Orientation Issue - Summer 2018 by University News

SUMMER 2018

ADVENTURE

S T. L O U I S

Catering to the newest SLU families, The University News’ Adventure St. Louis offers top restaurant and venue picks by current students and staff. From fine dining at Charlie Gitto’s on the Hill to enjoying one of Ted Drewes’ famous ice cream concretes while walking along Forest Park, new SLU families will learn the “hot spots” of St. Louis, and veterans will discover some hidden gems.

SUMMER 2018 / 02

01 02

03 07 11

CONTENT SUMMER ISSUE COVER

INTRODUCING YOU TO SLU’S UNIVERSITY NEWS

CONTENTS

YOUR GUIDE TO THIS ISSUE

FOOD

ST. LOUIS FAVORITES

ST. LOUIS CLASSICS AROUND TOWN

INTERNATIONAL FOOD

ETHNIC RESTAURANTS IN THE AREA

COFFEE & DESSERT

FAVORITE SPOTS TO SATISFY YOUR SWEET TOOTH & COFFEE ADDICTION

PLACES TO VISIT

15 TOP ST. LOUIS TOURIST ATTRACTIONS

DON’T MISS THESE STUDENT- APPROVED ADVENTURES

19 HIDDEN GEMS

CHECK OUT QUIRKY SHOPS & MUSIC VENUES

23 ADS

THANKING OUR SPONSORS

24 COLOPHON

MEET THE 2018-19 UNEWS STAFF

15 22

FOOD 2

ST. LOUIS FAVORITES / SUMMER 2018 / 03

CHARLIE GITTO’S THE HILL 5226 SHAW AVE.

t. Louis natives know of the numerous shoot oﬀs of the Charlie Gitto’s restaurant chain. The one closest to Saint Louis University’s campus is located in the historic Italian neighborhood called “The Hill.” The birth place of the St. Louis signature toasted ravioli is the Charlie Gitto’s On the Hill kitchen where in 1947 a chef working at Angelo’s, the name of the restaurant before Charlie Gitto’s took over, dropped a ravioli in the fryer on accident and thus the t-rav was born. Now Charlie Gitto’s has sat on The Hill for more than 35 years. This is the perfect restaurant to take your parents to when they come to visit in the fall for parents’ weekend. You can give them a taste of your new town. At all Charlie Gitto’s locations there is a professional sommelier so assist guests with making the best wine pairing to their authentic Italian meal.

Photo courtesy of Zia’s

THE HILL 5256 WILSON AVE.

ia’s On The Hill is an award winning Italian restaurant located in the historic Italian district of St. Louis aﬀectionately called “The Hill.” The appropriate Italian flag awning protruding out over the entrances gives famished diners no reason not to come on in for a meal. Patrons of Zia’s can stop by the reasonably priced restaurant for a taste of the delicious Italan food. Zia’s can be found either at the restaurant at around the city at diﬀerent event locations via the Zia’s food truck. Be sure to order the Zia’s salad in order to best enjoy their house made salad dressing, and dine in a comfortable family atmosphere where “childhood friends meet for lunch,” according to Zia’s website. They’re open 11am to 9pm Monday through Thursday, and on Friday and Saturday they’re open 11am to 10pm. They are closed on Sundays.

Mama’s “on The Hill” THE HILL 2132 EDWARDS STREET

ZIA’S RESTAURANT

Photo courtesy of Mama’s “on The Hill”

Photo courtesy of Charlie Gitto’s

estaurants on The Hill is the perfect place for all the pasta lovers of the world and Mama’s is no exception. This classy Italian restaurant is regarded as “the home of the toasted ravioli” because back in the 1940s it is said that the chef accidentally dropped one of the raviolis in hot oil rather than water. Whether Mama’s is the true home of the toasted ravs, that may be a myth, but how good their food is definitely isn’t one. Mama’s is a great place to go when your parents call to say they are coming to visit you and are picking up the bill. It’s a great atmosphere with kind workers and delicious food, all in a great family-friendly location. They have everything pasta as well as seafood, pizza, soups, salads, and of course, fantastic specialty desserts. No one in your group will go home hungry and you might even have leftovers for lunch tomorrow! If you find yourself on The Hill make sure you don’t pass up a chance to eat at Mama’s!

Photo courtesy of Mama’s “on The Hill”

o t n p o p e in is r t S e t S t o T

ST. LOUIS FAVORITES / SUMMER 2018 / 04

YIRO GYRO

Photo courtesy of Pappy’s

hy travel the 5,555 miles it would take to get to Greece when you can just walk across the street from SLU’s campus to get authentic Greek food from Yiro Gyro? Try one of their delicious creations or make your own meal with your personal favorites. They have different options of meat, including yiro slices and grilled chicken and great options for what to put it on. Feel free to Americanize your dish by putting their warm and delicious fries on the bottom of your meal rather than the usual rice or lettuce. To top it all off, add their tzatziki sauce to really complete the meal. It won’t take one, but once you become a fan, be sure to pick up a rewards card to start earning your free meal! It’s a great place to meet with friends for a laid-back lunch or dinner just a block away from your dorm. Don’t worry if you don’t eat meat, there are plenty of vegetarian options to satisfy everyone in your group. Make sure to finish off your meal with one of their tasty tiramisus or some baklava.

PAPPY’S SMOKEHOUSE

3106 OLIVE STREET

Photo courtesy of Pappy’s

block away from SLU, Pappy’s is one of the first restaurants discovered by Saint Louis University students. As freshman begin to finish funneling their belongings from their parent’s car into their dorm room, they start to get hungry, and what Midwestern father could say no to award winning barbecue. The line might be long, but it is well worth the wait. Customers stand in line until they get up to the register to order then grab a drink and wait a short time for their food to be carried out to them. Be sure to get the smokehouse’s specialty, dry-rubbed and slow smoked over apple and cherry wood ribs, named number one in the Country by the Food Network. Other customer favorites are the pulled chicken and the sweet potato fries.

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17 S VANDEVENTER AVE.

Don’t worry if you don’t eat meat, there are plenty of vegetarian options to satisfy everyone in your group.

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Photo Courtesy of Meredyth Staunch

ST. LOUIS FAVORITES / SUMMER 2018 / 05

DRESSEL’S PUBLIC HOUSE 419 N EUCLID AVE.

o, it’s college, you’re going to make a million friends and each friend you have has a birthday. Dressel’s Public House is the perfect birthday dinner destination. Their menu serves farm to table food and craft beer, inspired by the lifestyle the owners experienced while living in Wales. The owners think of Dressel’s menu as “a modern manifestation of Saint Louis bar food meet British Pub food meets cooks who care,” according to their website. Dressel’s is located in the Central West End, just a $10 uber ride away from campus. Not only does Dressel’s serve lunch and dinner, but you can check out their brunch menu on Saturdays starting at 11am and Sundays starting at 10am. From avocado toast and burnt ends hash to omelette’s, Dressel’s has all of the hangover food favorites. Or get the day started with their brunch cocktails menu, where they serve house mimosas, irish coﬀees and bloody Marys’.

Photos courtesy of Meredyth Staunch

BLK MKT

9 S VANDEVENTER AVE.

LK MKT Eats is a super food, not in the traditional ultra-healthy way, but in the multi-faceted super hero way that solves all food dilemmas. Where do you go when your friends want Mexican food, but you want Sushi? You go to BLK MKT Eats where they have burrito-size sushi rolls and poke bowls. There are plenty of raw fish options, but even if you’re weary of sushi, they have chicken fusion options such as the “tasty as cluck” described as “savory & juicy” on BLK MKT Eats’ website. It comes with buttermilk fried chicken, kimchi slaw, arugula, BLK MKT pickles, crispy shallots, tempura crunch, and OG Fire sauce served on a bed of rice and wrapped in sea weed. If you’re too lazy to walk the block to Vandeventer from your dorm, BLK MKT Eats delivers with Grubhub, Postmates and Food Pedaler.

Photo courtesy of Dressel’s Public House

Photo courtesy of Meredyth Staunch

HUGO’S PIZZERIA

3135 OLIVE STREET

f you love homemade pizza, and really, who doesn’t love homemade pizza, Hugo’s Pizzeria is the perfect place for you. They make everything themselves from their Roman-style crust and perfect sauce all the way to their pepperonis, all five kinds of them. It’s diﬃcult to beat locally made ingredients and Hugo’s has decided that “local tastes better.” They are located in midtown, a growing part of St. Louis that is easily accessible from many other popular spots like Downtown, Central West End and our favorite, SLU. The best part is that even though they don’t oﬀer delivery themselves (yet!) they are available for delivery through UberEats. It’s a great place to go out with your friends, even if you aren’t in the mood for pizza. They have a full bar open and classic bar foods like wings, meatballs, loaded fries, and salads. It’s a very open atmosphere and it is great for seating lots of friends together. Make sure to go grab all those new friends you have made and head over to Hugo’s for a good slice of homemade, locally made, unique pizza!

Photo courtesy of Dressel’s Public House

Photo courtesty of Meredyth Staunch

ST. LOUIS FAVORITES / SUMMER 2018 / 06

10 FITZ’S

ave a gourmet burger and a Fitz’s root beer or grab a delicious root beer float for dessert after a concert at the nearby, Pageant. Fitz’s is located oﬀ of the Delmar Loop, named “one of the 10 great streets in America,” by the American Planning Association. Take a day trip to thrift shops and record stores, see a concert or head over to the Tivoli for a movie. After doing all of that your stomach will definitely be growling, and that’s when it’s time to head over to Fitz’s. The brightly colored décor and upbeat music makes it a fun place to eat and talk. Even the root beer floats at Fitz’s are vibrant, with menu items named: Strawberry Fields, Green Monster and Purple Cub, there’s nothing boring about this place. Take the red spiral staircase up to the second floor, order some food and take Instagram worthy food pics with your friends to end the day on Delmar.

Photo courtesy of Pi Pizzeria

PI PIZZERIA

400 N EUCLID AVE.

Photo Courtesy of Pi Pizzeria

izza, the cornerstone of any nutritious college diet. While Grand dining hall can deliver your standard slice of cheese or pepperoni, a pizza lover’s paradise with a plethora of options can be found just 2 miles down the road in the central west end. Pi Pizzeria is one of the newer pizza outlets to pop up in the central west end, and it shows with its contemporary style and specialized menu. From their “Irrationally delicious” deep dish, corn meal crust pizza to thin crust, Pi really has something for everybody. If you’re in the creative mood, Pi also gives you the option to customize your own pizza with every topping you could imagine from anchovies to zucchini. Pi is also in part known for their wide selection of wine, specialty drinks, and craft beer, with over 15 rotating beers on tap, and fun drink names such as: Pi’ed piper, So fresh, so clean, and Chili can do.

Photo courtesy of Fitz’s

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DELMAR LOOP 6605 DELMAR BLVD.

Even the root beer floats at Fitz’s are vibrant (...) there’s nothing boring about this place.

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INTERNATIONAL FOOD/ SUMMER 2018 / 07

TAFT STREET RESTAURANT

4457 GRAVOIS AVE. BOSNIAN

fter 14 years in business, the Taft Street Restaurant has racked up various awards for Best Mediterranean and Bosnian food within the area. Customers rave online about the authenticity of the Bosnian culture within the Restaurant, but not only about the food. The owner recalls cooking plenty of meals oﬀ-menu, because of the large Bosnian crowd that comes looking for a taste of home; particularly, cevapi – giant beef sausage that is known to fulfill even the hungriest of customers. The courses are no diﬀerent, either: starting with kulazy, moving to a Bosnian soup or salad, then over a dozen entrees centered around meat or pasta. Plenty of long-time customers gather here, as the food is ‘too good’ and so is the company. Come for the kulazy and the live music on a Saturday, stay for the company and the authentic Bosnian culture.

Photo courtesy of River Front Times

Photo courtesy of Little J.

SAMEEM

CAFE NATASHA

4341 MANCHESTER AVE. AFGHANI

ameem Afghan Restaurant and Catering, known for its memorable dining experience, is the perfect place for residents to be immersed into a new culture. Being the first and only Afghan restaurant in the entire state of Missouri, they serve delectable Afghani courses complete with lamb, chicken, hearty stews, kabobs, chops, and rice dishes. They even serve to the vegetarian groups, with various types of pasta and vegetable dishes. The classic and elegant atmosphere of the restaurant shares the spotlight with the generous portions (but still reasonable prices) of the cuisine. The staﬀ isn’t the only person who thinks so, either – Sameem was named “One of top 5 new Restaurants in 2005” by the St. Louis Post-Dispatch, and the “Best Middle Eastern Restaurant in 2006” by River Front Times Magazine. The staﬀ promises that if you have never had Afghan food, try Sameem and you will become a fan forever of this cuisine.

3200 S GRAND BLVD. PERSIAN

Photo courtesy of Bojana D.

Photo courtesy of Ladue News

f you’re looking for a taste of family – no matter how far yours is – Café Natasha is the place to be. The Café, named after Beshid and Hamishe Bahram’s only daughter, Natasha, is a fine dining experience located in the heart of the University City Loop. The family began their culinary story when Beshid lost his job to the downturn of the economy in 1982, but their passion for food and their Persian culture were only just beginning. Today, Café Natasha has countless awards under their belt for their authentic Middle Eastern food. Known for their Persian stews and homemade kabobs, customers rave about the incredible food and the family-vibe that is created within the Café. Recently celebrating their 35th anniversary, their three restaurants still have Behshid in the kitchen inventing new signature flavors and Hamishe making everyone feel like family by the end of their meal.

INTERNATIONAL FOOD / SUMMER 2018 / 08

3226 S GRAND BLVD. TURKISH

ooking for a classic Turkish meal wholly inspired by the motherland? Sheesh restaurant on Grand is the place you’re looking for. The amazing décor and authentic music will drag you in, but the fantastic cuisine will make you stay. Turkish or not, the food can bring in customers of all backgrounds – specifically, for the rice pudding, Turkish coffee, and kabobs. Rather than coming simply for the food, customers rave about the experience. Sheesh is highly decorated to the Turkish culture, as well as the music and service that is provided with every meal. The staff advertises a wonderful Turkish experience, fulfilled with Pistachio kebabs, stuffed grape leaves, and incredible apple tea with baklava for dessert. Sheesh creates an environment that makes a simple dinner a special event.

Photo courtesy of Sheesh Restuarant

BAIDA

3191 S GRAND BLVD. MOROCCAN

f you’re looking for an experience near campus with an adventurous spice to it, the place to be is the Baida Moroccan Restaurant. The Restaurant opened in September 2013 on South Grand by a husband and wife, Abderrahmane and Assia Meskine, who are from Casablanca, Morocco. In their short five years being in business, they have received plenty of awards from River Front Times for their “Best Middle Eastern food in St. Louis,” “Top 10 Best Mediterranean Restaurants in St. Louis,” and “10 of the Best (and Most Beautiful) Salads to Try This Summer.” This cute café oﬀers a variety of Moroccan dishes, as well as plentiful vegan options with beautiful outdoor seating – with the addition of belly dancing shows once every month to add a bit of a Moroccan culture flair. If you want to find a hole in the wall gem of St. Louis to take some friends, Baida Moroccan Restaurant can give a home-like Moroccan feel, with plenty of vibrant flavors.

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SHEESH

Sheesh creates an environment that makes a simple dinner a special event.

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INTERNATIONAL FOOD/ SUMMER 2018 / 09

GUERILLA STREET FOOD

6120 DELMAR BLVD. FILIPINO

ack in 2011, Brian Hardesty and Joel Crespo were working at Terrene, a fine dining restaurant in the city, when they came up with an idea – they were going to start a food truck business selling Filipino cuisine. Although these two ideas were brand new to St. Louis in 2011, they decided to take the risk together; they bought an old laundry van and began working. With Joel’s heritage and Brian’s culinary pedigree, the two created a successful business that blew up as soon as it hit the streets. Now, they have two restaurants in the city along with their beloved food truck. Guerrilla Street Food is named after the persistent and passionate Guerrilla fighters, and their food follows in this namesake. Customers love their story, and the food. The two decided to take their own twist on traditional Filipino cuisine and create Filipino-American dishes that reflect their own personalities.

Photo courtesy of Whiskey and Soba

TAI KE

8604 OLIVE BLVD. TAIWANESE

uthenticity is not a scarcity when it comes to the Tai Ke restaurant on Olive Boulevard. Known as the original Taiwanese street food, getting a meal from Tai Ke helps customers experience a taste of Taiwan. Being a Top 100 St. Louis restaurant, there is always a waitlist on the weekends because of the large crowd craving an authentic Taiwanese meal. No matter the bustle, there is always impeccable service, raves customers. Tai Ke is the city’s first 100% Taiwanese restaurant; the rarity of this type of restaurant is immense in the culture-filled city of St. Louis. The customers love that the food is authentic, as it takes them to Taiwan as they walk in the doorway. A cultural food completely untouched by American culture is a rarity that must be celebrated within St. Louis – come experience a new culture at the Tai Ke restaurant in the city.

Photo courtesy of Guerilla Street Food

Photo courtesy of De Palm Tree

DE PALM TREE

8631 OLIVE BLVD. JAMAICAN

e Palm Tree restaurant is as much about the food as it is about celebrating the Jamaican culture. The staﬀ invites customers to come in and get enriched by the vibrant flavors of their magical culture with plenty of meat, spices, and exotic fruits and vegetables. De Palm Tree promises to bring in authentic Jamaican recipes and ideals through their ‘carnival of color’ throughout the restaurant and a taste of the wonderful Caribbean lifestyle that everyone craves. Customers explain that they were thrown by the size of the restaurant, but when they stepped inside, the island aspect of Jamaican culture became very evident. The décor and service, customers decide, are great – but the real gems are the dishes. If you’re looking for a little vacation from boring cuisine, De Palm Tree promises to bring a little tropical sunshine into your life.

Photo courtesy of TripAdvisor

INTERNATIONAL FOOD / SUMMER 2018 / 10

567 MELVILLE AVE. INDIAN

f you are looking for some authentic, traditional Indian cuisine right here in the heart of Saint Louis, then look no further than Taj Mahal. Located in the Delmar Loop and open 6 days a week for Lunch and Dinner, it offers carry out, catering and lunch buffet option. The lunch buffet is not only delicious but guaranteed to be filling, and for only $9.99 it is well-worth trying as many different unique Indian flavors as possible. The space is homely and comforting; setting the perfect atmosphere for a quiet meal at lunch or dinner. This restaurant offers a wide range of Indian classics from chicken tandoori to a spot on smooth-spiced tikka masala. Whatever you order, don’t forget to add a side of naan bread, it’s always warm and fresh straight out of the oven.

Photo courtesy of Feast Magazine

LU LU SEAFOOD

8224 OLIVE BLVD. CHINESE

uLu’s Seafood and Dim Sum is the epitome of humble beginnings. Siblings LiHua and LiMing Lu started LuLu in 1993 with a simple restaurant. Now, the staff explains, it’s a dim sum palace. Known for its dim sum, LuLu’s states that its recipes are authentic to Chinese cuisine because their chefs are always from the region the plate originates from. Whether its seafood or dim sum that entices you in, the plate will always be fresh and authentic to the regions of Sichuan, Hong Kong, Shanghai, or Beijing. Customers love the prices, servers, portions, and the tradition that LuLu’s Seafood has to offer. The Lu family states that in Chinese heritage, close friends are called aiyis (aunties), and da ges (big brother). Come in to LuLu’s and the staff promises that you will be treated like an aiyi or da ge no matter what.

Photo courtesy of Yelp

Photo courtesy of Riverfront Times

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TAJ MAHAL

Customers love the prices, servers, portions, and the tradition that Lu Lu’s has to offer.

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COFFEE & DESSERTS/ SUMMER 2018 / 11

FOUNDATION GROUNDS

7298 MANCHESTER ROAD

aplewood may be a bit of a drive from SLU, but it is definitely worth it for a trip to Foundation Grounds coﬀee shop. Sometimes a little trip is exactly what a stressed-out student needs. With unique flavors like honeylavender, honey-cardamom and vanilla-cinnamon in addition to all the classics, they’ll have you coming back for more. The shop provides a cozy environment with plenty of people watching perfect for a study break. But more than quality beverages or comfy seating, Foundation Grounds is dedicated to using locally sourced products and an ecologically responsible business. Not into coﬀee? Foundation Grounds also sells a wide variety of bakery items in addition to breakfast, lunch and dinner options. Never feel guilty about an extravagant brunch outing again when you are munching on delicious foods sourced from local farms.

Photos courtesy of Meredyth Staunch

KALDI’S COFFEE

1 SOUTH VANDEVENTER

ooking for a campus getaway, but don’t have a car? Look no further than Kaldi’s Coffee on Vandeventer. Just off of Saint Louis University’s campus, Kaldi’s can be spotted by their unique goat emblem. The St. Louis grow company has been serving specialty coffee since the 1990s, and they have stood the test of time–and super-chain coffee houses–due to thier dedication to a memorable coffee experience. In addition to brewing delicious cups of coffee, Kaldi’s is committed to sustainable sourcing and roating practices. Starting with the harvesting of the coffee fruit and beans, the company works with farmers to ensure that all products are not picked until ripe. This practice guarentees the freshest possible cup of coffee for every customer. With a great location, amazing coffee and a variety of teas a treats to choose from, Kaldi’s Coffee should be at the top of every SLU student’s list.

Photo courtesy of Tumbler

Photo courtesy of Trip Advisor

Photo courtesy of The Odyssey

CRAVE COFFEE HOUSE

3500 CAROLINE STREET

he hidden gem of SLU’s Medical Campus, Crave Coffee House is the perfect place for any student to relax after classes. With a wide variety of coffees, teas, breakfast goods and lunch, you can celebrate everything from finishing finals to making it to that 8 AM class on time. Hop on the shuttle and get the much needed caffeine fix you need. You may be sensing a trend here, but this shop does not just provide the perfect study environment, it is a non-profit business dedicated to the MidTown community. Part coffee house, part church, Crave provides an environment for building relationships, enjoying food and worshiping. From supporting local Girl Scout troops to hosting community prayer groups, crave is always giving back to MidTown. Instead of buying coffee from your local chain, consider a trip to Crave where you can feel good about your purchase.

Photo courtesy of Spoon University

COFFEE & DESSERTS / SUMMER 2018 / 12

BLOOM CAFE

njoy breakfast or lunch and feel good about it too. The best way to eat out in St. Louis, is to support a company dedicated to the growth of individuals with disabilities. The program starts with 12-weeks of training where the “students” learn the necessary skills they need to prepare and serve delicious food to the customers. After this training, the students can graduate to a paid-internship program where they continue to gain skills and experiences. Once the intern is ready, Bloom partners with Parasquad to find and maintain jobs in the community that will continue to foster their skills. You’ll always find a reason to smile when you spend your day at Bloom Cafe. Alongside amazing food and drink, customers get the unique experience of supporting such an amazing cause. Foster new friendships, enjoy a treat and promote a better future for the community at Bloom.

Photo courtesy of Sprudge.com

RISE COFFEE HOUSE 4176 MANCHESTER AVENUE

Photo courtesy of Trover.com

here is no shortage of quality coffee houses in the St. Louis area, but trying a new one is always an adventure. Consider stopping by Rise Coffee House for your next caffeine conquest. With a full menu of seasonal flavors, Rise is the perfect spot to refuel after a beautiful day spent in the vibrant Grove neighborhood just a few miles drive from SLU. But Rise serves more than just quality, sustainably sourced coffee and delicious food. The shop is committed to providing a space for the community to come together and discuss the challenges they are facing. Students of SLU, dedicated to being men and women for others, would fit right in at this community-based shop. Use the space for a study break, a group dialogue, or simply sit back and people watch. Rise provides a comfortable space for everyone to come together.

Photos courtesy of Meredyth Stauch

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5200 OAKLAND AVE.

You’ll always find a reason to smile when you spend your day at Bloom Cafe.

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COFFEE & DESSERTS/ SUMMER 2018 / 13

JENI’S SPLENDID ICE CREAM

Photo courtesy of Explore St. Louis

Photo courtesy of Roadfood

389 N EUCLID AVE.

rose sorbet, brown-butter almond brittle, pistachio and honey, salted peanut butter with chocolate flecks, is your mouth watering yet? Run, don’t walk, to Jeni’s Splendid Ice Cream to enjoy delicious ice cream with wonderfully unique flavor combinations. For the last 20 years, Jeni Britton Bauer has been perfecting the craft of ice cream making, and she’s got it down. Perfectly round scoops sit in aesthetically pleasing cups and cones can be enjoyed in cute little shops across the country. Most importantly the insta-worthy treats can be enjoyed just a few minutes from campus in the Central West End. Grab a scoop after dinner, or treat yourself to an afternoon of ice cream and a trip to Left Bank Books right nextdoor. After one bite, you’ll be hooked. But don’t worry too much about missing Jeni’s when you have to leave St. Louis. If you don’t live near one of Jeni’s other locations, you can order online and have it shipped anywhere in the U.S.

TED DREWES

6726 CHIPPEWA STREET

eat the scorching St. Louis heat with a community staple. Ted Drewes has been serving up their famous frozen custard for over 80 years. From simple scoops to gravity defying concretes they serve upside down, everyone enjoy a treat that beats the heat. Make sure you check the schedule before you rush to your cars. The ice cream shop is only open seasonally, and customers line up to the old-school windows for the classic taste that has everyone coming back for more. Enjoy a classic banana split, or opt for one of the more Missouri-themed flavors like “Cardinal Sin” or “Terramizzou.” Nothing compares to the decadent taste of a Ted Drewes concrete, but the shop does more than just scoop ice cream. Every fall and winter Ted Drewes opens back up to sell Christmas trees to the community. The Drewes family has their own tree farm in Nova Scotia where they hand-pick the best trees to bring back home. From enjoying a tasty treat in the dead of summer to a quiet winter evening around the Christmas trees, Ted Drewes is a staple business in the St. Louis community.

Photo courtesy of The Riverfront Times

Photo courtesy of Kendall Dehart

Photo courtesy of The Cup

THE CUP

28 MARYLAND PLAZA

hat goes better with a scoop of ice cream than a delicious cupcake? After you swing by Jeni’s, head to this equally amazing Central West End staple for their delectable treats. With classic flavors like red velvet and confetti alongside limited edition specialties such as maple bacon and peach cobbler, The Cup has a flavor for everyone. In addition to baking up amazing flavors for every season, the bakery supports dozens of charitable organizations each month. This month some of their featured organizations were The American Red Cross, Big Brothers Big Sisters St. Louis and Cardinal’s Care. There is certainly no better way to cap oﬀ a beautiful day in the Central West End than with a delicious cupcake from The Cup.

Photo courtesy of Pinterest

COFFEE & DESSERTS / SUMMER 2018 / 14

VITALE’S BAKERY 2130 MARCONI AVE.

itale’s Bakery has been serving classic Italian dessert and breads on “The Hill” since 1976. The bakery’s history, however, started back in 1947 when Peter and Frances Vitale opened Bommarito’s Bakery that served fresh baked bread to the downtown area. As the business grew, their children took the reins and Vitale’s was born. Today, Vitale’s serves up more than just homemade breads. They provide some of the tastiest Italian desserts to the St. Louis community including “the best cannoli on The Hill.” Stop in to bring a drool worthy treat to your next family party, or simply grab some dessert after dinner on The Hill. With community driven values and a long family history, Vitale’s is a staple of both the The Hill and St. Louis communities . Customers are always coming back for more. Vitale’s famous cannolis are definitely a must try this summer.

Photo courtesy of Trip Advisor

MISSOURI BAKING COMPANY 2027 EDWARDS STREET

othing says classic like the Missouri Baking Company. The family owned bakery has been a landmark of “The Hill” neighborhood since 1924, and they have certainly mastered the art of baking. Photo courtesy of The Food Channel Stop in for some Italian classics, or try their seasonal specialties around Christmas and Easter. Customers come back time and again for their famous chocolate drops and of course their gooey butter cake, a St. Louis staple. The Hill if filled with amazing restaurants where you’ll find the best Italian eats in the city, but no trip to the area is complete without stopping by Missouri Baking Co. for dessert. Even better than their famous treats, the bakery is known for their amazing customer service. You’ll never have a bad experience when you step into this shop dedicated to family values. The community loves this classic bakery, but they could not keep it to themselves for long. Missouri Baking Co. is a community classic that tourists from near and far have come to treasure.

Photo courtesy of Facebook

PLACES

TOURIST ATTRACTIONS / SUMMER 2018 / 15

BUSCH STADIUM 700 CLARK AVE.

Courtesy of Trenton Almgren-Davis

usch Stadium, also known as baseball heaven, is located in the heart of downtown St. Louis with perfect views of the Gateway Arch and city scape in the background. Busch Stadium is home to the famous St. Louis Cardinals and their trusty mascot Fredbird. Come to the stadium and see why St. Louis has been named number one for some of the most dedicated baseball fans in the country. Not only can the parents enjoy a famous Budweiser beer in the city in which it is brewed, but everyone can also enjoy the typical baseball foods like hot dogs, nachos and more. Busch Stadium also holds diﬀerent events from concerts and this summer, Ed Sheeran will perform there. In the past, other sporting events, like professional soccer and even hockey has been played on the field. Directly by Busch Stadium is Ballpark Village, which is filled with diﬀerent restaurants and a fun social atmosphere to hang out before, after or during the game.

GATEWAY ARCH ST. LOUIS

he iconic monument of St. Louis is the Gateway Arch, which symbolizes that the city is the “Gateway to the West.” The Arch is a bucket-list activity when visiting the city. Many people are surprised to discover when visiting the Arch that you can actually go into the monument itself by riding to the top. From there, you can see the Mississippi River and the riverboats that occupy it. On the other side, there is a grassy area for people to enjoy picnics, bike rides and more on the newly renovated grounds. Inside the Arch is a visitor center and the Museum of Westward Expansion. The most exciting part is traveling up into the Arch. You travel in a small white tram capsule, similar to an elevator, that takes you up at a diagonal angle to reach the top where you will receive some of the best views in the city, including a view of the Old Courthouse, where the historic Dred Scott took place.

Courtesy of Quest Energy Group

Courtesy of St. Louis Post Dispatch

FOREST PARK TRAIL 5995 GRAND DRIVE

orest Park Trail is a path that navigates through the biggest park in St. Louis City. It is a 6.5 mile trail that loops around the whole park, so you can see the park from beginning to end. Break out your bike, or just a good pair of walking shoes to see everything Forest Park has to oﬀer. On the trail you will be able to see museums, golf courses, ponds and unique things that are only to be found in St. Louis. We have the Jewel Box, a giant greenhouse constructed for the 1904 World’s Fair, the Grand Basin, a water feature that is the location of many local high school student’s prom pictures and the Muny, one of the world’s largest outdoor theatres where one can see outdoor musicals in the summer. The wide green spaces will make you feel like you escaped the hustle and bustle of the city. The best thing about Forest Park is that it’s less than 10 blocks away from campus so this trail

ST. LOUIS ART MUSEUM FOREST PARK 1 FINE ARTS DRIVE

Courtesy of Dona Brown Charitable Trust and St. Louis Zoo

ocated at the top of Art Hill in Forest Park, the Saint Louis Art Museum houses more than 34,000 works. The collection is constantly being updated and rotated as new pieces are brought to the city. Admission to the museum is free everyday and featured exhibitions are free every Friday, and closed on Monday. The current exhibit, The main building of the museum, contains collections of ancient art to modernist art from around the world. The east building, the latest addition to the museum, is home to the collection contemporary art. The museum also has its own restaurant, education center and outdoor sculpture garden. Every final Friday of the month, the museum puts up “SLAM Underground,” which is a free themed event with hands-on art projects, live music and games. The neo-classical building designed for the 1904 World’s Fair overlooks the hill and grand basin of Forest Park.

ST. LOUIS ZOO GOVERNMENT DRIVE

onveniently located in Forest Park, the St. Louis Zoo is a popular spot for students to go for a quick nature expedition after studying hard. The location is just two stops away on the metro from SLU’s Campus, and is fun for all ages. The best part of the zoo is that it is free, making it one of only ten free zoos in the nation. This attraction spans across 90 acres and is home to over 16,000 diverse animals. The animal exhibitions include rare and endangered species, which are cared for through wildlife conservation and innovative approaches. From May 25 through September 3, the zoo will be filled with fun shows for the entire family. Every Friday is filled with music at the zoo with their Jungle Boogie Concert Series, featuring a variety of bands such as Johnny Henry Band, Griﬃn and the Gargoyles and Might Pines. Animals featured through shows include the sea lion show, stingrays, and safari tours.

Courtesy of Explore St. Louis

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TOURIST ATTRACTIONS/ SUMMER 2018 / 16

The neoclassical building designed for the 1904 World’s Fair overlooks the hill and grand basin of Forest Park.

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CITY MUSEUM 750 N. 16TH STREET

pened in 1997, the City Museum strays away from the traditional museum. It is filled with complex tunnels and contraptions, serving for a great playroom for all ages. This repurposed industrial space of 600,000 square-feet was initially a International Shoe Company. The museum is a combination of a playground, rooftop and eccentric architecture. Along with the narrow tunnels and spinning hemisphere chairs, the four floors of the City Museum feature old chimneys, bridges, cranes and two abandoned planes. Make sure to put on some sneakers and bring in $14 to the City Museum — $12 for students — to check out their 10-Story Slide, Skateless Skate Park and St. Louis Art Center Gallery for an indoor adventure.

Courtesy of The Historical Society

ST. LOUIS SCIENCE CENTER

HISTORY MUSEUM

5050 OAKLAND AVE.

5700 LINDELL BLVD.

he St. Louis History Museum is located in Forest Park, where all of our museums are based. It is also a free museum and a fun place to visit when the St. Louis humidity is getting to you. The History Museum brings traveling exhibits to fill the two halls on the main floor. The exhibits also constantly change, so you are bound to find something that will spark your interests there eventually. The second floor is home to a St. Louis history based collection. This collection is an awesome place to begin to understand the rich history of our city and find out more about the city you are about to call home for the next four years. The coolest thing about the museum is that hanging from the ceiling is a replica of the Spirit of St. Louis plane that Charles Lindbergh flew for the first transatlantic flight. So when you step foot inside the History Museum, do not forget to look up!

Courtesy of St. Louis Science Center

Courtesy of Explore St. Louis

cience enthusiasts and curious students! Head on down to the Saint Louis Science Center to experience its exhibits and attractions, the Omnimax theater and the Planetarium. With 700 interactive exhibits, visitors can experience new things, from learning the importance of fossils by participating in a mini fossil dig to learning how a current travels through a metal wire. Starting this summer, visitors can see the newest feature exhibit, Destination Moon: The Apollo Mission or watch “Journey to the South Pacific” at the IMAX Theatre. Make sure to cross the skybridge, which passes over I-64, where you can see how fast the cars are speeding by and look at them from above. The planetarium will take you to another dimension.You can see the stars in the Orthwein Starbay Show and take a self-guided tour of the Boeing Space station after the show. Beginning June 7, the Planetarium will house Science at Sunset, an event where families can enjoy food specials, live music, and great chemistry. Make sure to stop by during your SLU 101 visit!

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CASTLEWOOD

1401 KIEFER CREEK ROAD

Courtesy of Eckert’s Farm

ust 30 minutes west of SLU’s campus, Castlewood State Park is the perfect place for any outdoor activity you can think of. The park has trails for hiking, biking and horseback riding, fishing in the river, picnic sites and playgrounds. The park is open yearround, seven days a week from 7 a.m. until 30 minutes past sunset. At 250 feet above ground, the highest point on the River Scene trail provides panoramic views of the Meramec River valley. Throughout summer, Castlewood hosts interpretive and educational programs about natural and cultural history topics. From June to September, the park also arranges day camps, Scout groups, church groups and private groups. Right around the corner of the trails is the World Bird Sanctuary, which houses live birds and features displays on birds and their activities. The park hopes to promote the preservation of open-space lands and the establishment of a 100-mile greenbelt along the lower Meramec River.

ECKERT’S FARM

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...the River Scene trail provides panoramic views of the Meramec River valley

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11520 GRAVOIS ROAD

ome in to Eckert’s once it opens in June for the new season. Just about 30 minutes away and located in our neighboring city in Belleville, Eckert’s’ fresh harvest in the summer contains peaches, blackberries, cantaloupes, and watermelons. As the fall semester comes in, Eckert’s will have its well-known variety of strawberries, apples, and pumpkins. Providing the rustic feel, visitors only have to pay a dollar to get their all-field access pass and take the tractor down for this farm filled fun. Their in-house products are one not to miss and the tastes of their apple butter, pumpkin butter, and apple cider are their specialities. For the year, the farm will be open for a limited time only until the Christmas season comes through and then it becomes a perfect spot to pick up a Christmas tree.

Courtesy of Gateway Cyclists

HIDDEN GEMS / Summer 2018 / 19

PAPER DOLLS 7700 DELMAR BLVD.

Photo courtesy of Information St. Louis

our gems can be discovered in the St. Louis area all under one name: Paper

Dolls. Paper Dolls is a fashion boutique with locations in Kirkwood, Ballwin, University City and Des Peres. The boutique sells apparel, jewelry and accessories in both the latest fashion trends and those featuring a classic look. Paper Dolls is “consistently rated as the best boutique in St. Louis,” according to the Paper Dolls website. Each location has its own lead stylist whose services can be accessed via appointment. The four locations are open Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m; Saturdays, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.; and Sundays 12 p.m.- 5 p.m.

SOULARD FARMER’S MARKET 730 CARROLL STREET

ecured under the vaulted ceiling of the market, arrays of fresh fruits, vibrant vegetables, baked goods, meats and a myriad of spices can be found. Soulard’s Farmers Market has been a staple in the area since 1779 when farmers exchanged goods on the 122 acres of open land owned by Antoine Soulard. Today, the farmer’s market is a place to purchase locally grown and shipped products. Milling through the aisles of people carrying baskets full of merchandise, one catches the sounds of chatting costumers and aromas of a wide variety of foods wafting through the air. The marketplace is open Wednesday through Saturday: Wednesday and Thursday, the doors open at 8 a.m. and close at 5 p.m. Friday, the market is open from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, it is open from 7 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

Photo courtesy of Paper Dolls

Photo courtesy of Rocket Century

ROCKET CENTURY

3189 S GRAND BLVD.

ike a treasure chest, the treasures of Rocket Century lie within, but also like the chest, most of the treasures at Rocket Century are constructed out of wood. Rocket Century is a boutique located 2.5 miles south of SLU’s campus which buys and sells vintage modern furniture. Since 2012, Rocket Century has been a place to visit to see interesting furniture and artwork, which was previously existing only online. The dealers possess over 50 years of experience in the art and furniture business. Rocket Century is available Thursday through Saturday and Sunday: Thursday, Friday and Saturday, the boutique is open 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday, it is open from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m.

Photo courtesy of Rocket Century

HIDDEN GEMS/ Summer 2018 / 20

AVALON EXCHANGE 6392 DELMAR BLVD.

Exchange takes its roots A valon as a vintage clothing store to

FOUND BY THE POUND 3232 SOUTH GRAND

new store in the St. Louis mix, A Found by the Pound is a place

to discover. Opening in 2016 in Hazelwood and in 2017 on South Grand Blvd, Found by the Pound is a recycled clothing store. Tightly packed racks of jackets, shirts, and pants, and shelves of lined with boots, shoes and bags fill the thrift store. Found by the Pound claims to house thousands of merchandise so that one can find almost any article to add to their wardrobe. This eclectic experience allows for creativity and ingenuity of the shopper. The vibrant t-shirt or dress may catch one’s eye, or one may search deeper for that unique piece hidden in the rest which defines his or her refurbished look. Found by the Pond is open Wednesday through Sunday: Wednesday, Thursday and Sunday, 11 a.m to 7 p.m; Friday and Saturday, 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Photo Courtesy of Avalon Exchange

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Photo Courtesy of Found by the Pound

buy and sell interesting apparel. The Exchange primarily sells clothing, jewelry and shoes. Some of the featured items include designer clothing, Air Jordans and leather jackets. Each piece is purchased by the store from customers who bring in prized clothing. The clothes are valued based on season, style, brand and condition. Throughout the nation, Avalon Exchange exists in only three cities: Cleveland, Pittsburgh and St. Louis. Avalon Exchange is all about finding that “one of a kind” piece of clothing. The experience of searching through the clothes resembles flipping through vinyls in a record store. Avalon Exchange is open Monday through Saturday, 11 a.m. to 8 p.m and Sunday, 12 p.m. - 7 p.m.

The experience of searching through the clothes resembles flipping through vinyls in a record store.

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THE READY ROOM

Photo courtesy of Vintage Vinyl

THE GROVE 4195 MANCHESTER AVE.

ocated in the Grove’s entertainment district, the Ready Room is a 750 capacity concert venue that also houses a bar. Providing entertainment ranging from stand-up comedy to touring artists, and even art shows, the Ready Room has become a great attraction for locals to have a night out without busting a hole in their wallets. Performances are usually held on Mondays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays and Sundays, and upcoming summer concerts include Real Estate (June 7), Joan of Arc (July 5), Howl in Rain (July 17), and many others. Most, if not all, shows allow all ages to attend, and if you are looking to host knock-out party or company event, the Ready Room can book it in advance for you. Play in your own band? The Ready Room allows you to book the space, so you can showcase your talent and invite friends and family to attend. For booking information, contact Colin O’Brien or Ryan Sears at thereadyroom.com.

VINTAGE VINYL

THE LOOP 6610 DELMAR BLVD.

he perfect destination for over-zealous music enthusiasts, Vintage Vinyl oﬀers an extensive list of CDs and albums ranging from The Urge to So Many Dynamos. Along with its wide array of music from most genres, the store hosts bands and artists that cater to its retro vibe -- everything from Marilyn Manson to Chingy. At the end of May, Vintage Vinyl will host The Haddonfields on May 18 and Babe Lords on May 25. Both bands are long-running punk performers and will be releasing their newest hits. Along with providing live entertainment and satisfying a music gurus’ obsession, Vintage Vinyl purchases your old CDs, vinyls and DVDs. What was popular in the 1950s or ‘60s is revived through Vintage Vinyl’s addiction to purchasing the old and making it seem new. As its website says, “We are here to buy and sell the best music we can find.”

Photo courtesy of the Ready Room

Photo courtesy of Firebird

FIREBIRD

2706 OLIVE STREET

ntimate and modern, the Firebird showcases a venue for concerts, and it specifically appeals to the rock fanatics. Similar to the Ready Room, the Firebird hosts local artists - but its smaller setting strictly appeals to a more laid back crowd. A lounge; a bar; a night club. Call it what you will, but the Firebird definitely appeals to those who want to get on their feet and dance. One of the unique opportunities at the Firebird is its relationship with School of Rock. For over a decade, the School of Rock has been teaching guitar, bass, drums, vocals and keys through a performance-based method. The school oﬀers group rehearsals and private lessons as students show oﬀ what they’re learning on a stage in front of a rock audience at the Firebird.

Photo courtesy of Firebird

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LAFAYETTE SQUARE

218 ACRES, S OF CHOUTEAU/N OF I-44

Photo courtesy of BB’s Jazz, Blues and Soups

ome to Victorian houses, delicious restaurants, cute boutiques, gardens and 150-year old park, Lafayette Square is a trip in and of itself. At the heart of Lafayette Squre is Lafayette Park, which is comparable to Forest Park with its walking paths. The park also holds a beautifully landscaped grotto, the historic Park House and a playground. The area features tours twice per year in June and December. First taking place in 1969, residents showed oﬀ their new renovations and promoted other homes for sale within the area. Now, the tours showcase the classic Victorian architecture. Within the Lafayette Square is also its community garden at the corner of Park and Dolman avenues. The garden is dedicated to providing a site for residents to grow food, flowers and herbs. Want to book a private event? Lafayette Square accomodates to this need too. It also has a bath and tennis club for families to enjoy a dip in the pool.

BB’S JAZZ, BLUES AND SOUPS 700 S BROADWAY

Photo courtesy of BB’s

nce known as Phil’s Hotel in 1969, the 700 South Broadway building has experienced a vibrant past. Originally constructed in the 1800s, the now BB’s Jazz, Blues and Soups has been used as a home, boarding house, reception hall, merchantile, millinery, transient hotel, bar and diner. Now, it boasts of big band and swing shows with seating in a cabaret style and accompanied by a southern menu. BB’s hosts at least one show every night during the weekdays and weekends, and if appeals to a family-friendly atmosphere. Using a building with so much history, it is only appropriate that BB’s upholds a 1930s style - not too modern, but classy enough to enjoy a meal and music. Tickets are usually $10 and under, and artists are welcome to perform. For booking information contact John May at bbs.stl.john@gmail. com.

Photo courtesy of Lafayette Square

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It makes for a great place to relax and take in the world around you.

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ADVERTISEMENTS / SUMMER 2018/ 23

o t n p o p e in is r t S e t S t o T

MEET OUR 2018-19 EDITOTIAL BOARD

COLOPHON/ SUMMER 2018 / 24

MEREDYTH STAUNCH EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

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