A MESSAGE FROM SLM FOOD ENTHUSIAST CHERYL A. BAEHR
I hope you’ve all been enjoying this incredible weather. Judging by the traffic near Forest Park, many of you must have had the same idea as I did: a picnic. For myself, it involved some of the juiciest tomatoes I’ve yet had this year, purchased from the Kirkwood Farmers' Market. If you haven’t yet made your summer BLT, it’s time. (And do reach out with your thoughts on whether you’re Team Duke’s, Team Kewpie, or perhaps something else. I have an opinion, but I’d love to hear yours.)
Tomatoes were not the only thing I spied at the Kirkwood Farmers' Market this weekend. Although it wasn’t breathtakingly hot, I couldn't help but indulge in some shaved ice from Tropical Moose (or “Tro Mo,” if you’re in the know). It’s a beloved Kirkwood mainstay, but it’s far from the only snow cone or shaved ice gem in the metro area. It seems like every neighborhood has its own version, but they can often be hard to find if you don’t know where to look; after all, they tend to be small-scale outfits, with little online presence. In this week’s guide, I’ve cataloged as many as I could find and plan to visit as many as possible as part of my summer bucket list. (If I’ve missed any favorites, shoot me an email, and I will gladly add it to our guide.)
While I prefer the tart refreshment of a sour spray–covered cherry shaved ice, I understand that many of you are partial to ice cream and frozen custard as your summertime sweet treat of choice. On the latest episode of the Arch Eats podcast, dining editor George Mahe and I share our favorites, which should keep you cool when the weather most certainly changes to a more normal (read: hot and humid) St. Louis summer. Check out our recommendations on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever podcasts are available.
In the meantime, enjoy the reprieve, and cheers to good eating!
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The Scoop
RETURNING CHAMPION
Burger Champ is now available at Pizza Champ
When Chris Kelling closed Burger Champ in June, he teased that the restaurant might see a new life in a different form. Now, that is coming to fruition. Over the weekend, Kelling announced that Burger Champ’s burgers, hot dogs, and shakes are now available at nearby Pizza Champ, which offers carryout and has a drive-thru. According to the Maplewood restaurant’s social media, the Burger Champ additions were quietly launched as part of the menu a few weeks ago. You can check out the latest version of the restaurant’s menu here.
PICK OF THE SEASON
Pick-your-own apple season is now underway at Eckert’s Farm
It seems like just yesterday we were celebrating the beginning of you-pick berry season, but it is indeed apple-picking time already. Pick-your-own Maias are currently available at Eckert’s Belleville and Grafton locations. Jonathan, Golden, and Red varieties will be available at the Millstadt location beginning September 6. For more information, visit eckerts.com.
LUNCH GIVEBACK
Nathaniel Reid Bakery to donate funds to the Kirkwood School District Foundation
For the seventh year in a row, Nathaniel Reid Bakery has partnered with the Kirkwood School District Foundation for its Lunches for Learning initiative. From August 20–24, the bakery will donate 20 percent of proceeds from its $17.50 boxed lunch combo to the foundation, which supports students in the Kirkwood School District. Is there a better reason to treat yourself to one of those delicious turkey croissants and a brownie?
SHOPPING GUIDES
Top spots for snow cones and shaved ice in St. Louis
Where to find the classic summertime treat across the area
Summer get-togethers do not have to be complicated to be wonderful. Make hosting easy, chic, and delicious with charcuterie boards and tables by Social Graze—perfect for any occasion, from big celebrations to intimate gatherings.
Champaign-Urbana, Illinois, is a hidden gem for St. Louis residents
For St. Louis residents seeking an escape from urban life, Champaign-Urbana is an ideal travel destination, only a three-hour drive away. Its unique college town charm, affordability, and vibrant local culture promises a memorable, enriching getaway. Learn more and plan your trip.
RECIPE
Estela Ituarte’s strawberry guava agua fresca
From a young age, Ituarte has been perfecting her aguas frescas—making craft, first out of duty for her family and eventually out of a passion for the refreshing beverage. The key to the beverage, she says, is to not add too much water, so the natural fruit flavor remains intense. She also suggests adjusting the amount of sugarcane depending on the ripeness of the fruit. As a rule of thumb: Earlier in the season, less-ripe fruit requires more sugarcane, whereas peak-of-the-season produce calls for minimal sugarcane.
Ingredients
1 lb strawberries
1.5 lb. guavas
1 cup sugarcane
2 liters/68 oz. water
Directions
In a container, mix sugarcane with water until dissolved and set aside.
Wash guavas and strawberries thoroughly. Cut guavas in half, and take out the seeds. Set aside three or four strawberries for later. Mix guavas and strawberries in blender, adding some of the sugar water that's already prepared.
Add the blended strawberries and guava to the rest of the sugar water, and mix well.
Chop the strawberries, set aside, and add to the drink.
Pour some of the strawberry guava agua fresca over ice. Enjoy!
Parties in the Park continue on Wednesday, August 14, 5–7:30 p.m., on N. Brentwood Boulevard. My Friend Mike, sponsored by Parkside Financial Bank & Trust, will rock the Perimeter Solutions stage. Grab a bite from food truck Go Gyro Go. Learn more.
Whether you're craving a classic chocolate cake, a fruity tart, or a batch of freshly baked cookies, their bakery has something for every sweet tooth. Order today.
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