Lafayette Square Park was established in 1836, making it the oldest park west of the Mississippi River (although it is just barely west of the river). It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and has now become an established neighborhood. After visiting one of Lafayette's beautiful historic mansions and meandering through the park, take a break at one of the square's many excellent, often eclectic restaurants.
Square One Brewery and Distillery produces a wide variety of beers, using only natural ingredients in the process. The brewery also features a restaurant, with a variety of dishes, including appetizers, salads, burgers, and other entrees. The menu also includes suggested beer pairings to go with each dish. Square One offers several vegetarian options as well.
Square One Brewery and Distillery
1727 Park Ave.
St. Louis, MO 63104
314-231-2537
squareonebrewery.com
SqWires Restaurant is named after its location in Lafayette Square, in the place of what was previously a wire factory. The restaurant is a member of St. Louis Originals, a collection of 41 neighborhood restaurants that are independently owned and operated. The restaurant offers wireless Internet access and is open for brunch, lunch, and dinner. SqWires also has a catering and banquet service. Friday night happy hour features one dollar oysters and shrimp, as well as live music.
SqWires Restaurant
1415 South 18th St.
St. Louis, MO 63104
314-865-3522
sqwires.com
Eleven Eleven Mississippi is another member of St. Louis Originals. The restaurant is a remodeled brick warehouse, and the extensive menu features oven-baked pizzas and an impressive wine list. Eleven Eleven Mississippi is a bit upscale, with most entrees starting around $15.
Eleven Eleven Mississippi
1111 Mississippi Ave.
St. Louis, MO 63104
314-241-9999
1111-m.com
Arcelia's has been voted "Best Mexican Restaurant" for six years straight (2003-2009) by "Sauce Magazine," the St. Louis metro area's culinary and entertainment guide. The restaurant prides itself for its use of fresh, authentic Mexican ingredients. Menu items are extensive and very reasonably priced. The restaurant also offers online specials at its website.
Arcelia's
2100 Park Ave.
St. Louis, MO 63104
314-231-9200
arceliasrestaurant.com
"Sauce Magazine" awarded Bailey's Chocolate Bar several honors in 2009, including "Best Date Night" and "Favorite Cocktails." The restaurant is truly unique, with its assortment of chocolate desserts, chocolate martinis, and delicious cheese platters, pizzas, and sandwiches. Although it is especially appropriate for chocolate lovers, the Chocolate Bar is a must-see St. Louis restaurant for anyone who enjoys a unique dining experience.
Bailey's Chocolate Bar
1915 Park Ave.
St. Louis, MO 63104
314-241-8100
baileyschocolatebar.com
