Introduction
St. Louis, Missouri. The Gateway to the West. A city synonymous with its iconic arch, blues music, and a certain Midwestern charm. But beyond the architectural marvel and the soulful tunes, St. Louis boasts a rich culinary heritage, responsible for some of America’s most beloved (and sometimes surprising) foods. From accidentally created cakes to distinctly flavored pizzas, the food scene in St. Louis is as diverse and vibrant as the city itself. This article explores the most iconic foods that originated in or are indelibly linked to St. Louis, delving into their history, unique characteristics, and where you can find them today. Prepare your taste buds for a journey through the heart of St. Louis’s culinary landscape.
The city’s location at the confluence of the Mississippi and Missouri rivers made it a crucial trading post and a melting pot of cultures. German, Italian, and other European immigrants brought their culinary traditions, which, combined with American ingenuity and a touch of serendipity, resulted in the distinctive foods we know and love today. Whether you’re a lifelong resident or a first-time visitor, experiencing these foods is essential to understanding the essence of St. Louis.
Main Dishes and Savory Delights
Let’s start with a dish that’s practically synonymous with St. Louis: toasted ravioli.
Toasted Ravioli
The origin of toasted ravioli, often called “t-ravs” by locals, is shrouded in a delightful, slightly disputed legend. The story most often told involves Charlie Gitto’s on The Hill, St. Louis’s historic Italian neighborhood. The prevailing narrative claims that a chef accidentally dropped ravioli into a fryer, and, lo and behold, a culinary star was born. Another version suggests it was a deliberate experiment. Regardless of its precise beginnings, toasted ravioli quickly became a St. Louis staple.
What exactly is it? It’s breaded, deep-fried ravioli, traditionally filled with meat, though vegetarian options are becoming increasingly common. The crispy exterior gives way to a savory, tender filling. But the true magic lies in the marinara sauce served alongside it. The bright, tangy sauce provides the perfect counterpoint to the rich, fried ravioli. The combination is a symphony of textures and flavors that’s both comforting and satisfying.
What makes toasted ravioli special is its unique texture and the accompanying dipping sauce. It’s not just fried ravioli; it’s a culinary experience unique to St. Louis. The breading, the frying time, the quality of the marinara – every element contributes to the final product.
If you’re looking to sample authentic toasted ravioli, The Hill is the place to start. Charlie Gitto’s, of course, is a must-visit. But other restaurants on The Hill, such as Mama’s on The Hill and Anthonino’s Taverna, offer their own delicious takes on this iconic dish. You’ll also find toasted ravioli on menus throughout the city, from casual pubs to upscale restaurants, making it easily accessible to anyone craving a taste of St. Louis history.
St. Louis-Style Pizza
Next up is a dish that sparks strong opinions, both positive and negative, but is undeniably a symbol of St. Louis: St. Louis-style pizza.
The history of St. Louis-style pizza is closely linked to Imo’s Pizza, a local chain that has become synonymous with this unique style. While the exact origins are debated, Imo’s played a crucial role in popularizing and defining the characteristics of St. Louis-style pizza.
So, what sets it apart? It features a thin, cracker-like crust, Provel cheese, and is traditionally cut into squares (or “party cut”). The crust is so thin and crispy that it often snaps when you bite into it. But the real distinguishing factor is the Provel cheese.
Provel cheese is a processed cheese blend of provolone, Swiss, and cheddar. It has a low melting point, giving it a gooey, almost creamy texture when melted. It’s a polarizing ingredient – some love its distinctive flavor, while others find it too processed. However, it’s an integral part of the St. Louis-style pizza experience. The square cut also contributes to the pizza’s unique appeal. It allows for easy sharing and ensures that every slice has a bit of crust.
What makes it special is the distinct Provel cheese and cutting style. The cracker-thin crust and square cut make it a pizza unlike any other.
If you want to try authentic St. Louis-style pizza, Imo’s Pizza is the obvious choice. They have locations throughout the St. Louis area. However, many other local pizzerias also offer their own versions of St. Louis-style pizza, so don’t be afraid to explore and find your favorite.
St. Paul Sandwich
Moving on to something a bit more unexpected, we have the St. Paul sandwich. This sandwich, surprisingly, has roots in Chinese-American cuisine.
The St. Paul sandwich originated in Chinese restaurants in St. Louis. Legend says it was created by Steven Yuen at Park Chop Suey in the early twentieth century, aiming to create a dish that would appeal to the local palate.
The sandwich consists of an egg foo young patty (a fried egg omelet filled with bean sprouts and other vegetables) served on white bread with dill pickles, lettuce, tomato, and mayonnaise. It’s a curious combination of flavors and textures. The crispy egg foo young patty, the soft white bread, the tangy pickles, and the creamy mayonnaise create a unique and satisfying culinary experience.
What makes the St. Paul sandwich special is the unexpected combination of Chinese-American flavors within a classic sandwich format. It’s a testament to the city’s diverse culinary influences.
You can find the St. Paul sandwich at many Chinese restaurants in St. Louis, particularly in older neighborhoods. These restaurants often have a loyal following of locals who appreciate this unique and comforting dish.
Gooey Butter Cake
Now, let’s move on to something sweet: gooey butter cake. This cake is another testament to St. Louis’s history of accidental culinary genius.
The history of gooey butter cake, like many beloved foods, is rooted in a delightful accident. It’s believed that a German baker in St. Louis accidentally reversed the proportions of butter and flour in a cake recipe, resulting in the gooey, buttery confection we know today.
It’s a flat, dense cake with a gooey, buttery topping. The topping is typically made with butter, sugar, eggs, and sometimes cream cheese. The result is a cake that’s intensely sweet, rich, and utterly decadent.
What makes it special is the ultra-rich and sweet flavor. The gooey topping is the star of the show, providing a burst of buttery sweetness with every bite. It’s the perfect treat for satisfying a sweet tooth.
You can find gooey butter cake at Park Avenue Coffee, which specializes in different variations of the cake, and Gooey Louie, another bakery dedicated to this St. Louis treasure. Many other bakeries and cafes throughout the city also offer their own versions of gooey butter cake, so you’re never too far from a slice of this sweet delight.
Horseshoe Sandwich
While not originally *from* St. Louis (it hails from Springfield, Illinois), the Horseshoe sandwich deserves a mention due to its prevalence on menus throughout the city.
The Horseshoe sandwich is an open-faced sandwich with meat (often hamburger, but sometimes other meats like ham or turkey), fries, and a generous helping of cheese sauce. It’s a hearty and indulgent meal that’s sure to satisfy any appetite.
We include it because, despite its Springfield origins, the Horseshoe has found a comfortable home in St. Louis, appearing on menus at many local diners and restaurants.
Sweet Treats and Beverages
Beyond the main courses, St. Louis also offers a delightful array of sweet treats and beverages.
Concrete
No discussion of St. Louis treats is complete without mentioning Ted Drewes Frozen Custard, the undisputed king of frozen custard in the city and home of the “Concrete.”
Ted Drewes has been a St. Louis institution since the 1930s. Their frozen custard is legendary, and their “Concrete” is their signature creation.
A Concrete is frozen custard blended with a variety of toppings, from fruits and nuts to candies and cookies. It’s so thick that it’s served upside down to prove its density (and prevent it from falling out of the cup!).
Ted Drewes’s frozen custard and concretes are a must-try for anyone visiting St. Louis. The creamy texture and endless flavor combinations make it a truly unforgettable treat.
Fitz’s Root Beer
For a refreshing beverage, look no further than Fitz’s Root Beer.
The history of Fitz’s Bottling Company dates back to the early twentieth century. They have been producing hand-crafted root beer using traditional methods ever since.
Fitz’s Root Beer is made with a blend of natural ingredients, including herbs, spices, and extracts. It’s bottled in glass, which helps to preserve its flavor. It’s a classic root beer with a smooth, slightly sweet taste.
What makes Fitz’s Root Beer special is its classic flavor and the nostalgic bottling process. The glass bottles and vintage branding add to its charm.
You can find Fitz’s Root Beer at Fitz’s restaurants, which also serve a variety of other classic American dishes. It’s also available at many stores throughout the St. Louis region.
Frozen Custard
Frozen custard, in general, holds a special place in the hearts of St. Louisans.
St. Louis has a long and passionate love affair with frozen custard. It’s a popular treat that’s enjoyed year-round.
Frozen custard is similar to ice cream but richer and denser. It’s made with eggs, cream, and sugar, resulting in a smooth and creamy texture.
What makes it special is the texture and fresh ingredients. The fresh eggs and cream give it a richer flavor and a denser consistency than traditional ice cream.
Aside from Ted Drewes and Fritz’s, you can find frozen custard at numerous local custard stands throughout the St. Louis area. Each stand has its own unique flavors and creations, so be sure to explore and find your favorite.
Other Notable Mentions
No culinary tour of St. Louis would be complete without briefly mentioning a few other local favorites.
Provel Cheese
We’ve touched on it, but Provel cheese deserves a bit more attention. Its low melting point and distinctive flavor are what define St. Louis-style pizza. It’s a love-it-or-hate-it ingredient, but it’s undeniably a part of the city’s culinary identity.
Maull’s BBQ Sauce
Maull’s BBQ Sauce is a St. Louis staple. It has a unique, tangy flavor that sets it apart from other BBQ sauces. It’s been a local favorite for generations.
Red Hot Riplets
Red Hot Riplets are spicy potato chips with a loyal following in St. Louis. Their intense heat and unique flavor make them a snack that’s not for the faint of heart.
The Future of St. Louis Food
St. Louis’s culinary scene is constantly evolving, while still cherishing its iconic dishes.
The Hill’s Impact
The Hill’s influence on St. Louis food cannot be overstated. The Italian neighborhood continues to be a culinary hub, offering a wide range of authentic Italian restaurants and food shops.
Current Culinary Scene
The current St. Louis culinary scene is thriving, with a growing number of local restaurants offering innovative and exciting dishes. Chefs are drawing inspiration from the city’s culinary heritage while also pushing boundaries and exploring new flavors.
Conclusion
From toasted ravioli to gooey butter cake, the foods that originated in or are closely associated with St. Louis are an integral part of the city’s identity. They reflect the city’s history, its diverse cultural influences, and its enduring love of good food.
So, whether you’re a lifelong resident or a first-time visitor, we invite you to explore the culinary scene of St. Louis and try these iconic foods for yourself. You’ll discover a delicious and surprising side of the Gateway City. Come hungry and experience the unique tastes that make St. Louis a true culinary destination.
