bbq news | Expat BBQ at City Foundry STL is undergoing an exciting transition. In partnership with BEAST Craft BBQ, it will become Bricklike Brew House, a sports-centric bar and event space. Niche Food Group will remain involved with the project, managing the bar program and entertainment. BEAST Craft BBQ will operate the kitchen with a new walk-up window. The new concept is expected to open in spring. “There’s a lot of great BBQ in St. Louis, but no one does it better than BEAST Craft BBQ Co,” Gerard Fradt says.  “It will be an honor for our Niche Food Group team to work side by side with David Sandusky.”

in bloom
For the first time in more than 185 years of farming, Eckert’s Farm is letting guests pick their own tulips. This spring, 300,000 tulip bulbs will bloom across the farm. Along with the vibrant blooms of The Tulip Trail, guests can enjoy exciting dining options centered around the blossoms, including a special Mimosa & Bloom combo, Paint & Sip events hosted with Sawdust & Glitter and picnic baskets that can be enjoyed in the tulips field—each basket includes a selection of sweet and savory items prepared by Eckert’s. For more information, visit eckerts.com.

popping up!
Pop Pop Hurray is continuing to expand its presence in the region. The gourmet popcorn company opened in Ferguson, where the original store still operates. Later, it opened in St. Charles then relocated to City Foundry STL. Now, Pop Pop Hurray has opened its largest location yet. The new space is in downtown St. Louis at 1100 Locust St. Along with serving as a storefront, it’s also the company’s main production hub.

opens + closes
Grab your furry friends and head over to Forest Park Southeast! K9 Garden is now open in the former home of Bar K at 4565 McRee Ave. The membership-based indoor/outdoor dog park includes a multi-concept restaurant and bar, two outdoor satellite bars and a live music stage. … If you’re looking for a quick breakfast and lunch in downtown west, head to Ozzy’s Market. Located at 1933 Washington Ave., the retro cafe and market features vintage touches, classic menu items and grab-and-go essentials. … Sakatanoya Revolving Sushi Bar & Ramen is offering a unique dining experience on the Delmar Loop at 6683 Delmar Blvd. The restaurant combines conveyor belt sushi, tablet ordering and robot food runners for a taste of futurism in the StL. … Global Brew Tap House in Rock Hill closed last month. The craft-beer bar has been open for 10 years.