What Foods Is St Louis Known For

What Foods is St. Louis Known For?

When I first visited St. Louis, I wasn't sure what to expect. I had heard whispers about its food scene but was completely unaware of the culinary delights that awaited me. My first stop was a small neighborhood eatery where I was introduced to toasted ravioli. You might think, "What’s so special about fried pasta?" But let me tell you, it was an experience! The crunch, the warm filling, and the flavorful marinara sauce made me realize that St. Louis was more than just the Gateway Arch; it was a treasure trove of unique dishes.

The Classic Toasted Ravioli

Toasted ravioli is believed to have originated in St. Louis in the 1940s. This dish features breaded, deep-fried ravioli usually stuffed with meat or cheese. According to local sources, over 20 million toasted ravioli are served in the St. Louis area each year, showcasing its popularity among locals and tourists alike. Many Italian-American restaurants, including the famous Charlie Gitto's, serve variations of this dish that draw in crowds, making it a must-try for any visitor.

St. Louis Style BBQ

Next up? St. Louis is known for its barbecue—specifically, St. Louis-style ribs. Unlike other BBQ styles, these ribs are cut into a rectangular shape, giving them a distinct silhouette. They’re known for their rich flavor, thanks partly to a thick tomato-based sauce that is sweet and smoky. Research shows that St. Louis BBQ restaurants usually sell around 10,000 pounds of ribs each weekend. Who wouldn’t want to sample some of that?

Provel Cheese

If you ever find yourself at a pizza place in St. Louis, you might notice something odd about the cheese. That’s Provel cheese, a processed cheese that blends cheddar, Swiss, and provolone. In fact, over 90% of pizza places in St. Louis use it! If you’ve never tried Provel, brace yourself; its creamy, gooey texture will leave you craving more. The cheese is a staple in St. Louis-style pizza, which features a thin, crispy crust that could easily leave you guessing how it’s achieved.

Gooey Butter Cake

This dessert is another ambrosia of St. Louis cuisine that many people don’t know about. This cake is rich, sweet, and downright addictive. Originally created in the 1930s when a baker accidentally mixed up the ingredients, it has since gained cult status. The gooey butter cake has a custard-like layer on top and a dense, cake-like base. It is estimated that over 100,000 pieces of gooey butter cake are consumed annually at local festivals and events!

St. Louis Style Pizza

Pizza lovers, get ready! St. Louis-style pizza brings a unique twist to a classic dish. Made with Provel cheese and a thin cracker-like crust, this style of pizza is so different that it could raise eyebrows among traditional pizza enthusiasts. Many locals argue about the best spots for this delicacy, but places like Imo's and Pizza-a-Go-Go often top the list. Are you bold enough to try a slice?

Fried Brain Sandwich

Now, here’s a dish that stirs up curiosity! Fried brain sandwiches, a local delicacy, have been intimidating and intriguing adventurous eaters for decades. Typically made with beef or pork brain, these sandwiches are breaded and fried, then served with mustard and onions. They're often referenced in popular culture as a unique St. Louis dish. But, here's the question: Would you dare to take a bite?

Conclusion

St. Louis is known for a variety of unique foods that reflect the city's rich cultural heritage. From toasted ravioli to gooey butter cake, St. Louis has something for every palate. Next time you're in town, consider indulging in these dishes. Whether you’re a local or a curious traveler, the food scene in St. Louis is sure to capture your taste buds. Will you explore the city’s culinary wonders? The adventure begins on your plate!

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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