new year, new owner
it’s golden
Congrats to Butler’s Pantry, celebrating its 50th anniversary. Owner Richard Nix’s parents started the catering company in 1966, and it now has expanded to operate Bixby’s in the Missouri History Museum, Cafe Madeleine in Piper Palm House and exclusive catering services at Palladium and the Coronado. . Nix also owns Piccione Bakery in the U. City Loop.
finger-licking good
The wait is over: Gus’s Fried Chicken has opened in downtown Maplewood at 7434 Manchester Road. This is the small chain’s (13 locales) first Missouri spot. Known for ‘hot and spicy fried chicken,’ Gus’s originated in a small town east of Memphis, Tennessee. And it does not consider itself fast food; be prepared to wait, or call in your order prior to showing up.
serious about citrus
Schlafly has added Grapefruit IPA to its year ‘round lineup, in the first permanent addition in more than eight years. made with all-natural fermented grapefruit puree, it is dry-hopped with citra and sells in six-packs for $8.99.
tasty ideas
Feeling like a beached whale after too much holiday cheer? Lighten up with healthier fare around town: Locally owned HotPot in Kirkwood lets you create your own ‘bowls’ with sustainable, organic, and local produce and veggies … You can’t miss with Pastaria’s kale salad and its touch of creamy anchovy dressing and crispy oiled breadcrumbs … Or the kale salad at Urban Chestnut’s Grove Brewery and Bierhall, complete with earthy beets and pickled apples … Soup can fill the bill, too, like the tomato soup at London Tea Room or the French Onion at Cardwell’s at the Plaza. Happy light eating!