Historic and cultural St. Louis is located in the state of Missouri. Furthermore, it offers a plethora of food options. St. Louis is a midwestern metropolitan city and provides a collection of local cuisines to its visitors, with each one sounding distinct due to the diverse regions. Many people have claimed that the St. Louis cake is called the ‘best cake in the world.’ Also, don’t forget the delicious toasted ravioli served with buttery sauce. For dessert, St. Louis offers a wide selection of mouthwatering delicacies that carry the weight of local culture and history. This blog post aims to highlight some of the best St. Louis specialties, with a detailed explanation on their history, cultural impact, and where to find the best versions of these famous food items. If you are a St. Louis native or just some curious tourist looking to treat their taste buds with something new, consider taking this journey which will highlight some lesser-known aspects of St. Louis. As the name suggests, the city is the doorway to the west side of the United States.
What Makes Louis Food Unique?
Investigating The Source Of Louis Culinary Delights
These St. Louis culinary specials were developed from the cultural roots of the city and were influenced by German, Italian, and French immigrants which came to the area. These groups brought with them traditional recipes and methods that were adapted to local ingredients and taste, resulting in iconic dishes. For example, toasted ravioli is a famous St. Louis appetizer believed to have originated in the Italian-American neighborhoods. It certainly adds to the foods to try in the city. Similarly, a beloved dessert, Gooey Butter Cake, was accidentally invented in the 1930s by a local baker trying to perfect his recipe. St. Louis style pizza, with Provel cheese and thin crust, is another classic in the city that has its unique take. These examples show the ingenuity and cross cultural exchange in St. Louis’ culinary traditions.
How St Louis Became a Gateway to the West for Food Lovers
The historical influences that served as the foundation for modern St. Louis is further complimented by its food offerings like the ever-cherished Louis style pizza which makes the city a lot more appealing for tourism. St. Louis known widely as the “Gateway to the West” also served as a melting pot of different foods and was a center of different cultural activities which explains the ever growing food scene marking culinary ports of the region. The recent economic and demographic reports highlighting the food economy of the city indicates that there is a significant boost in the food diversity of the city with over 1200 local restaurants paving the way for what is referred to as the Midwestern food capital.
Integration of regional produce is perhaps the most defining mark for St. Louis and its people. The culinary offerings at almost all the establishments are seasonally driven by the local farms and producers which increases the farm to table movement in the region. The establishing of farmers markets like Tower Grove Farmers Market have greatly advanced the available resources in supporting better sustainable dining and local agriculture. St. Lous is also home to over Sixty Breweries making it the epitome of craft beer lovers which is further enhanced with rich brewers like Schlafly and Urban Chestnut attracting countless tourists for their beer.
The city’s food festivals also contribute to the allure of the city, attracting thousands of visitors every year. The famous festivals like the Taste of St. Louis and Q in the Lou serve as a reminder of the city’s devotion to its food culture. These festivals capture the spirit of the Midwest through their wide-ranging easy-to-afford cuisines and also feature some of the best chefs. St. Louis, with its rich and innovative history intertwined with community-focused food and its vivid cuisine scene, proves itself to be a hub for true explorers and food enthusiasts.
The Impact of 1904 on St. Louis Cuisine
St. Louis hosted the 1904 World’s Fair and with it came unparalleled opportunities for the local businesses. The fair gave the world many innovations for food, like the ice cream cone, hot dog, and cotton candy. These foods became incredibly popular during the fair, and gradually took their place as part of the American diet. St. Louis got the privilege of being introduced on the international platform, which enabled the city to diversify its taste and cooking styles. This combination of flavor and tradition is what builds the St. Louis identity.
Why Is It So Important To Try Gooey Buttery Cake?
The Sweet Story Behind Gooey Butter Cake
This cake is one of the most famous delicacies in Missouri, along with St Louis and it traces its roots to about the 1930s. A German American baker is often credited for its invention due to his mistake of switching the ratios of butter and flour while preparing a classic cake. Instead of throwing it away, this innovative man decided to bake it and as a result, we got the rich and gooey texture we know and love today. The dish quickly gained popularity because of its one of a kind combination of the dense, buttery crust and creamy, sweet filling. St Louis folks and tourists simply cannot miss out on this delicacy which has become synonymous to claiming Illinois has the best cuisine in the States.
Where To Find The Best Gooey Butter Cake In St Louis
Like all other great places, St Louis has its own amazing bakeries and cafes serving incredible gooey buttery cake. Some of the must visit places include;
- Park Avenue Coffee – Offered is over 70 flavors of Gooey Butter Cake, crafted by local lovers of the dish, this venue promises to satisfy both taste and variety needs.
- Gooey Louie – Dedicated to only selling gooey buttery cake, this venue prides itself as home to some of the best hand crafted cakes in the city.
- Russell’s on Macklind – This nostalgic neighborhood cafe makes a classic St. Louis dessert from scratch and they are particularly known for their great taste and use of fresh ingredients.
According to a review in the Riverfront Times, these establishments have consistently served some of St. Louis’ most iconic desserts which makes them stand out to anyone craving the city’s signature dishes.
What is Special About Toasted Ravioli?
A Crispy, Delicious Twist: Discovering Toasted Ravioli
Toasted ravioli is an appetizing delight which is deep fried breaded ravioli and filled with beef, cheese or spinach, originating in St. Louis, Missouri. The toasted ravioli is usually served with a side of marinara sauce that brings a balance to both flavor and texture for a tastegasm. It’s as delicious as it is crispy! Italian-Americans are credited for this delightful dish in the Hill neighborhood that quickly became a local favorite.
From a City Joke to Toasted Ravioli: The Fried Wonder
St. Louis’ cuisine wouldn’t be complete without the fancy toasted ravioli. It’s almost like toasted ravioli was destined to join the St. Louis culinary parade – its Italian roots are essential to the city’s culture. Rumor has it that in the 1950s, some genius accidentally dropped a ravioli into boiling oil instead of water – and boom! Toasted ravioli was born. Since then this dish has become loved by tourists and locals alike.
There are countless eateries in St. Louis that boast about their authentic toasted ravioli. In recent decades, toasted ravioli’s fame has spread beyond the city’s borders. Local residents note that it is served at food festivals and sporting events, and has even made its way into fine dining restaurants. Economically speaking, the importance of toasted ravioli to the local food economy is staggering; over 5 million servings of toasted ravioli are sold annually, increasing St. Louis’s gastronomy tourism.
To date, and arguably the most sought after culinary dish, St. Louis toasted ravioli is now a cultural symbol of the city. It embodies the harmonious union of traditional Italian cooking and the entrepreneurial fervor of the area’s people. Its preparation method of enduring appeal, encapsulates toasted ravioli’s nostalgic history while brimming with pride made by those who enjoy it, making it one of the must-have foods in Saint Louis.
Where To Toasted Ravioli with Marinara Sauce
- Charlie Gitto’s on The Hill. As a classic Italian restaurant, Charlie Gitto’s serves some of the best toasted ravioli in St. Louis. Their crispy golden ravioli accompanied by marinara sauce is a visitor’s delight.
- Anthonina’s Taverna. Another restuarant located on The Hill, this family-owned business is famous for their toasted ravioli served with not just marinara sauce but a whole lot of taste.
- Zia’s on The Hill. Zia’s offers traditional toasted ravioli with stout marinara sauce which is crowned as the best accompaniment to their Italian-American cuisine.
- Mama’s on The Hill. Also dubbed as “The Original Toasted Ravioli,” Mama’s take on this St. Louis delicacy is bound to win the hearts of tourists and locals alike.
What Were The Reasons Behind The Popularity of Frozen Custard?
The Draw Influence Over Frozen Custard in St Louis
Since 1929, Ted Drewes has been one of the most influential people in increasing the popularity of frozen custard in St. Louis. Local residents quickly grew fond of the frozen custard due to its rich, creamy flavor. Things took a turn when Ted Drewes started serving the famous “concrete,” a blended frozen custard dessert served upside down to highlight its thick consistency. Over the years Ted Drewes has become an icon in St. Louis as the quality and tradition of the institution remained the same. Thanks to its strong presence, frozen custard has cemented its place as a significant part of the local food culture.
Why Frozen Custard Stands Out Compared to Just Getting an Ice Cream Cone
Frozen custard is unique enchanted form of ice cream due to its richness and more decadent taste. Saint Louis frozen custard lovers appreciate it for its creamier texture, which is due to the added 1.4% egg yolk solids. Also, the lower air content in frozen custard (20% versus the fluffier ice cream which can go overupt to 100%) gives it a smoother and denser consistency.
It has been noted that frozen custard’s temperature is maintained slightly warmer at 26°F (-3°C) compared to ice cream. This enables more of the rich flavors to be felt thereby adding to the gastronomic experience. Many shops across the United States are turning their focus towards crusading for handcrafted frozen custard. Artisanal production is on the rise proving to be a revolutionary push in the market Frozen custard has emerged the clear winner during the ongoing fight for superior non-ice cream based desserts.
What Makes Pork Steak a Local Favorite?
Unpacking the Popularity of Louis Style Pork Steak
Louis style pork steak remains a local favorite, owing to their strong flavors, relatively low cost, and adaptability. These steaks are usually cut from the pork shoulder part, and are famous for their rich marbling which yields a juicy and tender texture when cooked. A distinguishing feature of its Louis-style preparation is the application of barbecue sauce, usually placed on the meat before slow grilling or braising to bring out the flavor. Its readiness and ability to satisfy varied tastes makes it a common feature in family dinners and backyard cookouts throughout the region.
Enhancing the taste of Pork Steak with Barbeque sauce
In my personal experience, the best way to pair pork steak and barbecue sauce is through balancing flavors, something that is often found in Saint Louis barbecue cuisine. The saltier and spicier sauces add great contrast and compliment the natural sweetness of the pork. For balance, I recommend applying the sauce in two stages; basting some on the steak during grilling and doubling the quantity at the end before serving so that the flavors intensify. Also, while Saint Louis cuisine is best complemented by smokier barbecue sauces, sweet or spicy sauces work as well depending on your preferred taste.
Why are Riplets so Loved in St. Louis?
The Spicy Appeal of Red Hot Riplets
Due to its distinctly spicy flavor and its connection to the region, Red Hot Riplets has gained widespread popularity in St. Louis. Its fiery kick is remembered and beloved by all its patrons. When someone thinks of these ridged potato chips, they instantly think of the signature blend of hot chili pepper, and sweet barbecue seasoning that is so preciously ingrained in St. Louis. These savory snacks are often associated with the old Vienna culture because of their unforgettable spice and seasoning.
Setting Out to Discover More Unique Flavors of Red Hot Riplets
Founded in 1936, the main aim of Old Vienna was to proudly present the distinctive taste of St. Louis. Experienced chefs ensure a precise seasoning blended with paprika, onion powder, and minced garlic. This blend does wonders and is what distinguishes Riplets from other chips while also getting the loving memories tied to St. Louis cuisine. This sophisticated mixture of spices striking the perfect balance between Doubls Sweetness and Scharpness gives Riplets the taste that many seek out.
Red Hot Riplets are unique with chips of extract of patato due to their suffocating crunch and the ridged edges of the chips which accentuate the flavor. St. Louis locals buy these chips by the thousands each year. The flavor is extraordinary, and can be used in various methods – as breaded chicken, chicken in casseroles, and crumbled chicken on top of mac and cheese. These snacks are brilliantly delectable which makes it loved by many. Red Hot Riplets have made their position in St. Louis, and become a hot topic because of the mark it leaves in the snack food market.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What are St. Louis-style ribs and how do they differ from other ribs?
A: St. Louis-style ribs can best be described as a trimmed version of spare ribs. They are rectangular in shape, smoked or grilled, and generously slathered with sweet and tangy barbecue sauce. St. Louis ribs are unique compared to other types because the meat is very tender and falls off the bone easily, which is why many people enjoy them.
Q: Where can you find a slinger in St. Louis, and what is it?
A: A slinger is a local dish that is widespread in St. Louis. A typical serving contains two scrambled eggs, hash browns, a ground beef patty, and chili with cheese and onions on top. Local diners throughout the city serve slingers, particularly those that cater to late-night patrons.
Q: Define Gerber sandwich and its ingredients.
A: Gerber sandwich is a culinary delicacy of St. Louis which is an open-faced sandwich made of French or Italian bread with garlic butter spread on it. It is topped with ham, Provel cheese, and paprika before being toasted until the cheese melts and bubbles.
Q: What makes St. Louis-style pizza unique?
A: The distinctive feature of St. Louis-style pizza is its extremely thin and crispy crust which has a cracker-like texture. Unlike other pizzas, it is usually cut into squares, a method referred to as “party cut” or “tavern cut.” Instead of traditional mozzarella, the pizza usually comes with Provel cheese, a processed cheese blend. The sauce is frequently sweeter than what is used in other styles of pizza.
Q: What is a St. Paul sandwich and where did it originate?
A: St. Paul’s sandwich is an invention of St. Louis regardless of its name. It comprises an egg foo young patty, that is made of eggs and vegetables, placed between two slices of white bread along with lettuce, pickles, mayonnaise, and occasionally tomato. The consensus is that the sandwich was created by Chinese American immigrants in St. Louis and it is readily available in Chinese American eateries all over the city, adding to the multicultural culinary profile of Saint Louis.
Q: What are Red Hot Riplets and why are they popular in St. Louis?
A: Red Hot Riplets is a flavor of ridged potato chips seasoned with a proprietary blend of hot sauce and barbecue spices. They have been produced by Old Vienna, a St. Louis company, since the 1970s. Old Vienna, the company that produces them, is affectionately referred to as “the local chip company”, and they have proudly kept Saint Louis’s chip pride alive with the distinct taste and heat filled riplets.
Q: What is Ted Drewes Frozen Custard and why is it a must-try in St. Louis?
A: Ted Drewes Frozen Custard is famous for the rich, creamy frozen custard served throughout St. Louis as well as the rest of the country. Founded during the 1929’s, it is most famously known for it’s “concrete”- an extremely thick shake that while being turned upside down does not spill out. Everyone sleepless in Saint Louis considers the Drewes as custodians of delicacies.”
Reference Sources
- “Are Asian foods healthier than Western foods: Evidence collected from St. Louis area grocery stores”
- Authors: Chau Tran, Maciej Buchowski
- Journal: Journal of Emerging Investigators
- Publication Year: 2023
- Summary:
- The study investigates the differences in the Asian and Western cuisines’ nutritional value present in the grocery stores in St. Louis Country in Missouri.
- Methodology: They accumulated information on 648 food products from three Asia grocery stores and one Western supermarket and recorded their nutritional data.
- Key Findings: The study indicated that the foods from Asian stores had lower protein and higher sodium levels when compared to Western stores challenging the idea that Asian foods are healthier intrinsically.
- “Healthy Options in Food Pantries—A Qualitative Analysis of Factors Affecting the Provision of Healthy Food Items in St. Louis, Missouri”
- Authors: Melissa Chapnick et al.
- Journal: Journal of Hunger & Environmental Nutrition
- Publication Year: 2019
- Summary:
- This qualitative research investigates the determinants regarding the presence of nutritious food options within food pantries located in St. Louis.
- Methodology: Discussions with food pantry personnel were carried out to discover obstacles and enablers to providing healthy food options.
- Key Findings: The research pointed out difficulties like the storage of perishable foods while underscoring the role of the donor’s relationship in enhancing the availability of healthy foods.
- “Worksite Influences on Obesogenic Behaviors in Low-Wage Workers in St Louis, Missouri, 2013–2014”
- Authors: Jaime R. Strickland et al.
- Journal: Preventing Chronic Disease
- Publication Year: 2015
- Summary:
- This particular study looks into the occupational elements that impact the diet and physical activity patterns of St. Louis low-wage workers.
- Methodology: To evaluate the eating patterns of hospital and retail employees, as well as their engagement in workplace wellness programs, surveys were distributed to these workers.
- Key Findings: As described in the report, the study uncovered that a large portion of the workers had unhealthy eating habits and little to no exercise, which suggests further research is warranted.
- St. Louis
- Gooey butter cake
