Working in entertainment and media in both NYC and LA for over a decade, I would never have predicted I would abandon my dual-coast lifestyle for a fly-over city perched on a riverbank. But for nearly 15 years, St. Louis has been my adopted hometown. No longer just a beacon for baseball and beer fans, this midwestern city is home to vibrant communities of adventurous designers and artists, startups and coworking spaces. I’d even go as far as to say the city’s urban hang-outs rival the cool magic of those in my beloved former cities.

The Restaurants and Bars to Try in St. Louis

St. Louis’ culinary scene is flourishing with loads of first-rate options celebrating a wealth of James Beard nominated chefs, vintners, and craft brewers. Start at Winslow’s Home, a feel good spot with farm-to-table, soul-nourishing food. It doubles as a general store that carries groceries, dry goods, and kitchen items. Foodies should make the trek to Shaw neighborhood for Union Loafers, a seasonally sourced eatery has the best soups, sandwiches, and little gem salads in town. The Clover and the Bee is worth the pilgrimage to Webster Groves for the sunny, Insta-famous atmosphere thanks to its bright floral mural and velvet green settee. The fresh, light fare makes it the perfect place for brunch any day of the week.