[willkommen to the grove]
URBAN CHESTNUT GROVE BREWERY & BIERHALL opened to the public Jan. 26 during the brewery’s Wolpertinger festival. The event, named for a mythical Bavarian beast, featured food trucks, a performance by The Funky Butt Brass Band and plenty of beer samples.
[sweet sipping]
Local Starbucks addicts have been rewarded with a special treat: The coffee conglomerate is testing its new Tiramisu Latte in only two markets, and St. Louis is one of them. The beverage features espresso, mascarpone (syrup) flavoring and cocoa espresso powder.
[la dolce vita]
For a more authentic way to get your Italian dessert fix, check out the free LANGUAGE OF LOVE classes offered every Wednesday night in February by Piccione Pastry in the Loop. While guests enjoy pastries, the shop’s gelato makers, KAETLYN MACAU LEY and FRANCESCO VELOCCI of Gusto Gourmet Creamery, will discuss Italian culture, food, history and relationships using short film clips and their own experiences.
[coming soon]
Chef BEN ANDERSON, formerly of Gist Bistro in Ballwin, plans to open a restaurant called GRAPESEED at 5400 Nottingham Ave. in South St. Louis. The eatery will focus on small plates and feature front and back patios.
[wine in focus]
Connoisseurs of fine art and fine wine can look forward to the opening of THE DARK ROOM, a wine bar and photo gallery coming in March to Grand Center. Nearby International Photography Hall of Fame will curate the exhibits, and BILL KNIEP of Pinnacle Imports will select the wines. Also served will be cheese, small plates, charcuterie and desserts.