St. Louis, Missouri, is a city steeped in history, culture, and delicious cuisine. Located in the heart of the Midwest, St. Louis has a unique blend of Southern, German, and Italian influences that have shaped its culinary identity. From sweet treats to savory eats, St. Louis is famous for its mouthwatering dishes that will leave you craving for more. In this article, we’ll take you on a gastronomic journey to discover the iconic foods that have put St. Louis on the culinary map.
The Birthplace of Toasted Ravioli
You can’t talk about St. Louis food without mentioning toasted ravioli. This crispy, cheesy, and oh-so-addictive appetizer is a staple in many St. Louis restaurants and bars. The origins of toasted ravioli are murky, but it’s believed to have been invented by a St. Louis chef in the 1940s or 1950s. The dish typically consists of breaded and fried ravioli filled with meat, cheese, or vegetables, served with a side of marinara sauce. You’ll find toasted ravioli on menus across the city, from casual pubs to upscale eateries.
A Classic St. Louis Dish
So, what makes toasted ravioli so special? For starters, it’s a uniquely St. Louis dish that you won’t find anywhere else in the country. The combination of crispy breading, gooey cheese, and tender pasta is a match made in heaven. Plus, it’s an excellent bar snack that pairs perfectly with a cold beer or cocktail. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, toasted ravioli is a must-try when in St. Louis.
Home of the Gooey Butter Cake
St. Louis has a sweet tooth, and one of its most beloved treats is the gooey butter cake. This rich, sweet, and indulgent dessert has been a St. Louis staple for over 80 years. The gooey butter cake is essentially a dense, buttery coffee cake topped with a crumbly streusel topping and a gooey, sweet center. It’s often served as a breakfast item or snack, but let’s be real – it’s perfect any time of day.
A Family Tradition
The gooey butter cake has a special place in the hearts of St. Louisans. Many families have their own secret recipes passed down through generations, and it’s not uncommon to see long lines outside local bakeries on weekends. In fact, the gooey butter cake is such an integral part of St. Louis culture that it’s often served at family gatherings, weddings, and other celebrations.
Pork Steak: A St. Louis Institution
Pork steak is a St. Louis tradition that dates back to the early 20th century. This mouthwatering dish consists of a thick, juicy pork cutlet that’s breaded and fried to perfection. It’s often served with a side of tangy BBQ sauce, crispy onion rings, and creamy coleslaw. Pork steak is a staple in many St. Louis restaurants, and its popularity shows no signs of slowing down.
A Working-Class Hero
Pork steak has a special significance in St. Louis because it’s a working-class hero. Back in the day, pork steak was an affordable and filling meal for laborers and factory workers. Today, it’s still a beloved dish that’s deeply rooted in St. Louis culture. Whether you’re a meat-and-potatoes kind of person or just looking for a hearty meal, pork steak is the way to go.
Provel Cheese: The Unofficial St. Louis Cheese
Provel cheese is a St. Louis institution that’s been around since the early 20th century. This semi-soft, white cheese is made from a blend of cheddar, Swiss, and parmesan cheese, giving it a unique flavor and texture. Provel cheese is often used in St. Louis-style pizza, but it’s also delicious on its own as a snack or appetizer.
A Family Affair
Provel cheese has a rich history in St. Louis, and it’s still made by the same family that created it over 100 years ago. The company, Volpi Salumeria, has been around since 1902 and is still family-owned and operated. Today, Volpi’s Provel cheese is still made using traditional methods and is a staple in many St. Louis households.
St. Louis-Style Pizza: A Thin Crust Sensation
St. Louis-style pizza is a thin crust sensation that’s unlike any other pizza style in the country. The crust is crispy and crackery, topped with a sweet and tangy sauce, a blend of mozzarella and Provel cheese, and a variety of toppings. This unique pizza style has been around since the 1960s and has gained a loyal following across the city.
A Neighborhood Tradition
St. Louis-style pizza is deeply rooted in the city’s neighborhoods. Many pizzerias have been around for decades, with families passing down their secret recipes from generation to generation. In fact, some pizzerias are so popular that they’ve become institutions in their own right. For example, Imo’s Pizza has been a St. Louis staple since 1964 and has over 100 locations across the city.
Other St. Louis Favorites
While toasted ravioli, gooey butter cake, pork steak, Provel cheese, and St. Louis-style pizza are the most iconic St. Louis dishes, there are many other delicious foods that deserve mention.
Citygarden Salad
The Citygarden Salad is a refreshing twist on the classic green salad. It typically consists of mixed greens, carrots, red onions, crumbled blue cheese, and a tangy vinaigrette dressing. This salad is a staple in many St. Louis restaurants and is perfect for a light and healthy meal.
Toffee Coffee
Toffee coffee is a sweet and creamy coffee drink that’s unique to St. Louis. It’s made with a shot of espresso, steamed milk, and a drizzle of toffee syrup. This indulgent drink is perfect for a cold winter morning or as a pick-me-up any time of day.
Conclusion
St. Louis is a city that’s proud of its culinary heritage, and for good reason. From toasted ravioli to gooey butter cake, pork steak, Provel cheese, and St. Louis-style pizza, there’s no shortage of delicious foods to try. Whether you’re a foodie, a history buff, or just looking for a new culinary adventure, St. Louis is the perfect destination. So come and taste the Gateway to the West for yourself – your taste buds will thank you!
What is the culinary scene like in St. Louis?
St. Louis is known for its rich culinary heritage, which is deeply rooted in its German and French influences. The city’s culinary scene is a unique blend of traditional Midwestern comfort food, seafood, and international cuisine. From traditional toasted ravioli to gooey butter cake, St. Louis offers a wide range of flavors that cater to different tastes and preferences.
One of the highlights of St. Louis’ culinary scene is its vibrant food truck scene, which offers everything from gourmet grilled cheese to Korean BBQ. The city is also home to a number of renowned restaurants, including Sidney Street Cafe, which has been recognized as one of the best restaurants in the country by the James Beard Foundation.
What are some must-try dishes in St. Louis?
Some must-try dishes in St. Louis include toasted ravioli, gooey butter cake, and provel cheese. Toasted ravioli is a St. Louis staple that consists of breaded and fried ravioli served with marinara sauce. Gooey butter cake is a sweet treat that is unlike any other dessert – it’s a flat, dense cake that’s topped with a crumbly sugar topping and served with a side of icing. Provel cheese is a type of cheese that’s unique to St. Louis and is often used in sandwiches and salads.
In addition to these iconic dishes, St. Louis is also known for its BBQ, which is slow-smoked to perfection and served with a side of tangy BBQ sauce. The city is also home to a number of excellent seafood restaurants, which serve up fresh seafood dishes like lobster rolls and fish tacos.
What is toasted ravioli?
Toasted ravioli is a St. Louis staple that consists of breaded and fried ravioli served with marinara sauce. The dish is typically made with a mixture of beef, pork, and vegetables, which is wrapped in a thin layer of dough and sealed into small pockets. The ravioli is then breaded and fried until crispy and golden brown, and served with a side of marinara sauce for dipping.
While toasted ravioli can be found on menus throughout the city, it’s often served as an appetizer or side dish. Some popular spots to try toasted ravioli include Charlie Gitto’s, a St. Louis institution that’s been serving up the dish for over 30 years.
What is provel cheese?
Provel cheese is a type of cheese that’s unique to St. Louis and is often used in sandwiches and salads. The cheese is a type of Swiss cheese that’s made from cow’s milk, and has a smooth, creamy texture and a mild, slightly sweet flavor. Provel cheese is often used in place of cheddar or mozzarella in sandwiches and pizzas, and is a popular ingredient in many St. Louis restaurants.
One of the most famous uses of provel cheese is in the “St. Louis-style” pizza, which features a thin crust topped with provel cheese, sausage, and mushrooms. The cheese is also often used in salads, soups, and sandwiches, and pairs well with meats like turkey and ham.
What are some popular food festivals in St. Louis?
St. Louis is home to a number of popular food festivals throughout the year, including the Taste of St. Louis, the St. Louis BBQ Festival, and the Soulard Oktoberfest. The Taste of St. Louis is a three-day festival that features food from over 20 local restaurants, as well as live music and cooking demonstrations. The St. Louis BBQ Festival is a two-day festival that celebrates the city’s BBQ heritage, with live music, BBQ contests, and plenty of delicious ‘cue.
The Soulard Oktoberfest is a three-day festival that celebrates St. Louis’ German heritage, with live music, German food and beer, and traditional German dancing. Other popular food festivals in St. Louis include the St. Louis Food Truck Festival, the Hill Italian Festival, and the St. Louis Jazz and Wine Festival.
What are some popular food neighborhoods in St. Louis?
Some popular food neighborhoods in St. Louis include the Central West End, Soulard, and the Hill. The Central West End is a trendy neighborhood that’s home to a number of upscale restaurants and bars, including the acclaimed Sidney Street Cafe. Soulard is a historic neighborhood that’s known for its farmers market and its many restaurants and cafes, which serve up everything from BBQ to Mexican cuisine.
The Hill is St. Louis’ Italian-American neighborhood, and is home to a number of excellent Italian restaurants, including Adriana’s and Zia’s. The neighborhood is also home to a number of specialty food shops, including Italian markets and bakeries. Other popular food neighborhoods in St. Louis include the Grove and Grand Center.
What are some popular food tours in St. Louis?
Some popular food tours in St. Louis include the St. Louis Food Tour, the Soulard Food Tour, and the Hill Food Tour. The St. Louis Food Tour is a three-hour tour that takes visitors to a number of popular restaurants and eateries throughout the city, including Charlie Gitto’s and Crown Candy Kitchen. The Soulard Food Tour is a two-hour tour that focuses on the historic Soulard neighborhood, with stops at a number of restaurants and food shops, including the Soulard Farmers Market.
The Hill Food Tour is a two-hour tour that focuses on St. Louis’ Italian-American neighborhood, with stops at a number of excellent Italian restaurants and specialty food shops. Other popular food tours in St. Louis include the St. Louis Brewery and Food Tour, which combines food and beer tastings at a number of local breweries, and the Sweet Tooth Tour, which focuses on the city’s many bakeries and sweet shops.