Maplewood - Traditional St. Louis Suburb
A true up-and-coming area of St. Louis, Maplewood offers shopping, dining and entertainment, all in a 4-block strip. It is bordered by the City of St. Louis to the east, Webster Groves to the South, Brentwood to the west and Richmond Heights to the North - and was one of St. Louis' first suburbs. Just 10 minutes from Downtown, you'll find much to do in this historical neighborhood. My reco's:
If you're hungry...
Arthur Clay's: At this small bistro-style restaurant, you can enjoy an ever-changing menu as well as upscale entrees. One thing I always enjoy about this place is the perfect-sized portions they serve...go home feeling satisfied, not stuffed full with a doggie bag in hand.
Monarch: My favorite restaurant in St. Louis. You have to try this one. Gourmet international cuisine, an amazing wine list, a superb staff - from the hostess to the chef to the bartender - and excellent tastes make it (I'll say it again) my absolute favorite restaurant in the city.
Maya Cafe: Pan-Latin restaurant serving dishes from Spain, Portugal, the Caribbean, Central and South America. They have a killer margarita, and even better sangria. Try this place out when it's warm and enjoy the patio - with a real tug boat and train caboose, it's something to see.
If you're thirsty...
Schlafly: St. Louis' very own microbrewery, stop here for a tour and a brew. Try the sampler platter - which will cover all of the standard greats like Pale Ale and American Lager, and will also include a seasonal variety - like a Raspberry Hefeweisen. Order an appetizer too, the food is as good as the beer.
Boogaloo: Another that boasts great food also (Cuban and Caribbean variety), but the bar is where the action's at. Instead of standard bar stoools, patrons sit on swings hoisted from the ceiling (don't worry, they are satefy strapped from underneath to the floor) while they sip a cocktail.
Schottzie's: Again, they cook up a damn good pizza...but enjoy this traditional St. Louis bar. Hit it up while the Cards are playing, and you're in for a treat with the crowd.
If you're bored...
Saratoga Lanes: If you don't know how to keep your bowling score with paper and pencil, you'll have to try out one of those new-fangled alleys with computers. If you're an old-schooler at heart, you'll just love Saratoga. The interior looks like it was installed in 1957 and hasn't been touched since. Bring cash, they don't even have credit card machines.
Elizabeth House: A European-style boutique, this feast for the eyes offers antiques, home accessories, decor and gifts. You'll walk in feeling like you're in a museum, and leave feeling like you left your mom's house. Owner Elizabeth Maxson is truly gifted at decorating, selecting products and making you feel at home.
Penzey's Spices: Not a traditional shopping stop, but I can't get enough of this truly unique spice shop. You can find anything from cardamom to pepper to epazote to garlic salt. And the best part is, you can purchase in small amounts - so if you only need a teaspoon for a new recipe, you won't be stuck with a whole jar to go bad in your pantry.
I hate to cut this list so short - because there are so many more great shops, restaurants and things to see...so you'll just have to stop in Maplewood to check them out for yourself!
Place: Maplewood, MO
Location: 10 minutes from downtown
Contact: www.cityofmaplewood.com or 314.645.3600
