizations from the university’s nondiscrimination policy, meaning college organizations at public universities would be able to exclude LGBT students while still receiving public funding. Mittman points out that the backlash to progressive LGBT legislation has created interesting alliances in the marriage equality fight: Walmart, the NCAA, the NFL and NASCAR have issued statements imploring state leadership in Arizona, Arkansas and Indiana to reconsider standing measures that allow for discrimination of service to individuals based on sexual identity. LOOKING FORWARD

Bockelman points out that there is also currently a gap in terms of the state protections and responsibilities when it comes to married status. For example, there’s currently no way for a partner to

draw a deceased same-sex spouse’s social security. When the US Supreme Court makes a decision about same-sex marriage, there are more than 1,100 places in the federal law where a protection or responsibility is based on marital status—and this doesn’t include state legislation. This creates a degree of uncertainty for same-sex couples as social practice lags behind the law. But Mittman believes the continued fight for equality reaps benefits for those even outside the LGBT community. “Our communities are stronger when there are strong families, and marriages create strong community members,” he says. When people feel equal, they feel included, and they make America more vibrant.” Over the past several months, more couples have experienced that kind of love and commitment from each other. PROMO’s Facebook page and microsite, ShowMeMarriage.org, are flooded weekly with stories and photos of marriage and families. And for so many couples, their desire to be legally recognized as married has been fulfilled. For Bockelman, the momentum and positive energy are encouraging. However, with some major milestones on the horizon, he cannot yet take a moment to pause and say that it is done. For him, creating a more equitable world is still very personal. “I was brought up in the Catholic Church with a sense of social justice and community, and that has been my source of validation,” says Bockelman. “At the end of most days, I can say that today was a good day—and tomorrow we get up and fight again.”

First page: Miranda Duschack & Karen “Mimo” Davis marry in City Hall; Mayor Francis Slay at the 2014 St. Louis Pride Parade with John Durnell & Richard Eaton; PROMO’s A.J. Bockelman speaks at the Show Me Marrige Rally in front of Jackson County Courthouse. Top: John Durnell & Richard Eaton marry in St. Louis City Hall; LeRoy Fitzwater & Alan Ziegler await a decision in the courtroom.

Top left photo by Alecia Hoyt Photography, courtesy of St. Louis City Hall. Top right photo by Sabrina Staires.

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Hit the water in style this summer with a bright collection of must-haves that can take the heat. written by SARAH STALLMANN SUMMER IS HERE, and you know what that means: Warm-weather fashion is back. What better way to honor the hottest season of the year than with a few new additions to your wardrobe? Whether you’re hitting the coast (roadtrip, anyone?) or lounging by the pool (or lake or river), it only takes a few staples to craft a look that is both fashionable and functional. Start with the perfect bikini or a sassy one-piece in a bright color, then add a variety of versatile options that can take your look from the pool to the party. Our picks: A pair of sack shorts and a beachy tote are perfect for pre-swim socializing; a sundress, sandals and shades get you to lunch in style; and the addition of a few baubles completes your look before postpool cocktails. Isn’t life a beach?

1/ LUCY LOVE DRESS available at BLUSH Boutique, Kirkwood, 314.965.4411. 2/ COCOBELLE SNAKE GLADIATOR SANDAL available at Crescent Coast, Clayton, 314.726.7979. 3/ CAMBRIA BIKINI TOP AND MARIAH BOTTOM available at Lori Coulter, loricoulter.com. 4/ HENRI LOU NECKLACE available at Vie, Ladue, 314.997.0124. 5/ SUNGLASSES available at Sole & Blues, The Loop, 314.863.2121. 6/ FREE PEOPLE SACK SHORTS available at BLUSH Boutique, Kirkwood, 314.965.4411. 7/ MONSERAT DE LUCA TOTE available at BLUSH Boutique, Kirkwood, 314.965.4411. 8/ URBANISTA FLOWER HEADBAND available at BLUSH Boutique, Kirkwood, 314.965.4411.

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STYLE /

MY STYLE

Christia DeShields Educator/Blogger/TV Host

Describe your personal style. I consider my style to be boho chic. I’m easy-breezy, but I like to be a little edgy too. What’s your most recent fashion obsession? A tribal- or floral-print duster. What runway trends are you loving right now? I’m so excited to see pink, wide-leg pants and floppy hats on the runway. LOVE! What item from your closet can you not live without? I would be lost without something black. I’m a new mom, and I dodge baby drool on a regular basis. Black is stylish, easy to clean and hides stains. What are your top five clothing staples? A jumpsuit, shift dress, statement necklace, a beanie and a floral duster. What is your go-to piece? I live for a good jumpsuit! All you have to do is add jewelry, heels and a bag. It’s so easy and chic. Is there any person or character whose style you really admire? I love Tracee Ellis Ross’ style—and she’s totally my hair crush! Who are some of your favorite designers? Betsey Johnson, Gwen Stefani, Rachel Zoe and Michael Drummond are among some of my favorites. Where do you shop in STL? I absolutely love the boutique scene in STL! Places like BLUSH Boutique, Epiphany Boutique and paperdolls always have a fabulous selection. I frequent the local vintage and thrift stores as well. What is your biggest fashion pet peeve? I think my biggest fashion pet peeve is when someone is brave enough to try a new hairstyle or clothing style, and then they get criticized for stepping outside of the proverbial fashion box. I’m like, “Would you please let them be great?” But seriously—let people evolve. - INTERVIEW BY SARAH STALLMANN GOT STYLE? Use #MyStyleSTL to show your personal style, or email a photo and brief description that represents your personal style to sarah@alivemag.com for consideration to be featured.

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JUNE 2015

PHOTO BY ATTILIO D’AGOSTINO

FATHER’S DAY GIFT GUIDE Top picks from around town to honor dad on his special day.

1) 18|8 Fine Men’s Salons 18|8 Fine Men’s Salons are the reinvention of the barber shop providing a complete offering of grooming services. Dad can relax in the brand’s signature lounge area before his grooming services and enjoy a complimentary beverage. Services range from cuts and styling to facials, scalp treatments and, of course, straight razor shaves. 10901 Olive Blvd. Creve Coeur, MO 63141 314.955.1988 eighteeneight.com 2) The Mizzou Store Made from cold-rolled steel with a natural rust patina finish, which ages beautifully, this sturdy fire pit will scream Mizzou spirit for years and years. It comes fully assembled and ready for immediate use. And with the five-year warranty against rust and burn throughs, there’s nothing to worry about. 10 THF Blvd. Chesterfield, MO 63005 636.730.3100 themizzoustore.com

3) World News From magazines and newspapers to books and more, World News is not your average convenience store. Located in the center of Clayton since 1967, this is a prime spot to pick up something for Dad on his special day. 4 S. Central Ave. Clayton, MO 63105 314.726.6010 facebook.com/worldnewsclayton

4) Cobblestone Shoe Repair From Alden of New England, this handsome blucher is a wardrobe staple for every dad. Available in top quality tan, navy or snuff suede and lined with fine leather, these shoes are made for years and years of comfortable and stylish wear. 8855 Ladue Road Ladue, MO 63124 314.727.4080 cobblestoneshoerepair.net 5) Dapper Gents Give dad a Dapper Gents gift card and let him pick out exactly what he wants, from services such as tailored haircuts and super manly straight razor shaves to products from the Art of Shaving, Shinola, Baxter of California, Oak Street Boots and more.

1000 Washington Ave., Ste. 2 St. Louis, MO 63101 314.925.8542 dappergentsgrooming.com 6) Bottle Breacher Your dad will thank you for Bottle Breacher’s Father’s Day Gift Set which includes a special breacher, three golf balls, a divot tool, a ball marker and five tees. Each 50 caliber bottle opener is handcrafted by military veterans. The best “man” gifts money can buy. bottlebreacher.com ALIVE SPECIAL PROMOTION

STYLE / MADE IN STL

PHOTO BY ATTILIO D’AGOSTINO

Ritual Union

Carmelita Nuñez crafts functional and sculptural pottery that complements your simplest moments. written and styled by SARAH STALLMANN WHEN IT COMES TO POTTERY, ceramic artist Carmelita Nuñez utilizes a backto-basics approach to craft kitchen items, jewelry, decor and specialty pieces that are designed to make even the most mundane daily ritual as special as it can be. Her line and collective, affectionately named Kung Fu Chicken, is an interdisciplinary art studio run by Nuñez and her husband, Daniel Shown, a fellow multimedia artist.

Whether she’s crafting one of her best-selling bowls or a sculptural home decor item, each piece is created as an ode to the daily acts of living: eating, drinking and gathering with friends and family. Nuñez transforms her ideas into a reality from sketch to pottery wheel, paying special attention to surface design and illustration. Each item is then painted by hand, using mason stains mixed with a slip to create consistency in the color palette. This act of creating gives way

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to design details that mirror the concept of her work: Even the seemingly simple stripe patterns on the bowls are blurred from the firing process, leaving them shadowed with movement and depth. Pieces by Kung Fu Chicken can be found at Nuñez’s eponymous collective but also at Craft Alliance Center of Art + Design and SOHA Gallery. If you’re seeking something even more precious, she’s open to bespoke pieces.

Celebrate the best of the city with ALIVE!

FRIDAY, MAY 29, 2015 | 7-11PM OLD POST OFFICE PLAZA Tasting Lounge • Local Vendors • Live Music + More!

Tickets $15

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BECAUSE SOMETIMES

STYLE /

ENGAGEMENTS

delicious Recently Ringed JUST ISN’T ENOUGH

A newly engaged St. Louis couple shares their love story. by BRYGGEN KORTE

Mallory Nezam, 28, & Andy Mullenix, 36

at LE CHATEAU 314-991-6700 www.cesandjudys.com 10405 Clayton Road St. Louis, MO 63131

Our Occupations: I’m a social media manager at Elasticity, as well as a yoga instructor at Urban Breath and an artist. Andy is a programmer at Montage Healthcare Solutions. First Sight: The first time our paths crossed was at a casual event at Blank Space on Cherokee Street almost three years ago. We continued to run into each other periodically, but our first real meeting was during a group bike ride in January of 2014. First Date: We fulfilled an inside joke and watched a horrible film called “Stoic,” laughing about how bad it was the entire time. We ended the night with red wine on his epic rooftop overlooking Cherokee Street. The Proposal: After seeing some amazing spokenword poets on Jan. 15, we went to Lafayette Park where he popped the question. He used a line from one of my favorite poets, John Ashbury. There was this great energy and specialness about the day that was very tangible and unforgettable. And Andy actually made the ring himself!

Together, We Like To: We get outside every second we can—we would bike every day if we could! We like to travel, learn new things and make things. We also love to find beautiful spots to post up and write joint poems where we take turns writing lines. We also share an affinity for red wine and cats. Our Ideal St. Louis Date: An adventure, like doing something we’ve never done before in a part of town we don’t know well, then just letting the night unfold. Probably tucked in there somewhere would be some really good wine. Words That Describe Us: “Like the dirt drinks up water and becomes the soil—not changed, but more than the sum.” Our Song: Our first “love” song was “Let it Breathe” by the Water Liars, then “Bang, Bang” by Dalida and, more recently, “To Build a Home” by The Cinematic Orchestra. The Big Day: June 27, 2015, in the backyard of my mother’s house in Crestwood, Missouri.

RECENTLY RINGED? Email your story to lexi@alivemag.com, and your engagement could be featured in ALIVE! PHOTO BY JOSH NEZAM

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STYLE /

WEDDINGS

THE BRIDE

Claire Fallon 31, Attorney THE GROOM

Nick Lange

29, Commodities Trader

Chance Romance

A globetrotting couple’s chance encounter at work takes them from Dubai to Singapore to STL to LA—and back again to STL. by KRYSTIN ARNESON THEIR STORY The Australian and Englishwoman were living in Dubai and working for the same law firm when they met, but things stayed firmly in colleague territory—until a few years later, when they each happened to be living and working in Singapore. On a street neither had walked down before, they bumped into each other. Sparks flew, and “we just went with it—carpe diem!” Nick says, joking that “it was 50 percent me chasing her around the world, 50 percent fate.”

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Five years after they met, the couple and Claire’s parents celebrated Christmas at Nick’s parents’ place in Australia. Early Christmas morning, Nick persuaded a sleepy Claire to go out to a viewpoint overlooking the sea, where he proposed. “I had no idea … we spent the rest of the day on a huge high,” Claire says.

relocation—this time to St. Louis. The two thought creatively, and Claire popped back home to find a dress at the UK’s largest wedding fair. “I had no idea what style I wanted, and I was under a lot of time pressure,” Claire says. “The second dress I tried on made [my family] cry, and so it was the one I purchased.”

WORKING REMOTELY The engagement came

They left Singapore to travel through South America for three months as a “backwards honeymoon,”

with the promise of an imminent work–related

PHOTOS BY JENNY SMITH & CO.

planning their wedding as they went. The location was the hardest part: They had to find a meeting place between England and Australia that could also turn into a vacation for friends and family. The solution: Maravilla Gardens, an hour from Los Angeles. They could only make two trips there: One for Claire to do hair and makeup trials, and the other to source wine and vendors, and sample cake—which happened to be on Nick’s birthday. “Turns out you can have too much birthday cake,” he says. Once they landed in the States, they hit the ground running. Nick shipped suits to groomsmen in Singapore, Hong Kong and Australia. “There were a couple of sizing mishaps—thank goodness for flexible return policies,” he says. Claire’s mom made pocket squares as keepsakes, and Nick had tie bars made with each groomsman’s initials and the couple’s wedding date stamped on the back. ON THE GROUND “One of our favorite parts was the view from the cocktail

area,” says Nick of Maravilla Gardens. “There were mountains in the background and corn fields in front.” With all the flowers already there, they simply selected a few sprigs of seeded eucalyptus to honor Nick’s heritage and pink roses for Claire’s. The couple brought in rustic details to complement the venue’s antique barn, and they also kept kids happy with a teepee, chalk and lots of games, including giant Jenga and cornhole. They also added a dose of Americana with a yellow school bus to pick up and drop off guests—“to us it’s very American and novel!” Claire says. When the ceremony began at 2pm, the flower girl surprised Nick with a soft toy dog Claire’s maid-of-honor had furtively knicked, a talisman the couple had brought on all their adventures together. In Australia and the UK, Nick says, it’s still traditional for that “first look” to happen at the aisle. “Seeing Claire walking around the hedge was the most exciting moment of my life, and I struggled to keep it together,” Nick says. “She looked more stunning than I could imagine, and she was beaming from ear to ear.” He was waiting with his two brothers, who, along with friends from Oz, served as his groomsmen. The officiant for the ceremony—Nick’s family priest, who had married each of his four older siblings and flew over for the event—led the couple through their vows. During the cocktail reception, the 81 guests wrote notes on a “guest book” made of Jenga blocks (“So we can play in the future and read people’s comments,” Claire explains), then enjoyed chill bluegrass jazz and canapes of mini sliders, shrimp tacos and duck confit pancakes. At the bar was Pimms and lemonade, a stock of California wines and beers, and the couple’s go-to gin and tonics and “slutty lemonades.” The couple also snuck in a surprise by sourcing Nick’s dad’s favorite Australian reds and whites: “That went down a storm with the Australian contingent,” says Claire. Then, a sit-down dinner in the reception garden with cantaloupe wrapped in prosciutto, steak or lamb for mains and wedding cake. Kids (little and big) were fans of the candy table, too. After the meal, “we wanted everyone on the dance floor—and we got it,” Nick says. The couple also shared a special moment: “At one point, Nick took me to a path that overlooked the garden and we watched all of our guests dancing and enjoying themselves,” says Claire. “We soaked in all the love. Having our nearest and dearest from all over the world in one place was something that had never happened, nor is it likely to happen again—it was just amazing.” JUNE 2015

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Past, Present, Pokey

STLâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s favorite hometown musician, the charismatic Pokey LaFarge is right where he wants to be: perfectly poised to take on the world with his timeless tunes as the musician in the middle.

BY RACHEL BRANDT COVER & INSIDE PHOTOGRAPHY BY WESLEY LAW Art Direction by Amanda Dampf Styling by Sarah Stallmann Hair/Makeup by Valerie Brown

Nestled comfortably somewhere between rock star and Americana crooner stands the talented Pokey LaFarge. The Bloomington, Illinois, native has lived in St. Louis for the last seven years, but was raised with a decidedly Chicago influence—a combo that leaves him calling both St. Louis and Chicago home. He's an eternally proud advocate for middle America, as evidenced by recent interviews with Rolling Stone and NPR's “Fresh Air,” not to mention his countless tunes that pay tribute to the heartland and his band full of Midwest natives. A quick listen to "Knockin’ the Dust off the Rust Belt Tonight," and there's no doubting his originality and artistry are largely inspired by his Midwest roots. Although LaFarge began his career inspired by America’s earliest country, blues and jazz musicians (he counts Sidney Bechet and Jimmy Rodgers among his top influences), he’s the first to note that he’s not trying to recreate the past (even if he does favor performing on a 1957 Gibson guitar). And with a world tour under his belt, A-list friends like Jack White, performances on the “Late Show with David Letterman” and a new album released April 7 on the notable Rounder Records (a label he shares with George Thorogood and the Destroyers, Gregg Allman and Alison Krauss), LaFarge has already lived a life far beyond the old back-porch singers who were his inspiration. Sashaying into his Cherokee Street studio where we were scheduled to meet for our interview, he began apologizing. “Am I late? How late am I? When was I supposed to be here? I’m sorry about the mess.” We were catching up one afternoon in late-April, in advance of his appearances at Off Broadway, Vintage Vinyl and Euclid Records. Within minutes, he had won over the crew, introducing himself to everyone, popping off jokes and generally embodying the Midwestern, nice-guy reputation LaFarge fans have come to know so well. One of our first questions for the singer, born Andrew Heissler, was what he likes to be called. “Pokey’s fine," he responded. "Most people call me that.” We followed up with, “Do you have any other nicknames?” Without missing a beat, he grinned and answered, “I don’t give away all my secrets.” Our next move? Unearthing as many secrets as he would tell us, of course. ALIVE: Congratulations on the new album, “Something in the Water.” Pokey LaFarge: Thank you. Yeah, there’s been I don’t know how many photo shoots, rehearsals and a music video. Things are crazy. We tour until August and then we get a few weeks off, which I’m looking forward to. We’ll get to enjoy some summertime, get in the studio and mess around with some ideas. ALIVE: Would you rather be touring or recording?

PL: It’s hard to say what you’d rather be doing. [Music] encompasses both sides of you. The touring encompasses the performance side and then the recording encompasses the writing side—the creator and the artist. That’s something that ultimately ends up getting set in stone. The performing is so much freer because it’s fleeting. If you make a mistake, a lot of times people don’t know. Of course, with touring you get to travel. We were just in Australia and New Zealand, and who’s to say I would have gotten to go there if I wasn’t touring. ALIVE: This is your seventh album and you’re stepping into new territory with your sound. How do you feel you’ve changed? PL: Well, I think that for the first time ever, at least in the entirety of an album, I was able to retain a lot of space in the music, which is a very difficult thing to do without making it sound completely stark and empty. The goal, for me, is to make music that has good grooves and good harmonies that accentuate the melodies and lyrics. I sometimes sing a lot of words, but still, to be able to retain a lot of space and let things breathe makes it seem more natural and not forced. ALIVE: You covered a couple of standards on this album, in addition to writing originals. Did you do a lot of writing when you were in the studio? PL: I did write in the studio a decent amount, more so than the other records. I think that’s one of the reasons why I’m so excited about this record, because it documents a progression. You get to this point where the album is done, but we could have kept writing and recording. The music itself was evolving. I think it’s a kind of a clue into a new chapter in my music life. It makes me even more excited for the next one. ALIVE: Tell us about the people you recorded with on “Something in the Water.” PL: It really started with Jimmy Sutton, the producer. He’s the face of underground roots music in Chicago and has been for decades. The core of the record, the rhythm section, was Beau Sample on bass and Alex Hall on drums. Scott Ligon and Casey McDonough were the other main harmony singers [with Beau and Alex]. All those boys are Illinois boys. There are some Wisconsin boys on there and, of course, some of the Missouri boys in my band. We’re pretty thrilled that it was almost an all-Midwestern record and we were able to showcase what we can do. ALIVE: We love that you’re such a champion of the Midwest. PL: Well, it’s the underdog thing. I’ve had to work twice as hard as everybody to get half of what everybody else has. Nothing comes easy for me in my life. I think in a lot of ways, this region that we live in is showcased in that same light. I think growing up between St. Louis and Chicago made joining the two cities together for this album a big deal for me. ALIVE: So let’s talk a little bit about St. Louis, where you’ve lived for the last seven years. If you’re in St. Louis on a Saturday night, what do you do?

PL: Do I have to do anything? [Laughs] My friends will say, “Let’s go out to a bar! Let’s go hear some music!” I’m like, “Eh, I don’t know, I’ve been doing that for 30 days in a row. I kinda want to sit home and read a book.” No, that’s probably not true, but gosh, it sure does depend. You know, I do have my go-tos in town. Maybe start in the daytime, go see some music at Blues City Deli, eat a sandwich. Before that, for breakfast, I might go to The Mud House or to Southwest Diner or Sump Coffee. Maybe go to Off Broadway for a show, The Whiskey Ring for a nightcap. But at the same time, I do like to go to a place called Stovall’s Grove out in Wildwood. It’s the oldest roadhouse in Missouri: a great old honky-tonk where people are really sweet. You can still smoke in there. It kind of goes hand-in-hand: If you’re going out to a sawdust floor honky-tonk that’s 100 years old in the middle of Missouri, you oughta be able to smoke, maybe get in a couple fights, have sex in a bathroom, ya know? ALIVE: Cards or Cubs? PL: [Laughing] It’s a really complicated issue. If you look up here (points to a shelf in his studio covered in memorabilia), you’ll see Cardinals and Cubs. I was raised everything Chicago—pretty much raised-up that way. I’ve lived in St. Louis for seven years. I’ve loved baseball more than music. Also living in a baseball town, [I have] a deep respect for the organization, for what they do for the city. I’m probably one of the only people you’ll ever meet who is a Cubs and a Cardinals fan. ALIVE: There was an Instagram picture of you at a Cardinals game with Jack White. Can you talk a little bit about your career trajectory after meeting him? PL: I think it’s fairly simple to document the trajectory of my career before Jack and then after working with Jack. I’m also happy to say that it’s been a concurrent relationship. I don’t know if you’ve heard about “American Epic?” It’s a five- or six-hour music documentary that’s gonna be on PBS and BBC, produced by Jack, T Bone Burnett and Robert Redford. It’s sort of a pre-war music extravaganza and it’ll have a couple of my tunes recorded on there that were produced by Jack. ALIVE: Do you feel like your abhorrence of trends and sticking with your own style plays a role in your music’s timeless quality? PL: That’s the goal anyway. I’m definitely not following a trend. I never wanted to follow a trend. It’s music of the past, for the present and of the future. It’s attempting to be all-encompassing. We’re not attempting to reinvent the wheel—it’s learning from and being inspired by things that came before you. Read more of our interview with Pokey by logging on to ALIVEmag.com. Photography Assistants: Chase Lambert, Cathy Cook Behind the Scenes Photographer: Matt Pfaff Special thanks to Pokey LaFarge and Cassie Michel and John Smith of 12x12 Management.

HEART ALIVE’S BEST OF THE CITY AWARDS

We’re spreading the love for all of the incredible people and businesses that make this city great. by KRYSTIN ARNESON, KATIE DAVIS, AMY DE LA HUNT, MATT SORRELL & SARAH STALLMANN photos by JENNIFER SILVERBERG art direction by AMANDA DAMPF

SHOPPING With a plethora of boutiques, specialty shops and high-end retailers at our fingertips, it’s easy to see why the St. Louis shopping scene tugs on our heartstrings. by SARAH STALLMANN

all shapes and sizes, Neiman Marcus is STL’s choice destination. It’s become a haven for its selection of the newest designer bags (yes, even that “just spotted on the runway” Prada backpack), wallets (Marc Jacobs galore) and specialty collections (their Judith Leiber collection is as impressive as it gets). Go on—the bag of your dreams is waiting for you. Plaza Frontenac, 314.567.9811. _____________________________________ Best Boutique Looks on a Budget

PAPERDOLLS

Best New Store

LINDBERGH Taking style cues from aviator icon Charles Lindbergh, the three in-house lines at this newly opened, eponymous store take quality to the next level, offering an impressive (and borderline massive) selection of men’s merchandise that seamlessly takes men from work to play. The Blue, White and Black collections bring something completely unique to the STL market and allow any man to easily build a fashionable wardrobe. Chesterfield, 636.536.5332. _____________________________________ Best LA Shopping in STL

SPLASH

It’s always sunny at Splash, which, after 30 years, has still managed to hold tight to its top spot on the roster of must-shop boutiques for St. Louis’ most stylish. One step inside and you’ll see that the West Coast feeling lasts all year: Find delicate lace pieces by For Love & Lemons, sassy night-out dresses by Indah Clothing and swimwear by Vitamin A and L*Space. With a vibe that channels a posh LA boutique, the brands, bright colors and unbeatable selection of swimwear will leave you feeling like you just took a trip to the coast. Ladue, 314.721.6442. _____________________________________ Best Denim

SOLE & BLUES At this point, Sole & Blues is synonymous with denim—and The Loop’s popular boutique knows its stuff: Blues has been STL’s go-to for top industry brands for more than 15 years. On any given day, men and women can stroll in to find plenty of options to complete their look from head-to-toe—after all, is there ever a better wardrobe staple than denim? Among the many choices: denim by AG, G-Star RAW, Naked & Famous Denim and Nudie Jeans Co. And don’t forget the shoes

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by Camper, Diba and FLY London, as well as a selection of stylish extras by BB Dakota and Civil Society. The Loop, 314.863.2121. _____________________________________ Best Upscale Basics

THE CLOVER

Even the pickiest of shoppers are sure to find a new “favorite thing” from The Clover. The Webster Groves boutique caters to shoppers with an eclectic selection of merchandise and fashionable, everyday basics that are both comfortable and chic. Upscale brands like Susana Monaco and Quinn have given casualwear an updated vibe, while brands like American Vintage and Joe’s Jeans are familiar standbys that any girl will love. Webster Groves, 314.467.0436. _____________________________________ Best Place to Shop The Runway

SAKS FIFTH AVENUE

For the best fresh-off-the-runway fashion, Saks Fifth Avenue is the place to find your favorite splurge-worthy pieces from Ralph Lauren, Akris, Rag & Bone and (many) other designers. And even though the retail icon has always been a staple for international designer brands, it’s their recent shift to also include emerging designers’ work—think Yigal Azrouël and Tess Giberson—that has kept us consistently at the register. Plaza Frontenac, 314.567.9200. _____________________________________ Best Handbags

NEIMAN MARCUS There’s a time and place for Internet shopping, but the best part of the experience of buying a new bag comes from the senses: the smell of the leather, the softness of the material, the gleam of hardware. For a properly indulgent brick-and-mortar experience featuring the latest in designer handbags of

With three locations and a traveling pink pd fashion van, paperdolls makes it easy for you to find on-trend boutique pieces guaranteed to be compliment magnets—and at prices that might merit a double-take. Owners Carolyn Burghoff and Beth Morris specialize in the art of stocking a store with stylish finds at bank-accountfriendly prices. Each location is filled wall-to-wall with statement jewelry, party dresses, knits, night-out looks, moto jackets, boots, heels and more— a streamlined setup to pull together a fashionable look that’ll make all your girlfriends envious. Multiple locations, paperdolls.boutique. _____________________________________ Best Shoes

NORDSTROM Hurried customers beware: Even the most purposeful of walks past the outskirts of Nordstrom’s shoe department will inevitably hit the brakes. After all, it’s just too good to ignore: A comprehensive roundup of footwear’s top names (Manolo Blahnik, Jimmy Choo, Christian Louboutin, Chanel—we could go on), mixed with stylish contemporary lines (Sam Edelman, Tory Burch and Dolce Vita), gives one the impression of stumbling straight into Carrie Bradshaw’s shoe closet—where “too many” is never a problem. Multiple locations, Nordstrom.com. _____________________________________ Best Jewelry to Treasure

ELLEARD HEFFERN FINE JEWELERS Since 1913, St. Louis family-owned jeweler Elleard Heffern has provided treasures to countless customers in the St. Louis area and beyond. A roster of special services, including custom design, restoration and expert appraisals, along with an American Gem Society-certified team of experts, ensure you’re getting the most customized service in town. And then there’s the selection from designers like Mark

Patterson, Lika Behar and Margo Morrison, which will keep you tapping these experts for all your special occasions. Clayton, 314.863.8820. _____________________________________ Best STL-Made Designer Collection

SKIF INTERNATIONAL Designer Nina Ganci and her team of knitwear experts have given Grandma’s favorite hobby an edge—turning SKIF into a nationally recognized name along the way. The store name is a derivative of the Italian word “schifo,” meaning “imperfect”—a nod to how each handcrafted piece is created without rules or restrictions, boasting details that shy as far away from the norm as possible. The ever-unconventional Ganci and crew have managed to craft an exceptional ode to the best of what independent fashion can be: handmade, natural and fun. The Hill, 314.773.4401. _____________________________________ Best Micro-Fashion

CITY SPROUTS Even the tiniest tots are sure to capture attention when they don one of the many mini styles available at City Sprouts, St. Louis’ most charming place to shop for kids and babies. The City Sprouts crew, helmed by owner Molly Curlee, is passionate about crafting a place that children and parents both love. The store comes stocked with some of the trendiest children’s brands (including Tea Collection, Oeuf and Vans) and cutest accessories, plus toys and a few bedding picks to boot. Clayton, 314.726.9611. _____________________________________ Best Place to Get a Deal on Dior

BYRD DESIGNER CONSIGNMENT BOUTIQUE Just a few years after flipping from a traditional, upscale boutique to a designer consignment shop, Byrd has become one of STL’s hottest spots to buy luxury goods. From handbags and jewelry to designer dresses and shoes, Byrd is a surefire bet when you’re searching for designer deals, from Dior to Dolce & Gabbana. Each item is hand-picked by owner Emily Elbert to ensure its signature fabulousity, and even the speediest shopper can navigate the racks (organized loosely by size) without feeling like they have to shuffle through countless items to find a treasure. Ladue, 314.721.0766. _____________________________________

Cover model: Rachel Brandt. Manolo Blahnik pumps available at Saks Fifth Avenue. Tights available at Target. Model: Sarah Stallmann.

BEST BOUTIQUES When it comes to stylish specialty spots to shop, there’s a lot to love in STL. by SARAH STALLMANN

Best Women’s Boutique

VIE

Vie is our hands-down go-to for looks with a stylish edge—and full credit goes to owner Melodie Tauben, who has an eye for fabulous. From chic workwear looks by Alice + Olivia, sassy cocktail dresses by Nicole Miller and a wide variety of stylish “paint the town” pieces, Vie has more than earned its spot as the sophisticated fashionista’s favorite one-stop shop. Ladue, 314.997.0124.

Gigi all in one leather clutch available at Ivy Hill. Emoji keychain available at Throwboy.com. Accessories stylists’ own.

Best Men’s Shop

Best Shopping in the City

East + West has a vibe all of its own, and St. Louis’ stylish guys have taken note. Brands ranging from Baldwin Denim and Collection to Vans perfectly represent the store’s aesthetic: easygoing, pulledtogether and practical. And then there’s the variety of items for men: clothing, shoes, accessories, books and men’s grooming products—many of which are made in the USA. Kirkwood, 314.835.1419.

STL’s stylish set has been flocking to 10denza since its opening in 2011, and it’s easy to see why: Its selection of merchandise includes a roster of brands that aren’t your average fare, from Moods of Norway to LNA. The locally owned store is also known for its offering of pop culture extras like techie accessories and books, and its posh interior has to be one of our favorites in town. Central West End, 314.361.1010.

EAST + WEST

Best Celebrity Style-Stalking

10DENZA

Best Free People Finds

IVY HILL BOUTIQUE

BLUSH BOUTIQUE

Customers need not worry: Ivy Hill Boutique’s official move from the Central West End to Colonial Marketplace in Ladue hasn’t changed the store’s affinity for standout celeb style. In fact, owner Hillary Dutcher’s Ladue locale now carries even more of the paparazzi-worthy brands you love, including House of Harlow, Trina Turk and Plenty by Tracy Reese. Ladue, 314.721.7004.

BLUSH Boutique is stocked to the brim with fun, bohemian looks that include brands like Wildfox and Gentle Fawn, but it’s their selection of Free People finds that have us coming back for more. From jackets and jeans to tribal tops and hug-me knits, you’ll find top picks from this carefree brand that inspire the on-point style of BLUSH’s owner, Sarah King. Kirkwood, 314.965.4411.

Best Designer Showroom

MICHAEL DRUMMOND

For fashion-forward, attention-grabbing looks, fashion’s fiercest have been turning to St. Louis-based designer and artist Michael Drummond. His one-of-a-kind, made-to-order pieces have made numerous appearances at Saint Louis Fashion Week over the years and are exhibited by local arts organizations like RAC. Thanks to the launch of his showroom in SKIF International, customers are now able to snag items from the designer’s stock in a pinch—or they can shop his newly launched web store, MichaelDrummond.net. The Hill, 314.773.4401. _____________________________________ Best Designer Resale

THE VAULT BY WCE They titled the former reality show “Resale Royalty” that way for a reason: Its stars, Women’s Closet Exchange founder Sue McCarthy, Laura Maurice and Diana Ford, have such a knack for spotting quality resale potential that their newest venture is called The Vault, a name worthy of the treasures it holds. It offers up even more of the exclusively curated selection of designer merchandise that earned the shop its resale crown. The Vault, which sits in the midst of the hustle and bustle on Brentwood Boulevard, has become a beacon of light for those craving new and gently used designer looks at a fraction of the price. Brentwood, 314.736.6511. _____________________________________ Best Fashion Auction

LESLIE HINDMAN AUCTIONEERS The experts at Leslie Hindman Auctioneers are hardly strangers when it comes to luxe, extravagant merchandise—which is why some of the most valuable collections have been entrusted to them. Their “Luxury Accessories and Vintage Fashion” department specializes in important 19th- and 20th-century designer fashion. Each item is painstakingly researched, and types of pieces extend all the way up to museum-quality finds from designers including Chanel, Hermès and Yves Saint Laurent. Clayton, lesliehindman.com. _____________________________________

new personality to the local makers scene. The space, curated by artist Mary Beth Bussen, features her work in addition to items from a variety of local artisans like Portenzo, Metro Weaving and Jenny Walker Jewelry. Although its kids’ selection is a fan favorite (featuring wooden toys, clothing and more), the wide array of wares, from the practical to the decorative, marks it as the perfect hidden gem to find a gift for just about anyone on your list. Botanical Heights, 314.771.5398. _____________________________________ Best Streetwear

SWEDLIFE

The Loop’s uber-popular streetwear shop prides itself for staying true to its mission of providing exclusive brands, quality merchandise and a grown-up selection of gear that’s more than just your average snapback. Owner Seth Feldman keeps the store’s shelves stocked with choice brands, like Raised by Wolves, Publish Brand, HUF and Acapulco Gold. He’s also building his in-house line, which has recently boasted impressive collabs with major brands like МИШКА and CLSC, as well as with equally entrepreneurial-minded locals like Strange Donuts, Seoul Taco and Blueprint Coffee (launching this month). Now that’s some major street cred. The Loop, 314.932.5102. _____________________________________ Best Reason Not To Skip Your Workout

DIMVALOO

More than just your average workout gear, Dimvaloo is the exclusive local retailer of Australia’s fashion-conscious fitness label Lorna Jane—and just one view of the stylish collection from Down Under will have you hooked. Each piece is designed with a fashion-meets-function vibe that has the active customer in mind: breathable, lightweight, UV protective and shrink- and fade-resistant. Dimvaloo also hosts weekly classes and events to get you in the workout mood: Join the crew for their “Wine Down Wednesday” series for a focused fitness class taught by local experts, followed by a wine-filled happy hour. Ladue, 314.824.8224. _____________________________________ Best Specs

Best-Kept Secret

ERKER’S FINE EYEWEAR

Tucked among foodie havens like Old Standard and La Patisserie Chouquette, Union Studio has brought a

For more than 135 years, Erker’s Fine Eyewear has been a St. Louis staple, and the family-owned business has always been at the forefront of the indus-

UNION STUDIO

try. With decades of expertise behind them, Erker’s transports traditional glasses beyond the practical and into the fashionable. Brands like Barton Perreira and Cartier stock the shelves, but it’s their in-house line, NW77th, that’s reason enough to sneak a peek at their selection. Bold, colorful and designed in STL, NW77th just might be the catalyst that catapults Erker’s to further success in its second century. Multiple locations, Erkers.com. _____________________________________ Best Place to Shop Handmade

THE FOUNDRIE

The passion for handmade is alive and well at The Foundrie, where artisans from all over the country showcase their work in a curated setting merchandised to highlight the maker. The Foundrie is fresh off a move into its new home at West County Center, and owner Shelah McClymont promises an even wider selection of independently crafted wares. The one-stop shop features a wide handmade selection, including party supplies and kids clothing, trinkets, bath products and Missouri-loving tees. West County Center, 314.755.4581. _____________________________________ Best Of The West

TAUBMAN PRESTIGE OUTLETS A coveted shopping destination and outlet for all things supremely stylish, Taubman Prestige Outlets is a trip out west that’s definitely not-to-miss. Just off Boone’s Crossing in Chesterfield Valley, Taubman sits in the heart of the western shopping district and contains nearly 60 crave-worthy retailers including Restoration Hardware, Wacoal, J. Crew Factory Outlet and H&M. The open layout is pet-friendly (bring your pooch!), and the sales just might leave you gasping for air. Chesterfield, 636.536.3014. _____________________________________ Best 9-to-5 Fashion

MISTER GUY WOMEN’S STORE For the ladies who work hard for the money and have a serious love for fashion, Mister Guy Women’s is stocked with the timeless wardrobe options your closet desires. And it’s not your average boutique: In addition to onthe-rack regulars like Michael Stars, Elliott Lauren and Tracy Reese, they offer regular trunk show events that feature the hottest and most current collections from contemporary luxury brands like ALGO, Lafayette 148 New York and Gigi New York. There’s also

the expert styling, wardrobe consultations and complimentary tailoring that make it a must-stop for the business—and shopping—pro. Ladue, 314.991.5262. _____________________________________ Best Gifts for Him

DAPPER GENTS The unique atmosphere of Dapper Gents is in a class of its own, and STL’s most style-savvy guys have taken notice. Part barbershop, part hip menswear boutique, DG offers up classic grooming services alongside an impressively curated selection of goods that please even the pickiest shopper. Rather than looking online for his perfect gift, peruse instead DG’s selection of quality, made-in-the-USA brands like Oak Street Bootmakers and Richard Tao, leather goods from Moore & Giles and Portenzo and grooming products and gifts from Uppercut Deluxe and Brooklyn Grooming. Downtown, 314.925.8542. _____________________________________ Best Gifts for Her

LUSSO

Whether you’re seeking a creative wedding gift or the perfect outfit for a night out, Lusso is STL’s answer to “Where can I find ____?” For 15 years, Lusso has been carving out its niche, and its resulting expertise shows: Charming kitchenware, dishes and home decor items sit just steps away from an impressive selection of trendy jewels (by Alexis Bittar and Michelle Pressler), shoes (by the likes of Rachel Zoe) and clothing (from Yoana Baraschi and Rungolee). Lusso even has a gift registry and complimentary gift wrapping, so the task of finding that perfect “thing” for “so and so” just got easier. Clayton, 314.725.7205. _____________________________________ Best Vintage

PARSIMONIA The South Grand District’s vintage pick has gone from being an in-theknow hideaway to in the limelight as one of the hottest places to find stylish artifacts from times past. Since its inception as a web store in 2010, owner Beth Styles has taken her passion for secondhand from online to STL’s first mobile vintage shop (courtesy of a 1960 Holly trailer) and then to a brickand-mortar stocked with finds of all shapes and sizes in the heart of the city—proving that the good old days are here to stay. With her treasure trove of stock, we wouldn’t have it any other way. South Grand, 314.659.8467. _____________________________________ JUNE 2015

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Best “Favorite Room” Furniture

WEST ELM

West Elm burst onto the St. Louis shopping scene less than two years ago, inspiring the city’s avid redecorators to step up their game. Its moderately priced line spans from the smallest of finds (succulents, frames and bookends) to the largest of must-haves (tables, couches and bedroom sets) to create a haven of home decor for the shopper who’s looking to stock a space as stylishly as possible. Saint Louis Galleria, 314.863.5287. _____________________________________ Best Local Furniture Maker

GOEBEL & CO. FURNITURE

St. Louisan Martin Goebel has built his brand on quality and functionality—and it shows. Using the finest species of timber sourced as close to home as possible (mostly cherry, walnut and white oak), each piece is created (literally) from the ground up with care and precision by experts. Goebel’s furniture is designed with the simplest forms in mind, eliminating unnecessary ornamentation to showcase an authentic piece of American craftsmanship that will stand the test of time. Midtown, 314.807.1745. _____________________________________ Best Home Accessories

FRILL HOME

Just one step inside Frill Home and you’ll already be well on your way to completing that room redecorating project, whether such a thing

was your intention or not—and that’s just the way co-owners Kristin Ebert and Marci Marsh like it. An eclectic mix of all things decor, Frill offers floor lamps, sconces, furniture, pillows and extravagant extras in styles that are a bit offthe-cuff, from brands including Oly Studio (for which Frill is the official retailer in the region), Bungalow 5, Noir and Worlds Away. The best part? Frill is appropriately merchandised for both the interior designer and the decorating novice. Ladue, 314.696.2222. _____________________________________ Best Vintage Decor

MOMODERNE

Stumbling across a rare Ib Kofod-Larsen reclining chair or an impressive collection of Danish mid-century items is nothing new at MoModerne, St. Louis’ top goto for high-quality vintage pieces that fill the void in any room. Customers can take a spin through the well-stocked retail space or shop their monthly estate sales located at homes across the metro area, which feature fantastic collections of mid-century pieces. Webster Groves, 314.495.4095. _____________________________________ Best Gifts for the Home

K. HALL DESIGNS

K. Hall Designs has been a locally owned St. Louis staple for more than 18 years, growing from a small storefront to a well-known brand across the country. Sticking true to its roots, K. Hall is a top source for all things “wicks:” It carries the K. Hall brand and other con-

sciously crafted candles, as well as bath products from Barr-Co., U.S. Apothecary and Simpatico Home. Its flagship Brentwood store even offers a curated selection of decor items to complete your space. Multiple locations, khalldesigns.com. _____________________________________

TECH The rise of tech in STL is unstoppable. Here, we pay tribute to those making it happen. by KRYSTIN ARNESON

Best Antiquing

HEIRLOOM ROOM Cherokee Street’s Antique Row never disappoints, and this is one of our favorite stops. With a rustic and natural vibe, Heirloom Room is the place for an eclectic selection of antiques and locally crafted or fair-trade wares to keep your personal oasis looking ever so chic. It even has a rentable, fully decorated space for your next small gathering or event. Cherokee Street, 314.772.8000. _____________________________________ Best Bookstore

LEFT BANK BOOKS Since its doors opened in 1969, Left Bank Books has remained true to its mission of providing St. Louis readers with a culturally diverse selection of books and programming that fosters creativity and informed thinking. Today, despite a shuttering of national bookstore chains, Left Bank is still at the top of its game. Its staff curates reading lists that parallel current events; organizes book clubs that provide a forum for discussing social justice issues; and coordinates events that bring top literary talent to STL. We can’t argue with the stock of used books in the basement, either. Central West End, 314.367.6731.

Plattan headphones by Urbanears available at 10denza.

Best Lifestyle Inventions

WONDERMENTO

First Betsy Fore invented a FitBit-like device and paired app for pudgy pooches. Next up is WonderWool, knitting needles that vibrate if you drop a stitch while knitting a pattern from the paired app. But Fore’s tech has a human heart: It brings people together, whether in a dog park or a knitting circle. Best Global Impact

CANCER GOGGLES

Step one: Inject glowing dye into cells. Step two: Wear Dr. Samuel Achilefu’s night-vision-inspired “cancer goggles.” Step three: Get out the cancerous tissue; leave the good stuff. Bonus: Different types of goggles and price points are in the works, meaning patients in both STL and developing nations could soon benefit from better surgeries. Best Talent Development

LAUNCHCODE

LaunchCode bridges the gap between unemployment and the exponential need for programmers by fast-tracking driven adults who might not have traditional qualifications. Nine in 10 LaunchCoders have been offered full-time positions at their company with an average salary of $50,000. Best Tech Meet-Ups

VENTURE CAFÉ GATHERING

Employees from the Cortex Innovation District’s startups and the general public can gather weekly for a night to network and swap ideas over a beer or two alongside scheduled talks about the development of movements in their infancy, like stARTup STL. Best Wearable Tech

HYDE

Pat Hughes’ improvement to cumbersome lifevests? Make them smaller, lighter and sleeker for maximum movement. Already a hit at trade shows, they’ll debut on the market this summer.

Best Service

DINING

THE CROSSING

If we were to write a love song in the name of our mostloved chefs and eateries, it would go a little something like this … by AMY DE LA HUNT

Best Chef

GERARD CRAFT Just named the 2015 James Beard Foundation’s Best Chef in the Midwest, this prolific culinary talent is about to get even busier. He’s weeks away from opening his fifth restaurant, a fast-casual concept Downtown called Porano Pasta & Gelato, and fans are eager to see what the 30-something chef has up his tattooed sleeve. Since pioneering his fine-dining flagship, Niche, in 2005, Craft has expanded into French and Italian cuisines with Brasserie by Niche and Pastaria, and he was on the forefront of the mixology trend with top CWE cocktail bar, Taste. Multiple locations, nichestlgroup. com. _____________________________________ Best Restaurant

FARMHAUS

Chef-owner Kevin Willmann sets a high standard with his skills—he’s been a semifinalist for the James Beard Award for Best Chef in the Midwest twice—but the well-loved chef insists it’s his team that makes the winning difference. Said team, comprised of sous chefs Jeff Friesen and Jake Sciales and pastry chef/ charcuterie guru Jamie Everett, is chock-full of dedicated individuals with the talent to put just as much flair on the famous Farmhaus fried chicken dinner as the tasso-encrusted Gulf Scamp grouper with jalapeno crème anglaise. Lindenwood Park, 314.647.3800. _____________________________________ Best New Restaurant

PEACEMAKER LOBSTER & CRAB CO. It’s no small trick bringing the coasts to the heartland, but chef-owner Kevin Nashan does it with aplomb on a daily basis. His seafood-centric menu draws from New England 62

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and the Gulf Coast with ingredients sourced from top-notch purveyors and a flown-in catch of the day. The freshness shows in dishes like lobster rolls, fried oyster po’ boys and oysters on the half shell. Since opening his second place last August, Nashan has split his time between Peacemaker and Sidney Street Cafe, where he climbed to the semifinalists round of the James Beard Foundation’s Best Chef in the Midwest award nominations. Benton Park, 314.772.8858. _____________________________________ Best Ambiance

I FRATELLINI Rather than snapping diners to attention the instant they enter, owner Zoe Robinson’s decor envelops them: The petite space oozes Italian elegance, whether you’re dining by daylight with the French doors open to the breeze or by the flickering glow of nighttime candlelight. Just like the menu full of classic dishes, the restaurant’s sophisticated ease has been a constant on the local scene since 2001, becoming a familiar, seductive embrace that never grows old. Clayton, 314.727.7901. _____________________________________ Best Wine List

ANNIE GUNN’S Earlier this year, the James Beard Foundation gave wine director Glenn Bardgett a nod by naming Annie Gunn’s as a semifinalist for the Outstanding Wine Program award. Bardgett’s expertise is evident on each of the 30-plus pages of the restaurant’s wine list—and so is his sense of humor, one of many tools he uses to make wine approachable, understandable and rewarding. He’s a tireless advocate for Missouri’s wine industry, including local vintages alongside some of the world’s most exclusive labels. Chesterfield, 636.532.7684. _____________________________________

Owner Jim Fiala founded this intersection of Italian and French cooking 17 years ago, which has given him plenty of time to get to know his customers and for them to come to expect certain touches of elegance, like the blue cheese amuse-bouche that sets the tone for an enjoyable, relaxed meal. Countless marriage proposals, business deals and family birthdays later, there are still newcomers experiencing this high level of service for the first time—and promptly discovering that it’s hard to go back to being treated like part of the herd. Clayton, 314.721.7375. _____________________________________ Best Menu

SIDNEY STREET CAFE The menus chef-owner Kevin Nashan and his staff publish every month read like a foodie’s dream. If the ingredients aren’t enough to pique your curiosity—chicharron, bottarga, dosa, sunchokes, tomato leather, sorrel curd—the techniques surely will. However, most impressive of all are the complex flavor combinations that show just how far ahead these chefs are thinking. Beet marshmallows. Foie gras with pineapple upside-down cake. Coffee and veal reduction. We could go on forever, but suffice it to say that each month is a new compelling chapter. Benton Park, 314.771.5777. _____________________________________ Best Place to Impress an Out-of-Towner

ELAIA

Tucked away in the up-and-coming Botanical Heights neighborhood, Elaia isn’t easily stumbled upon. But clued-in guests will be more than impressed with chef-owner Ben Poremba’s Mediterranean-inspired dishes and unique wine list. Yet another semifinalist for a James Beard Foundation Best Chef in the Midwest award, Poremba has a flair for riffing on old-school cooking techniques and simple ingredients. The result: edible works of art. Botanical Heights, 314.932.1088. _____________________________________ Best Place to Pitch Your Startup

DEATH IN THE AFTERNOON

In an intense situation when all eyes and ears are on you, it’s always a good idea to keep things simple. Set

in the Citygarden urban sculpture park and featuring floor-to-ceiling glass walls, it’s a visually relaxing space that’s still only a short walk or drive from some of the region’s most innovative offices. The menu is a state-fair-goes-international feast featuring everything from deepfried pickles to pastrami, steamed buns and turnip miso ramen. Downtown, 314.621.3236. _____________________________________ Best Food Truck

GUERRILLA STREET FOOD The signature 800-Pound Guerilla dish is a perfect example of what makes this truck a favorite: Wrapped in a tortilla, there’s chicken adobo and slow-roasted pork, calamansi, sriracha, hoisin, fried garlic, paprika cream, greens and black sesame seeds. Throughout the menu, coowners Brian Hardesty and Joel Crespo offer Filipino-influenced dishes that challenge palates and expand horizons. Their approach has been so popular that a brickand-mortar location at the corner of South Grand and Arsenal is in the works. guerrillastreetfood.com. _____________________________________ Best Coffeehouse

SUMP COFFEE From the day it opened in 2011, this shop has been a destination for coffee connoisseurs—and its reputation continues to grow, thanks to a combination of whiz-bang technology in roasters, grinders and brewing equipment and remarkable human element. This latter asset is the staff, who advocate for and educate about coffee with endless energy— one of Sump’s recent workshops followed beans during the 10 stages between its harvest and your cup. They also forge innovative partnerships, like the one with pop-up restaurant Kitchen Kulture. Marine Villa, 917.412.5670. _____________________________________ Best Neighborhood Hangout

RUSSELL’S

City-dwellers celebrated when the original Fenton location expanded onto Macklind in South City two years ago. They wanted the delicious selection of cakes, gooey butter concoctions and cookies, of course, but they also craved a place to sit around with a cup of coffee and shoot the breeze. Owner Russell Ping gave them that and much more—his restaurant is a family-friendly, three-

Clockwise from top left: Steak Burrito from Seoul Taco, Jackfruit Banh Mi from Lulu’s Local Eatery, Tofu Tacos from Seoul Taco, and “It’s Hard Out Here For A Shrimp” from Guerrilla Street Food. Models: Billy Brown, Nick Bussell, Sarah Stallmann and Kat Reynolds.

HOLE-HEARTED FUN St. Louis is lining up ’round the corner for these top doughnut shops. by AMY DE LA HUNT Craziest Concept

STRANGE DONUTS Peanut butter and Fruit Loops? Roast beef? Insideout cinnamon roll? Crab rangoon? Carrot cake? Chicken and waffle? Bacon and maple? Lovers of the Strange eagerly line up to sample old and new concoctions from this buzzy bakery, where the latest innovation is a heart-filled charity component: Strange Cares. Multiple locations, strangedonuts.com.

Doughnuts pictured courtesy of Strange Donuts, World’s Fair Donuts, Eddie’s Southtown Donuts, John’s Donuts, and Vincent Van Doughnut.

Most Buzz

Best Classics

WORLD’S FAIR DONUTS

JOHN’S DONUTS

They’ve been building buzz for decades—and even with the recent nod from USA Today, this tiny storefront maintains that it doesn’t need newfangled tech like credit cards. Buttermilk cake doughnuts are the biggest draw, but no worries if they’re sold out: The long johns, twists and pies are all winners. Southwest Garden, 314.776.9975.

Because it satisfies cravings all night long—its clientele ranges from late-night partyers to early-bird risers—this shop doesn’t need to do anything fancy with its cinnamon twists and airy glazed doughnuts. For the best retro flavor, go with the OldFashioned doughnut and a milk chaser. Kosciusko, 314.241.3360.

Best-Kept Secret

Worth the Hunt

EDDIE’S SOUTHTOWN DONUTS

VINCENT VAN DOUGHNUT

After nine years of quietly stealing doughnutlovers’ hearts, it’s high time these chocolate cakes and caramel long johns spoke up for themselves. And first thing in the morning, they positively sing. South Hampton, 314.832.1200.

They’re still the best doughnuts on wheels in town, but to find them in the same place every week (or day, if you’re that devoted), come by the new shop— early, because they sell out within hours. Clayton, 314.899.9500.

meals-a-day operation that barely closes down at night before the bakers show up for the early morning shift. Multiple locations, russellscafe.com. _____________________________________ Best Bakery

WHISK

You never know quite what to expect from this eclectic urban bakery (which is one of the reasons we love it). It could be s’mores poptarts. Or duffins, those delightful lovechildren of muffins and donuts. Or popcorn cookies, lavender scones, Boston cream whoopie pies, baconchocolate chip cookies, vegan pumpkin brownies, or gluten-free crumb cake. For two and a half years, Whisk has been introducing its customers to that sweet spot where delicious flavors and sustainable food practices overlap—a winning combo in our book. Cherokee Street, 314.932.5166. _____________________________________ Best Deli

MOM’S DELI There’s a big line at this classic Italian deli most days, especially at lunch. As it snakes through the shop, it evokes a throwback community feel—to 1977, perhaps, when the deli opened, looking and tasting much the same. Customers were likely drooling with anticipation as they watched the Mom’s Special being assembled, just like they do now. Lindenwood Park, 314.644.1198. _____________________________________ Best Vegetarian

FRIDA’S DELI Once you cross the threshold at Frida’s, prepare to be surprised. Even longtime customers never know what will show up next on the seasonal menus—one week it might be a berry protein crepe with cashew cream, lavender and lemon zest; the next could be an omelet in honor of “Kale University” or a raspberryhoney sangria. The plant-based restaurant is moving into its third year of delivering delicious surprises and educating hungry customers in the process. University City, 314.727.6500. _____________________________________ Best Vegan Following

LULU’S LOCAL EATERY Three years after it launched a food truck and one year after its South Grand restaurant debut, Lulu’s continues to delight its meat- and dairy-free fan base with dishes like

smoked jackfruit in barbecue sauce and comfort them with favorites like crispy buffalo cauliflower bites. Strong ties to local farmers—and on-site gardens for both the restaurant and truck—ensure high-quality, ultra-fresh produce and herbs. Whether you swing meat-free or not hardly matters: Washing down a black bean burger with a local craft beer on Lulu’s plant-lined patio is a full-flavor treat for anyone with taste buds. Tower Grove South, 314.300.8215. _____________________________________ Best Steakhouse

RUTH’S CHRIS STEAK HOUSE This is the place to truly appreciate the full range of flavor and texture nuances between a filet and a strip and a rib-eye and a porterhouse. It starts with USDA prime steaks cooked at 500 degrees and served with such precision that all you have to worry about is the next tender bite. The menu has a Cajun influence—the restaurant empire started in New Orleans, after all—so you can enhance your Midwestern steak with flavorful appetizers like the barbecued shrimp. Multiple locations, ruthschris.com. _____________________________________ Best Tacos

SEOUL TACO To take tacos way beyond Tex-Mex, this restaurant-and-food-truck operation fuses Korean-style marinated meats, salads and sauces into the familiar approachability of tortilla wrappers. The protein choices— bulgogi beef, chicken, spicy pork and tofu—rely heavily on owner David Choi’s grandmother’s secret recipes. The unique combination works so well that the food truck has earned national accolades, and the restaurant recently expanded its taco venture to Columbia, Missouri. Back in STL, it’s grown into a larger space that also hosts Choi’s other restaurant, Seoul Q. The Loop, 314.863.1148. _____________________________________ Best Pizza

A PIZZA STORY This pizzeria’s owners have worked hard to perfect their dough—and it’s a good thing, because they put it through some serious rigor during cooking, when temps hit around 800 degrees for the Neapolitanstyle base. Then come the toppings: Again, the owners do it right, bal-

ancing the sauce and cheese with solids like prosciutto di Parma, wild mushrooms, arugula and smoked salmon. How can you say no? Maplewood, 314.899.0011. _____________________________________ Best Sushi

KAMPAI SUSHI BAR

St. Louis is fortunate to have a savvy sushi community: Once a restaurant catches the attention of its members, they’re generous about letting the rest of the world know. Kampai’s 40-plus rolls are definitely a selling point, as is the quality of its nigiri (raw fish over pressed rice) and sashimi (thinly sliced raw seafood). The Central West End location has an added bonus: a low seating area similar to what one would find in Japan. Multiple locations, kampaistl. com. _____________________________________ Best Burger

5 STAR BURGERS Good burgers start with good meat, and Chef Steve Gontram and company set the bar high with antibiotic-free, pasture-raised, grainfinished Angus beef. From that foundation, they hand-form an unassailable signature burger embellished by toppings like green chiles, port-braised onions and roasted tomato-bacon jam. But they don’t stop with beef: There’s freshly ground pork with Asian toppings, lamb with Greek toppings, turkey with American toppings, bison with an eyeopening espresso-and-black-pepper rub and an occasional special like duck with strawberry-rhubarb jam or a crab-shrimp-lobster patty with black bean relish. Pity the poor cup of ketchup—it’s all but expendable here. Multiple locations, 5starburgersstl.com. _____________________________________ Best Pasta

PASTARIA Showcasing the pasta-making operation in the expansive front window brings home two concepts: first, how simple the basic process is and second, how limitless the possibilities are for the final product. The menu includes the familiar, but keep an eye out for some fun shapes you don’t come across at many other Italian eateries: strozzapreti, canestri, chitarra, bucatini, garganelli. Why? Because behind the scenes, there’s a science to matching shapes and sauces—and it’s something chefowner Gerard Craft knows makes

every bit of difference in each delicious bite. Clayton, 314.862.6603. _____________________________________ Best Falafel

THE VINE MEDITERRANEAN CAFÉ AND MARKET You can get these deep-fried chickpea patties as a dinner and eat them with a fork, but the best way to really enjoy this traditional street food is on the go, slathered with tahini and wrapped in a piece of fresh pita bread. The Vine’s Lebanese version is rich with garlic and spices—the recipe of what’s inside is a family secret—and fried until its exterior offers a satisfying crunch. Tower Grove South, 314.776.0991. _____________________________________ Best Patio

SCAPE AMERICAN BISTRO When it comes to blending Old World charm and modern amenities, Scape’s front patio and inner courtyard have long stood out from the crowd. The front overlooks the elegant Maryland Plaza streetscape and its centerpiece fountain, but Scape’s true showcase is Backbar, a meld of classic charm and trendiness that’s like no other space in the city. Near the ivy-covered walls and under twinkling string lights hanging overhead, it’s the perfect spot for game-night grill parties, live acoustic music or a dinner out with friends. Central West End, 314.361.7227. _____________________________________ Best Date Night

BAR LES FRERES The last thing you want on a first date is to run out of things to talk about before the main course arrives—but there’s small chance of that at this charming bistro-style bar. Talk about the art. The antlers. The whiskeys, wines and cocktails. The trip to France you took (or didn’t take). The fact that neither of you can pronounce anything in French. Hold hands across the tiny tables. Steal a kiss. It’s OK—no one is looking except the portraits. Clayton, 314.725.8880. _____________________________________ Best Brunch

CAFÉ OSAGE This garden-shop-meets-eatery is a wake-up call for the senses. Indoors, the morning sunlight streams JUNE 2015

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through the windows, and coffee scents the air. In the garden courtyard, the sights and smells of (cultivated) nature envelop diners. But it’s the taste buds that get the most glory: Farm-style dishes like steelcut oatmeal, scrambled eggs with toast and mixed-grain pancakes are all about fresh, organic ingredients. Whenever possible, the menu incorporates the day’s harvest from Bowood Farms’ on-site organic produce garden and rooftop herb bed. Have a light sparkling wine or cocktail—the grapefruit-mint margarita is a favorite—for an extra sensory treat. Central West End, 314.454.6868. _____________________________________ Best Slinger

SOUTHWEST DINER Removed from its hometown of St. Louis and re-imagined in New Mexico, this slinger subs home fries for hashbrowns, red or green chile for chili, and colby cheese for cheddar. Keep the hamburger patty and eggs, add a ladle of gravy and voila! Not surprisingly, the combination works—both because these talented folks know their way around the kitchen and because slingers are just plain delicious, however they’re doctored up. Ellendale, 314.260.7244. _____________________________________ Best Bloody Mary

GAMLIN WHISKEY HOUSE When a restaurant known for its extensive whiskey selection gets serious about extending weekend brunch into Saturday as well as

Sunday, it’s all but guaranteed to have an enticing selection of bloody mary options. Sure enough, the Bloody Ghost sets the tone with a pepper-infused Jacob’s Ghost white whiskey. There are also other options for spirits without the kick of peppers, but aren’t weekends made for living dangerously? Central West End, 314.875.9500. _____________________________________

in a short journey. The menu ranges from the familiar and comforting, like ramen, to curiosity-inducing items such as lotus-leaf-wrapped sticky rice. Adding wine pairing suggestions is a helpful touch that shows just how much thought has gone into every choice on the menu. Downtown, 314.241.4476. _____________________________________

Best French Toast

MAI LEE

LOCAL HARVEST CAFE This is really a double nod, since LHC serves both a regular and a vegan option. Both start with fresh bread layered with cream cheese or vegan spread, stuffed with an ever-rotating array of seasonal ingredients and baked. The crowning touch is organic maple syrup. Tower Grove South, 314.772.8815. _____________________________________ Best Barbecue

PAPPY’S SMOKEHOUSE No one argues that Mike Emerson’s dry-rubbed, slow-smoked ribs are epic. But it takes a savvy restaurateur to turn excellent barbecue into a national phenomenon—and to keep satisfying masses of customers day in and day out without sacrificing quality. Midtown, 314.535.4340. _____________________________________ Best Pan-Asian

HIRO ASIAN KITCHEN These Chinese, Japanese, Vietnamese, Malaysian and Korean dishes yield a continent’s worth of flavor

Best Vietnamese There’s an old saying that food tastes better when it’s served with love—and nowhere does it ring more true than at the Tran family’s restaurant. Their genuine hospitality extends from the kitchen to the floor and then into cyberspace, where social media feeds show the love and reflect it back. Tellingly, there’s no single favorite dish, but front-runners in popular opinion include salt-and-pepper calamari, chicken pho, roasted duck with ginger-soy sauce and salted fish fried rice. Brentwood, 314.645.2835. _____________________________________ Best Spot to Celebrate

FRANCO

The classic French dishes here (like rib-eye with bone marrow bearnaise and pomme frites) parallel the best restaurants in the city, but it’s the innovative touches (like sweetbread and foie gras parmentier) and seasonal menu that keep Franco fresh in our minds when we’re looking for a memorable fine dining experience. To begin or end the evening in full celebratory mode, take time to savor a drink at the bar, where the worn

wooden touches are a reminder of the cuisine’s ties to the land— some of which are right next door at the farmers market. Soulard, 314.436.2500. _____________________________________ Worth the Wait for Reservations

THREE FLAGS TAVERN With about 40 seats inside, patio space and a slew of good reviews, this small-but-mighty restaurant is on everyone’s shortlist right now. Failure to plan ahead, however, could mean you’ll miss out on this mosaic of Spanish, French and American culinary influences that manifest in spring lamb with smoked rhubarb barbecue sauce, manchego frito and dauphinoise potatoes—so whip out that iPhone and get busy booking next weekend’s table. Southwest Garden, 314.669.9222. _____________________________________ Best Working Lunch

CAFÉ VENTANA Need to brainstorm a lunch location? This laid-back coffeehouse will please everyone. The boss, because the two meeting rooms tucked in the brick-and-glass annex behind the main cafe are distraction-free oases. The admin, because the cafe’s staff is professional and prone to friendliness. The out-oftown client, because the location is easy to find and the coffee is excellent. The hungry staffers, because the sandwich platters have enough variety to satisfy everyone (and the kitchen specializes in desserts). Meeting adjourned. Midtown, 314.531.7500. _____________________________________ Best Artisanal Lunch

WINSLOW’S HOME Although its namesake 5-acre Winslow’s Farm in Augusta is too small to provide everything this popular restaurant needs, the farm’s approaches toward food infuse the whole menu. First is the belief that recently harvested produce tastes better, which leads the kitchen to source as much locally as possible. Second, simplicity allows the ingredients’ flavors to shine, whether it’s the bacon sandwich or the superfood slaw bowl with kale, cabbage, Brussels sprouts and brown rice. Third is a desire to serve food that’s memorable. Let’s just say they’ve got this one in the bag. University City, 314.725.7559.

Celebrate the best of the city with ALIVE!

FRIDAY, MAY 29, 2015 | 7-11PM OLD POST OFFICE PLAZA Tasting Lounge • Local Vendors • Live Music + More!

Tickets $15

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Condé Nast Traveler made Olio a stop on its “America Issue” tour last summer. Botanical Heights, 314.932.1088. _____________________________________

LATE-NIGHT + ENTERTAINMENT

Best After-Dinner Drinks

FOX & HOUNDS TAVERN

From craft cocktails and indie brews to dance parties and live tunes, consider this our heartfelt tribute to STL’s late-night scene. by MATT SORRELL & KATIE DAVIS

Best Bar

THE FORTUNE TELLER BAR Part of the burgeoning bar scene on Cherokee Street, Fortune Teller has proved to be the best of all worlds for all sorts of drinking types. Half dive bar, half cocktail bar and with a solid food menu to boot, there’s truly something for everyone at this neighborhood joint. Drop in, kick back, and have a beer, a shot or a custom house creation before you see what the future holds. Cherokee Street, 314.776.2337. _____________________________________ Best Cocktail Menu

PLANTER’S HOUSE When local bartending legends Ted and Jamie Kilgore and Ted Charak announced they were opening Planter’s House, it was a given that the cocktail menu would be stellar, but the trio and their staff have exceeded even the highest expectations. The main drink menu—some 60 or so selections— changes seasonally, and there’s also a rotating list of staff takes on a designated libation (past rosters have included riffs on daiquiris, old fashioneds and margaritas). And if all that isn’t enough, you can call for any classic cocktail you’d care to. Lafayette Square, 314.696.2603. _____________________________________ Best Bespoke Cocktails

TASTE

The original benchmark for craft cocktails in St. Louis, Taste continues to set the bar oh-so-high for local imbibers looking to indulge in uniquely crafted drinks. Bar manager Kyle Mathis and crew constantly put their creativity to work, using a vast array of spirits to craft custom libations that challenge, inspire and satisfy the palate—take, for example, the amaro-based Heart of Ruby. Their efforts resulted in a James Beard nomination last year—further proving that for adventurous drinkers looking for cutting-edge cocktails, Taste 68

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sets the standard. Central West End, 314.361.1200. _____________________________________ Best Margarita

MISSION TACO JOINT The margarita—that sublime amalgam of tequila, lime juice and orange liqueur—is perhaps the most mistreated of cocktails. At too many bars, it’s been forced to submit to cheap sour mixes and the blandness of the blender. We’ve even heard tell of some made with— what?!—vodka. Fortunately, Mission Taco knows how to make ’em the right way: They combine the best tequilas, fresh juice, a touch of agave and no pretension. Try the classic house version or a custom variant like the tequila Negroni. Multiple locations, missiontacostl.com. _____________________________________ Best Manhattan

THE WHISKEY RING A patriarch of the cocktail family, the manhattan remains the epitome of a boozy stirred drink. For all of its simplicity, though, it’s all too often mangled in an attempt to improve on perfection. For a solid example of the way it oughta be done, belly up to the bar at The Whiskey Ring, pick your whiskey and let the staff go to work stirring up something to remember. Cherokee Street, 314.769.7249. _____________________________________

Located in The Cheshire hotel, Fox & Hounds Tavern has become a St. Louis institution over the years. Patterned after an English manor house from times past, with a roaring fireplace, elegant seating and an overall cozy vibe, one almost expects a waistcoated butler to come by to refresh the drinks. It’s the ideal place to relocate your dinner group after a festive meal to indulge in “just one more” fine spirit or, perhaps, a yard of ale. Clayton, 314.647.7300. _____________________________________ Best Rooftop

Best Spot to Bust a Move

THE BUMP & HUSTLE STL

This monthly vinyl extravaganza hosted at Blank Space is the premier event for shaking your proverbial tail feather. For a mere $5, guests can bust a serious move on three levels to dance beats ranging from disco to funk to hip-hop, courtesy of resident performers DJ MAKossa and Nappy DJ Needles, as well as a rotating roster of special guest turntable pros. Cherokee Street, facebook.com/TheBumpandHustleSTL. _____________________________________ Best Gay Bar

THREE SIXTY

JUST JOHN

There are patios, and then there are patio experiences. Three Sixty’s rooftop space definitely falls into the latter category. With its sleek and modern decor, handcrafted cocktails and a view that stretches to infinity and then some, it’s the very definition of breathtaking. Couple that million-dollar vista with a menu featuring tasty bites by Chef Rex Hale, and you’ve got a truly unbeatable combo. Downtown, 314.241.8439. _____________________________________

This venerable gathering spot is part gay bar, part sports bar and part allinclusive community center. Over the years, Just John has gained a reputation for hosting all manner of LGBT-friendly events, from holiday parties and fundraisers to over-the-top theme nights, along with regular draws like the ladycentric JANE events on Wednesdays and the semimonthly Golden Happy Hour. The club features bars inside and outside, as well as the climate-controlled Florida Room for those times when the weather competes with patio aspirations. The Grove, 314.371.1333. _____________________________________

Best Patio

SASHA’S ON SHAW We like the cozy interior of Sasha’s on Shaw just fine, but the South City wine bar’s picturesque patio is the place to be come summertime. The grotto-like space is replete with fire pit, abundant greenery and calming water features. It’s a serene little oasis where you can kick back, indulge in some fine vino and and let the world go on by without you. Shaw, 314.771.7274. _____________________________________ Best Place to Impress an Out-of-Towner

Best Wine Bar

ST. LOUIS UNION STATION

Housed in a former 1930s gas station in the historic (and often overlooked) Botanical Heights neighborhood, Olio is short on pretension and long on fine wines and great food. The eatery features a list of regularly rotating vino selections that literally span the globe, and the wide-open, funky, inviting space provides the perfect place to sit back, relax and savor them all. And we’re not the only ones who think so:

Now a spot on the National Historic Landmark list, this St. Louis icon originally opened in 1894 and was once the largest rail terminal in the US. Now, it’s a local and national tourist destination that has been restored and renovated well beyond even its original splendor. From the soaring vaulted ceilings of The Grand Hall—the perfect spot to take out-of-towners for a pre- or postdinner drink—to the sweeping arches of the sprawling Train Shed, St. Louis

OLIO

Union Station is definitely a jewel of the city, guaranteed to impress even the most well-traveled of travelers. Downtown, 314.421.6655. _____________________________________

Best Spot to Catch a Band

THE BEALE ON BROADWAY

Open seven days a week until 3am, The Beale On Broadway is the ultimate venue to catch some of the best and bluesiest local and touring acts live and in person (it’s local soulful favorite Kim Massie’s second home). The venue hosts outdoor sets during the warmer months and has a down-home NOLA feel, with plenty of beer and Hot City Franks on hand for sustenance before, during and after sets. Downtown, 314.621.7880. _____________________________________ Best Beer Selection

INTERNATIONAL TAP HOUSE The old saying “too much is never enough” most certainly applies to iTap. This local beer-loving chain, which opened in Chesterfield in 2009 and now has locations in Soulard, the CWE and Columbia, Missouri, sports a bottle list

Plattan headphones by Urbanears available at 10denza. Model: Angelica Clay

that numbers in the hundreds, along with a slew of rotating taps featuring beers from around the world but with a particular abundance of Missouri brews. Seasonal offerings and special releases are a specialty at all locations. Multiple locations, internationaltaphouse.com. _____________________________________ Best Dive Bar

LOS PUNK

If you’re looking for a down-home good time with friends, this Cherokee Street favorite more than fits the bill. As the name hints, Los Punk is stripped down and basic, with cheap drinks, simple—but delicious—bar food (the kitchen’s open ’til 1am), a nononsense patio and no extraneous BS to get in the way of the revelry. Cherokee Street, 314.560.0626. _____________________________________ Best House Party Vibe

333 NORTH BEAUMONT This funky Midtown space books a wide variety of events, from pop-up parties to sets from top local and national DJs and all manner of special one-offs. It’s also played host to the popular monthly music series LIFTED and to podcasts from groups like Treehouse Networkshops. The vibe here is relaxed and homey: Picture catching your favorite DJ at a friend’s loft. Midtown, facebook.com/333. North.Beaumont . _____________________________________

Best Party Series

NIGHTCHASER BY ALEXIS TUCCI This homage to all things disco began a year and a half ago and quickly became the place for fans of late-1970s/early1980s dance music to pack the floor. The series was originally hosted at Empire Hall in the Cherokee Street area, but for the time being, the search for a permanent space is on. The party happens on the first Saturday of the month, with turntable duties shared by Nappy DJ Needles and Mark Lewis. facebook. com/NightchaserStl. _____________________________________ Best Open Mic Night

THE COMEDY SHIPWRECK AT THE HEAVY ANCHOR Think you’ve got what it takes to be the next big thing on Comedy Central? Prove it to the rest of the world at this open mic extravaganza, held the first and third Monday of each month at 10pm at one of the city’s favorite dive bars. It attracts a diverse crowd of hipsters, scene-makers, neighborhood folks and comedy fans with the promise of cheap drinks and plenty of laughs. Bevo Mill, 314.352.5226. _____________________________________ Best Late-Night Eats

ATOMIC COWBOY There are plenty of chain drive-thrus and greasy spoon diners to hit up after

a night on the town, but for quality latenight grub, those in the know head to Atomic Cowboy. This Grove favorite sports a massive menu of creative fare guaranteed to please. Most of the menu is based on south-of-the-border dishes, and they’re best enjoyed on the back patio. The best part? The kitchen doesn’t close ’til 2:30am. The Grove, 314.775.0775. _____________________________________ Best Podcast

TREEHOUSE LIFESTYLE PODCAST

Treehouse Networkshop is well-known in STL for bringing the community together for events that are both networking-focused and create a fun forum to discuss related topics surrounding careers. The brains behind Treehouse, Wesley Hoffman, is also the voice behind the Treehouse Lifestyle Podcast, which continues this trend with shoptalk about branding, motivation and local people doing interesting jobs. Examples: Julia Li, founder of Create Space; Emily Muhoberac, inventor-inresidence at Ochre and Kathleen Bauer of T-REX. treehousenetworkshop.com. _____________________________________ Best TV Personality

HEIDI GLAUS

An award-winning journalist for KSDK and ksdk.com, Heidi Glaus is known for her top-notch reporting and one-of-a-kind weekly segment, “Hey Heidi,” where viewers send in

their questions, and Glaus picks some of the most interesting ones to chase down the answers for. We can’t resist going on “Show Me St. Louis” with Heidi when we get the chance. @HeidiGlausKSDK. _____________________________________ Best Radio Show

“ST. LOUIS ON THE AIR,” ST. LOUIS PUBLIC RADIO

One of the of the top lunch-hour radio shows in the area, “St. Louis on the Air” features longtime local personality Don Marsh at his best Monday through Thursday at noon (if you miss it at noon, you can also catch up at 10pm). The show tackles the issues most impacting St. Louis; It has recently reported community-focused stories on Ferguson, education and St. Louis public schools, the area’s top spring and summer marathons, how to keep kids entertained during the summer and more. @STLonAir. _____________________________________ Best Radio Personality

LUX, 105.7

As the only female radio host for 105.7 The Point in St. Louis, Lux is known for not only breaking new ground but for her highly popular show, “Lux in the Afternoon,” which airs from 2-6pm. Born and bred in St. Louis, Lux isn’t shy about repping her hometown on both her show and her wildly entertaining social feeds. Let’s just say we know we can always count on Lux to rev up enthusiasm wherever she goes. @lux1057. _____________________________________ Best Blogger

BANGLES & BUNGALOWS

Describing her innovative approach to fashion, style and decor blogging as “East meets West,” Yasmin Hakim has lived across the US, from NYC to Washington, DC, LA and Ann Arbor. A self-described “nomad,” Hakim actively incorporates inspiration from these cities, along with her family and Indian culture, customs and traditional dress, into her wildly popular blog that keeps readers coming back for more. Her readership is now global, and trendsetters everywhere are turning to Bangles & Bungalows for ideas on blending Eastern-inspired items into outfits; creating a stylish, yet practical, home environment; pairing jewelry with bold colors or designs and more. banglesandbungalows.com. _____________________________________

S T. L O U I S, T H E F E E L I N G I S M U T U A L. T H A N K Y O U F O R V O T I N G U S B E S T F I N E J E W E L E R.

SHANECO.COM

ON OLIVE, BETWEEN I-170 AND I-270.

Jeweler of the St. Louis Cardinals

ARTS + CULTURE Oh, let us count the ways our city’s arts scene makes our hearts go pitter-patter. by KRYSTIN ARNESON

by the recently retired Jill McGuire 30 years ago, RAC provides grants to nonprofit organizations, fellowships, critical educational and training classes alongside a range of exhibitions in its space on Delmar. We can’t wait to see what’s in store under the direction of returning St. Louisan Felicia Shaw, who recently took up McGuire’s post as executive director. The Loop, 314.863.5811. _____________________________________ Most Innovative Programming

Best New Arts Destination

PUBLIC MEDIA COMMONS

Grand Center’s newest art hotspot is also the neighborhood’s best gathering area: A medley of video installations, art showcases and cultural cognoscenti events are held in the open-air space between St. Louis Public Radio and Nine Network. The breathtaking space is like no other in the city, and its goal is to make art and shared creative experiences accessible to all. Case in point: A new partnership between the Nine Network and the St. Louis Symphony will provide free live performances from groups founded by and including symphony musicians. Grand Center, 314.512.9000. _____________________________________ Most Innovative Arts Space

THE LUMINARY

In a departure from one-sided encounters with art, programming at the Luminary is largely designed to facilitate interactions. In March, for example, art took to the streets in “Counterpublic,” as artists reflected on the gentrification of Cherokee Street by creating work for storefronts, hosting communal dinners and exploring what a cultural space could be. Its innovation benefits artists, too: An annual August residency spent on a river and programming such as March’s “60 wrd/min art critic” with critic Lori Waxman (in collaboration with Fort Gondo) provide endless inspiration for the community and its artists. Cherokee Street, 314.807.5984. _____________________________________ Best Art Experience

CONTEMPORARY ART MUSEUM ST. LOUIS The concept that “art is for all” filters into every corner of St. Louis’ wellloved institution: free admission, unpretentious signage and a perfectly sized space—so whether you’re taking an art history major or converting a reluctant museumgoer, a visit to CAM

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neither lacks nor overwhelms. Notably, CAM eschews a permanent collection to engage the public with rotating exhibitions that not only have some serious street cred (passport stamps on current works include the Guggenheim and documenta) but keep St. Louisans coming back to catch the latest. Grand Center, 314.535.4660. _____________________________________ Best Alternative Art Space

BLANK SPACE

It’s all in the name: The 3-year-old venue-reading-room-libation-stationgallery-record-store-self-proclaimed “temple of knowledge” is anything the community imagines it to be—and on Cherokee Street, that can get pretty creative. A choice tweet: “Party at the space by night or chill and just vibe out in the space by day. It don’t matter. We’re open like, all the time yo.” With a weekly midday film series, Motown on Mondays and more, it’s the type of venue that makes creative neighborhoods thrive. Cherokee Street, 314.300.8831. _____________________________________ Best New Monthly Art Event

SLAM UNDERGROUND SERIES On the last Friday of each month, St. Louis’ crown jewel of a museum throws an after-hours party. And there ain’t no party like a museum party: Each weaves the theme of one of their featured exhibitions or a moment in art history (the birthday of Max Beckmann, for example) into overtime through cocktails, DJ’d music, games, crafts and tours. Forest Park, 314.721.0072. _____________________________________ Best Arts Community-Builder

ST. LOUIS REGIONAL ARTS COMMISSION

There’s hardly an arts organization or artist in this town that hasn’t been touched by RAC’s support: The organization’s advocacy for a thriving arts scene is second-to-none. Founded

PULITZER ARTS FOUNDATION

It’s back, and it’s better than ever: After closing for months to turn its downstairs office space into two new galleries, the Pulitzer re-opened May 1 with “Press Play,” a series of programming that includes cross-media collaborations. Prior to renovations, its last series was a stage for breakdancers, drag queens and St. Louis Symphony members. With its commitment to thinking beyond traditional definitions of art, the beloved organization provides a space of innovation, creativity and genuine fun in the city’s artscape. Grand Center, 314.754.1850. _____________________________________ Best Place for Aspiring Makers

CRAFT ALLIANCE CENTER OF ART + DESIGN

St. Louis has no shortage of homes for established artists, but Craft Alliance provides a laboratory and showcase for emerging ones. Weavers, designers and other passionate makers find a community here through events that provide valuable networking opportunities; residencies that give them the freedom to hone their craft and a gallery where they can sell their wares to those looking to support local art. And given the success of last month’s Makers Ball, it’s clear that St. Louis is looking forward to the next big talent to come out of its studio. Multiple locations, craftalliance.org. _____________________________________ Best Community Art Programs

CENTER OF CREATIVE ARTS

COCA has caught national attention for redefining what its genre could be. With two goals—to enrich lives and to build community through the arts—Executive Director Kelly Pollock has brought in top-tier talent to teach STL’s youth dance; she’s created COCAbiz, a wildly successful program bridging art-think and business-think;

and she’s formed a conduit to place alumni in some of the nation’s most prestigious performing arts schools. The Loop, 314.725.6555. _____________________________________ Best Lecture Series

ST. LOUIS SPEAKER SERIES AT POWELL HALL Maryville University’s much-loved speaker lineup is engaging, yes, but also incredibly diverse—just check out 2015-2016’s lineup: author John Irving, a former CIA director, a retired astronaut, a record-breaking swimmer and writer Dave Barry. There’s a fit for anyone, and the insights these gamechangers bring make these evenings must-attend events. Grand Center, 314.534.1700. _____________________________________ Best Theater Festival

BRIEFS: A FESTIVAL OF SHORT LGBT PLAYS Each year, That Uppity Theatre Company and Vital VOICE partner to create BRIEFS, an often sold-out festival bringing together the LGBT community, allies and local businesses to explore the LGBT experience. Each 10-minute play not only stands on its own but as part of a larger whole comprised of multiple perspectives that organically enter into a conversation that otherwise might not happen. Location varies, uppityco.com. _____________________________________ Best Culture-Meets-Pop-Culture

ST. LOUIS SYMPHONY

There’s the symphony, and then there’s the St. Louis Symphony performing the scores of Hollywood classics as the movie screens in front of you. Although we love both, mad props go to the creativity of the symphony’s executive committee, which recently brought audiences “Pirates of the Caribbean 2,” “Gladiator,” and “Pixar in Concert,” a medley of favorite musical moments from the film studio. Audiences clearly love it—on the way in to March’s “The Godfather” performance, more than a few costumed Corleones could be spotted. Grand Center, 314.533.2500. _____________________________________ Best Place to Start Your Art Night Out THE DARK ROOM Located conveniently up the block from Bruno David, CAM, The Sheldon and the Pulitzer Arts Foundation, and on the same strip of Grand as The Fabulous Fox, Powell Hall and other arts

“The Big Book of Art,” Vince cardboard human skull, Eye Hide (various colors) cardboard unicorn and hexagon coasters available at CAM; playbill from the Fox Theatre and tickets from Opera Theatre of Saint Louis.

GALLERY WALK

Best Gallery Curation

PHILIP SLEIN GALLERY

or aesthetic, there’s likely to be work shown here to fit. And with its extensive artist engagement and community-building efforts, potential buyers can get that much closer to their new favorite piece. After all, art can be an even better conversation piece if there’s a story behind it. South Hampton, 314.497.5202.

In three recent exhibitions, gallerist Philip Slein has gone for shows with a message: most notably when he was curating African-American artwork in “Other Ways; Other Times: Influences of AfricanAmerican Tradition from St. Louis Collections” and its sequel. His timely and relevant approach, with a deliberate selection of works to convey a Best Gallery Expansion Best Place to Discover Local Artists theme, has created a unique context in which galBRUNO DAVID PROJECTS HOUSKA GALLERY lery artwork is shown and sold. Central West End, For a gallery to spill into a sequel is a sign of a strong Artist-owner Charles Houska doesn’t limit the love: 314.361.2617. arts community, and Bruno David is a veteran at exHis space is a celebration of the best of St. Louis’ pansion (at one point, he had three galleries going artist community, featuring not only his bold, joyBest Place to Start Your Collection in NYC). With Keri Robertson helming the wheel at ous works but also the work of Renee Raub-Ayers SOHA STUDIO AND GALLERY Projects, Bruno David Gallery’s less formal satellite and fellow gallerist-artist Michael Hoffman. If you want a taste of St. Louis’ top talent, you’ll find it SOHA’s styles and price points are varied, mean- space near The Grove, this next location is a feather ing that no matter a beginning collector’s budget in St. Louis’ cap indeed. The Grove, 314.449.6438. here. Central West End, 314.496.1377.

The city’s top galleries have everyone watching. by KRYSTIN ARNESON

Botanical Kitty painting by Charles Houska. Model: Molly Fontana.

destinations, The Dark Room’s carefully curated wine selection and locally driven menu make the perfect starting point for an art night on the town. It also doubles as a gallery in partnership with the International Photography Hall of Fame and Museum—providing great conversation starters as you sip your malbec. Grand Center, 314.531.3416. _____________________________________ Best Interactive Exhibits

MISSOURI HISTORY MUSEUM

civic pride, St. Louis’ greatest concert venue went silent for 20 years before a $78.7 million restoration revived it in 2011. Last year, its acoustics once again proved capable of allowing a variety of artists to shine, from synthheavy Lorde to folksy Sufjan Stevens. And if sound alone isn’t enough to impress, just look around: It’s one of the finest examples of Art Deco architecture west of the Mississippi. Downtown, 314.499.7600. _____________________________________ Best New Storytelling Meetup

If your memories of history museums are, well, a little dusty, it’s time to give them another go: The Missouri History Museum’s curators shape the beautiful space—and past—into intriguing and interactive exhibits that are anything but textbook. Currently: The “Walk in 1875 St. Louis” exhibit features a variety of interactive elements, including a remarkably detailed historical city map, originally taking up 300 square feet when drawn by Richard Compton and Camille Dry in 1874. Forest Park, 314.746.4599. _____________________________________

On the second Tuesday of each month, storytellers old and young gather to swap stories at this open-mic event, featuring tragedy, comedy and all the genres in between. Participation isn’t a requirement for attendance, so if you’re more listener than talker, post up in the audience and take in the tales. Location varies, secondtuesdaysSTL@gmail.com. _____________________________________

Best Acting Experience for Kids

THE GASLIGHT THEATER

For shy kids (or outgoing ones), participating in The Muny’s program is a truly St. Louis way to encourage self-expression, build discipline and explore their creativity. Kids in the youth chorus rehearse like true pros for top-notch productions before taking the stage—last season’s “Seussical the Musical” won four Theatre Circle awards, including Best Musical. Forest Park, 314.361.1900. _____________________________________

If you miss the basement productions of NYC theater companies, look no further than The Gaslight Theater. St. Louis Actors’ Studio calls this intimate 97-seat stage home a true black-box experience. Next month, STLAS is producing the LaBute New Theater Festival July 10-Aug. 2. Be sure to check out their events calendar for burlesque, comedy and live music. Central West End, 314.458.2978. _____________________________________ Best Free Concert Series

THE MUNY

Best Broadway Lineup

THE FABULOUS FOX

SECOND TUESDAYS

Best Place to Feel Like You’re at an Off-Broadway Production

WHITAKER MUSIC FESTIVAL

Sitting front row at The Fox Theatre is a taste of Broadway at its best. The St. Louis institution is the host of the U.S. Bank Broadway Series, which brings in national Broadway tours of some of the hottest shows in the Big Apple. The 2014-2015 season highlight was arguably a tie between producer Cameron Mackintosh’s re-imagined “Phantom of the Opera” and Cyndi Lauper’s ultra-sassy “Kinky Boots.” We can’t wait to see what’s waiting in the wings this year. Grand Center, 314.534.1678. _____________________________________

Break up a summertime workweek with a free concert, a delicious picnic and a starry night at MOBOT. The 2015 program includes musicians from a variety of genres: jazz, country, blues, R&B and a little rock ’n’ roll. Attendees can bring picnics or purchase food there and kick back as music and the scent of flowers fill the summer night. Shaw, 314.577.5100. _____________________________________

Best Concert Venue

This Clayton event is one of the top fine art festivals in the US—and for good reason: The jury selects the best artists to draw more than 150,000 enthusiasts each September. For the

PEABODY OPERA HOUSE Opened in 1934 as a rallying point for

Best Art Fair

SAINT LOUIS ART FAIR

three (free) days of the festival, attendees can also take in performances, demonstrations, kids’ activities and culinary tie-ins for an arty experience that’s fun and intriguing for connoisseurs and neophytes alike. Clayton, 314.863.0278. _____________________________________ Best Summer Date Night

OPERA THEATRE OF SAINT LOUIS

Elevate dinner-and-a-movie to the next level with an evening at the opera—no black tie required. Begin with a picnic on the lawn, followed by the performance in an intimate setting where every seat’s a good one. Then, join your fellow operagoers in the garden for a party under the stars. Sound ideal? The season’s in full swing, so get your tickets now. Webster Groves, 314.961.0644. _____________________________________ Best Theater with a Social Cause

METRO THEATER COMPANY

Metro Theater Company’s professional performances have the underlying mission of educating kids by creating theater that’s meaningful, inspiring and intelligent. Staffers develop traveling performances that tie in with school curricula, and mainstage productions also draw in plenty of audience members: To date, around two million people from 41 states and four countries have seen their productions. Grand Center, 314.932.7414. _____________________________________ Best Music Festival

LOUFEST

Each September, top names and upand-comers alike take over Central Field in Forest Park for two days of music, revelry and (crossing fingers) sun. There’s a high chance that you’ll see the next top-charting band here right before they hit the big time—last year’s breakouts included Glass Animals and Blackberry Smoke alongside big names like Outkast and Cake. For festivalgoers with rugrats in tow, the LouKidz area has family-friendly activities for all-age entertainment. Forest Park, loufest.com. _____________________________________ Best Place to Discover Something New

SAINT LOUIS SCIENCE CENTER It’s not just planets and earthquakes at the Science Center: There’s also a gi-

ant, animatronic T. rex—Mr. T. Rex to guests—who tweets about the center’s engaging talks on topics from the science behind Jurassic Park to the science behind beer-making. One of the largest and best in the US, the center has 700-plus exhibits and makes them accessible to all with free admission to permanent exhibits. Forest Park, 314.289.4400. _____________________________________ Best Family Outing

SAINT LOUIS ZOO No matter the time of year, the Saint Louis Zoo is the perfect place to spend a day with the fam: During warm months, its 19,800 animals from 600 species are out and ready to strut their stuff for guests. Toward the holidays, come back for Wild Lights on the 93-acre-and-growing complex. Everyday admission is free—not bad for one of the top in the country. Forest Park, 314.781.0900. _____________________________________ Best Place to Bring Out-of-Towners

CITY MUSEUM

Museum—or playground? That’s for your guests to decide. The 600,000-square-foot attraction, built inside (and outside) a renovated factory, integrates reclaimed architectural objects from the city. There are 10- and five-story slides (and two bars to get your courage up), a Ferris wheel on the roof and a vintage aircraft accessible via wire tube-ladder bridges. There’s also the world’s largest pencil—and pair of underwear, which, legend has it, went missing for three-and a half weeks, only to return freshly laundered. The best part? It’s constantly changing as workers pull relics out of storage. Downtown, 314.231.2489. _____________________________________ Best Place to Catch New Works

THE REPERTORY THEATRE OF ST. LOUIS The Rep performs the important task of bringing new works from the West End and Broadway—for example, 2014’s “One Man, Two Guvnors” or the more recent “Vanya and Sonia and Masha and Spike”—to audiences here in STL. And then there’s Ignite!, its annual festival premiering works to keep theater’s canon going. Old or new, these productions—and the consistent talent behind them—are always guaranteed to be a hit. Webster Groves, 314.968.7340. _____________________________________ JUNE 2015

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BEAUTY + FITNESS We’ll never stop spreading the love for all of the local spots that help us love ourselves. by KATIE DAVIS Workout We Love

BURN 1000

When burning 50, 100 or 500 calories just won’t cut it, it’s time to strap on the sneakers for an interval-training workout at Burn 1000. Owner Liane Levy’s studio accommodates 24 students per class for a workout combining strength, core, athletic-based and practical training methods. Break a sweat at the studio and take advantage of complimentary towel service, showers and the convenient proximity to nearby shopping. Town & Country, 636.220.1010. _____________________________________

Best Class to Take with a Friend

Best Gym to Join Now

THE DAILEY METHOD

If you want to work out in style, there’s no better place than Santé at The Chase. It’s known for its jam-packed selection of classes and services like fusion training, nutritional counseling and more. Depending on your membership packages, perks include locker service, assessments, covered parking, wellness consultations and even discounts at The Chase’s restaurants and outlets. Central West End, 314.633.3020. _____________________________________

A workout free from peer pressure, competition and stress, The Dailey Method is based on the idea that balance, core strength and overall alignment is key to health and well-being. The Dailey Method instructors give a hands-on approach to improving your posture, physique, fitness and even mental health. True balance is evident in how the classes are run, what types of tools and movements are practiced and even in the availability of childcare during select classes. Ladue, 314.569.9073. _____________________________________

SANTÉ AT THE CHASE PARK PLAZA

Best Yoga Studio

SOUTHTOWN YOGA Yogis of all backgrounds, skill levels and ages flock to Southtown Yoga for its community atmosphere and quality classes. The studio also offers classes like “big yogi, little yogi” for parents and kids to find their Zen together, while prenatal and postnatal moms (and dads) can participate in “yogahourMOMS.” And with classes as early as 6:15am and as late as 7:45pm, there’s no excuse not to fit a calming session into your busy schedule. Lafayette Square, 314.353.1004. _____________________________________ Best Trainers

award-winning fitness professional. He and his team of 30 trainers go beyond basics to truly tailor their plans: sportsspecific training, training during pregnancy, medical-specific training and even training with teenagers and young adults. If you’re not into one-on-one, the Fitness Edge offers group training sessions, as well as the FE Boot Camp Training program, which focuses on complete cardiovascular conditioning. Creve Coeur, 314.993.3343. _____________________________________

Best Boot Camp

COMPLETE FITNESS RESULTS If you enjoy getting your “boot”-y kicked on the reg, you’ll want to check out Complete Fitness Results. The group-training option features a nutrition plan, access to nutrition classes and unlimited email support, as well as initial assessments and screenings that help prepare trainees for their fitness goals. Flexibility is key at this gym, so participants can adjust their boot camp schedules according to what their time or budgets allow. Webster Groves, 314.402.2238. _____________________________________ Best Colorists

THE FITNESS EDGE

DOMINIC MICHAEL

It’s no wonder Fitness Edge founder/ owner Mike Jaudes is lauded as an

It’s tough to find a colorist you trust, but we have all the trust in the world

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JUNE 2015

when it comes to owner/stylist Dominic Bertani and his team of colorists. Staying focused on the new while honoring the classics is the DM mantra, which is why you’ll see the best foil applications being done next to the ultra-trendy balyage “free hand” highlighting. Other services, like manicures, skincare, hair treatments and special-occasion styling, are equally top-notch. Multiple locations, dmsalon.com. _____________________________________ Best Blowout

BREEZE BLOW DRY BAR Blow-dry bars are oh-so-trendy right now, and Breeze’s extensive menu, with options including a full blowout (wash, dry and style), dry style, updo style, makeup services and more, makes Breeze the perfect stop for a quick pamper while running errands solo or prepping for a girl’s night out. Sip a glass of complimentary bubbly while getting your ’do, and don’t forget to ask about add-ons like braids, power shots, deep-conditioning treatments, false lashes and children’s services (“Itty Bitty Breeze”). Ladue, 314.692.2569. _____________________________________ Best Spa

SPA & SALON AT THE FOUR SEASONS When it’s time to treat yourself, look no further than the luxurious setting at the Spa & Salon at the Four Seasons. Looking for the ultimate in pampering? Order the Four Seasons Signature Massage, which includes thermal back exfoliation and a facial massage. Or, treat yourself to the Taste of Spa Package, featuring an express facial, massage and shampoo and blow-out. Downtown, 314.881.5800. _____________________________________ Best Mani-Pedi

Best Massage

INDIGO MASSAGE & WELLNESS Where some might see massage as an occasional treat, the folks at Indigo believe massage is a lifestyle—and who could argue with that? Their philosophy also incorporates education, selfcare and empowerment. Here, you’ll find a variety of massage options with different time frames and discounts for veterans, seniors and those in the restaurant industry. Our favorites include hot stone therapy, Reiki energy work, acupuncture, yoga classes, Thai bodywork and even relaxing foot soaks. Benton Park, 314.276.9882. _____________________________________ Best Men’s Grooming

NOTCH

This upscale barbershop gives men’s grooming the respect it deserves, thanks to owner Josh Nichols (also of KINK) and his passions for hair treatment and design. Top services include beard shaves, razor line-ups and trims, brow grooming, ear and nose waxing, hair color, haircuts and hairstyles. The hotspot also offers an impressive beard oil treatment and basic services for women and kids, too. Tower Grove, 314.764.5113. _____________________________________ Best Beauty Products

BLISSOMA

Blissoma founder Julie Longyear wanted to use her chemistry background and love for botanicals to create products for those who wanted to both feel and look good. With options that are vegetarian, cruelty-free, environmentally friendly and derived from organic ingredients, this local line is as effective as it is charming. Shop for anything from cleansers, lotions and soaps to yoga mat cleaners, stress-reducing serums and aromatherapy candles online or at local retailers. Hyde Park, 314.802.7687. _____________________________________

GINGER BAY SALON AND SPA

Best Place to Pamper Your Pet

Ginger Bay offers great hair treatments, facial options and waxing, but it shines when it comes to its manicure and pedicure selection. Dedicated to the idea that nails should both look good and be healthy, Ginger Bay adds on to its nail color and nail art services by offering skin-renewing services, stress-reducing treatments and paraffin, reflexology and hot stone treatments for both hands and feet. Multiple locations, gingerbay.com. _____________________________________

Treats Unleashed started as a kiosk offering pet guardians the top-quality homemade treats, food and supplies, and now the company has taken off in a big way, even baking custom birthday or gotcha-day cakes for STL canines and felines alike. It’s easy to see why “the natural place for pets” has expanded to multiple locations in Ladue, Des Peres, Chesterfield and Oakville. Multiple locations, treats-unleashed.com. _____________________________________

TREATS UNLEASHED

BEST SALON KINK HAIR SALON You know you can trust the experts at KINK to give you the type of salon service you simply can’t live without. “Headmaster” Josh Nichols and the staff at his trendy Clayton salon go above and beyond the cut: Each client is treated to an in-depth consultation with a stylist who offers unique attention to detail and ensures you leave the chair happy and looking fabulous. And KINK isn’t afraid to break the mold: No matter whether you’re after a classic or a funky style, KINK gives you that signature edge with a personalized cut, color and style and first-rate experience that will keep you coming back—every six to eight weeks, of course. Clayton, 314.721.5465.

Hair by Josh Nichols of Kink Salon. Model: Courtney Casteel from the Edge Agency.

PEOPLE’S CHOICE AWARDS The city has spoken! After more than 12,000 votes, meet the businesses making St. Louisans’ hearts burst with pride. Best New Restaurant PEACEMAKER LOBSTER & CRAB CO. Benton Park, 314.772.8858 Best Restaurant PASTARIA Clayton, 314.862.6603 Best Coffeehouse KALDI’S COFFEE ROASTING CO. Multiple locations, kaldiscoffee.com Best Doughnuts STRANGE DONUTS Multiple locations, strangedonuts.com Best Food Truck SEOUL TACO seoultaco.com, @SeoulTaco

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Best Deli BLUES CITY DELI Benton Park, 314.773.8225 Best Cafe BENTON PARK CAFE Benton Park, 314.771.7200 Best Pizza PI PIZZERIA Multiple locations, pi-pizza.com Best Burger BAILEYS’ RANGE Downtown, 314.241.8121 Best Barbecue PAPPY’S SMOKEHOUSE Midtown, 314.535.4340 Best Mexican MISSION TACO JOINT Multiple locations, missiontacostl.com

Best Sushi DRUNKEN FISH Multiple locations, drunkenfish.com

Best Bar JOHN D. MCGURK’S IRISH PUB AND GARDEN Soulard, 314.776.8309

Best Steakhouse TUCKER’S PLACE Multiple locations, tuckersplacestl.com

Best Lounge THREE SIXTY Downtown, 314.241.8439

Best Italian TRATTORIA MARCELLA Lindenwood Park, 314.352.7706 Best Brunch ROOSTER Multiple locations, roosterstl.com Best Sports Bar LLYWELYN’S PUB Multiple locations, llywelynspub.com

Best Cocktail Menu BAILEYS’ CHOCOLATE BAR Lafayette Square, 314.241.8100 Best Brewery URBAN CHESTNUT BREWING CO. Multiple locations, urbanchestnut.com Best Wine Bar SASHA’S WINE BARS Multiple locations, sashaswinebar.com

Tassel garland from studiopepitone.com

Best Casino LUMIÃ&#x2C6;RE PLACE Downtown, 314.881.7777 Best Boutique PAPERDOLLS Multiple locations, paperdolls. boutique Best Mall WEST COUNTY CENTER Des Peres, 314.288.2020 Best Department Store NORDSTROM Multiple locations, nordstrom.com Best Menswear NORDSTROM Multiple locations, nordstrom.com

Best Vintage and Resale SCHOLARSHOP Multiple locations, scholarshopstl.org Best Fine Jeweler SHANE CO. Olivette, 314.968.9700 Best Eyewear CLARKSON EYECARE Multiple locations, clarksoneyecare.com Best Home Furnishings & Accessories CRATE & BARREL Richmond Heights, 314.725.6380 Best Gifts ZEE BEE MARKET Tower Grove South, 314.932.1000

Best Independent Bookstore LEFT BANK BOOKS Central West End, 314.367.6731

Best Cultural Destination SAINT LOUIS ZOO Forest Park, 314.781.0900

Best Workout Spot YMCA OF GREATER ST. LOUIS Multiple locations, ymcastlouis.org

Best Gallery ART SAINT LOUIS Downtown, 314.241.4810

Best Yoga Studio SOUTHTOWN YOGA Lafayette Square, 314.353.1004 Best Salon GINGER BAY SALON AND SPA Multiple locations, gingerbay.com Best Spa GINGER BAY SALON AND SPA Multiple locations, gingerbay.com

Best Performing Arts THE MUNY Forest Park, 314.361.1900 Best Performing Arts Venue THE FABULOUS FOX THEATRE Grand Center, 314.534.1678 Best Live Music Venue THE PAGEANT The Loop, 314.726.6161 Best Media Personality GUY PHILLIPS Y98, @GuyPhillips

JUNE 2015

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SUMMERTIME HUES Throw shades this season in oversized jewelry, sunrise corals and desert-sky blues.

Photography by Attilio D’Agostino Styling: Fashion Editor Sarah Stallmann Model: Katja Oppelt for FORD Models Hair: Valerie Brown for Talent Plus Makeup: Sharday Johnson BLUE IS THE WARMEST COLOR

Lisa Lozano neoprene tri-top, neoprene bottom and Natalie B “Aurora” double-V choker available at Splash, Ladue, 314.721.6442. Bic C-Tec Classic 11’ paddle board available at Alpine Shop, Kirkwood, 314.962.7715. Sunglasses, stylist’s own.

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MONTH 201x

METAL FAN

(left) PilyQ “Gypsy” halter bikini top and “Twiggy” bottoms available at Splash, Ladue, 314.721.6442. The Hatter Co. hat available at Sole Comfort, Ladue, 314.727.1770. Bracelet and lucite earrings available at YoroCreations.com.

BIRD OF PARADISE

(right) The Jetset Diaries “Wavelength” dress available at Splash, Ladue, 314.721.6442. Lucite cuff and star earrings available at YoroCreations.com.

MONTH 201x

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SNAKE CHARMER

(left) The Desert Plunge one-piece in Gypsy Knit by Lori Coulter available by request, LoriCoulter. com. Serpent coil arm band available at Splash, Ladue, 314.721.6442. Sunglasses available at Urban Outfitters, Saint Louis Galleria, 314.727.6262.

ROCK CANDY

(right) The Ann Plunge Maillot in Avorio by Lori Coulter available at LoriCoulter.com. Necklace available at YoroCreations.com.

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MONTH 201x

SHELL GAME

(left) Kaohs “Rie” puka shell bikini top and bottom available at Splash, Ladue, 314.721.6442. Somedays Lovin cactus kimono available at BLUSH Boutique, Kirkwood, 314.965.4411.

FLY GIRL

(right) Indah “Maua” top, Amuse Society “Beach Bling” knit briefs and Esmeralda pendant necklace available at Splash, Ladue, 314.721.6442. Sunglasses, stylist’s own.

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MONTH 201x

GOING CLEAR

(left) Gentle Fawn vest available at BLUSH Boutique, Kirkwood, 314.965.4411. Cameo “In Harmony” shorts available at Splash, Ladue, 314.721.6442. Necklace available at YoroCreations. com. “Appaloosa” tote available at Furla, Taubman Prestige Outlets, 636.489.3821. Paddle board available at Alpine Shop, Kirkwood, 314.962.7715. Shoes and beach towels, Stylist’s own.

BELL CURVES

(right) Indah “Kamilli” swim top available at Splash, Ladue, 314.721.6442. Hudson wideleg jeans available at Saks Fifth Avenue, Plaza Frontenac, 314.567.9200. Multi-color lucite earrings available at YoroCreations.com. Platform sandals, stylist’s own. Assistants: Azizah Badwan, Kristine Kapatos, Jeremy Gatzert, Morgan Stevens, Christopher Williams. This unique property is newly listed with Jim Human and Kevin Hurley of Janet McAfee, Inc. For more information, please call 314.997.4800. Thank you to Judy Matthews for her hospitality. MONTH 201x

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2015

Wealth Management

& Financial Advisors Profiles Meet the top financial planners of St. Louis.

When it comes to your money, it’s important that it’s in the hands of financial professionals who will make it work for you and your goals through the market’s ups and downs. But it’s even more critical that the money is in the hands of experts you trust to get you to where you want to be. That’s why ALIVE has partnered with some of the top wealth management agencies in St. Louis, who explain why their services set them apart—whether you’re saving for higher education, retirement or a down payment on your dream home.

Plaza Advisory Group, Inc. Plaza Advisory Group, Inc. has been providing financial services in the St. Louis area since 1985 and is now celebrating 30 years in the business. The focus of Plaza’s proactive financial specialists is helping people make smart decisions and durable plans before, during and after major life and business events. With industry credentials like Certified Financial Planner® and Certified Divorce Financial Analyst™ members of the Plaza team are experts at helping clients navigate transitions and gain confidence. Plaza’s financial experts focus on research, analytics and fact-based strategy, not on selling products.

Plaza Advisory Group, Inc. 101 S. Hanley Road, Ste. 1350 St. Louis, MO 63105 314.726.0600 | plazaadvisors.com

Securities, insurance, and investment advisory services offered through Royal Alliance Associates, Inc., member FINRA/SIPC and a registered investment advisor. Additional insurance services may also be offered through Plaza Advisory Group, Inc., which is not affiliated with Royal Alliance Associates, Inc.

ALIVE SPECIAL PROMOTION

Photo Courtesy of Mari Erb.

Partners Scott Bensinger, Thomas Briggs and Peter Dolan worked for a large San Francisco firm but decided to start their own company so they could focus on client needs instead of marketing and selling. Partner Judy Rubin, who joined Plaza in 2011, is especially passionate about helping women take control of their finances. The Plaza team loves to build solid relationships with clients and offer them not only top-notch financial services but also financial education to help them understand the financial world and attain personal goals.

2015 | Wealth Management & Financial Advisors Profiles

Foundation Wealth Management, LLC Pamela A. Hardin, MBA, CFP® President

Financial lives are complex to navigate without expert knowledge, which is why it’s critical to entrust them to a firm that can plan with experience, objectivity and independence. Foundation Wealth Management advisors, led by founder and President Pamela Harden, CFP®, are qualified to handle every aspect of a client’s financial life and to act as a liaison between the myriad players in it: accountants, attorneys, insurance agents and more. The advisor-client relationship at FWM begins with a comprehensive financial plan before any specific recommendations are given. It includes analyses of the clients’ current investments, cash flow, risk management and other critical areas. Clients call on FWM for guidance managing both self-made and multigenerational wealth, and as a female-owned business, the firm is especially qualified to serve Women in Transition. Plus, as a feeonly firm that maintains its independence, FWM advisors can form the best bespoke strategy for the client without compromising their own planning and investment philosophies.

Photo by Victoria Lafferty.

Clients who come to FWM know that, as a Registered Investment Advisory firm, they will be transparent in their communication. Very few things are more personal than finances, and it’s critical that a client’s advisor know about the people and things that matter to him or her. The relationship-building carries to the other financial agents in a client’s life as well, and FWM’s work as a planning liaison ensures that those ties are strong in order to set the client up for success. When it comes to the important numbers in life, it’s best to turn to professionals—and FWM’s 97 percent year-over-year client retention rate is a true testament to their expertise.

Foundation Wealth Management, LLC

8000 Maryland Ave., Ste. 1165, Clayton, MO 63105 fwmria.com | 314.726.6789 ALIVE SPECIAL PROMOTION

2015 | Wealth Management & Financial Advisors Profiles

Six Point Financial Group, LLC Instead of ordering a la carte, the clients of Six Point Financial Group receive a comprehensive, full-service approach to financial planning and investment management. The eponymous “six points” are the six aspects of planning that form the roadmap to help clients accomplish their goals: investment planning and analysis; cash flow analysis; gift and estate planning; insurance counseling; tax planning and education/retirement planning.

Six Point Financial Group, which currently manages more than $200 million in assets, is independent: The group isn’t driven by a single philosophy or financial product. Instead, the advisors’ freedom allows them to dedicate time to each client and deliver customized solutions—this personalized service is the hallmark of their group. New clients meet with an advisor to define their life objectives, and then the advisor tailors their financial plan so they can meet their personal goals. When it comes to important questions like, “Can I retire?” “Am I spending too much?” and “What happens if the market crashes?” it’s important to make sure that financial plans are truly all-encompassing. The presentations advisors build for each client not only look at opportunities to grow a portfolio but also review what could happen if the market takes a downturn. Advisors walk clients through how a decline in the market might hinder their ability to meet objectives, educating them both visually and in terms of dollars so clients are fully informed. Then, together, they review opportunities

to make changes to allow clients to continue dreaming big. Clients always have a voice at Six Point, and the team approach to the decision-making process that results builds trust—a quality integral to satisfaction and success. The advisors’ CFP designations certify their professionalism, outside of the office they actively attend and participate in seminars, due-diligence meetings, economic forums and meetings with industry leaders, which puts them at the top of their game. Their community involvement extends out to organizations like St. Louis Crisis Nursery and Kids in the Middle. By taking the time to get to know their clients (and their families) personally, Six Point Financial Group advisors build a relationship that exceeds client expectations. Their thorough, client-first approach creates an atmosphere in which clients expect—and receive—transparency, honesty and respect, secure in the knowledge that they’ll be a part of the decision-making process along the way. After all, they’re part of the Six Point family.

Six Point Financial Group, LLC

14755 N. Outer 40 Drive, Ste. 204, Chesterfield, MO 63017 sixpointgroup.com | 636.519.0049 Registered Representative offering securities through Crown Capital Securities, L.P., a Registered Broker/Dealer Member FINRA/SIPC.

ALIVE SPECIAL PROMOTION

DECADES OF EXPERIENCE. An industry leader in auditing, accounting, tax, management consulting and asset management. Special focus on privately held and family-owned businesses, not-for-profits and high net worth individuals.

One South Memorial Drive Suite 900 St. Louis, MO 63102 314-231-6232 www.kebcpa.com

TAKE YOUR

SPIRITUALITY TO THE

NEXT LEVEL

“It is a great blessing to have a life changing experience so close to home!” WHITE HOUSE JESUIT RETREAT

A beautiful 80-acre facility located in South St. Louis County, offering Ignatian Spirituality retreats and recovery retreats to men and women. For a schedule of upcoming retreats visit whretreat.org or call 314-416-6400.

#BudandBurgers

EAT + DRINK

WHY STL’S DRINK SCENE REIGNS SUPREME | THE BEST PLACES IN TOWN TO EAT AND DRINK

Lona’s smoked turkey wrap with jasmine rice & smoked vinaigrette

HOT EATS

Lona’s Lil Eats

Fast-casual goes fusion at this buzzy Fox Park outfit, fresh from Soulard Farmers Market. CONTINUED P.96

PHOTO BY JENNIFER SILVERBERG

JUNE 2015

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EAT + DRINK /

HOT EATS

Lona’s Lil Eats

This Fox Park restaurant is heating up for its first full summer. by AMY DE LA HUNT photos by JENNIFER SILVERBERG ONE OF ST. LOUIS’ BIGGEST PROS is the amount of independent eateries we’re blessed with—the amount of locally owned restaurants has been known to merit more than a few compliments from visitors. And the ultra-buzzy Lona’s Lil’ Eats is truly a gem— albeit a hidden one—on the STL food scene. Its offthe-beaten-path Fox Park location mirrors some of the uncommon Thai fusion flavors on its menu (think spicy eggplant and pickled bamboo stew) but its customizable, healthy entrees ensure that there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

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JUNE 2015

From left going counterclockwise: Lona’s dumplings and dipping sauce; smoked turkey wrap with jasmine rice; shrimp plate with noodles and lemongrass pesto; spicy cucumber salad; side of fried rice.

U. CITY & CREVE COEUR AT WHITFIELD SCHOOL

JUN 1 - AUG 14 AGES 3 TO 18 www.cocastl.org/register 314.561.4898

er dit

SUMMER ARTS CAMPS 2O15

COCA offers full- and halfday camps featuring music, cooking, dancing, acting, painting and more! Taught by professional artists. Before and after care available. Pick up your COCA Summer Arts Camp guide at your local Dierbergs!

BEST FALAFEL

an C

afe & H o

3171 S. Grand Blvd. St. Louis, MO 63118 314.776.0991 | thevinestl.com

PRESEnTIng SPOnSOR

SUPPORTIng SPOnSORS

524 Trinity Avenue | St. Louis, MO 63130

Best Pizza

7278 Manchester road

st. Louis, Mo 63143 314.899.0011 | apizzastory.coM tues.-sat.: 11:30aM-10pM | sun. 11:30aM-9pM

Lona’s original location is a stall at the Soulard Farmers Market, where it’s a little off-the-beaten-path in contrast to the market’s standard snacks. Flavor influences come from Luo’s home village in China’s Yunnan province, where Chinese cooking carries a heavy South Asian influence. Business took off, thanks to their unique fresh-eats concept, and now, the brick-and-mortar space has even more St. Louisans raving. HEALTHY EATING Lona’s reputation built gradually from the handmade dumplings (aka potstickers) Luo and Powers started selling in the market in 2008. Filled with steak or mushrooms, plus spices and onion, they’re addictive: A sixpiece order is almost never enough. The restaurant’s other starter is fresh spring rolls with chicken, steak or vegetables. Here, two choices for a starter isn’t lacking—it’s simply a prelude for the restaurant’s crown jewel: its customizable wraps.

Customers pick a vessel (a rice paper wrap, tortilla or simply a dish), a protein (chicken, turkey, shrimp, steak or spicy tofu), a staple (salad, rice or noodles) and a sauce. This last part is where things really get interesting: The flavor profiles, from spicy to smoky to citrusy, can change the entire character of the dish. Add the Asian barbecue sauce to the pulled turkey, for example, and you’ll find a very familiar group of flavors. In other wrap incarnations, the lemongrass pesto has hints of citrus, and the spicy sesame echoes flavors of Luo’s South Asian roots. Skimming the most conveniently posted popular combinations will give you a feel for those that work well together—and the hungriest (or most ambitious) diners can order the Five-Star Platter, loaded with all five protein options, plus two sides and a sauce. BAR HOPPING The outstanding feature of the bar is

a glass punch bowl, filled daily with a different elixir. The rotating libration, the menu explains, is a throwback to the historic punches of the 17th century, when mixology’s formula was poetic: “one part sour, one part sweet, four parts strong and six parts weak.” Sometimes the punch is tea-infused, but it can also be on the fruitier side: One delicious concoction of whiskey, rye, rum, freshly sliced pineapple and lemon juice had the customers waiting in line to order, clamoring for shot-sized samples. Lona’s also offers local beers, but most customers who aren’t into the punch are drinking either Ski sodas from Illinois or wine. Fast-casual customers are getting used to receiving their wine glasses and bottles at the counter rather than from a bartender—which, on one hand, means that there’s less opportunity to ask about wines. At Lona’s though, you can hardly

go wrong: The reds and whites alike are on the lighter, mellower end of the spectrum and are picked to match up well with Asian spices. The setup is typical of the thoughtful simplicity that goes into all aspects of dining at Lona’s—from the utilitarian serving trays to the house-made sauces and pickles. Honing their skills at their Soulard Market stall for seven-plus years clearly served the owners well when the time came to kick things up a notch. There are lovely write-ups about Thai and Chinese cuisines on the restaurant’s homepage, but it all boils down to a simple philosophy: combining the traditional Chinese attention to cooking methods and the Thai attention to balance. It’s what makes Luo’s home region unique—and, by extension, what makes this corner restaurant in St. Louis unique too. LONA’S LIL EATS 2199 California Ave. • 314.925.8938 Entrees $9.25-$15 Hours Lunch Tue.-Fri., 11:30pm-2:30pm; dinner Tue.-Sat., 5pm-8:30pm Top dish A giant rice paper wrap filled with pulled turkey and stir-fried glass noodles with lemongrass pesto Best place to perch The picnic tables out front on a warm summer evening Insider tip The counter staff and servers are tuned in to customers’ needs, from serious dietary restrictions to another set of hands to carry drinks to the table.

THE MARKETPLACE A curated selection of well-crafted goods. Here at ALIVE Media Group, we love makers, artists and everyday people doing extraordinary things—and in the line of work we do, we happen to know a lot of them. We want you to know about them too. So we’ve curated this list of partners in print and online to help get the word out about all those who are making—and doing—incredible things.

Felix Street The skilled artisans at Felix Street craft personalized leather goods. All Felix Street bags are handcrafted in the United States using locally-sourced materials and leathers. Each bag is made-to-order with custom-embroidered initials. The best-selling men’s toiletry bag makes a wonderful gift for groomsmen, graduates or dads.

The Modern BAZAAR Designers at The Modern BAZAAR handcraft personalized jewelry to inspire, comfort and honor important life events or people. The TMB Coordinate Collection is the common thread linking customers to the places they’ve traveled, a college graduation, wedding or birth. The designers feel truly honored to help curate stories from all over the world. What’s your story? Tell it with a TMB Latitude & Longitude custom ring.

480.668.3194 felixstreet.com

tmbjewelry.com themodernbazaar.etsy.com

I Heart Fink Fink represents the combination of fashion plus ink. This collection of unique garments is designed and created solely by Kristen Kempton. Each garment is handmade from scratch using fabrics Kempton hand-prints with her original artwork. Every item is wearable art directly from the artist’s studio to your life. Custom sizing and ready-to-wear designs are available online.

Urban Matter Urban Matter founders Amy Schafer and Mary Hennesy’s welcoming and unique lifestyle boutique focuses on sourcing from local and US artisans and makers. They procure, collaborate, hand-make and customize affordable, well-crafted and functional home furnishings and accessories, unusual artifacts and that unexpected, yet noteworthy, gift. Open Wednesday through Saturday.

iheartfink.com

4704 Virginia Ave. St. Louis, MO 63111 314.456.6941 | urbanmatterstl.com

SahGOL There are places where art and passions marry: If you’ve ever held a piece of SahGOL jewelry by designer Elle M, then you’ve discovered such a place. Featuring clean lines with tribal-chic undertones, Elle M’s jewelry uses the highest standards when it comes to precious metals and stones, giving your handcrafted, heirloom-worthy pieces a hip, contemporary style.

farragio Every item from farragio is handmade with the utmost attention to detail. From totes and dopp kits to cosmetics bags and other handmade fashion accessories, you can be sure everything is top quality. New items are frequently being added, so follow farragio on Facebook to stay up-to-date on new arrivals and sales.

636.375.9303 farragio.com

sahgol.com

ALIVE SPECIAL PROMOTION

EAT + DRINK / COLUMN

Cheers, St. Louis

Why our city’s drink culture is all that—and then some.

by MATT SORRELL HERE’S TO DRINKING —St. Louis style. Because,

no matter what outside naysayers say, this town can more than hold its own when it comes to quality tippling. Sure, we’ve been overlooked a time or two by big media and critics when it comes to our fine drinking scene, but they do so at their own peril. Some are even starting to turn around: We were ranked No. 7 on Livability’s recent list of top beer cities in the country, and Thrillist named St. Louis one of the most underrated cocktail cities in America. Since this issue is all about celebrating the best St. Louis has to offer, I’ve put together some examples of why those other places don’t have anything on good ol’ STL.

COCKTAILS Pound for pound, the cocktail scene here is as strong as anywhere in the country. From solid classic cocktails to custom creations, there’s no shortage of places around town to get a good drink. Bars like Taste Bar, which got a James Beard Foundation nod last year; Planter’s House, one of Imbibe Magazine’s 75 To Watch in 2014; Water Street; Bar Les Freres; Blood & Sand and Sanctuaria, a nominee for Best Cocktail Menu at Tales of The Cocktail in 2011 ( just to name a few) have all helped bolster the drinking game in town with their delicious spirited offerings. Elevated libations are even becoming a thing in restaurants and bars that previously had never given cocktails a second thought. It’s becoming more and more common to see both classic drinks and innovations like barrel-aged cocktails—once the domain of the true aficionado—to show up on menus at places that don’t necessarily attract cocktail geeks.

these breweries also have first-class tasting rooms in which to sample their wares, and some have pretty great food to boot. CRAFT SPIRITS On the heels of the craft beer movement, there’s been an influx of small distilleries that have cropped up either in town or within an easy drive of the city limits. Thanks to artisans crafting fine rye whiskey at StilL 630 Distillery; popular ginger liqueur at The Big O; a multitude of offerings, which run from whiskey to rum, at Square One Brewery & Distillery; white whiskey at Crown Valley in Ste. Genevieve, Missouri; and a variety of spirits (and the best tonic syrup around) at Pinckney Bend in New Haven, Missouri (among others), it won’t be long until St. Louis is as wellknown for our spirits as we are for our beers. WINE Our little slice of Missouri has a long history

of wine and winemaking. Folks have been crushing grapes around here for centuries, and Augusta, Missouri, was the first American Viticultural Area (AVA) to be designated, back in 1980. Needless to say, there are a slew of fine wineries within a short drive outside the city limits. There’s also no shortage of bars and restaurants with top-notch wine offerings, like Robust Wine Bar and its easy-to-navigate pairings system; Olio’s monthly rotating wine list; 33 Wine Shop & Tasting Bar’s cozy vibe and stellar cellar; Bar Italia’s expansive selection of Italian vinos; The Dark Room’s wine and art ambiance; and Annie Gunn’s, which received a James Beard Foundation Award nomination this year for its wine program.

Lately I’ve been attempting to delve more into the magical world of amari, those delectably bitter apertifs and digestifs from Italy. The variety we now have available is mind-boggling.

A graduate of the BarSmarts Advanced course, he recently attended the BAR five-day course in NYC, where he achieved a BAR certified rating.

He has worked at several bars around town and currently can be found behind the bar at Planter’s House in Lafayette Square.

He and his wife, Beth, also own Cocktails Are Go!, which provides libation education and bartender services.

ALIVEMAG.COM

JUNE 2015

Amaro Apocalypse .5 oz| Amaro Nonino .5 oz | Zucca

WHAT I’M DRINKING NOW: AMARO

Matt Sorrell has been a Dining and Spirits Contributing Editor for ALIVE for the past four years (and an ALIVE writer for seven).

100

This drink was on the first menu at Planter’s House in Lafayette Square. It includes three separate amari, each with a very different flavor profile: Amaro Nonino, a bit on the sweeter side, the mildly herbal Averna and finally Zucca, an amaro based on rhubarb. To say there’s a lot going on with this drink is an understatement—and we wouldn’t enjoy it any other way.

.5 oz| Amaro Averna

CRAFT BEER St. Louis has always been a beer city

thanks to its long history with Anheuser-Busch. Nowadays, the little guys are also doing their part to put the city on the beer map. Since Schlafly debuted in 1991, the craft beer scene here has grown by leaps and bounds, especially when a new crop of upstarts like Perennial Artisan Ales, The Civil Life Brewing Company, 4 Hands Brewing Co. and Urban Chestnut Brewing Company started the second big wave of craft brewing in STL. Many of

Amaro? It’s more like amore with this concoction.

Dry-shake (meaning exclude ice) all ingredients. Pour into a Collins glass filled with crushed ice. Last, garnish with a raspberry, lime wheel and a mint sprig. Salute!

ILLUSTRATION BY NOAH MACMILLAN

WINE BAR AND PHOTO GALLERY

Award Winning Sommelier, Wine List, and Venue Fine Photography and Live Music 5 Nights a week Never a Cover Experience 5 Star Hospitality in the Heart of Grand Center Full Bar / Late Night Food 615 N GRAND BLVD JUST NORTH OF THE FABULOUS FOX www.thedarkroomstl.com

EAT+DRINK / WHERE TO GO

Peacemaker Lobster & Crab Co.

St. Louis Restaurant Guide

VISIT ALIVEMAG.COM/RESTAURANTS for an expanded list of recommended spots to eat and drink.

AL’S RESTAURANT A St. Louis landmark featuring award-winning steaks and seafood. Dinner Tue.Sat. 1200 N. 1st St., 314.421.6399. $$$ BAIKU SUSHI LOUNGE An experiential sushi menu, including fresh fish flown in from Hawaii. Lunch Tue.-Fri.; dinner Tue.-Sun. 3407 Olive St., 314.896.2500. $$ BAILEYS’ RANGE Creative takes on burgers, boozy milkshakes and craft sodas. Lunch and dinner daily. 920 Olive St., 314.241.8121. $$ BLOOD & SAND A members-only spot boasting bold and exciting creations in the kitchen and behind the bar. Dinner Mon.-Sat. 1500 St. Charles St., 314.241.7263. $$$ BREWHOUSE AT THE HYATT Known for their selection of local beers and tasty

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food menu, Brewhouse’s historical space features state-of-the-art TVs and sound for fans who prefer watching the game barside. Open daily for lunch and dinner. 315 Chestnut St., 314.259.3270. $$ BRIDGE A large craft beer and wine list with small plates, sandwiches and salads. Lunch and dinner daily. 1004 Locust St., 314.241.8141. $$ CAFÉ VENTANA An extensive lunch selection, as well as sandwiches, beignets and pastries to have with your coffee. Open daily. 3919 W. Pine Blvd., 314.531.7500. $ B CIELO Quality Italian cuisine, dynamic beverages and stunning views. Open daily. 999 N. 2nd St., 314.881.5800. $$$ B THE DARK ROOM A progressive wine program with a menu of small plates, plus rotating photo exhibits. Dinner Tue.-Sun. 615 N. Grand

Blvd., 314.531.3416. $$ DEATH IN THE AFTERNOON Internationally inspired cafe fare in the heart of Citygarden. Brunch Sat.-Sun.; lunch Mon.-Fri. 808 Chestnut St., 314.621.3236. $$ B DIABLITOS CANTINA Fresh, authentic Mexican cuisine with more than 100 types of tequila, some house-infused. Lunch and dinner daily. 3761 Laclede Ave., 314.644.4430. $ HARRY’S Great food, happy hour and view of the Arch with a casual atmosphere. Lunch Wed.-Fri.; dinner Wed.-Sat. 2144 Market St., 314.421.6969. $$

KEY $ Entrées average under $10 $$ Entrées $10–$17 $$$ Entrées $18+ We Heart STL 2015 Winner

Kitchen open past 11pm Outdoor seating NEW Opened in the last 6 months B Serves brunch

Photo by Matt Pfaff

MIDTOWN/ DOWNTOWN

314.241.7770 1234 Washington Avenue St. Louis, MO 63103 Rooms available suitable for groups 20-150 Award winning wine list Craft Beer and Cocktails Casual and Fine Dining Best of STL Night Life

Come Get Your Greek On!

Monday - Saturday Sunday Dining 11 am - 11 pm Dining 4 pm - 10 pm Bar until 1 am Bar until midnight Bellydancers Monday- Saturday Private Rooms Available 630 North and South Road, University City, MO 63130

314.863.3511 | momosgreekrestaurant.com

ST. LOUIS DINING GUIDE SEARCH RESTAURANTS, CAFÃ&#x2030;S, BRUNCH SPOTS AND MORE ALIVEMAG.COM/RESTAURANTS

EAT+DRINK / WHERE TO GO

Pizzeoli SAUCE ON THE SIDE Gourmet calzones featuring fresh ingredients and sauces. Lunch and dinner Mon.Sat. Multiple locations, eatcalzones. com. $

LUCAS PARK GRILLE A seasonal menu featuring soups, salads and New American entrees. Lunch and dinner daily. 1234 Washington Ave., 314.241.7770. $$$ B

SMALL BATCH A vegetarian restaurant and whiskey bar serving small plates and entrees. Brunch Sat.-Sun.; lunch Fri.; dinner daily. 3001 Locust St., 314.380.2040. $$ B

MANGO Upscale Peruvian food and cocktails in a chic loft setting. Lunch Mon.-Sat.; dinner Mon.-Sun. 1101 Lucas Ave., 314.621.9993. $$

SYBERG’S Approachable riffs on surf & turf and Americana. Lunch and dinner daily. Multiple locations, sybergs.com. $$

MIKE SHANNON’S STEAKS AND SEAFOOD A St. Louis landmark serving upscale American cuisine. Lunch Mon.-Fri.; dinner daily. 620 Market St., 314.421.1540. $$$

NEW TAZÉ Urban dining meets vibrant Mediterranean dishes from around the region. Lunch and dinner daily. 626 Washington Ave., Unit 103, 314.753.4604. $

OVER/UNDER Upscale sports bar located near the biggest sports venues. Lunch and dinner Sun.-Sat. 911 Washington Ave., 314.621.8881. $$

THREE SIXTY On the rooftop of The Hilton at the Ballpark with spectacular views, cocktails and small plates. Dinner daily. 1 S. Broadway, 314.241.8439. $$$

PAPPY’S SMOKEHOUSE Memphis-style slow-smoked meats dressed with Pappy’s signature barbecue sauces. Lunch daily; dinner Mon.-Sat. 3106 Olive St., 314.535.4340. $$ PICKLES DELI Classic sandwiches and on-the-go eats. Breakfast and lunch Mon.-Fri. Multiple locations, picklesdelistl.com. $ ROSALITA’S CANTINA A Wash Ave. outpost offering Tex-Mex favorites. Lunch and dinner daily. 1235 Washington Ave., 314.621.2700. $$

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LAFAYETTE SQUARE/ BENTON PARK/ CHEROKEE STREET/ SOULARD BAILEYS’ CHOCOLATE BAR Savory and sweet items served up in a romantic atmosphere. Open daily. 1915 Park Ave., 314.241.8100. $

BENTON PARK CAFE An extensive breakfast menu, including breakfast pizzas, burritos and omelets, plus a full array of lunch and dinner entrees. Open daily. 1900 Arsenal St., 314.771.7200. $ BLUES CITY DELI A charming turn-of-the-century storefront with an expansive menu of sandwiches, salads and po’ boys. Lunch Mon.Sat.; dinner Thur. 2438 McNair Ave., 314.773.8225. $$ BOGART’S SMOKEHOUSE Smoky, Memphis-style barbecue with generous portions. Lunch Mon.Sat.; dinner Fri.-Sat. 1627 S. 9th St., 314.621.3107. $$ NEW BYRD

& BARREL Fast-casual

dine-in and drive-thru spot serving up fried chicken and more, plus a full bar in the dining room. Lunch and dinner daily. 3422 S. Jefferson Ave., 314.265.7998. $ CHAVA’S Mexican cuisine, known for large portions and tangy margaritas. Lunch and dinner daily. Multiple locations, chavasmexican.com. $

FRANCO Rustic French fare made modern. Dinner Mon.-Sat. 1535 S. 8th St., 314.436.2500. $$$ JAX CAFE An eclectic menu of gourmet variations on American comfort food. Lunch and dinner Wed.-Sat.; Brunch Sun. 2901 Salena St., 314.449.1995. $ B LAREDO A delicious mix of classic and fusion Mexican cuisine. Lunch and dinner Tue.-Sun. 2001 Park Ave., 314.231.9200. $$ LONA’S LIL EATS The home of the giant rice paper wrap features healthy Asian-inspired cuisine with soul-food flare, using only fresh ingredients and made-from-scratch sauces and seasonings. Lunch and dinner Tue-Fri., dinner Sat. (Sat. lunch at Soulard Farmer’s Market). 2199 California Ave., 314.925.8938. $ MOLLY’S Southern Creole favorites with one of STL’s largest outdoor patios. Lunch and dinner Mon.Sat.; brunch Sun. 816 Geyer Ave., 314.241.6200. $$ B

ELEMENT Small plates and entrees with a variety of flavors, created by a collaborative chef team. Lunch and dinner Tue.-Fri.; dinner Sat. 1419 Carroll St., 314.241.1674. $$

THE MUD HOUSE This hip, friendly cafe serves breakfast, lunch and housemade pastries until late afternoon and don’t forget the coffee. Breakfast and lunch daily. 2101 Cherokee St., 314.776.6599. $ B

ELEVEN ELEVEN MISSISSIPPI Culinary fusion via Tuscany and NoCal. Lunch and dinner Mon.-Fri.; dinner Sat. 1111 Mississippi Ave., 314.241.9999. $$$

THE PEACEMAKER LOBSTER & CRAB CO. Kevin Nashan’s new restaurant serves up East Coast comfort food, including lobster rolls, crab boils and steamed mussels.

Photo by Matt Pfaff

HIRO ASIAN KITCHEN Bold and diverse flavors in dishes like bahn mi and kimchi. Brunch Sun.; lunch and dinner Tue.-Sun. 1405 Washington Ave., 314.241.4476. $$ B

Lunch Sun.-Fri.; dinner daily. 1831 Sidney St., 314.772.8858. $$$ PIZZEOLI A Soulard gem serving up authentic and vegetarian Neapolitan-style pizza. Lunch and dinner Tue.-Sat. 1928 S. 12th St., Soulard, 314.449.1111. $$ PLANTER’S HOUSE Featuring an extensive hand-crafted cocktail list and specialty entrees. Dinner Tue.-Sun. 1000 Mississippi Ave., 314.696.2603. $$$ PW PIZZA Classic pies and one-ofa-kind recipes with a focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients. Lunch and dinner daily. 2017 Chouteau Ave., 314.241.7799. $$ REVEL KITCHEN All-natural, local foods and smoothies that are paleo-friendly and gluten-free. Lunch daily; brunch Sat.-Sun. 2837 Cherokee St., 314.932.5566. $ B THE SHAVED DUCK Cozy atmosphere, live music and meats smoked spot-on. Lunch and dinner Tue.-Fri.; dinner Sat. and Mon. 2900 Virginia Ave., 314.776.1407. $$ SIDNEY STREET CAFE Long-standing favorites, like lobster turnovers, and local dishes featuring Missouri lamb and pork. Dinner Tue.-Sat. 2000 Sidney St., 314.771.5777. $$$ SPARE NO RIB Fresh barbecue favorites fused with Latin American flavors. Lunch and dinner Mon.-Sat. Multiple locations, sparenorib.com. $ SQWIRES A seasonal menu featuring fresh interpretations of American classics. Lunch and dinner Tue.-Sat.; brunch Sat.-Sun. 1415 S. 18th St., 314.865.3522. $$ B VIN DE SET French cuisine served under the stars at the rooftop bar and bistro. Lunch Tue.-Fri.; dinner Tue.-Sun. 2017 Chouteau Ave., 314.241.8989. $$$ B

CENTRAL WEST END/ THE GROVE ATLAS Simple, elegant dishes and desserts in a cozy atmosphere. Dinner Tue.-Sat. 5513 Pershing Ave., 314.367.6800. $$$ ATOMIC COWBOY The casual Grove bar and eatery serves up Tex-Mex, unique margaritas and 34 kinds of tequila. Lunch and dinner Mon.-Sun.; brunch Sun. 4140 Manchester Ave., 314.775.0775. $$ B

BIXBY’S Located on the second floor of the Missouri History Museum with breathtaking views of Forest Park. Brunch Sun.; lunch Mon.-Sat. 5700 Lindell Blvd., 314.361.7313. $$ B

FIRST THINGS FIRST: PERUSE THE DESSERT MENU. DON’T SKIMP. GIVE FREELY. EXPECT NOTHING IN RETURN.

BRASSERIE BY NICHE Casual French bistro dining with an evolving menu, impressive beer list and classic desserts. Dinner daily. 4580 Laclede Ave., 314.454.0600. $$$ B CAFÉ OSAGE Eat healthy and local at this Bowood Farms addition, complete with the fresh taste of homegrown ingredients. Breakfast daily; lunch Mon.-Sat. 4605 Olive St., 314.454.6868. $$ B CENTRAL TABLE FOOD HALL A dining experience like no other with seven display kitchens and locally sourced food. Breakfast and lunch Mon.-Fri.; dinner Tue.-Sat. 23 S. Euclid Ave., 314.932.5595. $$ CRÊPES: ETC. An upscale patisserie serving crepes and a variety of pastries, soups and sandwiches. Breakfast and lunch daily. 52 Maryland Plaza, 314.367.2200. $ B

Hyatt Regency St. Louis at The Arch • 314.259.3200 • 315 Chestnut St. Clayton • 314.783.9900 • Brentwood & Forsyth Reservations Recommended - Visit us online at: RuthsChrisStLouis.com

DRUNKEN FISH Japanese sushi lounge with everything from tuna tataki to traditional rolls. Lunch and dinner daily. Multiple locations, drunkenfish.com. $$ EAU BISTRO Masterfully crafted dishes enhanced by locally grown and organic produce and a 300-bottle wine list. Brunch Sun.; dinner Tue.-Sat. 212 N. Kingshighway Blvd., 314.633.1000. $$$ B EVANGELINE’S Bistro and music house serving up Cajun and Creole fare. Lunch and dinner daily. 512 N. Euclid Ave., 314.367.3644. $$ GAMLIN WHISKEY HOUSE More than 300 whiskeys accompanied by fine steaks and small plates. Lunch and dinner daily; brunch Sat. and Sun. 236 N. Euclid Ave., 314.875.9500. $$$ B HERBIE’S VINTAGE ’72 Contemporary American cuisine in an elegant atmosphere. Dinner daily; brunch Sat.-Sun. 405 N. Euclid Ave., 314.769.9595. $$$ B

2000 SIDNEY ST., ST. LOUIS, MO 63104 314.771.5777 | SIDNEYSTREETCAFE.COM

WINNER 1831 SIDNEY ST., ST. LOUIS, MO 63104 314.772.8858 | PEACEMAKERSTL.COM

JUNIPER A taste of traditional Southern food and inventive cocktails. Dinner Mon.-Sat. 360 N. Boyle Ave., 314.329.7696. $$$

BEST NEW RESTAURANT

BEST MENU

EAT+DRINK /

- Cafe & Rosticceria BEST AMBIANCE RESERVATIONS ACCEPTED FOR LUNCH+DINNER 7624 Wydown Blvd Clayton, MO 63105

314-727-7901

WHERE TO GO

KAMPAI SUSHI BAR Japanese cuisine and rolls at great prices. Lunch Mon.-Fri.; dinner daily. Multiple locations, kampaistl.com. $$ THE KITCHEN SINK Known for their unique sandwiches, The Kitchen Sink serves anything from breakfast delights to desserts. This quaint spot will be your new favorite place for good comfort food. Breakfast, lunch and dinner daily. 255 Union Blvd., 314.454.1551. $$ B LAYLA Middle Eastern and Mediterranean fusion with shawarma, shakes and craft cocktails. Lunch and dinner daily. 4317 Manchester Road, 314.553.9252. $$ B NATHALIE’S A farm-to-table concept with foods sourced from Overlook Farm. Brunch Sun.; dinner Wed.-Sun. 4356 Lindell Blvd., 314.533.1580. $$$ B OLD STANDARD An American comfort-food-focused hot spot boasting a menu of fried chicken, American whiskeys and simple cocktails. Lunch and dinner daily. 1621 Tower Grove, 314.899.9000.

Petite Bar • French Dishes BEST DATE NIGHT Ready to host your next private event

7637 Wydown Blvd. Clayton, MO 63105

314-725-8880

PANORAMA The Saint Louis Art Museum’s restaurant features local ingredients and undeniable artistry. Brunch Sat.-Sun.; lunch Tue.Sun; dinner Fri. 1 Fine Arts Drive, 314.655.5490. $$$ B PI Creative cocktails and delicious San Fran-style pizza. Lunch and dinner daily. Multiple locations, restaurantpi.com. $$ SAMEEM AFGHAN RESTAURANT Hearty Middle Eastern cuisine rich with lamb, rice, veggies and authentic Afghan spices. Lunch and dinner Tue.-Sun. 4341 Manchester Ave., 314.534.9500. $$ SANCTUARIA Fresh pan-Latin tapas paired with a world-class menu of handcrafted cocktails. Dinner Tue.-Sun. 4198 Manchester Ave., 314.535.9700. $$$ SCAPE AMERICAN BISTRO A wide range of New American dishes with a great happy hour. Brunch Sun.; dinner Tue.-Sat. 48 Maryland Plaza, 314.361.7227. $$$ B

8125 Maryland Avenue

Burgers that make you feel ALIVE! 312 S. Kirkwood Road

Clayton, MO 63105 | 314.720.4350 Kirkwood, MO 63122 | 314.394.2250 106

5STARBURGERSSTL.COM

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SCOTTISH ARMS Scottish fare, including the best-selling lamb burger, with an extensive single-malt list. Brunch Sun.; lunch Mon.-Fri.; dinner daily. 8 S. Sarah St., 314.535.0551. $$ B

SOHO RESTAURANT + LOUNGE Sophisticated Southern cuisine and cocktails. Brunch Sun.; dinner Wed.-Sat. 4229 Manchester Ave., 314.932.5554. $$ B SUB ZERO More than 300 vodka labels with a sushi bar and buildyour-own burger menu. Lunch and dinner daily. 308 N. Euclid Ave., 314.367.1200. $$ TASTE Small plates and handcrafted cocktails made with strong attention to detail. Dinner daily. 4584 Laclede Ave., 314.361.1200. $$ TAVERN OF FINE ARTS Fine wines, seasonal appetizers and small plates, surrounded by art from local artists. Lunch Sat.; dinner Mon.-Sat. 313 Belt Ave., 314.367.7549. $

SOUTH CITY/ HAMPTON/ THE HILL AYA SOFIA Exotic Turkish and Mediterranean cuisine combining Middle Eastern, Greek and southern Italian styles. Brunch Sun., lunch and dinner Tue.-Fri.; dinner Sat.-Sun. 6671 Chippewa St., 314.645.9919. $$ B BAIDA Authentic Moroccan eats, from tajins to couscous and pastries. Lunch and dinner Tue.-Sun. 3191 S. Grand Blvd., 314.932.7950. $$$ CORVID’S CAFE Coffee drinks along with panini and pizzas. Breakfast, lunch and dinner daily. 5001 Mardel Ave., 314.481.1522. $ B THE DAM Unique burgers and new-American dishes served with homemade sauces. Brunch Sun.; lunch and dinner daily. 3173 Morgan Ford Road, 314.771.3173. $ B ELAIA & OLIO Middle Eastern and Mediterranean dishes featured in the fine-dining Elaia and the more casual wine bar atmosphere at Olio. Dinner Wed.-Sat. at Elaia; lunch and dinner daily at Olio. 1634 Tower Grove Ave., 314.932.1088. $$$/$$

FARMHAUS Edgy Southern and Midwestern locavore food from chef Kevin Willmann. Lunch Mon.-Thur.; dinner Tue.-Sat. 3257 Ivanhoe Ave., 314.647.3800. $$ GIOVANNI’S ON THE HILL Family-owned restaurant serving classic authentic Italian dishes in a friendly

atmosphere. Dinner Mon.-Sat. 5201 Shaw Ave., 314.772.5958. $$$ LOCAL HARVEST Seasonal dishes made with sustainable, local products. Dinner Fri.; brunch Sat.-Sun. 3137 Morgan Ford Road, 314.772.8815. $ B LULU’S LOCAL EATERY A brickand-mortar of the popular food truck serving up sustainable and fresh dishes. Lunch and dinner Mon.-Sat. 3201 S. Grand Blvd., 314.300.8215. $ MELT Upcycled cafe diner favorites like waffles, specialty alcoholic drinks and milkshakes in mason jars. Breakfast and lunch Fri.-Sun., dinner Tue.-Sat. 2712 Cherokee St., 314.771.6358. $ B THE PURPLE MARTIN Mediterranean fare, from flatbreads to Tunisian chickpea stew. Dinner Tue.-Sat. 2800 Shenandoah Ave., 314.898.0011. $$ ROOSTER European breakfast and brunch fare served up in a modern, urban cafe. Open daily. Multiple locations, roosterstl.com. $ B THE ROYALE A tavern-style restaurant with drinks named for different parts of the city. Lunch and dinner daily. 3132 S. Kingshighway Blvd., 314.772.3600. $$

UNIVERSITY CITY/ THE LOOP BLUEBERRY HILL Joe Edwards’ flagship restaurant, known for its beer selection and great burgers. Lunch and dinner daily. 6504 Delmar Blvd., 314.727.4444. $ CICERO’S A wide variety of pizza, Italian entrees and desserts with 55 beers on draught. Lunch and dinner daily. 6691 Delmar Blvd., 314.862.0009. $$ ECLIPSE Moonrise Hotel rooftop spot with innovative American fare. Open daily. 6177 Delmar Blvd., 314.726.2222. $$ B

VOTED BEST ROOFTOP BY ALIVE MAGAZINE

FRIDA’S This meatless cafe dishes out vegetarian and vegan-friendly smoothies, soups, sandwiches and more. Lunch daily; dinner Tue.Sat. 622 North and South Road, 314.727.6500. $ THE GOOD PIE True Neapolitan pizzas baked in a wood-burning oven, featuring housemade charcuterie. Lunch and dinner Tue.-Sun. 6665 Delmar Blvd., 314.899.9221. $$ MISSION TACO JOINT Tacos with a twist, with fillings like roasted duck, grilled cactus and chile-grilled local tofu. Lunch and dinner Tue.-Sun. Multiple locations. $

SASHA’S A hip wine bar with tasty small plates and crepes. Lunch and dinner daily. Multiple locations, sashaswinebar.com. $$ B

MOMOS Mediterranean tapas in a festive setting. Lunch Mon.-Sat.; dinner daily. 630 North and South Road, 314.863.3511. $$

THREE FLAGS TAVERN Rustic atmosphere with rich, bold flavors of elegant comfort food cooking. Dinner Mon- Sat.; lunch Tues.-Fri; brunch Sat.-Sun. 4940 Southwest Avenue, 314.669.9222. $$$ B

PEACOCK DINER Fresh takes on diner food with beautiful retro-inspired decor. Open all day, every day. 6261 Delmar Blvd., 314.721.5555. $ B

TREE HOUSE RESTAURANT Contemporary vegetarian offerings with Latin American and Vietnamese influences. Lunch Tue.-Fri., dinner Tue.-Sun; brunch Sat-Sun. 3177 S. Grand Blvd., 314.696.2100. $$ B

COCKTAILS, SMALL PLATES AND A STUNNING VIEW IN ALL DIRECTIONS

FORK & STIX Northern Thai cuisine featuring spicy curries and cooling coconut milk with plenty of charm. Lunch and dinner Tue.-Sun. 549 Rosedale Ave., 314.863.5572. $

RUSSELL’S CAFÉ A cozy cafe focusing on seasonal ingredients. Breakfast and lunch Tue.-Sun.; dinner Tue.-Sat. Multiple locations, russellscafe.com. $ B

TRATTORIA MARCELLA Authentic Italian cuisine featuring a wide variety of plated options with a lengthy wine list. Dinner Tue.-Sat. 3600 Watson Road, 314.352.7706. $$

Rooftop Perfection

RELAX POOLSIDE THIS SUMMER Complete with cabanas, this scenic summer destination boasts live music, seasonal food and cocktails provided by Fox & Hounds.

PÚBLICO The delicious flavors of Central and South American cuisine are enhanced by the hand-crafted cocktails. Dinner daily Tue.-Sun. 6679 Delmar Blvd., 314.833.5780. $$ SALT + SMOKE Find slow-smoked barbecue, craft beers and fine bourbons. Lunch and dinner Tue.-Sun. 6525 Delmar Blvd., 314.727.0200. $$ SEOUL TACO Korean-influenced tacos, quesadillas, burritos and gogi bowls made with a choice of mari-

VOTED EDITOR’S CHOICE AWARD FOR BEST AFTER DINNER DRINKS BY ALIVE MAGAZINE 6300 Clayton Rd., St. Louis, MO 63117 | 314.647.7300 | cheshirestl.com |  

EAT+DRINK / WHERE TO GO nated meats. Lunch and dinner daily. 6665 Delmar Blvd., 314.863.1148. $ TAVOLO V Neapolitan-style pizza and modern Italian cuisine, served in an airy, STL-inspired space. Lunch daily; dinner Sat.-Sun. 6118 Delmar Blvd., 314.721.4333. $$ B UNITED PROVISIONS Modern international cuisine, sushi bar and coffee shop all located within topnotch international grocery store. Open daily. 6241 Delmar Blvd., 314.833.5699. $$ WINSLOW’S HOME Farm-fresh foods in a rotating seasonal menu featuring hearty, thoughtfully prepared dishes. Breakfast and lunch Sun.-Sat.; dinner Tue.-Sat. 7213 Delmar Blvd., 314.725.7559. $ B

CLAYTON/ LADUE/ RICHMOND HEIGHTS 5 STAR BURGERS Gourmet burgers with grass-fed, hormone-free beef or other patties. Lunch and dinner daily. Multiple locations, 5starburgersstl.com. $$ AVENUE Contemporary American, plus a unique menu of wines, cocktails and espresso drinks. Open daily. 12 N. Meramec Ave., 314.727.4141. $$ B BARCELONA A see-and-be-seen spot to nosh on Spanish tapas. Lunch Mon.-Sat.; dinner daily. 34 N. Central Ave., 314.863.9909. $$ B BAR LES FRÈRES French cuisine with a rotating menu and an intimate, romantic atmosphere. Dinner Mon.-Sat. 7637 Wydown Blvd., 314.725.8880. $$ BASSO The Cheshire’s sleek basement pub has 32 draft beers, Italian wines and wood-fired pizzas. Dinner Mon.-Sat. 7036 Clayton Ave., 314.932.7820. $$$ BOCCI WINE BAR An eclectic wine selection highlighted by a revamped menu. Lunch and dinner Mon.Fri.; dinner Sat. 16 N. Central Ave., 314.932.1040. $$ BONEFISH GRILL Seafood restaurant with a refreshing menu. Open for lunch and dinner daily. 8780 Eager Road, 314.918.1649. $$$ BRIO TUSCAN GRILLE Delicious,

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affordable Tuscan-inspired fare in a charming atmosphere. Lunch and dinner daily. 1601 S. Lindbergh Blvd., 314.432.4410. $$ B CITY COFFEEHOUSE & CRÊPERIE Sweet and savory crepes, Belgian waffles and more. Breakfast and lunch daily. 36 N. Brentwood Blvd., 314.862.2489. $ B COASTAL BISTRO & BAR Freshfrom-the-coast oysters and low-country cuisine. Stop by during happy hour for oyster shooters. Lunch and dinner Mon.-Sat. 14 N. Central Ave., 314.932.7377. $$$ COMPANION Acclaimed for fresh ingredients and signature sandwiches and soups. Breakfast and lunch daily. 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. $$$ CRUSHED RED Bake-and-chop shop serving pizzas and salads made with fresh ingredients. Lunch and dinner daily. Multiple locations, crushed-red.com. $ DEMUN OYSTER BAR The ultimate destination for seafood enthusiasts with fresh oysters from the West Coast. Lunch Sat.-Sun; dinner Tue.Sun. 740 DeMun Ave., 314.725.0322. $$$ B FOX AND HOUNDS TAVERN Classy pub spot at the Cheshire reminiscent of Scottish tastes. Stop in for a drink and bite to eat. Dinner daily. 6300 Clayton Road, 314.647.7300. $$ GIOVANNI’S KITCHEN A family-friendly spot with classic Italian plates coming from a scratch kitchen. Lunch Mon.-Fri.; dinner daily. 8831 Ladue Road, 314.721.4100. $$ HALF & HALF Quaint cafe renowned for inventive recipes with fresh, seasonal ingredients. Open Tue.-Sun. 8133 Maryland Ave., 314.725.0719. $$ B I FRATELLINI Fine Italian dining with an intimate atmosphere and mouth-watering entrees and desserts. Lunch and dinner Mon.-Fri.; dinner Sat. 7624 Wydown Blvd., 314.727.7901. $$$ J. BUCK’S A Clayton staple for business lunches and happy hour. Lunch

and dinner Mon.-Fri.; dinner Sat. Multiple locations, jbucks.com. $$

Open daily. 131 W. Argonne Drive, 314.984.8000. $$

LESTER’S SPORTS BAR & GRILL Every sports-lover’s dream, with TVs at every post and top-notch bar fare. Open daily. 9906 Clayton Road, 314.994.0055. $$

THE BLOCK Restaurant, butcher and bar with a farm-to-table concept. Lunch Mon. and Fri.; dinner daily. Multiple locations, theblockresturant.com. $$

THE LIBERTINE Josh Galliano reimagines comfort food at this Clayton eatery. Dinner Tue.-Sun. 7927 Forsyth Blvd., 314.862.2999. $$

CYRANO’S CAFE Famous for desserts like cherries jubilee and the World’s Fair Eclair. Lunch and dinner daily. 603 E. Lockwood Ave., 314.963.3232. $$ B

NADOZ A bakery-cafe with an expansive coffee menu and juice bar. Breakfast, lunch and dinner daily. 12 The Boulevard, 314.726.3100. $ B NICHE An award-winning bistro with a fabulous menu of American cuisine. Dinner Mon.-Sat. 7734 Forsyth Blvd., 314.773.7755. $$$ PASTARIA Gerard Craft’s fresh approach to Italian dining, featuring housemade pastas, pizzas and gelato. Brunch Sat.-Sun.; lunch and dinner daily. 7734 Forsyth Blvd., 314.862.6603. $$ B THE RESTAURANT AT THE CHESHIRE Seasonal American fare featuring wood-fired meats and seafood in a beautifully restored building. Open daily. 7036 Clayton Road, 314.932.7818. $$$ B RUTH’S CHRIS Steaks and seafood in a fine dining atmosphere, or the more casual R Bar lounge. Dinner daily. Multiple locations, ruthschris. com. $$$ TANI Sushi bistro with traditional and fusion-style rolls. Lunch Mon.Fri.; dinner Mon.-Sat. 16 S. Bemiston Ave., 314.727.8264. $$

KIRKWOOD/ MAPLEWOOD/ WEBSTER GROVES 612 KITCHEN & COCKTAILS A 1920s-inspired lounge with a diverse menu, draught beers and cocktails. Dinner Wed.-Sun.; lunch Sat. and Sun.; brunch Sun. 612 W. Woodbine Ave., 314.965.2003. $$ B ACERO Traditional, seasonal Italian cuisine, with a multi-course tasting menu. Dinner Mon.-Sat. 7266 Manchester Road, 314.644.1790. $$$ BILLY G’S American and Italian dishes with St. Louis-style pizza and in-house smoked barbecue.

NEW FORT TACO Quick, authentic Mexican food, including traditional salsas, fried tacos and enchiladas. Lunch and dinner daily. 8106 Manchester Road, 314.647.2391. $

KATIE’S PIZZA & PASTA Hand-crafted pizzas and pastas made with seasonal ingredients. Brunch Sat.-Sun.; lunch and dinner daily. 9568 Manchester Road, 314.942.6555. $$ B MAI LEE RESTAURANT Traditional Chinese and Vietnamese dishes. Lunch and dinner Tue.Sun. 8396 Musick Memorial Drive, 314.645.2835. $$ MAYA CAFE Pan-Latin cuisine with housemade salsas and margaritas and live music regularly. Lunch Mon.-Sat., dinner daily. 2726 Sutton Blvd., 314.781.4774. $$ MILAGRO MODERN MEXICAN Quality Mexican cuisine and cocktails in a festive and friendly atmosphere. Lunch and dinner Tue.-Sun. 20 Allen Ave., Ste. 130, 314.962.4300. $$ OLYMPIA Greek classics like gyros, spanakopita and kebabs with traditional baklava. Lunch and dinner daily. 1543 McCausland Ave., 314.781.1299. $$ A PIZZA STORY A twist on Italian favorites featuring unique pairings of fresh, organic ingredients. Brunch, lunch and dinner Tue.-Sun. 7278 Manchester Road, 314.899.0011. $$ B

THE POST SPORTS BAR & GRILL Find your finger-food fix at this new sports bar and grill. Lunch and dinner daily. 7372 Manchester Road, 314.645.1109. $ RANOUSH Classic Middle Eastern cuisine like shawarma, falafel and tabbouleh. Lunch and dinner daily. Multiple locations, ranoush.com. $$

ROBUST Navigate an impressive wine list and pair vino with unique tasting plates. Lunch Mon.-Sat.; dinner daily. Multiple locations, robustwinebar.com. $$ B STRANGE DONUTS A hit combination of doughnut-shop classics and unique creations. Multiple locations, strangedonuts.tumblr.com. $$ B SOUTHWEST DINER Diner classics with a New Mexican twist and plenty of spice and color. Breakfast and lunch daily. 6803 Southwest Ave., 314.260.7244. $ WATER STREET Excelling in specialty and vintage cocktails with an enticing menu of small plates. Dinner Mon.-Sat. 7268 Manchester Road, 314.646.8355. $$

WEST COUNTY ANNIE GUNN’S Known for heartwarming dishes and seasonal specials. Lunch and dinner Tue.-Sun. 16806 Chesterfield Airport Road, 636.532.7684. $$$ BALABAN’S Swing by to pick up a bottle of wine or to enjoy a French bistro-style meal. Lunch and dinner Mon.-Sat.; brunch Sun. 1772 Clarkson Road, Chesterfield, 636.449.6700. $$ B

FIT-FLAVORS Pre-made healthy meals to go for those who want to eat healthy without the hassle. Open daily. 14842 Clayton Road, 636.220.9390. $ HENDRICKS BBQ St. Louis barbecue and cocktails in the Moonshine Blues Bar. Lunch and dinner daily. Multiple locations, hendricksbbq.com. $$ KIM CHEESE Korean-Mexican-American fusion served through burritos, burgers and authentic Korean dishes. Lunch and dinner daily. 13435 Olive Blvd., 314.485.1408. $ MARCELLA’S MIA SORELLA Cozy Italian, including housemade pastas and brick-oven pizzas. Lunch Mon.-Fri.; dinner Mon.-Sat. 14426 Clayton Road, 636.333.1015. $$ PATRICK’S Serving a range of delicious foods from flatbreads to steaks, this bar and grill is known mostly for their fresh fish and seafood dishes. Lunch and dinner daily. 342 West Port Plaza Drive, 314.439.0505. $$ PRASINO Sustainable in decor and dining, Prasino’s offerings range from lamb meatballs to gooey butter cake. Breakfast, lunch and dinner daily. 1520 S. 5th St., 636.277.0202. $$ B SUGARFIRE SMOKE HOUSE Inspired barbecue using local meat and veg. Lunch and dinner daily. Multiple locations, sugarfiresmokehouse.com. $

BELLA VINO Expansive tapas menu with high-end wines in the heart of historic St. Charles. Lunch and dinner Fri.-Sun.; dinner daily. 325 S. Main St., 636.724.3434. $$ B

SUSHI HOUSE Classic Japanese food and sushi accompanied by private karaoke rooms for a memorable meal. Open for lunch and dinner daily. 17265 Chesterfield Airport Road, 636.778.3232. $$

BISTRO 1130 Contemporary French cuisine in an elegant atmosphere. Lunch and dinner Tue.-Sat. 1130 Town and Country Crossing Drive, 636.394.1130. $$$

THE TAVERN KITCHEN & BAR Contemporary American cuisine served in a sophisticated setting. Dinner daily. 2961 Dougherty Ferry Road, 636.825.0600. $$$

CHEVYS FRESH MEX Authentic Mexican food and drinks in a vibrant, energetic atmosphere. Lunch and dinner daily. Multiple locations, chevysstl. com. $$

THREE KINGS Upscale pub fare with a global twist. Lunch and dinner daily. Multiple locations, threekingspub.com. $$

CIRCLE 7 RANCH Fun appetizers and hand-patted hamburgers, with the added benefit of private table taps. Lunch Fri.-Sun.; dinner daily. 14412 Clayton Road, 636.220.9707. $ EDGEWILD RESTAURANT AND WINERY A unique twist on American comfort food expertly paired with premium wines. Lunch and dinner daily. 550 Chesterfield Center, 636.532.0550. $$

P O T T E D

P L A T E D

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VIVIANO’S An Italian cafe with a grocery storefront offering imported pastas, spices and more. Lunch and dinner Mon.-Sat. Multiple locations, vivianosmarket.com. $$

MORE ONLINE!

Log on to alivemag.com for our searchable, comprehensive directory of St. Louis restaurants, bars, nightclubs, bakeries, coffeehouses & more.

THANK YOU, STL! 6665 DELMAR STL, MO 63130 | 314 925 8452 Hours: Sun-Thurs 5p-11p, Fri & Sat 5p-midnight

OUTDOOR DINING GUIDE ALIVE takes you on a delicious tour of St. Louis’ best outdoor dining locations.

BARCELONA TAPAS RESTAURANT Barcelona’s expanding the sidewalk culture owner Frank Schmitz has been building for nearly a decade in downtown Clayton: the recent addition of a parklet, inspired by the creative solution used in Canada, Chicago and Boston. St Louis has its first parklet in Clayton. The parklet extends the sidewalk dining into the parking spaces during the season in front of the restaurant that can be used for residents to relax with or for his customers to dine at. Come to Barcelona and enjoy a summer evening from the parklet with a refreshing $4 Estrella Damm during the weekday happy hour and the Queso de Cabra al Horno, a baked goat cheese topped with spicy tomato sauce and served with garlic bread. Live music every Wednesday adds to the ambiance during the dinner hours, when the must-try dish is the Paella Valencia, made with Valencia rice, chicken, chorizo, mussels, salmon and market fish.

34 N. Central Ave., Clayton MO 63105 · 314.863.9909 · barcelonatapas.com ALIVE SPECIAL PROMOTION

Photo by Victoria Lafferty.

THE CHASE PARK PLAZA

For those who enjoy summer leisure pursuits that always involve the outdoors, there’s only one place in town one needs to be: The Patio at the Chase Park Plaza, located adjacent to Cafe Eau and featuring live music every Saturday and Sunday from 12 to 4pm. On May 29 from 5 to 8pm, the Chase’s classic poolside elegance takes on a Southern flavor as the summer series called “Destination” begins with the first event featuring New Orleans and a Louisiana Crawfish Boil, zydeco music, caricatures, photos and, of course, not-to-be-missed Cajun flavors. Reservations can be made by calling 314.633.3056. Overnight packages are available for this and any other staycation that a sophisticated St. Louisan might imagine: The luxury guestrooms in the heart of the CWE share a site with a truly indulgent spa, an elegant cinema and incredible dining, which make even an overnight getaway an offer too tempting to resist. Drift downstairs from a day of relaxation or simply

come in after a day of boutique shopping to enjoy the Chase’s signature Rum and Grapefruit Daiquiri during Happy Hour, or dine poolside with the evening breeze on your shoulders. The summer menu includes: Crispy Fish Tacos, with pickled cabbage slaw and smoked tomato crema, or the Asian Chicken Salad, with grilled chicken breast, crispy Asian vegetables, cilantro wonton-lime vinaigrette and toasted peanuts. Main courses are followed by special seasonal dessert shooters made especially for outdoor dining: strawberry shortcake, turtle cheesecake or cherry chocolate desserts provide the perfect amount of decadence to end a summer day at St. Louis’ top luxury destination.

212 N. Kingshighway Blvd., St. Louis, MO 63108 314.633.3000 · chaseparkplaza.com

ALIVE SPECIAL PROMOTION

JOHN D. MCGURK’S IRISH PUB AND GARDEN

McGurk’s has all the available Irish beer and spirits and serves lunch and dinner seven days a week. In addition to typical pub grub, McGurk’s offers wonderful steaks, assorted fish entrees, pasta specialties and several delightful traditional Irish dishes. Some of the house specialties include a tremendous Reuben Sandwich, a mouth-watering Gaelic Steak and

irresistible Pretzel Bites. The garden offers different experiences depending on the time of day and day of week. If you work in the city, stop by and enjoy the weather for lunch. Relax on the patio any evening during the week where you’ll find there’s plenty of space to get comfortable. On the weekends, there’s no place like McGurk’s for dinner or evening drinks. Though there’s sometimes a wait to sit in the garden for dinner, there’s plenty of space to enjoy a cocktail at one of the three bars. After dinner the volume is turned up, and the patio becomes one of the liveliest scenes in St. Louis. 1200 Russell Blvd., St. Louis, MO 63104 314.776.8309 · mcgurks.com

ALIVE SPECIAL PROMOTION

Photos by Morgan Stevens.

For nearly 40 years, John D. McGurk’s has been a Soulard staple with a reputation that carries far beyond the city limits of St. Louis—and this year, their “Best Bar” award from ALIVE proves it. While inside you’re treated to a pub experience matched only in Ireland, St. Louisans and visitors from around the country come in the spring, summer and autumn months to experience St. Louis’ premier outdoor patio. Spanning 15,000 square feet, the garden is complete with breathtaking landscaping, a fountain, a waterfall and three full service bars.

The Purple Martin Photo by Ashley Lear.

BISHOP’S POST

THE PURPLE MARTIN

Bishop’s Post is putting “the best patio in town” to use this year with $7 happy-hour appetizers and drink specials Monday through Friday, 4-7pm. Or, swing by for lunch and try the delicious crabmeat salad with avocado and fresh fruit. If you feel like something a little heavier, swing by Wednesday for whole-lobster night, or on Thursday nights, order their signature steak (a 10-oz. prime, dry-aged strip steak with truffle bordelaise and a bottle of wine (those $80 and under are half-price), and take in some live music under the summer stars.

For a relaxing summer gathering place where you can enjoy good friends, great drinks and fantastic food, look no further than the Purple Martin. Their top summer dish? Haitian Chicken: a chicken-leg quarter stewed in creole tomatoes and spices with sweet peppers and onions, then served with Haitian-style red beans and rice. Other warm-weather favorites include Ropa Vieja, beef braised with tomatoes, olives and capers; their delicious Cuban sandwich; and wings—either spicy or with a fresh mango sauce. Add a $3 Busch copper-top lager (Tuesday), a 20-percent-off glass of wine (Wednesday), a $6 cocktail (Thursday) and half price appetizers Tuesday through Thursday from 5 to 7pm, and your summer evening is sorted.

13125 Chesterfield Parkway, Chesterfield, MO 63107 636.536.9404 · bishopspost.com

2800 Shenandoah Ave., St. Louis, MO 63104 314.898.0011 · thepurplemartinstl.com

ST. LOUIS DINING

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Open through July 19

Open Tuesday–Sunday, ALWAYS FREE • One Fine Arts Drive, Forest Park • SLAM.org Pieter van der Heyden (b. Antwerp, c. 1530–d. after March 1572, Berchem) after Pieter Bruegel the Elder (b. c. 1525/30–d. 1569, Brussels); Big Fish Eat Little Fish (detail), 1557; engraving; image: 9 1/16 × 11 13/16 inches; published by Hieronymus Cock, Antwerp; Private collection

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Hwy. 94 & Sherman Dr. 1881 Sherman Dr. St. Charles, MO

Directions: Take I-70 to Exit Hwy 94/First Capital Drive and head South 1/4 Mile. Turn Left on Sherman Drive. View our Menu at www.ginghamsrestaurant.com

BREAKFAST SPECIAL! 2 Eggs, 2 Bacon Strips or Sausage Links & 3 Buttermilk Pancakes

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AGENDA

FRINGE FESTIVAL BRINGS TOP ALTERNATIVE ACTS | PRIDEFEST SWEEPS STL

TOP PICK

THE SCRIPT WITH MARY LAMBERT

June 7, The Pageant

Photo courtesy of The Pageant.

Irish pop-rock group The Script released a new album in 2014 called “No Sound Without Silence.” On its latest tour, the band performs music from this album but throws back to older tunes like “Six Degrees of Separation” and “For the First Time.” Tickets at thepageant.com (6161 Delmar Blvd., The Loop).

JUNE 2015

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Imagine Dragons, June 12, Scottrade Center

TAME IMPALA June 1, The Pageant

Australian alt-rock group Tame Impala creates psychedelic sound, clear harmonies and creative, soulful tunes. Look forward to the band performing recent music, like the song “Let It Happen,” as well as work from albums like “Innerspeaker.” Tickets at thepageant. com (6161 Delmar Blvd., The Loop). BRANDI CARLILE June 2, The Pageant

Folk-rock singer and songwriter Brandi Carlile has been popular since her 2007 single, “The Story.” Now, she’s released “The Firewatcher’s Daughter,” which features more rock ’n’ roll. Tickets at thepageant.com (6161 Delmar Blvd., The Loop). JIMMY BUFFETT June 4, Hollywood Casino Amphitheater

Surfer-country musician Jimmy Buf116

ALIVEMAG.COM

JUNE 2015

fett brings in Parrotheads from far and wide on his new tour. Expect to hear all the greatest hits from the man behind “Margaritaville.” Tickets at thehollywoodcasinoamphitheatre.com (14141 Riverport Drive, Maryland Heights). CHRIS BOTTI June 5, Powell Hall

Internationally recognized, Grammy Award-winning trumpeter Chris Botti comes back to Powell Hall for a jazz concert like none other. Don’t miss out on this one-night performance. Tickets at stlsymphony.org (718 N. Grand Blvd., Grand Center). MUSIC OF THE EAGLES June 6, Powell Hall

Hear The Eagles’ music in an entirely new way when the St. Louis Symphony performs the classic rock legends’ music, including “Hotel California” and “Desperado.” Tickets at stlsymphony. org (718 N. Grand Blvd., Grand Center). THE SCRIPT WITH MARY LAMBERT June 7, The Pageant

Considered the replacement for the famous Wynton Marsalis in the Art Blakey’s Jazz Messengers, Terence Blanchard’s worked with numerous musicians, as well as famous directors and producers on film music. Don’t miss him while he’s in town. Tickets at jazzstl.org (3536 Washington Ave., Grand Center). MAE June 11, The Firebird

Indie pop band Mae came onto the music scene in the early 2000s with albums like “The Everglow” and “Singularity.” For a trip back in time, catch

the scenester band on tour performing songs like “Sometimes I Can’t Make It Alone.” Tickets at firebirdstl.com (2706 Olive St., Midtown). BEN HARPER & THE INNOCENT CRIMINALS June 11, The Pageant

Soulful, bluesy Ben Harper is known for his multi-instrumental skills and talented songwriting. He’s on tour with his group, The Innocent Criminals, for a new show complete with songs like “Diamonds on the Inside” and “Amen Omen.” Tickets at thepageant.com (6161 Delmar Blvd., The Loop). THE GROWLERS June 12, Old Rock House

Meshing folk, electronica, and California rock, The Growlers put on an impressive show and performs from albums like “Hung at Heart” and 2014’s “Chinese Fountain.” Tickets at oldrockhouse.com (1200 S. 7th St., Downtown). IMAGINE DRAGONS June 12, Scottrade Center

Photo courtesy of Scottrade Center.

Music

SUMMER IN ST. LOUIS Heat up your summer with these STL cultural events.

THE 2015 FESTIVAL SEASON | NOW THROUGH JUNE 28

THE BARBER OF SEVILLE

Two lovebirds. One wingman. A close shave.

“Bright, beautiful, funny, relatable, awe-inspiring, and extraordinarily entertaining” – PHILLY NOW

JUNE 4, 6, 10, 14, 17, 27 LA RONDINE

Fly away to a land of dreams and sunlight.

Sheldon Concert Hall and Art Galleries

Subscriptions for the Sheldon Concert Hall’s exciting 2015-2016 season are on sale now. Enjoy the best in jazz, folk, classical, bluegrass, world music and more in the Sheldon’s perfect acoustics. Choose from a preset series package or put together your own. Visit thesheldon.org for more information.

Starring Corinne Winters “an outstanding actress… a singer of extraordinary grace and finesse” – THE NEW YORK TIMES

JUNE 3, 12, 18, 20, 24, 28 RICHARD THE LIONHEART AMERICAN PREMIERE!

3648 Washington Blvd., St. Louis, MO 63108 314.533.9900 · thesheldon.org

Chaos reigns. Love prevails. Starring Tim Mead “vocally and dramatically outstanding” – GRAMOPHONE

JUNE 7, 11, 13, 20, 24, 26

EMMELINE

Secrets at the end of innocence. ”Sensational, satisfying”

JUNE 13, 17, 19, 21, 25, 27

– THE TIMES OF LONDON “continuously gripping” – WALL STREET JOURNAL

EDITOR’S CHOICE! BEST SUMMER DATE NIGHT EVERY FRIDAY OF THE SEASON, BRING YOUR

William Shearburn Gallery

William Shearburn Gallery is pleased to present “Of Small Rooms,” a solo exhibition by Carrie M. Becker. This is artist’s first solo exhibition with the gallery. Combining her talents as a photographer and sculptor, Becker concentrates on creating 1:6 scale hand-crafted dioramas of domestic interiors which are then photographed to appear life-size. The exhibition is on view from June 5 through July 11. 665 S. Skinker Blvd., St. Louis, MO 63105 314.367.8020 · shearburngallery.com

DATE TO THE OPERA AND SAVE! DATE NIGHT PACKAGES

INCLUDE

TWO

TICKETS,

TWO

GELATOS, AND A BOTTLE OF WINE ALL FOR ONE LOW PRICE. VISIT OPERA-STL.ORG/DATENIGHT FOR MORE INFORMATION.

SUBSCRIPTIONS START AT $82. SINGLE TICKETS START AT $25. ALL OPERAS ARE SUNG IN ENGLISH AND PERFORMED WITH MEMBERS OF THE FAMED ST. LOUIS SYMPHONY.

EXPERIENCEOPERA.ORG | (314) 961-0644 ALIVE SPECIAL PROMOTION

AGENDA / weddings

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art Las Vegas-based rock band Imagine Dragons is known for putting on a big show, complete with hit songs like “Radioactive,” “It’s Time” and “Shots.” Prepare for big lights, favorite songs and the group’s latest work. Tickets at scottradecenter.com (1401 Clark Ave., Downtown).

celebrate at Boo Cat

CORTANGO ORQUESTA June 16, The Sheldon

A tango group with a symphonic flair, Cortango Orquesta is a classical concert band with music designed for dancing. Coming right after the release of Cortango’s debut album, “Tandas,” this concert gets audience members on their feet and swaying to the catchy music. Tickets at sheldonconcerthall. org (3648 Washington Blvd., Grand Center). DIERKS BENTLEY June 18, Hollywood Casino Amphitheater

Arizona-based country rock star Dierks Bentley is back on tour and performing from his latest album, “Riser,” as well as playing hits like “Come a Little Closer” and “What Was I Thinkin.’” Tickets at thehollywoodcasinoamphitheatre. com (14141 Riverport Drive, Maryland Heights). CLASSICAL MYSTERY TOUR: TRIBUTE TO THE BEATLES June 19, Powell Hall

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MUSIC OF U2 June 26, Powell Hall

U2’s greatest hits get a classical music makeover during this unique performance from the St. Louis symphony, featuring tunes such as “Beautiful Day” and “With or Without You.” Tickets at stlsymphony.org (718 N. Grand Blvd., Grand Center). DARIUS RUCKER June 26, Hollywood Casino Amphitheater

After a recent 2014 Christmas album, new singles like “Homegrown Honey” and international attention, country star Darius Rucker performs from his hit albums like “True Believers” and recent album “Southern Style.” Tickets at thehollywoodcasinoamphitheatre. com (14141 Riverport Drive, Maryland Heights). “WEIRD AL” YANKOVIC June 28, Peabody Opera House

Wackiness gets a new meaning with “Weird Al” Yankovic, who is back in town and performing some of his latest goofy tunes. Fans won’t want to miss hits like “Smells Like Nirvana,” “Amish Paradise,” and “Eat It.” Tickets at peabodyoperahouse.com (1400 Market St., Downtown).

Visual Arts

The Beatles’ music is some of the most well-known and widely loved in the world. This month, the St. Louis Symphony takes on the Fab Four’s greatest hits including “Hey Jude,” “Twist and Shout” and “All You Need is Love.” Tickets at stlsymphony.org (718 N. Grand Blvd., Grand Center).

Experience the mobile-master’s work, including stabilies and constellations, in a show drawing largely from his developing practice in the 1930s and ’40s. More info at pulitzerarts.org ( 3716 Washington Blvd., Grand Center).

TYLER, THE CREATOR June 20, The Pageant

AND/OR May 1-June 20, Bruno David Gallery

LINDSEY STIRLING June 24, The Fox Theatre

IMG_ May 1-June 28, Contemporary Art Museum St. Louis

Rapper Tyler, The Creator broke on to the scene across the board a few years ago with the album “Goblin.” Now, with his latest drop, “Cherry Bomb,” in April, the young hip-hop artist is showing off his skilled rhymes across the country. Tickets at thepageant.com (6161 Delmar Blvd., The Loop).

Pop-rock violinist Lindsey Stirling impresses fans yet again in “The Music Box” tour, where she shows off her classical training as well as electronic beats, creative themes and a dance-worthy production. Tickets at fabulousfox.com (527 N. Grand Blvd., Grand Center).

CALDER LIGHTNESS May 1-Sept. 12, the Pulitzer

The latest exhibit to hit Bruno David Gallery, “and/or” features an abstract look at common ideas, a group exhibition setup and elements of comparison and contrast. More info at brunodavidgallery.com (3721 Washington Blvd., Grand Center).

“IMG_” is Australian artist Michael Staniak’s first solo museum exhibition and features paintings that purposely mix the digital and the handmade. With unique textures, strange effects, hyper-saturated colors and more, this artwork challenges viewers to think

about the effect of the digital world upon art. More info at camstl.org (3750 Washington Blvd., Grand Center). 2015 ARTISTS-IN-RESIDENCE EXHIBITION May 22-July 5, Craft Alliance

Presenting the 2013-2014 fiber resident, clay resident and metals resident, the 2015 Artists-in-Residence Exhibition shows off the artistic research and creativity these individuals possess. More info at craftalliance.org (6640 Delmar Blvd., The Loop). GOODS June 5-Aug. 28, Center of Creative Arts

A unique exhibit from Jenny Murphy makes viewers think about consumption and anti-consumption. The site-specific installation uses common household items to thought-provoking effect. More info at cocastl.org (524 Trinity Ave., University City).

Forest Park with a great live production, “Antony and Cleopatra.” With New York actors Michael Sharon and Shirine Babb playing the lead roles, this Shakespearian classic is sure to be outstanding. More info at sfstl.com (Shakespeare Glen, Forest Park). THE BARBER OF SEVILLE May 23-June 27 select dates, Loretto-Hilton Center

Opera Theatre of Saint Louis puts on Rossini’s classic opera about a young barber named Figaro and the beautiful Rosina in this production, with the city’s own Ryan McAdams as conductor. Tickets at opera-stl.org (130 Edgar Road, Webster Groves). LA RONDINE May 30-June 28 select dates, Loretto-Hilton Center

Another classic opera in OTSL’s 2015 season, Puccini’s “La rondine” focuses on a Parisian courtesan, her love for a country boy and an affair that’s more OF SMALL ROOMS than complicated. Tickets at opera-stl. June 5-July 11, Shearburn Gallery org (130 Edgar Road, Webster Groves). Carrie M. Becker’s first solo show features dioramas created with craft materials , then photographed to create a trompe-l’oeil effect of being life-sized, despite them being no more than 14” tall. More info at shearburngallery.com (615 N. Grand Blvd., Grand Center).

HONOR AWARDS 2015 June 6-July 23, Art Saint Louis

Featuring award-winning artists selected from 2014 juried exhibitions, and curated by Margaret Keller, the Honor Awards 2015 shows off some of the best artistic talent from around the area. More info at artstlouis.org (1223 Pine St., Downtown). SENUFO: ART AND IDENTITY IN WEST AFRICA June 28-Sept. 27, Saint Louis Art Museum

Artists like Pablo Picasso and Fernand Léger were inspired by sub-Saharan African art. Check out some of these items in person at the “Senufo” exhibit, filled with masks, figures, decorative art and more. More info at slam.org (1 Fine Arts Drive, Forest Park).

Theater/Dance SHAKESPEARE IN THE PARK May 22-June 14, Shakespeare Glen in Forest Park

Shakespeare in the Park is back at

DOG SEES GOD: CONFESSIONS OF A TEENAGE BLOCKHEAD June 4-20, Tower Grove Abbey

“Dog Sees God” re-imagines “Peanuts” with the characters cast as teenagers and the everyday issues focused more on angst, experimentation and sexual identity. More info at straydogtheatre.org (2336 Tennessee Ave., Tower Grove). RICHARD THE LIONHEART June 7-26 select dates, Loretto-Hilton Center

George Frideric Handel’s operatic work is set to a new rendition, telling the story of England’s bravest king, his efforts to save his bride and his wish to prevent war. Tickets at opera-stl.org (130 Edgar Road, Webster Groves). EMMELINE June 13-27 select dates, Loretto-Hilton Center

With hints of Oedipus, “Emmeline,” which debuted in 1996, tells the true story about a 19th-century New England mill town, a heartbreaking saga and more. Tickets at opera-stl.org (130 Edgar Road, Webster Groves). MY FAIR LADY June 15-21, The Muny

Opening the 97th Muny season, “My Fair Lady” sticks to the original storyline, but puts in a few twists here and there. Expect to hear great tunes

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Explore the Alternative St. Louis is rich in mainstream and alternative arts, but from June 17-27, the city gets a fresh injection of fresh alt-y acts when the fourth annual St. Lou Fringe Festival hits Grand Center. For those wondering what a fringe festival is, it’s a celebration and exhibition of (relatively) uncensored performing arts, from magic to dance, singing to burlesque to slam poetry. Many major cities host one annually (the Edinburgh Fringe Festival has the longest tradition), and with an emphasis on cultivating opportunities for artists and audiences to grow relationships, fringe fests are an invaluable way for those aspiring for fame to break their big act. This year in STL, the fringe transitions from a one-weekend affair into a 10-day experience. This vibrant fest has a focused mission of connecting the community to performing artists by providing accessible and affordable performances for all audiences. On weekends, audiences will enjoy diverse, hour-long performances featuring purposefully minimal stages. Then, during weekdays, check out the additional programming focused on connecting arts enthusiasts. This year’s Fringe Fest will be partnering up with the Public Media Commons, which creates space for compelling workshops, discussions and social events for the entire St. Louis community to love. Partake in the thought-provoking theater, dance and spoken-word poetry and then let loose at the late-night events offered in partnership with Jazz St. Louis. St. Lou Fringe, a nonprofit organization, thrives on supporting emerging local artists. At least 70 percent of performers at Fringe are local and all ticket sales from the events will go to the on- and off-stage artists who make the festival possible. - Laura Schilli

like “On the Street Where You Live,” “Wouldn’t It Be Loverly?” and “The Rain in Spain.” Tickets at muny.org (1 Theatre Drive, Forest Park). HAIRSPRAY June 23-30, The Muny

With eight Tonys Awards, the musical “Hairspray” is a critic’s choice. Get ready for big dancing and enthusiasm as the cast of this show learn to accept one another and sing tunes like “You Can’t Stop the Beat” and “Good Morning Baltimore.” Tickets at muny.org (1 Theatre Drive, Forest Park). BRING IT ON June 26-27, Center of Creative Arts

The well-known musical about an enthusiastic cheerleader and her interactions with her boyfriend, friends and, of course, a rival cheerleading team comes to the stage in a new production at COCA. Tickets at cocastl.org (524 Trinity Ave., University City).

Bestselling children’s author Judy Blume reads from her latest novel for adults, “In the Unlikely Event.” Tickets at left-bank.com (425 S. Lindbergh Blvd., Creve Coeur).

Charity CRAWL FOR CANCER June 6, Laclede’s Landing

With multiple locations like Big Daddy’s, Joe B’s, Hannegan’s, Morgan Street Brewery and Marcel’s participating, Crawl for Cancer allows participants to enjoy a few brews for a worthy cause. More info at crawlforcancer.org (Multiple locations, Laclede’s Landing). MILES AGAINST MELANOMA 5K June 6, Lakeside Park in St. Peters

Literary/ Speaking

With a 5K, one-mile fun run, music and entertainment and dedication to those who have suffered from of melanoma, the Miles Against Melanoma event is a perfect one for the whole family. Expect a concert by Who Killed Kenny, beer samples, and more. More info at milesagainstmelanoma.com (370 Lakeside Park, St. Peters).

SHAKESPEARE FESTIVAL READS June 16, Left Bank Books

SING FOR SITEMAN June 6, Laclede’s Landing

Don’t miss the Shakespeare Festival reading group and discussion of “The Ides of March” by Thornton Wilder. More info at left-bank.com (399 N. Euclid Ave., Central West End). JUDY BLUME: IN THE UNLIKELY EVENT June 19, Skip Viragh Center for the Arts

Singers and performers from all around the world, including those from Opera Theatre of St. Louis, get together for Sing for Siteman. This event benefits the Siteman Cancer Center and features an hour of talented entertainment, as well as a wine-and-dessert reception. More info at singforsiteman. org (755 S. Price Road, Ladue).

ST. LOUIS TOUR DE CURE June 6, Liberty Bank Alton Amphitheater

More than 1,000 cyclists race to stop diabetes and find a cure, the Tour de Cure offers 10-, 30-, 50- and 100-mile routes. More info at tour.diabetes.org (1 Riverfront Drive, Alton, IL).

Top photo courtesy of Peabody Opera House. Bottom photo courtesy of Loretto-Hilton Center.

SUSAN G. KOMEN ST. LOUIS RACE FOR THE CURE June 13, Downtown

Prepare to see an ocean of pink Downtown as thousands of participants gather and walk for an end to breast cancer in this well-known, annual event. More info at komenstlouis.org (Downtown). ZOOFARI 2015 WITH KENNY LOGGINS June 19, Saint Louis Zoo

Support the Saint Louis Zoo and its work with endangered species during this classy, black-tie fundraiser that features delicious food from over 60 restaurants and caterers, music from Kenny Loggins and a top-notch silent auction. More info at stlzoo.org (One Government Drive, Forest Park).

Special Events LANTERN FESTIVAL: MAGIC REIMAGINED May 23-Aug. 23, Missouri Botanical Garden

Prepare to be dazzled by dozens of light displays around the gorgeous garden, celebrating the ancient Chinese custom of lantern festivals. The impressive displays are made out of materials like silk, steel and more.

More info at missouribotanicalgarden. org (4344 Shaw Blvd., Shaw).

activities and more. More info at lafayettesquare.org (Lafayette Square).

A WALK IN 1875 ST. LOUIS May 30-Feb. 14, 2016, Missouri History Museum

SHOWMECON June 8-9, Ameristar Casino and Resort

Based on Compton and Dry’s “Pictorial St. Louis” map, created 1874-1876, this exhibit features every home, building, street and tree in St. Louis at that time. More info at mohistory.org (5700 Lindell Blvd., Forest Park). FEAST IN THE PARK June 5, Laumeier Sculpture Park

Don’t miss when the city’s best trucks head to Laumeier for a night of fun. Expect live music, beverages, gourmet cuisine, treats and a beautiful setting in the heart of the sculpture park. More info at laumeiersculpturepark. org (12580 Rott Road, Sunset Hills).

KIMMSWICK STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL June 6-7, Kimmswick Town & Park.

Celebrate summer’s signature fruit with vendors, activities and fun for the whole family. More info at cityofkimmswick.org (6041 Third St., Kimmswick, MO).

Cyber security conference ShowMeCon invites St. Louis-based ethical hacking firm Parameter Security and Hacker University to attend and show off incredible cyber security techniques and devices. More info at showmecon.com (1 Ameristar Blvd., St. Charles).

BUD LIGHT ULTRA WHITE PARTY June 27, Public Media Commons

One of the biggest parties during Pride Weekend, the Ultra VIP White Party presented by Bud Light features Pinnacle vodka cocktails, DJs, dancing and more. Three individuals will be awarded for LGBT business, nonprofit and personal achievements in STL. A portion of ticket sales for the Wells Fargo Advisors VIP Lounge, as well as general admission, will benefit LGBT-focused nonprofits of the award-winners’ choice. More info at 2015ultra.eventbrite.com (Public Media Commons, Grand Center).

PRIDEFEST ST. LOUIS June 27-28, Soldiers’ Memorial Military Museum LAFAYETTE SQUARE SPRING Known for attracting thousands of HOUSE AND GARDEN TOUR people to the St. Louis area to celeJune 6-7, Lafayette Square brate LGBT rights, PrideFest boasts

Celebrating 250 years of St. Louis, the Lafayette Square Spring House and Garden Tour features carriage rides, an antique event, trolley rides, a Saturday night concert, plein air artists, costumed historical characters, kids’

an impressive parade, great entertainment, multiple events and plenty of participating venues in different neighborhoods. More info at pridestl. org (1315 Chestnut St., Downtown).

“Weird Al” Yankovic, June 28, Peabody Opera House May 30-June 28, select dates, Loretto-Hilton Center

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Log on to alivemag.com/calendar to search and browse our full listings of events and shows around St. Louis.

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ST. LOUIS MADE: A MAKER’S POP-UP | THE MAYOR’S BIRTHDAY BASH

Glass art by Michael Parrett

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Craft Alliance Center of Art + Design Makers Ball April 18, The Palladium

Craft Alliance’s Makers Ball joined artists, makers and St. Louisans alike for an impressive interactive event. Guests began the evening sipping on cocktails in their artiest attire and dining on a three-course meal. The evening continued with the celebration of the power of craft in St. Louis with installations by Fiber Artist-in-Residence Grace Kubilius and demonstrations from artists Dan Barnett and Michael Parrett. All proceeds helped support the center’s free exhibition series and community education programs. 1 Jeff Reed, Jackie Chambers & Paula Reed 2 Megan Singleton, David Kirkland & Elizabeth Tucker 3 Susan Sherman & Mike Scully 4 Pottery artist Dan Barnett 5 Executive Director Boo McLoughlin and event auctioneer

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DINING

Chef’s Plate 2

March 23, Central Table Culinary networking organization Chef’s Roll kicked off its high-energy traveling culinary competition right here in St. Louis. The event featured chefs Katie Lee Collier of Katie’s Pizza & Pasta Osteria and Executive Chef Wil Pelly of In Good Company group going head-tohead in front of a live audience, celebrity food judges and “Food Network Extreme Chef” winner Terry French. Guests also enjoyed rockin’ beats from Deal James and hand-crafted cocktails from the creators behind Cocktails Are Go!, Matt and Beth Sorrell.

PHOTOS BY WESLEY LAW/ALIVE SCENE TEAM. FOR MORE PHOTOS, LOG ON TO ALIVEMAG.COM/PHOTOS.

SHOPPING

Saint Louis Made: A Maker’s Pop-Up

March 12, Ely Walker Lofts Hosted by ALIVE Magazine in Downtown St. Louis, this one-evening-only shopping event celebrated the talent of more than 25 of St. Louis’ most impactful makers and entrepreneurs. While 300-plus attendees browsed the tables of wares, sipping Maker’s Mark and Pinnacle vodka cocktails, they also built meaningful, lasting relationships with the makers behind the product. 1 Kendall Buie & Darin Murray 2 Eric Schrichte & Rory Sullivan

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Mayor Francis Slay’s 60th Birthday

March 18, The Caramel Room at Bissinger’s Friends and family gathered to celebrate Mayor Francis Slay’s 60th birthday and break in the new Caramel Room at Bissinger’s chocolate-making factory and headquarters. Guests indulged in The Caramel Room Executive Chef Nick Miller’s culinary creations paired with a plethora of award-winning beers described by Anheuser-Busch’s fifth-generation brewmaster George F. Reisch.

1 Adam & Elizabeth Frick 2 Jefferey & Patrice Boyd, Bruce Seymour, Andy and Kellie Trivers & Lily Seymour 3 Mayor Francis Slay

PHOTOS BY ANGIE VINSON/ALIVE SCENE TEAM. FOR MORE PHOTOS, LOG ON TO ALIVEMAG.COM/PHOTOS.

MWIN

MWIN Bloggers Workshop March 3, Regional Arts Commission

Local Midwest Influencer Network bloggers gathered for its first quarterly development workshop, “The Craft of Storytelling,” where they were introduced to lifestyle content philosophies and strategies. The evening kicked off with bloggers sipping drinks and mingling, then continued into the curriculum: Bloggers enjoyed a panel discussion with ALIVE creative leaders Kelly Hamilton, Attilio D’Agostino and Jennifer Dulin Wiley, moderated by ALIVE Online Editor Rachel Brandt. Then, bloggers learned about the craft and skills needed to thrive in the blogging community through workshops led by ALIVE staffers. 1 Michelle Volansky, Marisa Lather & Elena Marroquin 2 London Underwood & Llechor Williams

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Archetypes

Carmon Colangelo

A conversation with Carmon Colangelo, the first—and current—dean of the Sam Fox School of Design & Visual Arts at Washington University. Originally from Ontario, he completed his MFA at Louisiana State University before beginning his career in academia at West Virginia University and the University of Georgia. Since his hire in 2006, he’s grown the school into the powerhouse it is today, comprising the College of Art, College of Architecture, Graduate School of Art, and Graduate School of Architecture & Urban Design—meanwhile also overseeing the Mildred Lane Kemper Museum, regarded as one of the nation’s best collections of modern art to be found on a campus. A practicing artist, Colangelo works primarily in mixed-media prints that utilize both traditional and digital techniques. They’ve been exhibited around the world with shows in Argentina, Korea, Italy and other countries and are included in leading American museum collections, such as the National Museum of American Art and the Whitney Museum of American Art.

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What is your current frame of mind? Happiness. When and where are you happiest? Art museums in Paris. What is your favorite smell? Oranges. What is one word that describes you? Fast. What did you eat for breakfast today? Coffee. Which words or phrases do you most overuse? “Eh.” What is your most marked characteristic? Charm. What is your greatest weakness? Wine. What trait do you most admire in others? Frankness. What or who is the greatest love of your life? Susan, my wife. If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be? My hair—that I had more of it. What do you consider your greatest achievement? Being an artist, continuing to be an artist. Which living person do you most admire? My wife, Susan. Which historical figure do you most identify with? Robert Rauschenberg, painter.

What is your greatest extravagance? Travel. What is your greatest fear? Dying. On what occasion do you lie? When I make art. Which artists do you admire most? Robert Rauschenberg and Nancy Spero. What is your favorite hobby? My favorite hobbies are sports—running and biking. Where would you like to live? St. Louis. What is one thing you wish would happen? I wish St. Louis would be a safer place and in general, that were was less violence. What is something you still want to learn? I want to learn more about the world, and experience new things and places. What is one thing you want to do before you die? I want to spend more time making art. If you could say something to your younger self, what would it be? Enjoy the moment.

Interview by Krystin Arneson Photography 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.