What Food is St. Louis Known For: A Culinary Journey Through the Gateway City

What Food is St. Louis Known For: A Culinary Journey Through the Gateway City

St. Louis, Missouri, often referred to as the Gateway City, is not only known for its iconic Gateway Arch but also for its unique and diverse culinary scene. The city’s food culture is a blend of traditional Midwestern comfort food, international influences, and innovative culinary creations. In this article, we will explore the various foods that St. Louis is known for, delving into their origins, cultural significance, and why they have become staples of the city’s identity.

1. St. Louis-Style Pizza: A Thin and Crispy Delight

One of the most iconic foods associated with St. Louis is its distinctive style of pizza. St. Louis-style pizza is characterized by its ultra-thin, cracker-like crust, which is made without yeast. The crust is so thin that it is often cut into squares or rectangles, a practice known as “party cut” or “tavern cut.” The pizza is typically topped with Provel cheese, a processed cheese blend that is a combination of cheddar, Swiss, and provolone. Provel cheese has a smooth, creamy texture and a slightly tangy flavor, which sets it apart from other cheeses used on pizza.

The origins of St. Louis-style pizza can be traced back to the Italian immigrants who settled in the city in the early 20th century. These immigrants brought with them their culinary traditions, including the art of pizza-making. Over time, the pizza evolved to suit the tastes of the local population, resulting in the unique style that is now synonymous with St. Louis.

2. Toasted Ravioli: A Deep-Fried Delicacy

Another beloved St. Louis dish is toasted ravioli, a deep-fried appetizer that has become a staple in the city’s restaurants and bars. Toasted ravioli consists of breaded and deep-fried ravioli, typically filled with meat, cheese, or a combination of both. The dish is usually served with marinara sauce for dipping, adding a tangy contrast to the crispy, golden exterior.

The exact origins of toasted ravioli are somewhat disputed, but it is widely believed to have been invented in St. Louis in the mid-20th century. One popular story attributes its creation to a chef at a local Italian restaurant who accidentally dropped ravioli into hot oil instead of boiling water. The result was a delicious, crispy treat that quickly gained popularity among patrons. Today, toasted ravioli is a must-try for anyone visiting St. Louis.

3. Gooey Butter Cake: A Sweet St. Louis Tradition

No discussion of St. Louis cuisine would be complete without mentioning gooey butter cake, a rich and decadent dessert that has become a local favorite. Gooey butter cake is a type of coffee cake that features a dense, buttery base topped with a gooey, custard-like layer. The cake is typically dusted with powdered sugar, adding a touch of sweetness to its rich, indulgent flavor.

The origins of gooey butter cake are somewhat murky, but it is believed to have been created by accident in the 1930s or 1940s by a St. Louis baker who mistakenly reversed the proportions of flour and butter in a traditional coffee cake recipe. The result was a cake with a gooey, buttery center that quickly became a hit with customers. Today, gooey butter cake is a beloved dessert in St. Louis, often enjoyed with a cup of coffee or as a sweet treat after a meal.

4. St. Louis-Style BBQ: A Unique Take on a Classic

While St. Louis may not be as famous for barbecue as some other cities in the United States, it has its own unique style of BBQ that is worth exploring. St. Louis-style BBQ is characterized by its use of pork spare ribs, which are trimmed down to a rectangular shape known as the “St. Louis cut.” These ribs are typically seasoned with a dry rub and then slow-cooked over indirect heat, resulting in tender, flavorful meat that falls off the bone.

St. Louis-style BBQ sauce is another key component of the city’s barbecue tradition. The sauce is typically tomato-based, with a sweet and tangy flavor profile that sets it apart from other regional BBQ sauces. It often includes ingredients like molasses, vinegar, and spices, creating a complex and delicious accompaniment to the smoky ribs.

5. Slinger: A Hearty Late-Night Comfort Food

For those looking for a hearty, late-night meal, the slinger is a St. Louis classic that is sure to satisfy. The slinger is a dish that consists of a hamburger patty topped with chili, eggs, and hash browns, all smothered in cheese and served with a side of toast. The dish is a favorite among late-night diners and is often enjoyed after a night out on the town.

The origins of the slinger are somewhat unclear, but it is believed to have been created in the mid-20th century as a way to use up leftover ingredients in diners and greasy spoons. Over time, the dish has become a beloved part of St. Louis’ culinary landscape, offering a comforting and filling meal for those in need of sustenance after a long night.

6. Frozen Custard: A Cool and Creamy Treat

St. Louis is also known for its love of frozen custard, a rich and creamy dessert that is similar to ice cream but with a higher egg yolk content, giving it a denser and smoother texture. Frozen custard is typically served in cones or cups and can be enjoyed plain or with a variety of toppings, such as hot fudge, caramel, or fresh fruit.

The popularity of frozen custard in St. Louis can be traced back to the early 20th century, when the dessert was introduced to the city by European immigrants. Today, frozen custard stands and shops can be found throughout St. Louis, offering a cool and refreshing treat for residents and visitors alike.

7. St. Paul Sandwich: A Unique Fusion of Cultures

The St. Paul sandwich is a unique and lesser-known dish that originated in St. Louis’ Chinese-American community. The sandwich consists of an egg foo young patty, which is a type of Chinese omelet made with eggs, vegetables, and sometimes meat, served between two slices of white bread. The sandwich is typically topped with mayonnaise, lettuce, and pickles, creating a fusion of Chinese and American flavors.

The origins of the St. Paul sandwich are somewhat unclear, but it is believed to have been created in the mid-20th century as a way to cater to the tastes of American customers while still incorporating traditional Chinese ingredients. Today, the St. Paul sandwich is a unique and delicious part of St. Louis’ culinary heritage.

8. Pork Steaks: A St. Louis BBQ Staple

Pork steaks are another popular BBQ item in St. Louis, offering a flavorful and affordable alternative to traditional beef steaks. Pork steaks are cut from the shoulder of the pig and are typically marinated or seasoned with a dry rub before being grilled or smoked. The result is a tender and juicy cut of meat that is perfect for BBQ enthusiasts.

Pork steaks have been a part of St. Louis’ BBQ tradition for decades, and they are often served at backyard cookouts, family gatherings, and local BBQ joints. The dish is a testament to the city’s love of pork and its ability to create delicious and satisfying meals from humble ingredients.

9. Brain Sandwich: A Controversial Delicacy

For the more adventurous eaters, the brain sandwich is a controversial and unique dish that has its roots in St. Louis. The sandwich consists of sliced calf brains that are breaded and fried, then served on a bun with lettuce, tomato, and mayonnaise. While the dish may not be for everyone, it has a long history in St. Louis and is considered a delicacy by some.

The brain sandwich is believed to have been introduced to St. Louis by German immigrants in the 19th century, who brought with them a tradition of using all parts of the animal in their cooking. Today, the brain sandwich is a rare find, but it remains a part of St. Louis’ culinary history and a testament to the city’s diverse food culture.

10. Ted Drewes Frozen Custard: A St. Louis Institution

No discussion of St. Louis food would be complete without mentioning Ted Drewes Frozen Custard, a local institution that has been serving up delicious frozen treats since 1929. Ted Drewes is famous for its thick and creamy frozen custard, which is so dense that it is often served upside down to prove its thickness. The custard can be enjoyed in a variety of flavors and is often paired with toppings like hot fudge, nuts, and fruit.

Ted Drewes has become a beloved part of St. Louis’ culinary landscape, attracting locals and visitors alike with its delicious custard and nostalgic charm. The stand is a must-visit for anyone looking to experience a true taste of St. Louis.

Conclusion

St. Louis is a city with a rich and diverse culinary heritage, offering a wide range of unique and delicious foods that reflect its history, culture, and innovation. From the thin and crispy St. Louis-style pizza to the rich and gooey butter cake, the city’s food scene is a testament to its ability to blend tradition with creativity. Whether you’re a fan of BBQ, frozen custard, or adventurous eats, St. Louis has something to offer for every palate. So, the next time you find yourself in the Gateway City, be sure to explore its culinary delights and discover the flavors that make St. Louis truly special.

Q: What is Provel cheese, and why is it used on St. Louis-style pizza?

A: Provel cheese is a processed cheese blend made from cheddar, Swiss, and provolone. It has a smooth, creamy texture and a slightly tangy flavor, which makes it ideal for St. Louis-style pizza. The cheese melts well and complements the thin, cracker-like crust, creating a unique and delicious pizza experience.

Q: Where can I find the best toasted ravioli in St. Louis?

A: Toasted ravioli is a popular dish in St. Louis, and you can find it at many local restaurants and bars. Some of the most highly recommended places to try toasted ravioli include Charlie Gitto’s on The Hill, Anthonino’s Taverna, and Mama’s on The Hill.

Q: Is gooey butter cake the same as regular butter cake?

A: No, gooey butter cake is different from regular butter cake. While both cakes are rich and buttery, gooey butter cake has a dense, custard-like layer on top that gives it a gooey texture. Regular butter cake is typically lighter and fluffier, with a more uniform texture throughout.

Q: What makes St. Louis-style BBQ sauce unique?

A: St. Louis-style BBQ sauce is typically tomato-based and has a sweet and tangy flavor profile. It often includes ingredients like molasses, vinegar, and spices, which give it a complex and distinctive taste. This sauce is a key component of St. Louis-style BBQ and is used to enhance the flavor of pork spare ribs and other BBQ dishes.

Q: Can I find frozen custard outside of St. Louis?

A: While frozen custard is particularly popular in St. Louis, it can also be found in other parts of the United States, especially in the Midwest. However, Ted Drewes Frozen Custard is a St. Louis institution and is known for its thick and creamy custard, making it a must-visit for anyone in the area.