What Cuisine Is St. Louis Known For

What Cuisine is St. Louis Known For?

When I first visited St. Louis, I had no idea what to expect in terms of food. I had heard rumors and tales about iconic dishes, but nothing could prepare me for the culinary adventure that awaited. As I strolled through the city, the sweet aroma of toasted ravioli pulled me into a small eatery, and that's where my love for St. Louis cuisine truly began. Little did I know that this dish would set off a thrilling exploration into the unique flavors this city has to offer.

Toasted Ravioli: A Local Classic

Toasted ravioli is not just a dish; it’s a culinary phenomenon in St. Louis. Legend has it that this dish was created by Italian immigrants in the 1940s. Traditionally, raviolis are boiled, but in St. Louis, they take a different route. They are breaded and then fried, giving them a crispy exterior that contrasts the soft pasta inside. This dish is often served alongside marinara sauce, creating a flavor explosion that is hard to resist. Today, many restaurants in St. Louis proudly serve their own versions of toasted ravioli, including popular spots like Tony's and The Hill, the city’s Italian neighborhood.

St. Louis-style BBQ: A Smoked Sensation

If you want to talk about barbecue in St. Louis, you can't overlook St. Louis-style ribs. These ribs are cut in a unique way, known as the "St. Louis cut," which removes the sternum and cartilage and leaves behind a beautiful rack of meat. They are usually slow-cooked in a smoker with a tomato-based sauce, setting them apart from other styles of BBQ. According to the Kansas City Barbeque Society, St. Louis has become famous for its barbecuing techniques and competitions. The city hosts events like the St. Louis BBQ Festival, showcasing local talent and culinary techniques.

Provel Cheese: A Melting Mystery

What’s the secret behind St. Louis-style pizza? It all begins with Provel cheese. This processed blend of cheddar, Swiss, and provolone cheeses was developed in the 1930s. It melts easily, creating a unique texture that pizza lovers either adore or abhor. Provel cheese is synonymous with St. Louis-style pizza, which has a thin, cracker-like crust, topped with a generous layer of Provel. But don’t just take my word for it; a survey from the American Cheese Society found that Provel has a special place in many locals' hearts, evoking nostalgia and a sense of home.

Gooey Butter Cake: Dessert Worth Savoring

For dessert, dive into the world of gooey butter cake, another St. Louis original. This cake, which has a rich, gooey filling and a dense crumbly texture, was created accidentally in the 1930s when a baker switched the sugar and flour quantities. Since then, it has captured the hearts and tastebuds of many. While exact sales figures are hard to come by, St. Louis bakeries like Park Avenue Coffee and Little Rascals claim they sell thousands of pieces weekly. With its buttery, sweet taste, it’s no wonder this treat has become a local staple.

Oyster Loaf: A Seafood Surprise

Now, here’s where things get a bit mysterious. You may not expect to find an oyster loaf in St. Louis, but this dish has made an intriguing comeback in recent years. Traditionally, an oyster loaf is made by frying breaded oysters and serving them inside a loaf of bread. It’s rumored that this unique sandwich was popularized during the 19th century, primarily at taverns around the city. Today, fans of this dish are seeking it out at various establishments, intrigued by its historical roots and flavorful experience.

Final Thoughts

St. Louis cuisine is a blend of tradition, culture, and innovation. From toasted ravioli to gooey butter cake, each dish tells a story and carries a piece of the city’s history. Whether you are a resident or a visitor, unlocking the flavors of St. Louis is an adventure worth taking. The city's culinary scene keeps evolving, but the heart of St. Louis cuisine remains—bold, delicious, and undeniably unique.

So, the next time you're in St. Louis, don’t stick to the ordinary. Dive into these iconic dishes and discover the rich flavors that define this city. Who knows, you may uncover a newfound appreciation for an unexpected gem!

About me

Hello,My name is Aparna Patel,I’m a Travel Blogger and Photographer who travel the world full-time with my hubby.I like to share my travel experience.

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