What Food Is St Louis Missouri Known For

What Food is St. Louis, Missouri Known For?

When I first visited St. Louis, I was excited to explore the local cuisine. I had heard a lot about the city’s food scene, but nothing prepared me for the delicious surprises I found on my culinary adventure. If you are like me and love food, let’s dive deep into what makes St. Louis a hidden gem for food lovers.

St. Louis Style Pizza

St. Louis is home to its very own style of pizza, which is incredibly unique. Unlike the traditional pizza we often think of, St. Louis-style pizza features a thin, cracker-like crust and is topped with Provel cheese, a blend of cheddar, Swiss, and provolone. What makes this pizza interesting is the fact that it's cut into squares instead of the usual triangles. If you haven’t tried it yet, you might be curious to see how that changes the experience. A popular spot to try is Imo's Pizza, boasting over 100 local locations. They serve millions of pizzas each year!

Toasted Ravioli

Next up is toasted ravioli, an iconic St. Louis snack that has a fascinating backstory. It is believed to have been invented by Italian immigrants in the 1940s. These delicious, breaded, and deep-fried pasta pockets are typically filled with meat or cheese. You might think this is just another pasta dish, but there’s something special about biting into a perfectly cooked toasted ravioli and experiencing the explosion of flavors. One place to grab some is at St. Louis' own Charlie Gitto's. Trust me, they know their ravioli!

Gooey Butter Cake

Looking for something sweet? You must try gooey butter cake, a dessert that just might dazzle your taste buds. This cake originated by mistake when a German baker mishandled a recipe. It resulted in a rich, buttery, and gooey treat that locals have come to love. Interestingly, there’s even an annual contest in St. Louis for the best gooey butter cake, showcasing just how much it means to the community. Bakeries like Missouri Baking Company often sell out of this favorite, so be sure to grab a slice!

St. Louis-Style Barbecue

Ah, St. Louis-style barbecue! It has a flavor that is hard to forget. This style often involves pork steaks, ribs, and a signature sweet and tangy sauce. Did you know that St. Louis is home to the World BBQ Championship? This annual event attracts visitors from all over the country. It’s no wonder people rave about places like Pappy's Smokehouse and that signature burnt ends they serve. Just be prepared for a long line; it’s that popular!

Provel Cheese and its Role

Among the ingredients, Provel cheese deserves a mention on its own. Locally produced and used predominantly in pizza, St. Louis residents swear by this cheese. Interestingly, it has even sparked debates amongst cheese connoisseurs! Did you know that Provel is made specifically for melting? This comes in handy when crafting the iconic St. Louis-style pizza. Go ahead and taste Provel on your pizza, and you might find it lives up to the hype!

Food Festivals and Events

St. Louis also has numerous food festivals, and missing them would be a real shame. Events like the St. Louis Food Truck Festival attract thousands of food enthusiasts each year. These events showcase local vendors and offer a sampling of the best dishes in town. There’s nothing like the sense of community you feel during these gatherings, where locals and tourists come together to enjoy food. Keep an eye on the calendar so you won’t miss them!

Conclusion

St. Louis, Missouri, is undeniably rich in culinary delights that draw locals and visitors alike. Whether it’s the unique St. Louis-style pizza, the mouthwatering toasted ravioli, or the sweet finish of gooey butter cake, there’s something for everyone. The city's barbecue scene is a culinary heavyweight, and don't forget about the food festivals that capture the spirit of the community. I left St. Louis with a full stomach and unforgettable memories, and I’m eager to go back for another round of exploration. What culinary adventures await you?

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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