Posts Tagged ‘local food’

With Christmas Eve less than a week away, chances are your holiday shopping will soon focus on what really matters: food! If you’re looking to enliven your Christmas menu or maybe give someone a special gourmet gift, here are 12 tasty ways to do just that with fresh, local delights from North County:

1) Kringles @ Helfer’s Pastries, 380 St. Ferdinand St, 63031, (314) 837-6050

If you’ve never had a kringle, or don’t even know what one is, get yourself to Helfer’s Pastries in Florissant ASAP! Inside this decadent Danish pastry you’ll find a heavenly filling of butterscotch, topped with either raspberries or pecans. It’s the perfect hostess treat for a holiday party. According to legend, kringles date to the 1800s and their oval shape is said to represent the eternal love of God. Aw. Unfortunately, not even God can help you score a kringle if you don’t act soon. Helfer’s is really hopping this time of year, and orders for Christmas Eve MUST be placed by Tuesday, 12/22.

2) Linzer cookies @ Cose Dolci, 100 S. Florissant, 63135, (314) 799-2157

It’s just an added bonus that Beth Thompson, owner of this amazing little Ferguson bakery, is one of the nicest people ever. But what really keeps Cose Dolci busy (especially in December) is the fact that its made-from-scratch, all-natural cookies are divine! Beth also makes fantastic cupcakes, sweet breads, scones, muffins and more, but her most popular item is the Linzer Cookie, a delicate, jam-filled indulgence that originated in Austria centuries ago. Buy just a bag or combine several types of baked goods for one of Cose Dolci’s delicious gift sets.

3) Peppermint Stick custard @ The Whistle Stop, 1 Carson Rd, 63135, (314) 521-1600

Tomorrow (Saturday) is the last day of the year to stock up on handmade gourmet frozen custard from The Whistle Stop in Ferguson. After that, you’ll have to wait until February! Take-home quarts are available for every flavor of Whistle Stop custard, but may I suggest three delicious seasonal varieties: Eggnog, Peppermint Stick and Pumpkin Pie. If you’re not too late, you may also be able to nab a holiday pie, a German Chocolate Cake or some super sweet Peppermint Fudge.

4) Exotic meats @ John’s Butcher Shoppe, 2608 Walton Rd, 63114, (314) 423-8066

So…you’ve got someone a little adventurous coming for Christmas dinner? Why not head to John’s Butcher Shoppe in Charlack? This old-timey store has been selling fine meats for 35 years, and it carries way more than just steak. Elk, wild boar, and Potosi, Missouri-raised ostrich and bison are also available for purchase here, in a variety of cuts. You can even get the friendly folks at John’s to wrap up a gift box for you.

5) Donuts @ Old Town Donuts, 510 New Florissant Rd, 63031, (314) 831-0907

Who could resist the fluffy perfection of an Old Town donut, especially as presents are being torn open on Christmas Day? This classic Florissant shop has been churning out some of the best donuts, muffins and cookies in the St. Louis area for 30 years, with workers making fresh batches day and night. Normally open 24 hours, Old Town Donuts will take a rare break for the holidays, closing at 4pm on Christmas Eve and not opening again until 4am on Saturday, December 26. So plan accordingly, or be prepared to put your chocolate long-john fix on hold!

6) Peking duck @ Chopstix Asian Kitchen, Plaza on the Boulevard, 8021 W. Florissant, 63136, (314) 383-6888

If you still laugh every time you think of the Chinese restaurant scene in A Christmas Story, just know that you too can enjoy a little Asian flair in your holiday festivities. Chopstix Asian Kitchen in Jennings (across from Target) specializes in traditional Chinese fare, including the most wonderful Peking duck, which is made fresh every day. The owners of this stylish little place are second-generation restaurateurs, so keep them in mind as you shop for holiday eats.

7) Nostalgic candy @ Remembering When Candies, 3232 Parker Rd, 63033, (314) 831-9436

Perhaps your idea of the perfect candy is a giant pair of wax lips or a handful of Pop Rocks. If so, be sure to sweeten up your holidays with a trip to Remembering When in Florissant. This wee shop sells a dizzying array of nostalgic candies, including brands from 1950s and earlier than you’d be hard pressed to find anywhere else.

8 ) Steak gift sets @ Paul’s Market, 1020 N. Elizabeth, 63135, (314) 524-3652

On the verge of celebrating its 50th year in business, Paul’s Market in Ferguson draws shoppers from all over the St. Louis area, primarily because of its mouth-watering filet mignon. Wrapped in bacon and sold for an incredible price, Paul’s filets are by far its best-selling item. And now through December 22, you can get ten four-ouncers – wrapped in a gift box – for just $29.95! Talk about a steak lover’s dream come true!

9) Chestnuts @ J. Goeke Produce, 449 rue St. Ferdinand, Florissant MO 63031; (314) 831-3140

I don’t know about you, but my early Christmas memories often involve nuts. As a kid, it was my duty (and my delight) to sit and crack my grandpa’s big bag of walnuts, Brazil nuts, and other shelled snacks. But what I never did was the one nut-related activity you’re supposed to do at Christmas – roast chestnuts over an open fire. Well, now I’ve got the fire. And thanks to Goeke’s in Florissant, I also have the fresh chestnuts. Let the roasting begin!

10) Gluten-free cookies @ Free Range Cookies, 425 S. Florissant, 63135, (314) 882-0163

It must really stink to have Celiac Disease during the holidays, not being able to tolerate wheat products. That’s probably why I keep seeing a steady stream of overjoyed kids walking out of Free Range Cookies in Ferguson. This small, sweet-smelling shop offers a full range of gluten-free baked goods, including breads,  pizza crusts and of course delicious cookies. My vegan friends rave about Free Range’s vegan scones, and I know the bakery is also popular with the dairy-free crowd. If you’re serving a special needs eater this Christmas, you just might be able to satisfy them here.

11) Sheet cakes @ Knodel’s Bakery, 6621 W. Florissant, 63136, (314) 385-2000

Since 1901, Knodel’s Bakery in Jennings has been whipping up some of the most scrumptious cakes in St. Louis. Unique photo cakes have become its recent specialty, allowing you to literally put your face in the frosting, but this old-fashioned bakery also offers classic sheet cakes, perfect for holiday entertaining. Order ASAP if you need something in time for Christmas – Knodel’s usually requires 5 days notice.

12) Conchas @ Las Palmas Mexican Bakery, 4018 Woodson Rd, 63134, (314) 954-6862

You’ll find a delicious world of south-of-the-border baked goods at this petite Mexican bakery in Woodson Terrace. Milk cakes, cookies, fruit pastries, and pan dulce sweet breads are sure to entice you, but may I recommend the conchas. They’re basically big buns with a sweet, colorful topping, and I imagine they’d be quite delightful when paired with a cup of coffee on Christmas Day. Las Palmas Mexican Bakery is also a great place to buy Rosca de Reyes, a sweet roll with a baby Jesus figurine hidden inside, normally served on the feast of the Epiphany, January 6th.

Happy holidays and happy eating! Hope you can shop NoCo for at least a portion of your seasonal needs.

The 1 And Only Restaurant on Old St. Charles Road is not a fancy place, but it serves up some of the finest organic comfort food in the St. Louis area.

They say the Lord works in mysterious ways, and I have to agree. How else can you explain finding an all-natural, gourmet restaurant, where nearly everything is organic and made from scratch and most of the ingredients are locally grown, in a faded strip mall on the outskirts of Northwest Plaza?

It doesn’t seem possible, and yet it is. In fact, Thomas and Tracy Mathews, owners of The 1 And Only Restaurant in St. Ann, are probably cooking up some of the best and healthiest food in North County.

Both spent years working in other people’s restaurants, until they opened The 1 And Only in June 2009, after four years of saving money and amassing equipment. “We slowly collected supplies here and there, closed restaurants or sales, and then just stored everything in our basement and garage, waiting until we could afford to open our own restaurant,” Tracy says.

Joe Floyd (L), Tom Mathews and Tracy Mathews

These days, the business is in full swing, offering dine-in, carryout, delivery, and catering. Executive chef Tom cooks every meal to order – from Florentine omelets, chicken wraps and apple pancakes to five-cheese penne, salads and coconut shrimp. With the help of sous chef/brother-in-law Joe Floyd, he also creates a daily soup, fresh veggie dish and fresh starch. Today it was creamy chicken soup with brown rice, sautéed butternut squash, and real baked potatoes.

Tracy handles the sweeter side of the restaurant – and wow, is she good! I can only pass along the raves of others in describing Tom’s food (and the raves are many), but I’ve tasted Tracy’s baking myself and it’s outstanding. Grinding most of her own seeds and flour, she makes gorgeous loaves of bread from scratch: whole wheat, banana, onion, even spinach, sage and cheese. She also makes applesauce, apple butter and mouth-watering desserts, including her best seller, the Melting Snow Brownie.

Cocoa for the brownies comes from the same source as the Mathews’ organic, fair trade coffee (which they freshly grind by the pot): Dean’s Beans. “We’re the only place in Missouri you can get Dean’s,” Tom says. “And it’s the best coffee you’ll ever taste.”

Tracy's fiber-packed fresh baked wheat bread and cutie-pie mini cinnamon loaves

Tom sources all of his restaurant’s products, working closely with local farmers and other small, green-minded vendors, and he’s adamant about using strictly natural and organic items, including meat. Not because it’s trendy or because Tom considers himself an environmentalist per se, but because he and Tracy strongly believe that caring for the earth and properly nourishing their bodies is fundamental to their mission as Christians.

That’s right. The 1 And Only is not just a restaurant. It’s a Christian restaurant and lending library, where the Mathews not only serve meals but also generously share books and DVDs on Christian teachings and subjects like homeschooling. (Tom and Tracy have six kids, three of whom are currently home-schooled.)

With scripture verses streaming across the walls and tables painted to match books of the Bible, there’s no mistaking the homey café’s Christian slant. Tom might even ask you what your favorite Bible book is so he can seat you at the corresponding table. And if you’re a kid who learns the restaurant’s daily Bible verse, you’ll get a fun surprise.

That all sounds fine if you’re a Christian, and indeed, the Mathews have many customers who share their beliefs. But they’re also happy to serve anyone who shares their love of good quality natural food.

The 1 And Only has a pool table that customers can use for free.

“A woman came in from Warrenton one day, and right away told me she was an atheist,” Tracy says. “I told her I didn’t mind, just as long as she enjoyed her meal. We’re not here to preach.”

That certainly proved true during my visit to The 1 And Only. I’m about as non-religious as you get and normally avoid Christian-specific businesses like the plague, but the fact is Tom and Tracy Mathews are warm, genuine and surprisingly progressive people, and I really respect their passion, their work ethic and their talent.

In a few weeks, they’ll be hosting a number of farmers at their restaurant to discuss the possibility of creating a St. Louis-wide BSA. That’s a CSA (community supported agriculture) subscription service that would allow local restaurants to receive weekly lots of fresh produce directly from local farmers.

The Mathews regularly open their doors for community meetings like that, even welcoming some of their troubled neighbors at the “long-term hotel” on N. Lindbergh. They chose their location – in a tiny strip mall fronting what used to be the Northwest 9 cinema – precisely because it’s in a struggling area. “We thought we could reach out to people who need our help,” Tracy says.

And thankfully, that help extends to embarrassed writers with dead car batteries. Because not only did Tom and Tracy (and Joe) share their time and delicious baked goods with me, patiently telling me about their family, their faith, and their lovely restaurant. They also were kind enough to give my car a jump start, in the rain. Hallelujah!

The 1 And Only Restaurant is located at 11188 Old St. Charles Rd, 63074. (314) 298-9811. Hours: Tuesday-Saturday, 7am-9pm. Dine-in, carry-out, limited delivery, and catering. Full menu online.

Chef Amanda Orbin from CORK Wine Bar shares her fabulous bar nuts recipe with Catherine Neville, editor of Sauce Magazine. Credit: KMOV

Is it just me, or is Ferguson getting a whole lotta love lately? First Ray Hill starts showing up everywhere, then the Post-Dispatch names our fair city a Hip Hood. Now, CORK Wine Bar is sharing one of its delicious recipes with KMOV and Sauce Magazine! If you haven’t seen the clip yet, check it out. The recipe, for sweet and savory bar nuts, is actually perfect for upcoming holiday parties!

The new and improved J. Goeke Produce, celebrating five decades in NoCo

For more than 140 years, farming and produce have been the lifeblood of the Goeke family. In 1867, German immigrant Joseph Goeke began selling vegetables at St. Louis’ Union Market, a Soulard-like market that once operated at Sixth and Broadway. That same year, his brother John also entered the agricultural field, managing what the 1924 History of the Archdiocese of St. Louis called a “splendid truck garden.”

As time went on, many descendants of Joseph, John and their brother Bernard went on to work as farmers or produce vendors, including Tom Goeke, who ran the popular Herman’s Farm Orchard on Shackelford Rd, and John J. Goeke, the founder of J. Goeke Produce Outlet in Old Town Florissant.

Goeke Produce sells Randy's Famous Salsa and a growing selection of other local products.

Like his father and grandfather before him, John J. Goeke started his career as a truck farmer, selling produce out of the back of his pickup. Eventually he entered the wholesale market, serving local restaurants, and then in March 1960, he opened a retail location.

“I guess dad thought that since he had daughters, not sons, a retail store would be the best idea,” says one of Goeke’s four daughters, Karen Ormsby, who now runs the business with her sister Lynne Combest. Her father died in 2002, but his original hunch was spot on. Nearly 50 years later, the produce company that he founded is still going strong.

Just this week, Goeke’s retail store relocated a block up the road – to a much larger location at 449 St. Ferdinand in Old Town. Adding to its already impressive selection of local and non-local produce, nuts, eggs, honey, spices and baked goods, the store also plans to offer fresh, locally-produced meat from the historic Wenneman Meat Market in St. Libory, Illinois (open since 1927).

Produce & nicknacks in one convenient location

“We’re also selling Amish apple butter and local salad dressing, and we’re hoping to get meat from Swiss Sausage in Hermann,” Ormsby says. “Have you heard of it? It’s delicious!”

With its newly expanded retail space, Goeke’s can now peddle even more than just food. It can also sell you the plate to eat it on! Spearheaded by another of John Goeke’s daughters, one-third of the store has been converted into a mini antique shop, where customers can peruse charming vintage housewares and kitchen items, as well as heirloom furniture.

“We’re just trying to create a fun, unique atmosphere,” Ormsby says, noting the store’s cheery yellow walls and old-timey decor. “We also still have the wholesale business, so we sell produce to a number of North County restaurants, just like my dad used to.”

In fact, J. Goeke Produce is more successful than ever – a NoCo gem! – and I’m betting that its roomy new storefront and increasing focus on local foods will lure in even more happy customers. Maybe even you?

Goeke’s Produce: 449 rue St. Ferdinand, Florissant MO 63031; (314) 831-3140. Open Mon-Sat 8-7, Sun 9-6.

Shelves are still being stocked at Goeke's new location, which just opened on November 5th, but many gourmet goods are already on display.

As if the glorious weather wasn’t enough to celebrate this weekend, last night’s Pesto Festo event in Ferguson made North County the place to be. Hosted by EarthDance Farms, the annual fundraiser drew more than 300 progressive, green-minded guests from all over St. Louis, and featured delicious local food, gorgeous artwork, and swingin’ performances by the Rum Drum Ramblers and Miss Jubilee & the Humdingers.

EarthDance Farms also gave out four Mission Awards at the zero-waste event, honoring folk musician Colleen Heine, community activist Dwayne James, organic farmer John Wilkerson, and artist Autumn Wiggins for their work in creating vibrant, sustainable communities.

Pesto Festo 2009

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EarthDance Farms founder Molly Rockamann (far left) recognizes the 2009 Freshman Farmies, organic farming apprentices who worked the growing season at Mueller Farm in Ferguson.

Two delicious meals, two great NoCo fundraisers. November 6: fried chicken, November 7: sausage & kraut

On a chilly fall day, there are few things more wonderful than old-fashioned comfort food. Especially when that food is being cooked for a very good cause.

Mariya Powers

On Friday, November 6th, the Ferguson Swim Team is hosting one of two tasty fundraisers that will take place in Ferguson that weekend. Its Fried Chicken Dinner is a benefit for Mariya Powers, a 12-year-old Ferguson girl who recently suffered severe spinal injuries in an accident.

The dinner, which takes place at the Blessed Theresa Parish Center at 1050 Smith, will help Mariya’s family cover the cost of mounting medical bills and accessibility modifications to their home. You get fresh fried chicken and veggies in individual plates or family portions, plus homemade desserts. Eat in or carry out. 4-7pm.

The following day, Saturday, November 7th, it’s time once again for the Wurstmarkt at Immanuel Church of Christ!

I lived here for years until I finally discovered this fabulous Ferguson tradition. I used to drive by the signs and think, “What the heck is a Wurstmarkt??” Now I know.

It’s a once-a-year opportunity to gorge on some of the best German sausage you will ever eat. Immanuel hosts the fundraising event every fall, serving plate after plate of fresh sausage, sauerkraut, homemade applesauce and delicious veggies, and there is always a huge crowd.

I recommend going early to avoid long lines and get the best selection of homemade pie. Noon – 7:30pm. Eat in or carry out.

By the way, if you’d like to help the church ladies whip up crazy loads of fresh applesauce on November 2 & 3, call Jean Klasing at (314) 355-6487. It’s a sight to see.