editor’s letter

St. Louisans don’t have to travel far for a great adventure.

If winter has left you as restless as it’s left the Feast team, this edition is the perfect antidote.

On p. 30, managing editor Mary Andino takes us on a trip down the Missouri River, where she details the captivating culinary experience that is Big Muddy Adventures’ supper club. This chef-driven camping excursion is just one of the ways metro area experts are bringing the culinary arts to life for local residents.

Looking for the thrill of a curated dining experience without the overnight? Andino returns on p. 9 with her top picks for some of the true farm-to-table dinners that are undoubtedly the next big thing just outside the city limits.

Speaking of getting out of the city limits, the Feast staff shares some of its favorite weekend getaway destinations on p. 21. Each of these special spots just beyond the edge of the metro area is a quick road trip full of foodie gems and enough activities to fill a day or two. And for the perfect way to get out without getting away, flip to p. 16 for assistant editor Emily

Standlee’s guide to packing the perfect cannabis-infused picnic.

For even more drive-worthy destinations, turn to p. 13 for associate editor Charlotte Renner’s favorite Jefferson City classics and to p. 10 for contributor Alecia Humphreys’ conversation with the bread baker changing the game in Festus, Missouri.

We all know that good food can change the world – and on p. 26, Andino teams up with digital editor Shannon Weber to reveal how one restaurant is revolutionizing a small town. If you read nothing else this month, make it this heartwarming feature about the owners behind 1929 Pizza & Wine and how they – along with the residents of Wood River, Illinois – are setting the scene for their downtown’s future.

Here’s to a spring full of all of the delicious bites our region has to offer.

Cheers, Emily Adams emily.adams@feastmagazine.com

RESTAURANTS REVIEWED From St. Louis Post-Dispatch Restaurant Critic Ian Froeb RESTAURANTS REVIEWED

Wright’s Tavern

Wright’s Tavern is the latest venture from Louie owner Matt McGuire, with the great chef Cary McDowell running the kitchen. They have taken over the former I Fratellini space in Clayton and transformed it into a classic American steakhouse that does both the big things (i.e., steaks) and the little things (sides) exceptionally well.

READ

Where Wright’s Tavern, 7624 Wydown Blvd., Clayton, Missouri More info 314-390-1466; wrightswydown.com • Menu Steaks, seafood and truly exceptional onion rings • Hours Dinner Mon. to Sat. (closed Sun.)

Fleur STL

Chef and owner Tim Eagan opened Fleur STL late last year in the former Eat-Rite Diner building just south of downtown. Comparisons between the new restaurant and the iconic Eat-Rite are unavoidable, but Fleur isn’t Eat-Rite 2.0. It’s much better.

Nobu’s

The beloved University City restaurant Nobu’s, forced to relocate by the Costco-anchored redevelopment at Olive Boulevard and Interstate 170, has reinvented itself, with Nobu Kidera serving an omakase, or chef’s choice, menu featuring nigiri sushi and other Japanese fare. It’s one of the best new St. Louis restaurants in years.

Where Fleur STL, 622 Chouteau Ave., St. Louis, Missouri More