The Sauce

In this final episode of The Sauce, Meera Nagarajan, executive editor, discusses leaving Sauce Magazine after 16 years. She shares a few memories from her time working at the magazine and the St. Louis meals that changed her life. You can continue to find copies of the monthly print magazine the first Wednesday of the month and daily updates on the website at SauceMagazine.com. To all listeners of The Sauce, we thank you for tuning in each week. It has been a pleasure and an honor to serve you.

This week Meera and Michelle discuss a visit to CITYPARK, where the vegan kebab at Balkan Treat Box and the bacos at Saucy Porka stood out. Also in the conversation was a visit to Blues City Deli where their take on the tuna melt, the fiesty tuna sandwich, was a knockout. A recent trip to Tucker's Place solidifies that this steak house is serving up one of the most affordable steaks in town. CITYPARK 2100 Market St., St. Louis Balkan Treat Box Saucy Porka Blues City Deli 2438 McNair Ave., St. Louis, 314-773-8225 Tucker's Place 4 Hands + Peacemaker Kirkwood 150 W. Argonne Dr., Kirkwood First Look: 4 Hands + Peacemaker Kirkwood

This week Michelle and Meera chat about a recent visit to Old Bakery Beer where they got to try new dishes from their menu including a pulled pork sandwich and a tofu parmesan sandwich. Also in the conversation is Daile's Smokehouse where the barbecue is delicious but the sides here are equally as good. Also in the talk is a recent visit to Niche Food Group's resurrected Porano, which was in the form of a pop-up at Wild Carrot as they gear up for their summer opening in Des Peres. Finally, they discuss the Saucy Soiree, Sauce's annual grand tasting party where some of the city's best restaurants and bars come out with creative and delicious tastings. Old Bakery Beer 400 Landmarks Blvd., Alton, Illinois, 618-463-1470 Daile's Smokehouse 2951 Dougherty Ferry Road, St. Louis, 636-529-1898 Porano Pop-Up Saucy Soiree, June 23 at Union Station Jalea 323 N. Main St., St. Charles, 314-303-0144 Levels Nigerian Cuisine 1405 Washington Ave., St. Louis, 314-571-9990 Planter's House 1000 Mississippi Ave., St. Louis, 314-696-2603 Lazy Tiger Idol Wolf 1528 Locust St., St. Louis, 314-325-0360

This week Meera and Michelle discuss revisiting some personal favorite spots like Picadilly at Manhattan where the NOLA BBQ shrimp in spiced butter and their famous chicken pot pie both fall under the "must order" category. Also in the chat is a pop-in to Mai Lee where their St. Paul sandwich ranks among the best of the best in St. Louis as well as Thai Nivas Cafe, where their pad eggplant with tofu is a light yet satisfying dish. They also talk about new spots mentioned on saucemagazine.com including Damn Fine Hand Pies, Ichiro Ramen, Bud's Pizza and Beer as well as two new concepts from Chef Ben Welch. Piccadilly at Manhattan 7201 Piccadilly Ave., St. Louis, 314-646-0016 Mai Lee 8396 Musick Memorial Dr, Brentwood, 314-645-2835 Thai Nivas Cafe 11054 Olive Blvd., St. Louis, 314-567-8989 Damn fine hand pies 4000 Shaw Blvd. Instagram: Damnfinehandpies Ichiro Ramen 5638 Telegraph Road, Oakville Ichiro Ramen now open in Oakville offering array of Asian cuisine Chef Ben Welch is opening 2 new restaurants in the Grove later this year Bud's Pizza and Beer 3805 S. Kingshighway Blvd., St. Louis First Look: Bud's Pizza & Beer in the Northampton neighborhood of St. Louis Andrew Cisneros will open Brasas in the Delmar Loop in spring 2024 Food Truck Friday Saucy Soirée, June 23, at Union Station

This week Michelle and Meera talk about a few spots where you can dine outside, cicada free. Also in the chat this week is a first look at Florentin, the new breakfast and lunch spot from Ben Poremba in the Delmar Maker District. Adrianna's on The Hill 5101 Shaw Ave., St. Louis, 314-773-3833 Le Meridien St. Louis Clayton 7730 Bonhomme Ave., Clayton, 888.861.1483 Art Bar 3550 Samuel Shepard Drive, St. Louis, 314.561.0033 Moonrise 6177 Delmar Blvd. St. Louis, 314.721.1111 Panorama Restaurant Saint Louis Art Museum, One Fine Arts Drive, Forest Park, St. Louis, 314.655.5490 Blueberry Hill 6504 Delmar Blvd., St. Louis, 314.727.4444 Crow's Nest 7336 Manchester Road, Maplewood, 314.781.0989 First Look: Florentin in the Delmar Maker District in St. Louis Florentine 5090 Delmar Blvd., St. Louis

This week Meera and Michelle discuss a recent trip to Madrina in Webster Groves followed by a quick jaunt to Olive + Oak for a post-dinner drink. Also in the conversation is the interesting burger menu from The Crow's Nest in Maplewood especially their green chile burger. They talk about a few new spots from the website at SauceMagazine.com including the newly opened Black Lab Coffee, Ramsay's Kitchen as well as five local dessert shops to check out right now. Madrina 101 W. Lockwood Ave., Webster Groves, 314-963-1976 First Look: Madrina in Webster Groves The Crow's Nest 7336 Manchester Rd., Maplewood, 314-781-0989 Black Lab Coffee now open in University City inside Washington University's Lewis Collaborative building A Spoonful of Sugar 2800 McNair Ave., St. Louis, 314-328-1048 Cafe Ganadara 6413 Hampton Ave., St. Louis, 314-802-7044 Clementine's Naughty & Nice Ice Cream Multiple locations Spoonful Desserts 12943 Olive Blvd., St. Louis, 314-485-1757; 1063 IL-157, Suite 11-12, Edwardsville, Illinois, 618-514-8020 Sylvie Dee's 8721 Big Bend Blvd., Webster Groves, 314-918-5472 Sauce 75 digital edition Levels Nigerian Cuisine 1405 Washington Ave., St. Louis, 314-571-9990 2023 Best New Restaurants // No. 9 Levels Nigerian Cuisine Mayo Ketchup 2001 Park Ave., St. Louis, 314-696-2699 We're obsessed with the mini cheese empanadas from Mayo Ketchup 3 appetizer platters from St. Louis restaurants you need to try ASAP Nathaniel Reid 11243 Manchester Rd., Kirkwood, 314-858-1019 Peacemaker Lobster & Crab 1831 Sidney St., St. Louis, 314-772-8858 The Ultimate Clam Chowder Recipe

This week Meera and Michelle discuss a recent trip to Dressel's where the pretzel is still playing a starring role on the menu. From SauceMagazine.com, new spots including Well Met Cafe in Shaw; No Ordinary Rabbit in Botanical Heights and Fattened Caf off Cherokee Street have announced their concepts that have either just opened or are coming soon. Finally, the Sauce Team has put together a guide: Sauce 75: Your guide to the essential St. Louis restaurants right now, and they discuss a few spots from the list that consistently exceed expectations. Dressel's 419 N. Euclid Ave., St. Louis, 314.361.1060 Dressel's in the Central West End is a St. Louis landmark Well Met Cafe 4100 Shenandoah Ave., St. Louis, 314-282-8016 First Look: Well Met Cafe in the Shaw neighborhood of St. Louis No Ordinary Rabbit 1621 Tower Grove Ave., St. Louis No Ordinary Rabbit opening in former Nixta space in Botanical Heights in late summer 2024 Recipe: Harvest's Warmed Brioche Bread Pudding The Fattened Caf is opening a brick-and-mortar just off Cherokee Street later this year Kasama The 75 Most Exciting Restaurants in St. Louis Right Now, According to Sauce Sauce 75 Tiger Soup Dumplings 98D Gravois Bluffs Circle Drive, Fenton Tiger Soup Dumplings is opening a location in Des Peres in spring 2024 Blues City Deli 2438 McNair Ave., St. Louis, 314-773-8225 Bulrush 3307 Washington Ave., St. Louis, 314-449-1208 Rob Connoley of Bulrush nominated in James Beard Awards finalist round for Best Chef: Midwest Pepe's Apt. 2 800 S Geyer Rd., Kirkwood, 314-909-1375 Lona's Lil' Eats 2199 California Ave., St. Louis, 314-925-8938 The Tenacity of Lona's Lil Eats' Lona Luo Ben Poremba to open two new concepts, Esca and Florentin, in the Delmar Maker District in early 2024

After years of working for other restaurateurs Loryn Nalic, together with her husband Edo Nalic, opened Balkan Treat Box in 2016 as a food truck. The inspiration for the concept came from falling in love with her husband and falling in love with his native Bosnian cuisine; but the development of the menu came from a deeply personal visit she took to Bosnia, which brought the entire Balkan Treat Box menu into focus starting with her favorite -- the cevapi. In this episode Loryn discusses with Meera and Michelle her experience in restaurants; her flagship restaurant and her new restaurant Telva at The Ridge; and the local restaurants that have captured her heart. Balkan Treat Box 8103 Big Bend Blvd., Webster Groves, 314-733-5700 Telva at The Ridge 60 N Gore Ave., Webster Groves, 314-395-2760 Yemanja Brasil 2900 Missouri Ave., St. Louis, 314-771-7457 Farmhaus Restaurant 3257 Ivanhoe Ave., St. Louis, 314-647-3800 Frazer's Restaurant & Lounge 1811 Pestalozzi St., St. Louis, 314-773-8646 Pappy's Smokehouse 3106 Olive St., St. Louis, 314-535-4340 Julia Usher Ones to Watch 2021 // Madeline Hissong Damn Fine Hand Pies Afghan Kabob House 3500 Watson Road, St. Louis, 314-449-1110 Curry Club 1635 Clarkson Road, Chesterfield, 636-778-7778 MeYou 8162 Big Bend Blvd., Webster Groves, 314-961-5999 Webster Garden Vietnamese & Chinese Restaurant 5 S. Old Orchard Ave., St. Louis, 314-961-2131 Mai Lee 8396 Musick Memorial Dr., Brentwood, 314-645-2835 Saucy Soirée tickets available here

This week Michelle and Meera discuss the newly opened Good Company in The Grove, where they are making delicious cocktails with their premium ice. They also discuss the star of the menu: The Good Burger, which is made from ground brisket and chuck, topped with gooey American cheese and thick-cut bacon. Also in the conversation was a recent visit to Revel Kitchen, where the salad actually keeps you full; a jaunt to Wright's Tavern in Clayton where the crab cake, wine and sundae make for a perfect night out and a birthday brunch at Southwest Diner in Maplewood where the cornmeal pancakes still reign supreme. From the May issue they chat about Apéro Hour a feature that highlights six new spots that are aiming to serve small plates, wine and cocktails and also in the conversation are the many genius riffs on the spicy margarita at local bars in St. Louis. Good Company 4317 Manchester Ave, St. Louis, 314-405-8333 First Look: Good Company in the Grove Revel Kitchen  8388 Musick Memorial Dr., St. Louis, 314-647-2222 Wright's Tavern 7624 Wydown Blvd, Clayton, 314-390-1466 Bowood By Niche 4605 Olive St., St. Louis, 314-454-6868 Southwest Diner  6803 Southwest Ave., Maplewood, 314-260-7244 Bacaro 5105 Westwood Drive, St. Peters Parker's Table 7118 Oakland Ave., Richmond Heights, 314-645-2050 Parker's Table is opening a wine bar in Richmond Heights in spring 2024 Vicia is transforming its patio into Vicia Wine Garden, adding a la carte items back to menu 33 Wine Shop and Bar 1913 Park Ave., St. Louis, 314-231-9463 Vino STL  4701 McPherson Ave., St. Louis, 314-932-5665 Clover (Clover and the Bee) 100 W Lockwood Ave., Webster Groves, 314-942-1216 8 creative takes on the spicy margarita at St. Louis bars right now Fortune Teller Bar 2635 Cherokee St., St. Louis, 314-776-2337 Frazer's Restaurant & Lounge 1811 Pestalozzi St., St. Louis, 314-773-8646,  Lazy Tiger 210 N Euclid Ave, St. Louis, 314-925-8888 Retreat Gastropub 6 N. Sarah St., St. Louis, 314-261-4497 Ivy Cafe 14 N Meramec Ave., Clayton, 314-776-9377

This week Meera and Michelle discuss dining at Casa Don Alfonso inside The Ritz-Carlton, St. Louis where they tried a pasta tossed with deep-fried zucchini and for dessert their dazzling pistachio profiteroles with pistachio cream. Also in the conversation was an epic office lunch with spring salads from Knead Bakehouse + Provisions and several pizzas from Fordo's Killer Pizza including their ramp spring special, wild mushroom and four cheese with honey drizzle. From saucemagazine.com they discuss several restaurant openings like Off Elm in Webster Groves, Sunday Best reopening a take-out concept in South City and Sugar Shack Cafe in Granite City, Illinois. Finally they discuss 3 gas station dining destinations serving barbecue and also Indian food that are hidden gems throughout St. Louis. Casa Don Alfonso 100 Carondelet Plaza, Clayton, 314-719-1496 Knead Bakehouse + Provisions 3467 Hampton Ave, St. Louis, 314-376-4361 Fordo's Killer Pizza 3730 Foundry Way, St. Louis City Foundry 3730 Foundry Way, St. Louis Sunday Best, formerly Juniper, has reopened at the Hill Food Co. in south St. Louis Sugar Shack Cafe now open in Granite City offering Southern flavors and retro vibes Poke One is now open on South Grand in former Tower Grove Creamery space Cube Tea Studio 8041 Olive Blvd., University City, 314-942-1289 3 St. Louis spots making boba that will blow your mind The Vandy, STL Barkeep team will open Off Elm in Webster Groves this fall Khanna's Desi Vibes in Chesterfield is closing 3 awesome under-the-radar restaurants inside gas stations around St. Louis Olivette Station is serving delicious Pakistani food in an unassuming gas station in St. Louis County 3 Bay BBQ & Bakery 14195 Clayton Road, Town & Country, 636.227.1208, O'B. Que's 158 Long Road, Chesterfield, 636.778.9675, obques.com Olivette Station 9680 Olive Blvd., Olivette, 314.991.3082

Rick Lewis of Grace Meat + Three cooks from the heart. This week, Meera and Michelle are joined by Rick to discuss his journey from fine-dining chef to chef and owner of his own restaurant in The Grove. His restaurant, which he co-owns with his wife Elisa Lewis, is centered around community and cultivating relationships through food. He shares his stories of launching his restaurant and in the spirit of community, also discusses some of his favorite restaurants in St. Louis. Grace Meat + Three 4270 Manchester Ave, St. Louis, Best New Restaurants: No. 3 – Grace Meat & Three Grace Meat + Three Chef Rick Lewis' 12 Favorite St. Louis Restaurants Mai Lee 8396 Musick Memorial Dr., Brentwood, 314-645-2835 Bolyard's Meat & Provisions 2733 Sutton Blvd., Maplewood, 314-647-2567 Pint Size Bakery & Coffee 3133 Watson Rd., St. Louis, 314-645-7142 Sultan Mediterranean 4200 Manchester Ave., St. Louis, 314-390-2020 Review: Sultan Mediterranean Restaurant in The Grove

This week Michelle and Meera discuss the brand new Umami Seasons Hot Pot in the Delmar Loop that serves Taiwanese hot pot, which is an interactive style of Asian dining where food is cooked at the table in different types of broth. They also discuss the emerging hot pot trend in general at the recently opened Urban Kitchen in Chesterfield Valley and at Tai Ke Shabu Shabu in Olivette. Another trend in the conversation: fusion. From Indian-fusion restaurants like Taco Twist in the Central West End to Tikka Tangy and Amrut Fusion in Chesterfield to the soon-to-open Ramsay's Kitchen at Four Seasons Hotel St. Louis to Oats & Honey Cafe in Creve Coeur; restaurants are blending cuisines more than ever. Finally, from the April issue, they talk about all the reasons Sauce loves Trattoria Marcella in Lindenwood Park. Umami Seasons Hot Pot 6602 Delmar Blvd, University City, 314-319-1146 First Look: Umami Seasons Hotpot in the Delmar Loop Umami Seasons Hotpot on Instagram @SauceMag Chesterfield's Urban Kitchen builds on sister restaurant Share Sweet's menu with Chinese American classics Urban Kitchen by ShareSweet 17409C Chesterfield Airport Rd., Chesterfield, 636-778-0178 Tai Ke Shabu Shabu 9626 Olive Blvd., Olivette, 314-801-8411 2021 Best New Restaurants // No. 2 Tai Ke Shabu Shabu Kain Taiyo 2700 Locust St., St. Louis, 314-396-2110 2023 Best New Restaurants // No. 8 Kain Tayo Manileño 3611 Juniata St., St. Louis, 314-296-3131 First Look: Manileño in the South Grand business district in St. Louis Pizza Via 4501 Maryland Ave., #1E, Central West End, 314-587-8000 First Look: Pizza Via in the Central West End Pizza Champ 2557 Lyle Ave., Maplewood Eat this marinara pizza at Pizza Champ​ in Maplewood Taco Twist 15 N Euclid Ave., Suite A, St. Louis, 314-635-0033 3 new Indian fusion spots to try in the St. Louis area Amrut Fusion 17392 Chesterfield Airport Road, Chesterfield, 636.778.9380 Tikka Tangy 13441 Olive Blvd., Chesterfield, 314.682.6066 Ramsay's Kitchen will soft open at Four Seasons Hotel St. Louis on April 17 Trattoria Marcella 3600 Watson Rd, St. Louis, 314-532-7706 13 reasons why we love Trattoria Marcella in Lindenwood Park

This week Michelle and Meera discuss the local food options in and around Busch Stadium including Kohn's Kosher Deli, Mission Taco Joint and Farmtruk. Also in the conversation is the best things to eat at City SC's Citypark Stadium this year. Several concepts are returning from the inaugural season like Balkan Treatbox, Medina Mediterranean Grill and Bold Spoon Creamery but also newcomers like Olio and Olive + Oak are making their debut this season as they join some of the best local restaurants in town at Citypark Kohn's Kosher Deli Mission Taco Farmtruk 12 Great Places to Eat Near Busch Stadium, According to Sauce Popular St. Louis food truck Farmtruk joins Busch Stadium as newest food partner New St. Louis Cardinals season brings fresh dining options to Ballpark Village The Best Things to Eat at City SC's Citypark Stadium in 2024, According to Sauce

This week Meera and Michelle talk about a recent take-out experiences at Chiang Mai in Webster Groves as well as BLK MKT Eats at their new location in Maplewood. Also in the conversation is the debut of Esca and all the dishes that were standouts from a recent night out including the limoncello tiramisu, the green salad, the roasted vegetable lasagna and the clay pot Negroni. In new restaurant news, former pop-up turned brick and mortar Taqueria Morita is set to debut and Michelle and Meera discuss a recent visit to their new space. They also talk about good news from the Union Loafers team who are gearing up to open their bagel and provisions market in Shaw this April. Tim's Chrome Bar 4736 Gravois Ave., St. Louis, 314-742-7881 First Look: Tim's Chrome Bar in the Bevo Mill neighborhood of south St. Louis Chiang Mai 8158 Big Bend Blvd., Webster Groves, 314-961-8889 Review: Chiang Mai in Webster Groves 2020 Best New Restaurants // No. 4 Chiang Mai Blk MKT Eats 7356 Manchester Rd, Maplewood, MO 63143 BLK MKT Eats is now open in its new home in Maplewood Esca 5095 Delmar Blvd., St. Louis, 314-365-2686 First Look: Esca in the Delmar Maker District in St. Louis First Look: Taqueria Morita in the Central West End Union Loafers team is opening a bagel and provisions market in Shaw in early April Diego's 630 North and South Rd, St. Louis, 314-553-9906 First Look: Neon Greens in the former Rise Coffee space in the Grove

This week Michelle and Meera discuss some of their favorites at Grace Meat + Three including their specials, their kitchen sink salad and catfish nuggets. They also talk about a recent visit to Coffeestamp in South City and their lineup of empanadas stuffed with elotes or egg and prosciutto and even a caprese version with tomato and mozzarella. They also talk about two upcoming events: Food Truck Friday and Saucy Soirée. Food Truck Friday returns for its 2024 season on April 26 in Tower Grove Park and Saucy Soirée, a grand tasting party, makes its return to Union Station on June 23. They also talk about a new spot Neon Greens, which is one part salad-centric restaurant and one part hydroponic farm, and a few of their standout salads. Grace Meat + Three 4270 Manchester Ave., St. Louis, 314-533-2700 Food Truck Friday returns April 26 Coffeestamp Roasters 2511 S. Jefferson Ave., St. Louis, 314-797-8113 Saucy Soiree returns to St. Louis Union Station Sunday, June 23 Saucy Soirée presale tickets Neon Greens 4176 Manchester Ave., The Grove First Look: Neon Greens in the former Rise Coffee space in the Grove 5 new and forthcoming breweries in the St. Louis region Rock & Horse Brewing Co. 419 N. Euclid Ave., St. Louis, 314.361.1060 Dressel's in the Central West End is a St. Louis landmark Blue Jay Brewing Co. 2710 Locust St., St. Louis Mississippi Culture 201 S. Union St., Staunton, Illinois Narrow Gauge Brewing Co. 1545 N. Hwy. 67, Florissant Main & Mill Central 10 Main St., Festus Cugino's has opened a second location at The Meadows at Lake Saint Louis Pink Willow Cafe 5523 Oak St. in Cottleville First Look: Pink Willow Cafe at Oak Street Inn & Lounge in Cottleville

Michelle and Meera discuss the rise and diversity of Filipino restaurants emerging in St. Louis, this week they highlight Manileño, which recently opened in the South Grand business district. They also discuss the debut of a food menu at Side Project Brewery in Maplewood where Adam Altnether has launched an approachable bar menu with fine touches, including an unbelievably delicious cheeseburger with caramelized onions and an apple cider-Dijon aioli. Michelle talks about her recent visit to Esca, the new concept from Ben Poremba's Benglina restaurant group in the Delmar Maker District. Esca focuses its menu on meat, seafood and vegetables grilled over charcoal, fresh salads and cold appetizers, classic cocktails, a large amaro selection and a range of indulgent desserts. Bar Moro 7610 Wydown Blvd, Clayton Idol Wolf 1528 Locust St, St. Louis, 314-325-0360 First Look: Idol Wolf at 21c Museum Hotel St. Louis Manileño 3611 Juniata St, St. Louis, 314-296-3131 First Look: Manileño in the South Grand business district in St. Louis Side Project Brewing 7458 Manchester Road, Maplewood First Look: Side Project Brewing's new food concept in Maplewood First Look: Esca in the Delmar Maker District in St. Louis Esca 5095 Delmar Blvd., 314-365-2686 Ben Poremba opens AO&Co. at Contemporary Art Museum in Grand Center Quarrelsome Coffee 33 N Sarah St., St. Louis, 314-260-9008

This week Meera and Michelle discuss recent visits to new bars they've been loving. Michelle's mission to try the entire menu at Stews Food & Liquor in Soulard continues and her love of the baby beer shots (and their evolution) at Kenny's Upstairs on South Grand is holding strong. Meera talks about a visit to the new, beautiful Three Sixty at Westport Plaza in Maryland Heights as well as a dinner at Brasserie by Niche in the Central West End. From the March issue, which is focused on the St. Louis beer scene, they discuss a story detailing local spots where Jonathan Moxey (head brewer at Rockwell Beer Co.) loves to grab a cold one. Kenny's Upstairs 3131 S. Grand Blvd., St. Louis First Look: Kenny's on South Grand in Tower Grove South Stews Food & Liquor 1862 S. 10th St., St. Louis First Look: Stews Food & Liquor in Soulard Three Sixty at Westport Plaza 111 West Port Plaza Drive, Maryland Heights First Look: Three Sixty at Westport Plaza in Maryland Heights Brasserie By Niche 4580 Laclede Ave., St. Louis Rockwell Beer Co. head brewer Jonathan Moxey shares 12 of his favorite St. Louis spots Rockwell Beer Co. Side Project Perennial on Lockwood 216 W. Lockwood Ave., Webster Groves, 314-682-3823 Perennial Artisan Ales 8125 Michigan Ave., St. Louis 2nd Shift 1601 Sublette Ave., #2, St. Louis Union Loafers Cafe and Bread Bakery 1629 Tower Grove Ave., St. Louis, 314-833-6111 Riley's Pub 3458 Arsenal St., St. Louis, 314-664-7474 Tick Tock Tavern 3459 Magnolia Ave., St. Louis Civil Life Brewing Co. 3714 Holt Ave., St. Louis Blue Jay Brewing 2710 Locust St., St. Louis First Look Blue Jay Brewing in Midtown St. Louis First Look: Manileño in the South Grand Business District in St. Louis

This week, Meera and Michelle discuss a visit to Fourth City Barbecue, which is located inside Fortune Teller Bar on Cherokee Street. The brisket is wonderful, likely due to the 24-hour process it takes to execute but it's not all serious business; specials like their take on a McRib offers a break in the usual barbecue suspects. They also talk about a recent trip to check out the Fattened Caf inside Earthbound Beer across the street where the chicken tocino ube sliders were extraordinary with tropical pineapple flavor, a little spice and sharpness from pickled, shredded papaya. Finally in the conversation, a First Look at Bacaro, the new aperitivo bar in St. Peters and also a lineup of where to find great fat-washed cocktails in St. Louis. Fourth City Barbecue inside Fortune Teller Bar 2635 Cherokee St, St. Louis, 314-669-6505 Damn Fine Hand Pies Fattened Caf inside Earthbound Beer 2724 Cherokee St., St. Louis, 314-769-9576 Bacaro 5105 Westwood Drive, St. Peters First Look: First Look: Bacaro at Noto Italian Restaurant in St. Peters Spritz and Chips: 5 tips for making the perfect spritz 3 fat-washed cocktails from St. Louis bars to try right now Pie Guy 4189 Manchester Ave., St. Louis, 314.899.0444 Rockwell Beer Company in the Grove 1320 S. Vandeventer Ave., St. Louis, 314.256.1657 None of the Above 3730 Foundry Way, St. Louis, 314.656.6682 Layali Halab in Creve Coeur offers a taste of Mediterranean and Syrian cuisines

This week Meera and Michelle discuss the menu revamp at Benevolent King in Maplewood, which will now have more of a focus on seafood. Michelle also talks about a recent visit to the newly-opened Motor Town Pizza in Richmond Heights, which is the new concept from co-owners Simon and Angelica Lusky who also run Revel Kitchen. Also in the conversation is a list of Black-owned restaurants to check out suggested by Simone Faure, chef and co-owner of La Patisserie Chouquette in St. Louis, which was just named a semifinalist in the Outstanding Bakery category by the James Beard Foundation. Rounding out the conversation is a chat on happy hours with a list of good ones to get to right now. Benevolent King 7628 Manchester Road, St. Louis, 314-899-0440 The Benevolent King in Maplewood is rebranding as a Japanese restaurant Motor Town Pizza 8029 Dale Ave., Richmond Heights, First Look: Motor Town Pizza in Brentwood La Patisserie Chouquette's Simone Faure shares 5 of her favorite Black-owned St. Louis restaurants Rated Test Kitchen 313 N. 11th St., St. Louis, 314-200-5866 Patty's Cheesecakes 3730 Foundry Way, St. Louis, 314-541-6411 Simply Delicious 1115 Pine St, St. Louis, 314-802-7287 SweetArt Bakeshop + Cafe 2203 S 39th St, St. Louis, 314-771-4278 The Crooked Boot 2012 Campus Dr., St. Charles, 636-757-3305 8 Black-owned bars to visit in St. Louis this weekend 5 happy hours to check out in St. Louis right now Peacemaker Lobster & Crab Co. 1831 Sidney St., St. Louis, 314.772.8858 Kenny's Upstairs 3131 S. Grand Blvd., St. Louis Small Change 2800 Indiana Ave., St. Louis The Golden Hoosier 3707 S. Kingshighway Blvd., St. Louis, 314.354.8044

This week Michelle and Meera discuss a classic egg salad sandwich at Union Loafers in Botanical Heights and also talk about drinking out of a disco-ball-shaped-punch bowl at Hidden Gem, a new bar in Midtown St. Louis. They also talk about a recent visit to Millpond brewing in Millstadt, Illinois, where their hazy IPAs stood out amongst their delicious lineup of beers. New spots are opening and familiar favorites are expanding and reopening and they chat about the latest wave of news from Tiger Soup Dumplings opening in Des Peres, Amrut Fusion Cusine in Chesterfield and The Shaved Duck in South City. Hidden Gem 3118 Locust St., St. Louis, 314-925-8931 Union Loafers Cafe and Bread Bakery 1629 Tower Grove Ave., St. Louis, 314-833-6111 Millpond Brewing 308 E Washington St., Millstadt, Illinois, 618-476-9933 Tiger Soup Dumplings is opening a location in Des Peres in spring 2024 2022 Best New Restaurants // No. 8 Tiger Soup Dumplings Amrut Fusion Cuisine 17392 Chesterfield Airport Rd, Chesterfield, 636-778-9380 Fine dining Indian restaurant Amrut Fusion is now open in Chesterfield First Look: Amaizing Arepa Bar in downtown St. Louis Dressel's 419 N. Euclid Ave., St. Louis, 314-361-1060 Dressel's in the Central West End is a St. Louis landmark 12 great St. Louis restaurants that are definitely open on Monday, Vol. 4 Fattened Caf

This week Meera and Michelle discuss a recent visit to High Low, a sunny coffee shop operated by Blueprint Coffee, where the cortados and biscuits are on point. Also in the conversation is Michelle's visit to Mississippi Bistro -- the temporary restaurant that's taken over since Cinder House closed in January -- there she tried several dishes from the menu including a fried chicken sandwich and a mesmerizing espresso panna cotta with almond macaron from assistant executive pastry chef Tiffany Gilmore. They also talk about beautiful spaces around town that are fun restaurants or bars to visit for a fancy-ish evening. Blueprint Coffee at High Low 3301 Washington Blvd., St. Louis, 314-266-6808 Mississippi Bistro, Four Seasons Hotel St. Louis 999 N. 2nd St., St. Louis, 314-881-5800 Meals that changed St. Louis pastry chef Tiffany Gilmore's life Bonito Bar 622 North and South Rd., St. Louis, 314-727-6500 ​Bonito Bar brings new life and great drinks to Frida's in University City Bar Moro 7610 Wydown Blvd., Clayton 2022 Best New Restaurants // No. 4 Bar Moro Tim's Chrome Bar 4736 Gravois Ave., St. Louis First Look: Tim's Chrome Bar in the Bevo Mill neighborhood of south St. Louis None of the Above 3730 Foundry Way, St. Louis, 314-656-6682 Idol Wolf 1528 Locust St., St. Louis, 314-325-0360 First Look: Idol Wolf at 21c Museum Hotel St. Louis St. Louis City SC names Olive + Oak, Olio and Sunday Best among seven new restaurants coming to CityPark for 2024 MLS season Wright's Tavern 7624 Wydown Blvd., Clayton, 314-390-1466 Noto Italian Restaurant 5105 Westwood Dr., St. Peters, 636-317-1143

This week Meera and Michelle discuss a visit to Corner 17 and dishes that really stood out, like the hot and sour potatoes. Also in the conversation are a few spots on The Hill, Adriana's where the Sunny's vegetarian sandwich is a salad in sandwich form and also John Viviano & Sons Grocers where there is a wide selection of Italian staples to stock your pantry. Also in the talk is Stews Food & Liquor in Soulard, a new spot where the Asian-inspired dishes, like their pork belly skewer, are making a splash. They also discuss a few spots in St. Louis that are devoting a section of their drink list to several versions of a single classic cocktail, allowing each iteration to be a creative homage to the original. Corner 17 6623 Delmar Blvd., University City, 314-727-2402 We're obsessed with the fresh pulled noodles at Corner 17 Adriana's on The Hill 5101 Shaw Ave., St. Louis, 314-773-3833 Eat this veggie sandwich from Adriana's on the Hill​ Stews Food & Liquor 1862 S. 10th St., Soulard Stews Food & Liquor is opening Friday in Soulard 6 St. Louis bars where you can try classic cocktails multiple ways Noto 5105 Westwood Dr., St. Peters, 636-317-1143 The Gin Room 3200 S. Grand Blvd., 314-771-3411 1220 Spirits Salve 3200 S. Grand Blvd., 314-771-3411 Bistro La Floraison 7637 Wydown Blvd., Clayton, 314-725-8880 The Golden Hoosier 3707 S. Kingshighway Blvd., St. Louis, 314-354-8044

This week Michelle and Meera discuss a multi-course dinner they experienced at The Preston, which is inside the Chase Park Plaza hotel in the Central West End. They also talk about recent a staff lunch to explore the new food menu that debuted at Rockwell Beer Co. near The Grove after Brasswell ceased operations. They also chat about the new Hot Pizza Cold Beer concept in the MX Building in downtown St. Louis that is set to open Feb. 2. Finally, they talk about each of the 2024 Restaurant and Chef Awards Semifinalists in and around St. Louis that were announced by the James Beard Foundation. The Preston 212 Kingshighway Blvd., St. Louis, 314-633-7800 Rockwell Beer Co. 1320 S. Vandeventer Ave., St. Louis, 314-256-1657 Brasswell is leaving Rockwell Beer Co. in the Grove Hot Pizza Cold Beer 610 Washington Ave., St. Louis, 416-823-6233 First Look: Hot Pizza Cold Beer Taco Circus has closed James Beard Foundation names St. Louis-area restaurateurs and chefs among 2024 semifinalists Mainlander 8 S Euclid Ave, St. Louis Sado 5201 Shaw Ave., St. Louis, 314-390-2883 Best New Restaurants 2023 // No. 3 Sado Take Root Hospitality La Patisserie Chouquette 1626 Tower Grove Ave, St. Louis, 314-932-7935 Scratch Brewing 264 Thompson Rd., Ava, Illinois, 618-426-1415 Balkan Treat Box 8103 Big Bend Blvd., Webster Groves, 314-733-5700 Telva at The Ridge 60 N. Gore Ave., Webster Groves, 314-395-2760 Bulrush 3307 Washington Ave, St. Louis, 314-449-1208 2019 Best New Restaurants // No. 3 Bulrush Root Food + Wine 5525 Walnut St., Augusta, 636-544-1009 Best New Restaurants // No. 1 Root Food + Wine

This week Meera and Michelle discuss a recent dinner at Indo in Botanical Heights, the first solo venture from chef and restaurateur Nick Bognar. They also talk about a take-out lunch experience from Vegan Deli and Butcher in Bevo, where chef Chris Bertke's menu is filled with deli classics like a Reuben, a French dip and the hot salami sandwich which came with a house made and aged vegan salami served on a toasted, buttered bun. From the website they discuss two new spots in St. Louis: Blue Jay Brewing Co. and The Headless Bat as well as a feature on winter soups to try that includes a gumbo from Who Dat Southern Food Bar & Grill and Doenjang Jjigae Joo Joo Restaurant & Karaoke in Creve Coeur. Indo 1641 D Tower Grove Ave., St. Louis, St. Louis, 314-899-9333 Vegan Deli and Butcher 5003 Gravois Ave., St. Louis Europa Market 5005 Gravois Ave., St. Louis, 314-481-9880 Marconi Deli 1913 Marconi Ave., St. Louis, 314-773-8728 First Look: Blue Jay Brewing Co. in Midtown St. Louis Blue Jay Brewing Co. 2710 Locust St, St. Louis First Look: The Headless Bat in Tower Grove South The Headless Bat 3128 Morgan Ford Rd., St. Louis 5 soups from around the world to try in St. Louis this winter Gumbo at Who Dat Southern Food Bar & Grill 4247 S. Kingshighway Blvd., St. Louis, 314.202.8068 Doenjang Jjigae at Joo Joo Restaurant & Karaoke 12937 Olive Arcade Plaza, Creve Coeur, 314.469.1999

This week Meera and Michelle discussed favorites from the Biscuit Joint, a new spot from chef and owner Elliot Brown. They also talked about an amazing lunch from the recently-opened Telva at the Ridge, the new restaurant from the team that runs Balkan Treat Box. From the January issue they discuss Ones to Watch, a feature that highlights rising stars in the restaurant industry. The Biscuit Joint 2649 Washington Ave Unit A1, St. Louis, 314-769-9434 Telva at the Ridge 60 N Gore Ave A, Webster Groves, 314-395-2760 Balkan Treat Box 8103 Big Bend Blvd, Webster Groves, 314-733-5700 Sump Coffee 3700 S Jefferson Ave., St. Louis, 917-412-5670 Paper Crane The Vandy 1301 S Vandeventer Ave., St. Louis, 314-472-5321 None of the Above 3730 Foundry Way, St. Louis, 314-656-6682 Wright's Tavern 7624 Wydown Blvd, Clayton, 314-390-1466

This week Meera and Michelle discuss their favorite dishes at Tai Ke Shabu Shabu, a Taiwanese restaurant in Olivette, where they always order the stir-fried eggplants with basil. Michelle headed to Lindenwood Park to check out Bubba's Deli. They also discuss a recent lunch at the newly-opened Jinzen, which is an Asian-fusion restaurant in Clayton. From the January issue, they discuss a feature detailing several bars — in St. Louis and in Southern Illinois — with a strong whiskey list.  Tai Ke Shabu Shabu 9626 Olive Blvd, St. Louis, 314-801-8411 Bubba's Deli 3249 Ivanhoe Ave, St. Louis, 314-853-3862 Jinzen 8113 Maryland Ave, Clayton, 314-354-8086 Blood & Sand 1500 St. Charles St., St. Louis, 314-241-7263 Stubborn German 119 S Main St, Waterloo, IL 62298 618-504-2444 The Midwestern Meat & Drink 900 Spruce St, St. Louis, 314-696-2573 Cabin at Judy Creek 3730 S. State Rte 157, Glen Carbon, Illinois, 618-205-8556

This week Meera and Michelle talk about some of their favorite dishes from the “Eat This” column that appears in the issue each month and highlights a must-try dish in St. Louis. From a decadent breakfast sandwich in Maplewood to a luxe seafood tower in Benton Park, these plates were some of the standouts of 2023.  The Crow's Nest 7336 Manchester Rd., Maplewood, 314-781-0989 Yellowbelly 4659 Lindell Blvd., St. Louis, 314-499-1509 Peacemaker Lobster & Crab 1831 Sidney St., St. Louis, 314-772-8858 Pastaria Deli & Wine 7734-2 Forsyth Blvd., Clayton, 314-773-7755 Mi Tierra Bonita  3203 Collinsville Rd., Fairmont City, Illinois, 618-271-7226 More on Mi Terra Bonita Pizza Champ 2657 Lyle Ave., Maplewood  The King's Oak by Modern Brewery 5200 Oakland Ave., St. Louis, 314-788-0900 Paul Manno's Restaurant 75 Forum Shopping Center, Chesterfield, 314-878-1274

This week Michelle and Meera discuss Hidden Gem, the new disco-dive bar that opened up in Midtown St. Louis. They also discuss two vegan spots SweetArt in South City and the newly-opened Looking Meadow Cafe in Maplewood. They also discussed several spots they look forward to trying in the new year including Brasas in the Delmar Loop and Taqueria Morita in the Central West End and Telva at the Ridge in Webster Groves. Hidden Gem 318 Locust St., St. Louis, 314-925-8931 First Look: Hidden Gem in Midtown St. Louis SweetArt 2203 S. 39th St., St. Louis, 314-771-4278 Eat This: The Maine Event at SweetArt Looking Meadow Cafe 2500 Sutton Blvd., Maplewood First Look: Looking Meadow Cafe in Maplewood Eat Crow 1931 S. 12th St., St. Louis, 314-934-1400 More on Eat Crow in Soulard Andrew Cisneros will open Brasas in the Delmar Loop in spring 2024 Taqueria Morita will open permanent location in former Wasabi space in the Central West End in spring 2024 More on Neon Greens Telva at The Ridge 60 N. Gore Ave., Webster Groves, 314-395-2760 Gerard Craft will open Expat BBQ at City Foundry STL

This week Meera and Michelle discuss a trip to Annie Gunn's in Chesterfield where the prawns are as big as your hands. Also in the conversation was a visit to Sunny's Cantina in Dogtown where the craveable veggie nachos are loaded with toppings like black beans, pickled jalapenos, queso, salsa and crema. Finally, St. Louis is witnessing a wave of bar openings and they discuss the new spots from the upscale None of the Above at City Foundry to Kenny's Upstairs, which is a once-closed dive that has been revived. Annie Gunn's 16806 Chesterfield Airport Road, Chesterfield, 636-532-7684 Sunny's Cantina 6655 Manchester Ave., St. Louis, 314-944-8226 None of the Above 3730 Foundry Way, 314-656-6682 First Look on None of the Above Kenny's Upstairs 3131 S. Grand Blvd., St. Louis First Look on Kenny's Upstairs Pie Guy Pizza 4189 Manchester Ave., St. Louis, 314-899-0444 More on Pie Guy Pizza and the former Gezellig Tap House Bottle Shop space takeover More on Good Company, which is slated to open in spring of 2024 Golden Gems will open Hidden Gem cocktail bar in Midtown St. Louis this fall Bluejay Brewing 2710 Locust St., St. Louis

This week Meera and Michelle discuss some of their favorite dishes of the year in St. Louis. From boiled fish with Chinese green pepper at ChiliSpot to the iconic crab cake at Wright's Tavern, these were some of the Sauce staff's most beloved plates and drinks of 2023. Tim's Chrome Bar 4736 Gravois Ave., St. Louis Fleur STL 622 Chouteau Ave., St. Louis Sado 5201 Shaw Ave., St. Louis, 314-390-2883 Bar Moro 7610 Wydown Blvd., Clayton The Lucky Accomplice 2501 S. Jefferson Ave., St. Louis, 314-354-6100 Casa Don Alfonso 100 Carondelet Plaza, Clayton ChiliSpot 7930 Olive Blvd., University City, 314-925-8711 Wright's Tavern 7624 Wydown Blvd., Clayton, 314-390-1466 Bowood By Niche 4605 Olive St., St. Louis, 314-454-6868 1929 Pizza & Wine 7 N. Wood River Ave., Wood River, Illinois, 618-216-2258 Fordo's Killer Pizza 3730 Foundry Way, St. Louis Taqueria Morita

This week, Meera and Michelle discuss Sauce Magazine's best new restaurants feature that highlights nine, new spots. The restaurants range from fine dining to casual with a variety of cuisines and cultures in between. They also talk about Sauce Magazine's return to print for the December issue and that it can be found wherever copies of the Riverfront Times are distributed. Levels Nigerian Cuisine 1405 Washington Ave., St. Louis, 314.571.9990, Kain Tayo Filipino Cuisine 2700 Locust St., St. Louis, 314.396.2110 Deli Divine 5501 Delmar Blvd., Suite 5535D, St. Louis, 314.987.3354 Fleur STL 622 Chouteau Ave., St. Louis Black Salt 1709 Clarkson Road, Chesterfield, 636.204.6441 1929 Pizza & Wine 7 N. Wood River Ave., Wood River, Illinois, 618.216.2258 Sado 5201 Shaw Ave., St. Louis, 314.390.2883 Bagel Union 8705 Big Bend Blvd., Webster Groves, 314.320.7556 Wright's Tavern 7624 Wydown Blvd., Clayton, 314.390.1466

This week Meera and Michelle discuss a new restaurant in O'Fallon, Illinois: Le Ono. The new spot features Hawaiian and French Polynesian dishes and they went over their menu favorites from a recent visit. They also talked about the newly-renovated Annie Gunn's in Chesterfield and also their perfect apple pie. From the website, they talk about a couple new spots coming to St. Louis including Madrina in Webster Groves and the return of Barcelona Tapas Restaurant to Clayton. Finally, holiday-pop-up bars are upon us and they share a list of spots to check out, even if you don't have a reservation. Le Ono 101 S. Cherry St., O'Fallon, Illinois, https://www.leonorestaurant.com/ More on Le Ono from saucemagazine.com https://saucemagazine.com/a/60322/le-ono-offers-tropical-vibes-and-upscale-cuisine-in-downtown Annie Gunn's 16806 Chesterfield Airport Rd., Chesterfield, 636-532-7684 http://www.anniegunns.com/ The return of Barcelona Tapas Restaurant https://www.saucemagazine.com/a/60427/barcelona-tapas-restaurant-will-reopen-in-clayton-later-this First Look: Madrina in Webster Groves https://www.saucemagazine.com/a/60441/first-look-madrina-in-webster-groves 10 holiday and winter pop-ups around St. Louis to help you feel merry and bright https://www.saucemagazine.com/a/60426/10-holiday-and-winter-pop-ups-around-st-louis-to-help-you-fe 11 places in St. Louis to shop for wine like a sommelier https://www.saucemagazine.com/a/60423/11-places-in-st-louis-to-shop-for-wine-like-a-sommelier

This week Meera and Michelle discuss a recent trip to Burger Champ, the new spot in Maplewood from restaurateur Chris Kelling. They also talk about some of their favorite things to order at Olio in Botanical Heights — including their egg salad and tomato bruschetta — as well as the happy hour at Brasserie by Niche in the Central West End, which delivers on value. Since St. Louis fall nights are getting colder, they discuss a selection of warm patios with heating elements so you can get cozy. They didn't forget holidays, they talk about what restaurants that are serving Thanksgiving brunch, lunch and dinner on November 23. Burger Champ 2704 Sutton Blvd., Maplewood More on Burger Champ at Saucemagazine.com Olio 1634 Tower Grove Ave., St. Louis, 314-932-1088 Olio, Elaia and Nixta to relocate in 2024 Recipe: Bruschetta at Olio Brasserie by Niche 4580 Laclede Ave., St. Louis, 314-454-0600 Rockwell Beer Garden 5300 Donovan Ave., St. Louis, 314-788-4849 More on Rockwell Beer Garden at Saucemagazine.com Sasha's on Shaw 4069 Shaw Blvd, St. Louis, 314-771-7274 Frisco Barroom 8110 Big Bend Blvd., Webster Groves, 314-455-1090 Golden Hoosier 3707 S. Kingshighway Blvd., St. Louis, 314-354-8044 More on Golden Hoosier at Saucemagazine.com Warm, Cozy Patios at Saucemagazine.com Recipe: Hot, Fast Turkey My Kitchen Year, By Ruth Reichl 9 St. Louis restaurants offering delightful dine-in Thanksgiving meals Cafe la Vie, Casa Don Alfonso, Cinder House, Eclipse, Bishop's Post and Pietro's

This week Michelle and Meera discuss the JC Midtown development. That development has plans to open several food and drink concepts to help bolster the stretch between Downtown and Grand Center. They chat about the three concepts that have already opened: Anita Cafe and Bar – a Lebanese spot, Kain Tayo – a Filipino restaurant and Videira Wine Shop & Bar. More on JC Midtown Anita Cafe and Bar 2700 Locust St., St. Louis, 314-669-7700 More on Anita Cafe Kain Tayo 2700 Locust St., St. Louis, 314-396-2110 More on Kain Tayo Videira Wine Shop & Bar 2702 Locust St., St. Louis, 314-377-9463 First Look: Videira Wine Shop & Bar in Midtown St. Louis Blue Jay Brewing Co.

This week Meera and Michelle discuss a beautiful birthday dinner at Sado, the crab rangoon at Nudo House, the specials at Bagel Union and a staff brunch at Fleur STL. Sado 5201 Shaw Ave., St. Louis, 314-390-2883 Nudo Bagel Union 8705 Big Bend Blvd., Webster Groves, 314-320-7556 Bagel Boom Central State Sandwiches Fleur STL 622 Chouteau Ave., St. Louis More on Fleur STL

Meera and Michelle discuss a recent trip to Eckert's where Michelle tried their ciders at the Cider Shed and got to pet a baby cow. They also talked about Little Lager, the new lager-centric beer bar from Manny Negron that opened on Halloween. Finally, they discuss an epic Sauce staff lunch at Black Salt, a new Indian restaurant in Chesterfield. Eckert's Little Lager 5848 Hampton Ave., St. Louis, 314-760-9481 Black Salt 1709 Clarkson Rd., Chesterfield, 636.204.6441 Videira Wine Shop & Bar 2702 Locust St., St. Louis, 314-377-9463 Fleur STL 622 Chouteau Ave., St. Louis More on Fleur STL

Meera, Michelle and Liz discuss their love of Sam's Steakhouse: from the unmatched vibes, to the shrimp cocktail, to their classic wedge salad. They discuss the rise of the dirty martini and how it has inspired a wave of savory cocktails around town using ingredients like tomato, miso, chicken stock or even crab butter. Bowood by Niche 4605 Olive St., St. Louis, 314-454-6868 Sam's Steakhouse 1025 Gravois Road, St. Louis, 314-849-3033 Dirty Martinis are Having a Moment Planter's House 1000 Mississippi Ave., St. Louis, 314-696-2609 5 Savory Cocktails Setting the Trend in St. Louis Right Now Herbie's 8100 Maryland Ave., Clayton, 314-769-9595 Frazer's Restaurant & Lounge 1811 Pestalozzi St., St. Louis, 314.773.8646 Platypus 501 Manchester Ave., St. Louis, 314.448.1622 New Society 3194 S. Grand Blvd., St. Louis Brennan's 316 N. Euclid Ave., St. Louis, 314.497.4449 Central State Sandwiches at 2nd Shift Brewing 1601 Sublette Ave #2, St. Louis, 314-669-9013 Fattened Caf. 2724 Cherokee St, St. Louis, 636-498-4240

Meera, Michelle and Liz discuss the cover story of the October issue: Every Gramophone Sandwich, Ranked. They discuss the joy of trying every sandwich without modifications from the menu, how the sandwiches were evaluated and which sandwiches topped the list. The Gramophone 4243 Manchester Ave., St. Louis, 314-531-5700

This week Liz and Meera are joined by Sauce senior designer, Michelle Volansky. Together they discuss recent trips to Levels Nigerian Cuisine, Winslow's Table and Seoul Garden.  Levels Nigerian Cuisine 1405 Washington Ave., St. Louis, 314-571-9990, levelsstl.com Winslow's Table 7213 Delmar Blvd., St. Louis, 314-725-7559, winslowstable.com Seoul Garden 10441 Olive Blvd., Creve Ceour, 314-569-4123 Missouri Baking Company 2027 Edwards St., St. Louis, 314-773-6566, El Molino del Sureste 5005-5007, S. Kingshighway Blvd., 314-925-8431

Due to a technical issue, we decided to replay our most popular episode. This week Meera and Liz discuss the local restaurants recognized in Wine Spectator's 2023 Restaurants Awards and some recent wine adventures, including a trip to the secret wine room at Schnucks Lindbergh store. They also talk about some of their favorite menu items at Lona's Lil Eats and delicious meats at Ehsani's Hot Kabob. ⁠Lona's Lil Eats⁠ ⁠2199 California Ave, St. Louis, 314.925.8938, lonaslileats.com⁠ Ehsani's Hot Kabob 4561 Gravois Ave, St. Louis, 314.328.1302 ⁠Wine Spectator 2023 Restaurant Awards (Missouri winners)⁠ ⁠Vin Fraiche Wine Group⁠ ⁠Schnucks Lindbergh⁠ ⁠10275 Clayton Road, Ladue, 314.991.0510, schnucks.com⁠ ⁠Truffles⁠ ⁠9202 Clayton Road, Ladue, 314.567.9100, todayattruffles.com⁠ ⁠Leo's Pub & Grill⁠ ⁠2198 1st Capitol Drive, St. Charles, 636.757.3566, Facebook: Leo's Pub & Grill⁠ ⁠Great Grizzly Bear⁠ ⁠1027 Geyer Ave, St. Louis, 314.256.1457, greatgrizzlystl.com⁠

Katie's Pizza and Pasta in Ballpark Village 751 Clark Ave, St. Louis, 314-942-2416 La Spinetta Bommarito Wines & Spirits Vin Fraîche Wine Group Westchester Restaurant and Bar 127 Chesterfield Towne Center, Chesterfield, 636-778-0635 Perennial on Lockwood 216 W Lockwood Ave Unit B, Webster Groves, 314-682-3823 Best New Restaurants 2020: Perennial on Lockwood Eat This: Pretzel Monkey Bread at Perennial on Lockwood El Milagro Azteca 4940 Southwest Ave., St. Louis, 314-664-9955 The Wine Merchant 9200 Olive Blvd., Olivette, 314-863-6282 The Wine Merchant is now open in its new location in Olivette Cos Wine 4 wines leading the Missouri wine renaissance Noboleis Vineyards 100 Hemsath Road, Augusta, 636.482.4500, Robller Vineyard & Winery 275 Robller Vineyard Rd, New Haven Eagles' Landing

This week Meera and Liz discuss the annual Food and Wine Magazine's Best New Chefs feature, which this year put Stephen Pursley of Menya Rui on their list. He joins four other local chefs that have also been awarded the same honor in years past. They talked about recent dinners from Taco Buddha and also Sunday Best, which is an evolution from the now-closed Juniper from chef and owner John Perkins, which he closed in July. Finally, they talk about essential St. Louis cocktails from three bars that have helped to elevate the local cocktail culture. Menya Rui 3453 Hampton Ave., St. Louis, 314-601-3524 Ones to Watch: Stephen Pursley Best New Restaurants 2022: Menya Rui Indo 1641D Tower Grove Ave., St. Louis, 314-899-9333, https://www.indo-stl.com/ Best New Restaurants 2019: Indo Vicia 4260 Forest Park Ave. (corner of Duncan and Boyle avenues), St. Louis, 314.553.9239 Best New Restaurants 2017: Vicia Farmhaus 3257 Ivanhoe Ave., St. Louis, 314-647-3800 Niche Food Group Sunday Best 4101 Laclede Ave., St. Louis, 314-329-7696 Taco Buddha 7405 Pershing Ave., University City, 314-502-9951 Planter's House 1000 Mississippi Ave., St. Louis, 314-696-2603 Small Change STL 2800 Indiana Ave., St. Louis Retreat Gastropub 3 N Sarah St., St. Louis, 314-261-4497 The Royale Food & Spirits 3132 S. Kingshighway Blvd., St. Louis, 314-772-3600 Rated Test Kitchen 313 N. 11th St., St. Louis, 314-200-5866

This week Meera and Liz discuss recent takeout experiences from Companion and Lion's Choice. They also highlight new bars in Soulard and also on Cherokee Street that are featured in Sauce's Guide to Drinking issue. Wright's Tavern 7624 Wydown Blvd., Clayton, 314-390-1466, First Look: Wright's Tavern Companion 9781 Clayton Road., Ladue, 314-218-2280, Lion's Choice Landmark: Lion's Choice 11 New Bars We Love @St.Louis_Taverns John D. McGurk's Irish Pub & Garden is a St. Louis landmark Molly's in Soulard 816 Geyer Ave., St. Louis, 314-241-6200 The Great Grizzly Bear 1027 Geyer Ave., St. Louis, 314-256-1457 Calypso 1026 Geyer Ave., St. Louis, 314-448-1516 Eat Crow 1931 S. 12th St., St. Louis, 314-934-1400 First Look: Eat Crow in Soulard The Hi-Hat 1015 Russell Blvd., St. Louis, 314-802-7517 'Ssippi Wine Bar 2926 Cherokee St., St. Louis Saturn Lounge 1915 Cherokee St., St. Louis, 314-226-9473 Moonflower 1919 Cherokee St., St. Louis, Billy's on Broadway 701 S. Broadway, St. Louis, 314.476.0119 Bonito Bar 622 North and South Road (inside Frida's), University City, 314.727.6500 Grüv Bistro and Wine Bar 223 E. Main St., Belleville, 618.416.2471, Facebook: Grüv Bistro & Wine Bar New Society 3194 S. Grand Blvd., St. Louis Tim's Chrome Bar 4736 Gravois Ave., St. Louis The Vandy 1301 S. Vandeventer Ave., St. Louis, 314.472.5321

This week Meera and Liz discuss the new 4 Hands Brewing Co. in Chesterfield, Mainlander, El Molina del Sureste and a recent meal at Idol Wolf. 4 Hands Brewing Co. 17081 N. Outer Road, Suite 17073, Chesterfield First Look: 4 Hands Brewing Co. at The District in Chesterfield El Molino del Sureste 5005 S. Kingshighway Blvd., St. Louis First Look: El Molino del Sureste in Southampton Mainlander 8 S. Euclid Ave., Central West End First Look: Mainlander in the Central West End Idol Wolf 1528 Locust St., St. Louis, 314-325-0360 First Look: Idol Wolf at 21c Museum Hotel St. Louis

This week Meera and Liz discuss burgers at Jovick Brothers Deli, planning the menu for a very dairy dinner party and all the reasons to love Platypus in The Grove. Jovick Brothers Burgers Barely-Banana Pudding recipe Brian Lagerstrom's Detroit Style Pizza Brian Lagerstrom's YouTube channel 2015 Ones to Watch First Look: Platypus Benevolent King Meredith Barry and La Verita Distilleria

This week Liz and Meera discuss croissants, perfect samosas, an iconic beef shawarma, nostalgic marble cake and Portuguese egg tarts. Nathaniel Reid Bakery 11243 Manchester Road, Kirkwood, 314-858-1019, nrbakery.com Bar Moro 7610 Wydown Blvd., Clayton, bengelina.com/bar-moro Yellowbelly 4659 Lindell Blvd., St. Louis, 314-499-1509, yellowbellystl.com Everest Cafe & Bar 4145 Manchester Ave., St. Louis, 314-531-4800, everestinthegrovestl.com Medina Mediterranean Grill medinagrill.com Helfer's Pastries & Deli Cafe 380 St. Ferdinand St., Florissant, 314-837-6050, helferspastries.com Federhofer's Bakery 9005 Gravois Road, St. Louis, 314-832-5116, federhofersbakery.com The Foundry Bakery 11424 Dorsett Rd, Maryland Heights, 314-884-1116, thefoundrybakery.com

This week, Meera and Liz discuss lunch and wine shopping at Pastaria Deli and Wine, a giant huckleberry scone at Press, Macedonian wine at Truffles and dinner at Noto Italian Restaurant. They also revisit a recent story in the magazine by chef Rob Connoley ("Gateway To the African Continent," Feb 2023) about St. Louis' wide-ranging African restaurant scene, which includes Waaberi, House of Jollof, Meskerem Ethiopian Restaurant and more.  ⁠Pastaria Deli and Wine, 7734 Forsyth Blvd., Clayton, 314.773.7755, pastariadeliwine.com⁠ ⁠Press, 2509 S. Jefferson Ave., St. Louis, 314.328.1094, press-stl.com⁠ ⁠Truffles, 9202 Clayton Road, Clayton, 314.567.9100, todayattruffles.com⁠ ⁠Noto Italian Restaurant, 5105 Westwood Drive, St. Peters, 636.317.1143, notopizza.com⁠ Waaberi, 3445 S. Grand Blvd., St. Louis, 314.449.1124 Chez Ali, 3700 Forest Park Ave. (inside City Foundry STL), St. Louis, cityfoundrystl.com/directory/chez-ali Meskerem Ethiopian Restaurant, 3210 S Grand Blvd, St. Louis,  314.772.4442, meskeremstl.com House of Jollof, 503 Paul Ave., Florissant, 314.384.9153, myhouseofjollof.com Fufu 'N' Sauce, Instagram: @fufunsauce New Society, 3194 S. Grand Blvd. (inside Grand Spirits Bottle Shop), St. Louis, Instagram: New Society

This week Meera and Liz discuss the local restaurants recognized in Wine Spectator's 2023 Restaurants Awards and some recent wine adventures, including a trip to the secret wine room at Schnucks Lindbergh store. They also talk about some of their favorite menu items at Lona's Lil Eats and delicious meats at Ehsani's Hot Kabob. Lona's Lil Eats 2199 California Ave, St. Louis, 314.925.8938, lonaslileats.com Ehsani's Hot Kabob 4561 Gravois Ave, St. Louis, 314.328.1302 Wine Spectator 2023 Restaurant Awards (Missouri winners) Vin Fraiche Wine Group Schnucks Lindbergh 10275 Clayton Road, Ladue, 314.991.0510, schnucks.com Truffles 9202 Clayton Road, Ladue, 314.567.9100, todayattruffles.com Leo's Pub & Grill 2198 1st Capitol Drive, St. Charles, 636.757.3566, Facebook: Leo's Pub & Grill Great Grizzly Bear 1027 Geyer Ave, St. Louis, 314.256.1457, greatgrizzlystl.com

This week Meera and Liz discuss Quarrelsome Coffee's unique coffee program, Vicia's prix fixe Farmer's Feast, three new West County breakfast spots, and more. Quarrelsome Coffee 33 N. Sarah St., St. Louis, 314.260.9008, quarrelsome.coffee Saturday Morning Carton, caitlinmetz.com/morning Vicia 4260 Forest Park Ave. 314.553.9239, viciarestaurantcom French Creperie 17409 Chesterfield Airport Road, Chesterfield, 636.778.0188, frenchcreperie.com Billy G's Finer Diner 1772 Clarkson Road, Chesterfield, 636.778.9120, billygsfinerdiner.com MoMo Champagne Coffee Kitchen 9500 Manchester Rd, Rock Hill Chilanguita Mexican Kitchen 6997 Chippewa St., St. Louis, 314.833.3055, Facebook: Chilanguita Mexican Kitchen Idol Wolf 1528 Locust St. (insid 21c Museum Hotel St. Louis), St. Louis, 314.325.0360, idolwolfstl.com

This week Liz and Meera discuss a wedge salad with crab at Napoli Sea in St. Charles and also a Chinese hamburger from Dumplings & Tea in Chesterfield. From the July issue they discuss executive chef of Olive + Oak Jesse Mendica Risk and her go-to restaurants around town as well as a few products that they are currently obsessed with including a nonalcoholic amaro leisure soda and a green olive that's worthy of its royal title. Napoli Sea 1450 Beale St., St. Charles, 636-800-2241 https://www.napolistl.com/ Dumplings & Tea 137 Chesterfield Towne Center, Chesterfield, 636-778-9090, dumplingstea.com Olive + Oak 216 W. Lockwood Ave., Webster Groves, 314-736-1370, oliveandoak.oohosp.com Perennial on Lockwood 216 W. Lockwood Ave., Unit B, Webster Groves, 314-682-3823, perennial.oohosp.com Have a Cow 2742 Lafayette Ave., St. Louis, 314-261-0305, haveacow.farm Olio 1634 Tower Grove Ave., 314-932-1088, bengelina.com/olio O+O Pizza 102 W. Lockwood Ave., Webster Groves, 314-721-5422, oandopizza.oohosp.com Biggie's Restaurant 3332 Watson Road., St. Louis, 314-781-0060, biggiesrestaurant.com Sushi Station 29 N. Gore Ave., Webster Groves, 314.733.5511, thesushistation.com Civil Alchemy 8154 Big Bend Blvd., Webster Groves, 314-801-7577, civilalchemy.com Wine and Cheese Place 7435 Forsyth Blvd., Clayton, 314-447-9463, wineandcheeseplace.com Wright's Tavern 7624 Wydown Blvd., Clayton, 314-390-1466, wrightswydown.com

This week Meera and Liz discuss Taco Circus, the seasonal pide flatbreads at Balkan Treat Box, the cocktails and dishes at Lazy Tiger and how to score a table at a popular restaurant. Kitchen Clayton 7923 Forsyth Blvd., Clayton, kitchenclaytonstl.com Taco Circus El Primo Bodega Global Pizza Villain Balkan Treat Box 8103 Big Bend Blvd., Webster Groves, 314-733-5700, balkantreatbox.com Lazy Tiger 210 N. Euclid Ave., St. Louis, 3614-925-8888, lazytigerstl.com Napoli Sea 1450 Beale St., St. Charles, 636-800-2241, napolistl.com